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DESIGN 101
How To Choose a Dog Bed
Even the most energetic dogs need plenty of rest to stay happy and healthy. Your pet might love to curl up on your couch for a long snooze. At other times, they may prefer to lounge in a sunny spot or sprawl out on a tile floor to stay cool. You can help your pet get quality rest by providing a bed that fits their preferences.
Retailers offer a broad range of pet beds, from luxury heated cots to squishy orthopedic mats. This article covers everything you need to know about how to choose a dog bed that meets your pet’s needs.
What Is a Pet Bed, and Does Your Dog Need One?
A pet bed is a cushioned resting place for dogs and other animals. This furniture gives pets a soft space to relax and sleep. Pet beds are typically made from durable, easy-to-clean materials like canvas and nylon.
Like humans, dogs need beds to stay comfortable and healthy. Here are a few benefits of providing a bed for your dog:
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A pet bed gives your dog a private space to retreat when they feel anxious, overwhelmed, or unwell. Teach children to respect the dog’s space when they’re on their bed.
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A dog bed is a valuable training tool that can help you teach your dog boundaries and prevent unwanted behaviors. For example, you can train your dog to stay on their bed while you eat dinner and carry groceries inside.
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Sleeping on hard surfaces can impact your dog’s joints and cause pressure sores. Keep your pet comfortable by giving them a cozy sleeping area.
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Protect your furniture from dirt and unpleasant odors by encouraging your dog to sleep on their pet bed.
How To Choose a Dog Bed
Furniture retailers and pet stores offer a dizzying array of pet beds. Consider these factors to help you choose the right option.
How many dog beds do you need?
Dogs often have several favorite sleeping spots around their homes. For instance, your dog may curl up in your office all morning and doze in the living room during family movie nights. Add a dog bed to each room where your pet spends significant time.
What size dog bed to choose
Pick a dog bed that lets your pet stretch out to their full length and change positions effortlessly. Measure your pet when they’re lying down and look for a bed that’s a few inches larger on all sides.
Dog bed materials
Dog beds come in a wide variety of materials, including:
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Canvas: This tough fabric is machine washable and difficult for dogs to destroy.
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Memory foam: This spongy material is often used in orthopedic dog beds to cushion the animal’s joints.
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Polyester: This synthetic fabric is water- and mildew-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor dog beds.
Types of Dog Beds
There are many types of dog beds with different functions and benefits. Consider buying more than one kind to give your pet plenty of options.
Orthopedic dog beds
Orthopedic dog beds have built-in memory foam mattresses to cushion pets’ joints and relieve pressure points. These beds are often recommended for senior dogs and pets with arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other health conditions.
Large beds
Large dog beds let pets stretch out or cuddle with a friend. They’re designed for large breeds, but little dogs may also appreciate the extra room.
Heated dog beds
Heated dog beds typically have an electric thermostat and generate heat to keep pets toasty. Look for a heated dog bed with an automatic shut-off feature, a chew-resistant cord, and other safety features.
Elevated dog beds
Elevated dog beds are raised platforms that put less pressure on joints than sleeping on the ground. Air circulates freely under these beds, keeping pets cool in warm weather.
Bolster beds
Bolster beds are partially surrounded by raised sides made from soft materials. The bolsters support your dog’s head, neck, and back.
Pillow beds
Pillow beds are lightweight, soft cushions in a wide range of colors. They often have removable covers for easy washing.
Sofa beds
These dog beds resemble miniature sofas. If you want your pet bed to fit your aesthetic, choose a sofa bed that matches your full-sized couch.
Doughnut beds
Doughnut beds are soft, circular pillows. They’re ideal for small dogs and pets that enjoy curling up.
Covered beds
Covered beds have a partial or full roof. These beds give pets private and secure resting places.
How To Wash a Dog Bed
Wash your pet’s bed weekly to keep it squeaky clean and odor-free. Follow these furniture cleaning best practices:
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Vacuum the bed thoroughly to remove dirt and hair.
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Remove stains with a pet stain remover or warm water and dish soap.
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If the bed is machine washable, remove the cover and wash it with warm water. Otherwise, you can soak the entire bed in your bathtub and scrub it with baking soda or gentle soap.
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Air dry the bed completely.
Additional Dog Bed Accessories
Dog beds aren’t the only way to enhance your dog’s quality of life. These accessories can help keep your dog comfortable and safe.
Dog ramp
A dog ramp allows pets to access human-sized furniture without jumping on and off. This accessory reduces the risk of injury and helps dogs with mobility issues navigate your home.
Furniture covers
Furniture covers are washable blankets designed to protect your furniture from dirt, drool, fur, and other messes. They let you cuddle with your dog on the bed or couch without damaging your furniture.
Cooling mats
Self-cooling mats absorb and dissipate your pet’s body heat. They protect your pet by helping them regulate their body temperature during warm weather.
Give Your Pet a Well-Deserved Rest
Improve your pet’s comfort and overall well-being by providing a cozy and stylish pet bed. This must-have accessory gives them a safe resting place and protects their joints. A pet bed also helps safeguard your furniture from slobber, hair, and other pet-related messes.
Explore our selection of pet beds to find the perfect fit.