A dog bed is an essential piece of equipment for all dogs regardless of size, breed or age.

A good dog bed:

- provides a private space and sense of security;

- provides insulation from the floor in both winter and summer;

- cushions joints and bones;

- controls the spread of hair, dirt, and dander.

It may also save your furniture, as your dog will soon prefer his bed to your sofa.

Choosing the Right Dog Bed

How your dog sleeps, his size, age, or physical condition must all be considered when choosing the perfect bed for your dog.

Dog Bed Shapes

The shape of a dog bed is just as important as the size and filling.

- Round dog beds are great for dogs who curl up when they sleep. Our round dog beds are also ideally suited for younger dogs, who need a greater sense of security.

- Rectangular dog beds work best for dogs who stretch out. Older dogs often have less flexibility and will find a rectangular dog bed more comfortable.

Bolster Dog Beds

If you’ve ever found your dog sleeping with his back to the couch or a cushion, he’s there for a reason. Dogs who sleep this way do so because the support against their back offers them a feeling of security. Bolster dog beds are great for providing both security and comfort. Plus, the soft, spun-polyester-stuffed bolster makes an excellent pillow.

- Round bolster dog beds provide the perfect spot for dogs who like to curl up and snuggle next to something soft when they sleep.

- Rectangular dog loungers with soft bolsters on the back and sides provide a bed with a cozy cover that allows dogs to burrow in and relax in comfort.

- Deep dish bolster dog beds are great for homes with more than one dog.

Bagel Dog Beds

Does your dog circle and circle to find just the right place to lie down? Dogs who like to look for the perfect nesting spot love Bagel dog beds. With a soft, overstuffed bolster that completely surrounds your dog, Bagel dog beds provide a sense of safety and security that some dogs need when they snuggle in.

Burrow Dog Bed

Many dogs, small breeds in particular, can’t settle down to sleep unless they have their backs snuggled into something for an added feeling of safety and security. The Dog Burrow is the perfect solution–the half-covered hood offers an enclosed area, much like a natural den.

Memory Foam for Older Dogs

For older dogs, rectangular dog beds with memory foam help to ease the discomfort and stiffness associated with joint and muscle pain, whether from age, arthritis, hip dysplasia, or injury. By conforming to your dog’s individual body shape, less stress and pressure are put on the joints and muscles. Excessive callus irritation over joints is also minimized. A memory foam dog bed with a down covering will provide additional luxurious warmth.

ToughChew Dog’s Nest: For Dogs Who Chew

The ToughChew Dog’s Nest is made to be chew resistant to stand up to puppies as well as adult dogs who like to chew. While it’s tough, it’s also soft enough for a comfortable night’s sleep. Available in seven sizes and two shapes with the same high-loft hypoallergenic polyester filling.

Space-Saving Beds

If available space for a dog bed is a factor, then give your dog a luxurious dog bed that lets him spend time where you do without getting in the way. Space-saving dog beds tuck neatly in a corner or against a wall, allowing your dog a comfortable place to sleep that you can live with, too.

Couch Guardians

For dogs who love to rest on the couch, a couch guardian protects your furniture from stains, liquids, pet hair, and odors with innovative protection for your couch or love seat. At the same time, it gives your dog a comfortable place to rest. In a range of colors and even in fine leather, couch protectors complement any home’s decor.

Dog Blankets

More than half of all dog owners in America allow their dogs to sleep on their beds or couches. If you need a protective covering for your couch or bed that’s also comfortable and stylish, Three Dog Night bedding is for you. This dog-proof bedding protects your bed or couch from moisture, dirt, and provides you with a comfortable warm place to sleep with your dog.

Outdoor Dog Beds

For a comfortable place to sleep on the back porch, nothing beats an outdoor dog bed. These dog beds can be cleaned with a garden hose, are fast drying and will not mold or mildew.

Portable Dog Beds and Mats for Travel

When you travel, be sure to take a travel mat or portable dog bed for the comfort of your best friend. Travel mats and beds fold for ease of transport and ensure that your dog will have a more restful trip.

