Your dog is an important part of your family. While dogs will sleep anywhere (we’ve all seen it), they prefer their own space. Whether they’re independent and want to be away from the hustle of family life or if they’re just too snuggly and want a soft spot to cosy up, the right bedding can please your dog.
That said, there are many options when it comes to choosing dog bedding. And obviously, you’ll need something comfortable and welcoming for your dog, but which hopefully won’t break the bank or your back from lugging too much of it around. There are different materials, styles and sizes all available to suit a variety of tastes, needs and budgets. To narrow down your choice, here’s a quick guide on how to find the suitable dog bedding for your four-legged friend.
Be Wary Of Bed Sizing
The first thing that needs to be considered is the weight of the dog itself, as well as its breed. If you have a larger breed of dog such as a Rottweiler then they need a much more substantial and durable dog bedding. They will also need a larger bed than if you have smaller breeds such as Chihuahua’s or Pomeranians.
The next factor is the age of your dog and how long it will take them to grow out of one dog bed when they have grown out of it. For example, getting a puppy and buying them an adult dog bed straight away may not be so wise as this might prove too small for them when they’re grown up. A good rule would be to buy them one that will last at least six months so that you don’t have to keep buying new beds all the time. What you want is a dog bed that is big enough for your dog and appropriate to their particular needs.
Go for a Waterproof, Easy-To-Clean Material
The best material for dog bedding will depend on the needs of your pet, but making sure you invest in something that’s easy to clean will ensure that your pet’s sleeping space is always hygienic and healthy. Plus, it will help maintain your sanity. Dog beds that are waterproof or low-maintenance may help you limit the amount of time and effort you spend keeping your dog’s sleeping area sanitary.
Many different materials can be used to make dog beds, including:
- Cotton – Cotton is a long-lasting material that is relatively easy to clean. It is a popular choice for making dog beds because it is soft, sturdy, and water-resistant.
- Fleece or faux fur – Similar material to cotton, fleece or faux fur also has a soft feel that dogs may like.
- Wool – This long-lasting material is also water-resistant, but it may not be as easy to clean as cotton.
- Rubber – A cost-effective option, rubber is a durable material that can withstand heavy use.
- Suede – Another durable option, this material has a napped finish that makes it softer than other options.
Durability Is Crucial
Just how you’d want your own indoor or outdoor furniture to be durable, you should also make sure the same goes for your dog bedding. Plus, there are several reasons why it is important for the dog bedding to be durable.
Dogs like comfort and protection and they need to feel good, so by choosing a durable dog bed filling you will save money and make your dog happier. There are many different kinds of durable dog bedding available in pet stores, but the most common type is a dog bed made of orthopedic foam, as it is known to be one of the most resilient materials out there. It’s very easy to clean because you only need to wipe it down with a damp cloth or hose it off outside with a hose, and it doesn’t take much effort to maintain.
The reason that orthopedic foam is so resilient is that it has a high density, which makes it very sturdy. Another benefit of using a foam dog bed is that they can help keep your pet cool during the hot summer months because they’re excellent insulators. However, you’ll have to make sure that you’re prepared to lift them when you’re moving them around, especially if your pet prefers to sleep in a specific location inside your home since these dog beds tend to be heavier than others.
What’s the Best Way to Maintain Dog Beds?
There is a lot of advice about how to clean your dog’s bedding. You can buy special cleansers and detergents, you can put them in the washing machine, you can even boil it or bake it in the oven. But the one method that works best is simple: put the bedding outside in the sun. The sun dries everything out; killing all the odour-causing bacteria that might otherwise survive and thrive in your house.
To Sum Up
Ultimately, finding the perfect dog bed for your furry friend is going to be a personal decision. After all, all dogs are different, and there are plenty of dog beds available. But by following the advice in this guide, you’ll be able to make the best possible decision for your dog and your home. Soon enough, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy those puppy snores, knowing that your best friend has a cozy place to sleep.
