Have you ever gone to buy a dog bed only to find that there are about a million different options, and you have no idea which one to choose? Or maybe you’ve already bought a dog bed only to find that it’s too small/big for your pup.
If you’re looking for advice on how to pick the perfect size dog bed for your furry friend, you’ve come to the right place! Read on for everything you need to know.
Choosing the Best Type of Bed for Your Dog
When it comes to our furry friends, we want nothing but the best for them. We want to give them the best food, the best toys, and the best possible life that we can. And that includes finding them the perfect bed to sleep in. Unfortunately, with so many options on the market, it can be tough to decide which bed is right for your dog.
Here are a few of the most popular types of dog beds:
Orthopedic or Memory Foam
These beds are ideal for senior dogs or dogs with joint pain. The foam contours to your dog’s body and gives him support where he needs it most.
Round or Oval-Shaped
These beds are great for dogs who like to curl up when they sleep. They’re also good for dogs who like to sprawl out—you can find them in a variety of sizes, from small (perfect for toy breeds such as a Yorkie) to extra large (great for giant breeds such as a Great Dane).
Pillow Beds
These beds are similar to human pillow beds—they’re soft and plush, making them perfect for snugglers. Some pillow beds even have removable covers so you can wash them when they get dirty.
Covered Bed
Covered beds are great for dogs who like their own little space. They usually have high sides, so your dog feels cocooned and secure. And if your dog is a chewer, a covered bed can help prevent him from destroying his bed (and hopefully redirect him to his chew toys instead).
Bolster Beds
Bolster beds have raised sides that give your dog a place to rest his head. They’re great for dogs who like to lean against something when they sleep. Plus, they often have removable covers, so you can toss them in the wash when they get dirty.
Other Considerations
Consider Your Budget for a Bed
Of course, you’ll also want to take your budget into consideration when choosing a bed for your dog. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on a bed and then narrow down your options based on that information. Remember, though, that you often get what you pay for when it comes to pet products!
Where Will the Bed Be Located?
You’ll also want to consider where you’ll put your dog’s bed. If you’re planning on putting it in your bedroom, you might want to choose a smaller size, so it doesn’t take up too much space. On the other hand, if you’re going to put it in the living room or another common area, you might want to choose a larger size. That way, your dog has plenty of room to stretch out.
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Can the Bed Be Cleaned Easily?
Last but not least, consider whether the bed can be cleaned easily. If it’s not machine-washable, can you at least spot-clean it? How easy is it to disassemble and reassemble? These are all important factors to keep in mind because, let’s face it—dogs can be messy!
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How To Measure Your Dog for Their Bed
If you’re looking to buy a new bed for your furry friend, it’s important to make sure you get the right size. After all, you wouldn’t want to end up with a bed that’s too small or too big! Measuring your dog is pretty simple – just use a tape measure to get their nose-to-tail length.
Once you have that measurement (make sure you write them down), you can reference a size chart to find the right bed for your dog. But that’s not the only thing you need to take into consideration! You’ll also want to think about how your dog sleeps.
Your Dog’s Sleeping Position
Do they like to curl up in a ball, or do they sprawl out? If they tend to sprawl, you’ll want to make sure their bed is big enough to accommodate their whole body.
And, of course, you’ll also want to take into account your dog’s overall size. For example, a German Shepherd will need a much bigger bed than a Chihuahua! By taking all of these factors into consideration, you can be sure to find the perfect bed for your pup.
Additional Tips for Bed Size
It’s better to buy a bigger bed rather than a smaller one. Your dog be more comfortable in a larger bed. Plus, it will also last longer since they won’t outgrow it as quickly. Just keep in mind that a bed can be too big too.
If you’re unsure what size to get, err on the side of caution and go with the larger option.
Check online reviews before you buy. Not sure if a bed is comfortable or well-made? See what other dog owners have to say before you make your purchase.
Read the Dog Bed Company’s Size Guidelines
Once you’ve found a bed you think will be perfect for your dog, make sure to read the company’s size guidelines. Different companies have different sizing standards, so it’s important to double-check before you make your purchase.
- The first reason why reading the size guidelines is so important is that it will help ensure that you get the right size bed for your dog. There is nothing worse than buying a bed only to find out that it’s too small or too big for your dog. This can be frustrating and can also mean that you have to go through the process of returning or exchanging the bed, which can be a real pain.
- The second reason reading the size guidelines is a good idea is because it will help you determine how much money you need to spend on the bed. Dog beds can range in price from relatively inexpensive to quite expensive, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for before you start shopping. If you have a specific budget in mind, reading the size guidelines can help you narrow down your options and choose a bed that fits both your needs and your budget.
- The final reason why reading the size guidelines provided by the dog bed company is so important is because it will give you an idea of how long the bed should last. This information is important because it can help you make an informed decision about whether or not to purchase a particular bed. For example, if a bed is only rated for small dogs, but you have a large dog, it’s likely that the bed won’t last very long. On the other hand, if a bed is rated for large dogs, but you only have a small dog, it’s likely that the bed will last much longer. Knowing this information ahead of time can save you a lot of frustration in the future.
Reading the size guidelines the dog bed company provides before making your purchase is extremely important. Doing so will help ensure that you get the right size bed for your dog, that you spend only what is necessary on the bed, and that you’re aware of how long the bed should last.
So next time you’re in the market for a new dog bed, be sure to take some time to read the size guidelines first!
Takeaway
There are many things to consider when choosing a dog bed, but hopefully, this article has helped make your decision process a little bit easier. The most important things to keep in mind are the size of your dog and their sleeping habits. Other than that, it’s really up to you! Pick whichever type and size of bed YOU think would be best for YOUR pup.