Dog Beds: Everything Pet Parents Need To Know

Dog beds can be simple or fancy, expensive or homemade, and everything in between.

How do you pick the right dog bed for your pup when there are so many on the market? Does your pooch even need a dog bed? Should you spend a lot of money when your dog is just as happy lying with you in your human bed or on the couch?

Does Your Dog Need A Dog Bed?

Dog pet beds are also usually easy to wash, which makes life easier if your dog has accidents, gets infested with fleas or mites, or just rolls in something stinky.

A dog bed shouldn’t be used as a place for punishment or confinement. It’s a place of security that belongs only to that one dog, and they should always feel safe in it.

A bed makes a crate more comfortable, but that doesn’t mean a dog can spend twelve hours a day in a crate just because it has a bed. It’s a place dogs should be able to go and relax without feeling trapped or anxious.

All dogs could benefit from having a place where they can feel calm and de-stress during the day or night.

Basic Styles Of Dog Beds

Flat pads or mats are inexpensive and fit in crates.

Nesting/snuggle beds are similar to beanbag chairs and often preferred by smaller dogs who love to curl up.

Cuddler/nest beds come in the “traditional” oval bowl shape.

Bolsters have one long side with a built-in pillow and are often preferred by large dogs

Special Dog Beds For Seniors Or Dogs With Medical Needs

Orthopedic beds support old joints or very large dogs; they usually have medical-grade foam and/or box-spring construction.

Heated beds maintain body warmth. This can be beneficial for dogs who get cold easily or for dogs with arthritis that is worsened by the cold.

Travel beds with cat toys are portable, so your dog can have the security of the same bed every night while on the road. For dogs who suffer from anxiety in new places, this can help them relax and get some sleep.

Cot-style beds keep your dog off the ground and comfortably support joints by distributing the dog’s weight evenly. They are also usually fairly easy to transport.

What Is The Best Dog Bed For Your Dog?

There are so many dog beds and cat beds on the market. How do you pick the best one? There are many factors to take into consideration, including size, cost, comfort, your dog’s medical needs, convenience, and so much more.

You should do your research and consult your veterinarian about your pup’s needs before you make a decision. Here are several factors to consider when choosing the best dog toys bed:

A good fit. Beyond finding something within your budget, make sure your dog fits on the bed with pet toy; heads and limbs shouldn’t have to be hanging off the edge.

Easy washability. Dogs eat treats, vomit, pass gas, scratch fleas, and wipe ointment-filled eyes and ears on their beds. Some dogs urinate on them — so the ability to throw the bed into the washing machine is a big help, if not downright critical. Dogs with allergies will also benefit from having their bed washed frequently.