 

Selecting the right dog bed is important because it is where your dog calls home. Your favorite pet will spend a great deal of time sleeping, relaxing and resting in his dog bed so finding one that suits him well will help to make him more comfortable in his new home.

Some owners already have an idea of what they are looking for in a dog bed, but other owners are unsure of even where to begin looking for one. While it may seem as easy as just going to a local store and selecting a bed, there are actually a large variety to consider, and with this comes a variety of different factors to take into consideration before purchasing a bed.

Pet Size

There are a large variety of dog breeds from very small to extra large and with this comes a wide variety of different dog bed sizes available. One of the most important factors to consider when selecting one is the size of your dog. Although you might simply think a small dog will need a small bed and a large dog will need a larger one, it isn’t always this simple. Remember that if you are looking at the same bed in two different sizes, it is quite possible that the larger bed will cost a substantial amount more than the smaller bed, simply because it costs more for the extra materials.

Often small dogs like to feel snuggly and warm while large dogs will most likely want to stretch out. With this in mind small dogs often feel most comfortable in a bed with bumpers that they can snuggle up against at night. On the other hand, large dogs would be extremely uncomfortable in a bed with borders and will instead be most comfortable on a flat feather pillow bed.

Pet Health

Orthopedic dog beds are available that add extra support for older pets or pets with joint injuries, such as hip problems, disc problems, knee problems or are just old and have trouble getting around. Most orthopedic beds are made from similar materials as human orthopedic beds, with high-density foam that allows for extra support on the joints and makes it much easier to go from sitting to standing.

Remember that because you will be paying for extra padding and extra support, the cost of an orthopedic bed is likely to be substantially more expensive than a regular dog bed. As well, you may have to special order an orthopedic bed from the pet store or through your local vet.

Choice of Fabric

Believe it or not, dog beds are available in canvas, denim, fleece, cotton, suede and even upholstery material. Your choice of fabric will be dependent on the type of dog you own and the climate you live in. For dog owners with a long-haired dog or an outdoor dog like a Siberian Husky, you will want to select a cool cotton or canvas, so they won’t overheat while staying inside the house.

For owners of small or short haired dogs that might get cold more easily, you should look towards a warmer material that will help keep them warm year round. A great choice for these dogs would be a fleece, suede or even couch like upholstery material.

You may also want to consider a bed cover that is machine washable, especially if you have a dog that sheds a great deal or that gets dirty easily. You may also want to consider a fabric that can be washed easily without fading or shrinking.

Location of the Bed

Where you plan on placing the dog bed in your home is probably the most important factor when selecting one. Consider whether the dog likes to sleep in the owner’s bedroom, in a spare bedroom, in a crate in the kitchen or in the living room. Remember to select a location that is large enough for the dog’s bed, but that will also make them feel safe at night.

Although it may seem silly, you will also want to consider the location of a bed so that you can purchase one that matches your interior decorating. Purchasing a red dog bed and putting it in a green and black room might be a bit of an eyesore. Find something that blends in well, if at all possible.

Keep in mind that if you will have a dog that will be crated at nighttime, there are specific crate beds, which are long and can easily be placed in the crate to provide your dog with comfort while they sleep at night.

Price

One price does not fit all when it comes to beds for dogs. Similar to human beds, there are a variety of different brands and costs. Believe it or not, there are even designer and luxury dog beds available! These will offer extra cushioning, extra support and extra room. Many of them actually resemble a couch while others look similar to a human bed. Some designer dog beds that are specially ordered will even be personalized with the dog’s name.

Because of the wide range in dog beds, there is a large fluctuation in as well. Owners can select a basic one for around $20-$30 for a small dog and $50-$60 for a large dog, all the way up to designer or luxury dog beds that can run as high as $150-$250.

 

If you have a dog and need to choose a dog bed, you should consider a waterproof dog bed. This makes it easy for the bed to stay clean and dry, even if the dog is wet. This will also make it easy for any water on the dog to repel and the dog bed will have fewer odors. 

 A waterproof dog bed makes sense when you are looking for supplies for your dog. In addition to choosing a dog bed, you should also consider a pen to keep the dog in or a crate. These are ideal if you are housebreaking the dog. 

