The stuffing in a pet bed is important for both comfort and longevity. Polyester fiber-fill beds are soft, but over time the stuffing can become matted and flattened, which isn’t good for your dog. Beds filled with memory foam will retain their shape longer, but they’re so dense that they can be uncomfortable to lie on. Down is another option, though it has the same problem as polyester—it will eventually flatten out.
Before you buy a pet bed based on its stuffing style, make sure the material won’t irritate your dog’s skin (this is especially important if your pooch has allergies). For example, cotton batting is soft and fluffy, but it can cause allergic reactions in some dogs.
When you’re shopping for a dog bed, think about what type of bed would be most comfortable for your dog. To figure this out, consider their age and whether or not they have any health or behavioral issues.
If your dog is older, you should look into getting an orthopedic pet bed to help with their bones and joints. If your pooch has mobility issues like arthritis or hip dysplasia, an elevated pet bed with memory foam could be the perfect solution to provide them with comfort and support during long naps.
Another thing to keep in mind is that if your fur baby suffers from joint pain from muscle tension, soreness, stress from travel, or anxiety when visiting the vet, it can affect their ability to rest peacefully in their sleep.
A couple of different types of beds that can combat those things are memory foam pet beds and calming beds designed to soothe these ailments while they catch up on much-needed sleep.
As your dog ages, look for a bed that offers support for his joints and bones. A bed that’s too soft will cause him to sink in, which can put pressure on joints. A bed that’s too firm, however, may not provide enough comfort. The best beds for older dogs are usually those made with memory foam or orthopedic materials.
You might not consider keeping your dog cool when thinking about the best bed for it, but it’s an important consideration. Dogs do not have human-like sweat glands and are therefore not able to regulate their body temperature as well as we can. They need to find a cool place to rest at all times, so make sure their bed is in a room that does not receive direct sunlight and is away from drafts.
Choose a dog bed with breathable fabric like open-weave mesh cotton or polyester twill—or a cooling gel or memory foam interior—to help keep your canine cool while they sleep.
Orthopedic beds are a great option for aging dogs, as they offer extra support and cushioning that eases joint pain and other aches. If your dog is a senior or suffers from hip dysplasia, arthritis or other ailments that affect mobility, this type of bed will make them more comfortable. These beds will also work well for dogs recovering from surgery or an injury.
No matter how much you love your dog, it’s a fact that they get a little stinky. And no matter how much you love your dog’s bed, it’s also a fact that the bed can start to stink up the room if you don’t wash the bedding. That said, removable covers are key. The best beds have zippers or velcro closures that allow you to easily remove the cover and wash them regularly in the machine (and many will be machine washable).
Choosing an indestructible design that suits your pup’s size and sleeping style will help ensure a long-lasting dog bed.
If your furry friend likes to lie on his side and stretch out, he’ll need a larger bed. If he likes to curl up, you can get away with something smaller.
If your dog is still growing or has a habit of chewing things up, it may be best to avoid beds with zippers, as those are prone to tearing if he decides to take them apart (which you might not mind at all considering the messes that can come from the toys inside).
Keep in mind that your dog will likely spend a lot of time in his bed, so you’ll want to make sure it is easy to clean. The best pet beds for dogs are machine washable, have durable materials and stuffing, and are made of stain-resistant or waterproof fabrics. Look for allergy-friendly materials like natural fibers like cotton and wool, too. If your dog has allergies or skin sensitivities, consider getting a hypoallergenic bed with removable covers that can be easily washed regularly.
If you don’t have a washing machine at home, the next best thing is to look for a dog bed that can be hand washed easily and quickly dried. Just rinse the cover with detergent on your sink or bathtub and hang dry it outside in the sun—or if this isn’t practical where you live, use a clothes dryer with low heat settings to get the job done even faster.
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