Choosing the Perfect Dog Bed

Whether you are getting a new puppy, a rescue or just replacing your dogs’ bed, it’s important to get it right!  We often get asked about how to measure for the right size, allowing for growth and what style will suit, so here is our handy guide to help.

 What style of bed?

This often depends on the breed of dog and where you want the bed to go in your home.  For puppies and dogs that like to curl up, pocket sided and beds with sides provide a safe and supportive space where they can feel cocooned and protected from drafts.

For those that like to lounge and spread out, a pillow style bed can provide an option with long term benefits.  Rottweiler Rex (below) had a pillow style bed which now, even at full size, fits him perfectly.  This style of bed is also great for warmer weather.

If you are crate training your pup, a decent mattress or pillow bed is really important to go inside (don’t forget we can make these to measure in many fabrics) to provide comfort and support.

 

What size bed should I get?

Their bed should be large enough for them to be able to lie comfortably in all their natural positions. Watch them sleep, you'll notice they get into lots of different positions: stretched out, curled up, on their back - even on their belly with their legs stretched in opposite directions.  If you haven’t yet got your puppy or dog, think about the size they will be at adulthood.  Blankets can be used to fill the void space during growth and avoid purchasing multiple beds.

Measure your dog when asleep to help guide you on choosing the correct internal diameter.  For example, our Tibbie Denzel, loves to spread out on his back when he sleeps to about 45-50cm, so he sleeps in a regular pocket sided bed with a 50cm internal diameter as he still likes to feel surrounded.

What material should my dog bed be and how can I wash it?

Dog beds should be made from a durable and comfortable material and well padded to prevent sagging sides. They should also be easily washable.

Some dogs may have specific needs when it comes to beds:

• Older dogs or dogs with any aches, pains or joint problems might benefit from an orthopaedic or memory foam mattress bed that they can get in and out of easily.
• If you have a shy or nervous dog they may prefer a bed with higher sides so they can hide away in comfort whenever things get too much for them.
• Do you have more than one dog? To avoid competition, you'll need to have a minimum of one bed per dog. If your dog’s enjoy snuggling up together, consider getting an additional dog bed large enough for them to comfortably share.

 

Where is the best place to put a dog's bed?

Put the bed somewhere warm and draught-free and give your dog options. You could place one bed in a quiet part of the house where they can rest undisturbed, and one in a room where the family spends time so they can be in your company while relaxing or snoozing in a comfortable spot.

Do not disturb

Finally, none of us like being disturbed when we're trying to sleep and dogs are no different. Make sure everyone in the family, including children, knows to leave your dog alone while they're in their bed - this is an important part of keeping dogs and children safe.