 A dog will generally not urinate where he is sleeping, so this is not the reason for the waterproof dog bed. The main reason is that the dog can get wet when being exercised outside and in the damp weather. When he lays down in his dog bed, he brings that moisture with him. When this seeps into the dog bed, it creates an odor that is formed due to mildew and mold. This can be unpleasant for both the dog as well as you. 

A good waterproof dog bed is one that has a covering that can be tossed right into the washer for cleaning. While your dog may prefer a dog bed that has an odor to it that smells like him, you will definitely prefer to have a dog bed that smells clean when it is in your home. 

 If you have a dog bed that is outside, such as in a kennel, you need to definitely choose a waterproof dog bed. Larger animals that are kenneled or have dog houses still need a dog bed in which to sleep. A waterproof dog bed is the best solution for any dogs that are kenneled or kept in a dog house.  Even if your dog is only in the dog house for some of the time, it is a good idea to make it comfortable for him by installing a waterproof dog bed. 

 You can get a waterproof dog bed in a variety of different sizes, depending on the size of your dog. They make a dog bed for all sized dogs, even very large ones. Naturally, the size of the dog bed coincides with the size of the dog. 

There are also different patterns and colors from which to choose when you are looking for a dog bed. While your dog will most likely not care whether his waterproof dog bed is blue or red, you can find one that you will like.  Your dog will most likely be attracted by the scent of the dog bed more than anything else. After you have cleaned the waterproof dog bed your dog will most likely roll in it to get his scent onto the bed. After all, he considers the bed to be part of his den and his safety zone. 

It is important for any dog owner to make sure that their dog is comfortable, especially when sleeping. You should choose dog beds for comfort as well as those that are waterproof. 

 

Dog lovers are suckers for allowing their precious pets to sleep in the bed with them. They will adjust their sleeping position during the night so their pooch can curl up or stretch out in their favorite position. Wouldn’t everyone get a better night’s sleep if Fido had his own perfect dog bed?

Observing how your dog sleeps will give you important clues to make the right decision when choosing a bed. Since dogs are creatures of habit and prefer to sleep in the same spot, this makes it even more important to choose the right bed to accommodate your dog’s sleeping habits.

5 Dog Bed Options Based on Shape and Style:

1. Donut shaped bed. This is the perfect choice if your dog likes to curl up into a ball or lean against something soft. It’s a cozy bed that is a comfort for dogs that like to be warm and feel protected. Determine the size based on whether your dog likes a cozy fit or wants a bit more room to stretch out.

2. Round pillow style beds. For dogs who like to sprawl out or circle around to make a soft nest, this is the style to choose. Round beds allow plenty of space for any sleeping style and the soft fill inside the cover provides soft, yet supportive comfort.

3. Rectangular dog bed. This bed will accommodate dogs that like to lie on their stomach! The shape is a great space saver and works well under tables or desks, so your dog can be close by whether at home or work. This style works well in crates and makes a great travel bed.

4. Orthopedic beds. If your dog is older or has arthritis or other joint problems, this is the bed to choose. Some beds are heated, which provides additional comfort for older dogs in the winter.

5. Outdoor beds and crate mattresses. Dogs that spend time outside or in a kennel probably deserve a comfortable bed even more than an indoor dog. There are heated beds, cooling beds and waterproof beds to consider. Check out the washing instructions, since these beds will need to be washed more often.

Selecting the right dog bed cover:

Anyone who has ever had a dog knows how messy they can be, so it’s important that your dog bed is up to the challenge. Of course, you want to keep your maintenance to a minimum, so choose 100% machine-washable fabric covers that can be removed from the mattress when it’s laundry time. The best beds come with a zip-off cover. In addition to the styles mentioned earlier, many of the new sofa-type dog beds can be purchased with a washable slip cover. They are definitely worth the extra money.

Choosing the size:

Dog beds must be big enough and strong enough to match your dog’s breed, but not so big that you waste money on unused bed space. Carefully measuring your dog will assure the proper fit.

