If your pup likes to sleep in your bed, it might be time to get them their own dog bed. Dog beds that are just right for your pup are the ticket they need for not only a good night’s sleep but also for a cozy spot to nap on during the day!
If you’re in the market for a dog bed, there are a few things to consider before making your purchase. Here, you’ll discover what you need to know when it comes to buying a comfy bed for your four-legged friend!
Things To Consider Before Buying Dog Beds
Age, Size, And Health Of Your Dog
Before you head out to purchase a dog bed, consider the age, size, and health of your dog.
If you have a puppy, they’re like newborns and sleep quite a bit. But don’t worry; their daytime naps are preparing them to go from 0 to 60 in no time!
Soon after, the crash happens, which is why your sweet little pup needs somewhere cozy to rest. Younger pups love fluffier beds, which keep them warm while they’re still developing and growing.
On the other hand, adult dogs won’t sleep as much during the day, but they need quality sleep at night, especially if they’re dealing with achy joints and bones. Older dogs need a bed tailored to the needs of their aging bodies.
Of course, you can always change up the style and type of bed to fit your dog’s growing needs!
Style Of The Bed
The market for dog beds has really upped its game and has allowed pet owners to have their pick of the litter when it comes to the right one.
Whether you’re looking for a dog lounger or dog sofa, these stylish beds are great options when you have to put them in a high-traffic area, like the living room or dining room.
Raised dog beds, on the other hand, keep your dog off of the floor, which means they can keep your pup just a little bit warmer at night.
Note: A raised dog bed might be harder for older dogs to get in and out of, especially if they’re recovering from surgery.
What To Look For When Shopping For Dog Beds
Appropriate Size
We hate to let you down, but there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing a mattress or pad for your dog’s bed.
Choosing a mattress size for your four-legged friends is quite different from choosing a mattress for your two-legged children.
For your kids, you have crib, twin, and full mattresses as the standard for sizing, but small, medium, large, and extra-large are size options for your furry family member.
It’s best to measure your dog first and go from there instead of “eyeing” the size of it. This is important because you want your little (or big!) pooch to be comfortable.
While some dogs like to sleep in a curled-up position, you still want to give your pet the option of being able to fully stretch out. Make sure the dog bed is big enough for your pup to lie down in using their natural position.
Quality Material
Take time to chew over the type of material that you want your dog to sleep on because they actually might chew on it!
Some dogs, especially puppies, like to scratch and bite (and don’t forget about the teething stage!). Dogs will do this when they’re stressed, hungry, and bored.
This mostly happens when you’re out of the house, and they might accidentally end up swallowing some pieces of their bed.
Look for quality material for your dog’s bed — something that won’t tear up easily on the outside or inside.
Safe Filling Material
As we just mentioned, dogs like to chew...a lot!
When you’re considering the type of material for your dog’s bed, pay attention to the filling material, too. Because if they’re able to chew through the outer layer of their bed, they’ll be able to chew (and swallow!) the filling material.
Since you can’t keep your eyes on your pup at all times, opt for safe materials over less-expensive options.
Washable Cover
What four-legged baby doesn’t love rolling around in the dirt and mud puddles? For this very reason (plus many more!), your dog’s bed needs to have a removable, washable cover.
And don’t forget about accidents, especially for your pup in training. Look for an outer cover that you can do a quick clean-up on and that you can throw in the washer every week.
Comfortable Surface
As your dog ages, they’ll have some pressure points bothering them, like their joints (ankles, wrists, knees, and elbows).
When their bones aren’t laying on a comfortable surface, they can get sore and tender, and the spots might even turn into skin wounds.
Even the cutest-looking dog beds might not give your pet the support they need. So look for a well-cushioned bed to give your dog some relief and comfort.
Avoid the fluffier beds for your older dog (even though they may look more comfortable), and select one that gives orthopedic support. That leads us to our next section: types of dog beds.
Types Of Dog Beds
Orthopedic
As we just mentioned, this type of bed is great for your aging dog, especially if they have some trouble getting around.
Not only are these dog beds good for hip and joint pain, but they also provide a comfortable sleep surface for service dogs or dogs that are healing.
Heated
Another bed that’s good to soothe those achy joints and muscles is a heated one. This type of bed works just like a heated blanket, so you have to plug it in. Also use it for:
- Younger pups
- Colder months
- Hairless breeds
Note: Keep a close eye on your dog if they use a heated bed. It could easily become a safety hazard if your little pooch chews on the cord.
Memory Foam
If your dog is getting on up there in age, a memory foam bed might be easier for them to get in and out of than a fluffy bed. They also won’t sink to the bottom of the bed like they would with fluffier ones.
Memory foam beds are a bit different than orthopedic beds, even though some are made with this filling material. They can hold their shape a bit longer, but unfortunately, they’re also easier to destroy.
Pillow
A pillow dog bed looks just like a big, fluffy pillow. They range from firm to soft and are made with different materials, including cotton, polyester, and foam inserts.
Younger puppies tend to be attracted to pillow beds because they’re more for lounging around during the day (did someone say puppy nap?) than they are for sleeping at night.
Bolster Or Donut
If your pup likes to walk around in circles before they hit the hay, or if they just like to cozy up, a bolster — or donut — bed might be their ticket for a good night’s sleep.
This type of bed has soft, raised sides to give your four-legged friend the feeling of comfort and security.
Crate Pad Or Mat
Many pet owners use a crate to train their puppies. Unfortunately, it’s not the most comfortable surface, which is why your dog needs a crate pad.
Take some measurements before making your purchase to ensure that the pad fits comfortably inside your dog’s crate.
A dog mat, similar to a crate pad, lays on the floor. It gives your pup a comfortable place to rest throughout the day.
What’s more, both a pad and a mat can easily be removed and thrown in the wash for a quick clean-up. After all, puppies are messy!
Outdoor
Does your four-legged best friend like to lounge around with you outside? If so, an outdoor dog bed is a must.
Outdoor dog beds are made with mesh material and are used mostly for keeping your fur baby off the hot concrete. Keep one by the pool (or anywhere outside) so your pet can comfortably hang out with the rest of the family.
Keeping Your Pup Cozy
Your dog’s bed isn’t just for sleeping on at night. It’s also for lounging around and taking naps on during the day!
Before making your purchase, consider the age of your dog and the style of bed you want. Make sure your dog’s bed is an appropriate size for them, has quality material (inside and out), is washable, and gives them a comfortable surface.
We’ve got great news. The Newton Baby Crib Mattress makes an ideal dog bed for your furry friend. It’s made with the highest quality materials, is washable, and is super comfortable. Just what the vet ordered!
Take your pick of the litter when it comes to dog beds because there’s one to meet all of your growing pup’s needs.