There’s no hard and fast rule for size selection, but the following information offers a good guideline. Measure your dog standing up from tip of nose to base of tail and also from floor to shoulders or head. If you will be buying a mattress dog bed, add 12 inches. This will give you an approximate width and length for a flat dog bed.

Measure your dog’s length another time in his favorite sleeping position when he is fully stretched out, or his diameter when curled into a ball. For nest and ball-type beds measure the length of your dog while he is curled up. Measure from the top of his head to the point where his tail meets his hindquarters, and then add 7 to 9 inches.

The right size dog bed will be a close match or just slightly larger than your measurements. Beds that are too small may not be comfortable for your dog. It’s important to allow room for growth, if your dog is still growing, or you’ll be wasting money and replacing beds often. Be sure to allow room for movement regardless of whether your dog is still growing or if he’s already at maximum size.

Fabrics:

Does your dog enjoy sleeping in a sunny spot in the morning and by the bed in the evening? If so, select a bed that can be easily moved about the house and fits the decor in several rooms. To save money, buy a bed that matches the room where your dog spends the most time sleeping, usually where ever the family spends the most time.

Dog beds these days come in many designer colors and fabrics. There is something for every dog and dog owner that not only offers a soft or durable fabric but blends with the home decor.

To paraphrase a familiar saying - when Fido’s happy, everybody is happy. Your dog’s health and comfort depends upon his getting a good night’s sleep. Keep in mind that small dogs or dogs with arthritis may find it difficult to climb into a platform or furniture type bed. Make an informed decision when you purchase a dog bed and your dog will benefit for years to come.

 

Humans love a comfortable bed to sleep so do animals especially cats. Cats spend most of their time curling up and sleep. If you are fed up of your cat sleeping in your couch or your bed and leaving hair on your furniture or you want to give your cat a space of its own, a cat bed is your best option. In purchasing a bed for your cat, there are things that you should consider.

If you were able to watch Beverly Hills Chihuahua the movie then you are not a stranger to dogs living the good life. The leading dog character in the movie may be living an ultra-luxurious life but this is not far from reality especially for those who have the money to spend for dog luxuries. However, you need not spend much to pamper your pet because dogs would be contented living with affordable designer dog beds.

Dogs are like humans who need someplace to relax and just laze around. And just like humans dogs also have their own preferences when it comes to their sleeping habits. You can expect a wide variety of dog bed types to match not only your dog’s sleeping preferences but also your home decor.

Dog sleeping preferences

Before you even take a look at designer dog beds make sure you know what kind of a sleeper your dog is. Is your dog a burrower, a curler, a sprawler or a leaner? The type bed you choose should match the sleeping position your dog prefers to maximize the dog bed use.

There are different types of dog beds from the simple dog pillows, nesting dog beds, orthopedic dog beds, luxury dog beds, outdoor dog beds and waterproof dog beds. Each of these beds offer a different kind of comfort for pet dogs so you only have to decide based on your budget, how it matches your home decor, the durability of the bed and the specific purpose for which it is needed and that’s not just for sleeping.

One of the most preferred beds by dog owners are designer dog beds. These specialty beds give your dog a chance to sleep in a bed that looks just like the bed of his human. These dog beds are actually replicas of human furniture but are specifically designed and built for dogs. A dog that prefers to curl while sleeping but is also fond of stretching will have a grand time in his own specialty luxury bed or sofa. You can even match the dog’s bed with that of your home decor.

Will the bed fit your dog?

Once you have determined your dog’s sleeping preferences you now have to measure your dog from the tip of the head to the tail. Always make some allowances when measuring your dog to ensure his comfort when using the bed.

Choose a dog bed that will fit your dog’s breed size. There are small dogs like the Chihuahua which is the smallest in the category and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier which is by far larger and heavier. Your dog breed is also important in determining which type of dog bed you are going to get.

While this type of bed can be ordered to match your home decor make sure you do not lose sight of the real reason why you are buying a dog bed. You may commit the mistake of buying a dog bed which will fit your space and will look fabulous in your home but the main consideration really is the comfort that it will provide for your dog.

Getting a designer bed for your dog can be fabulous but if it fails to provide comfort for your dog because he is not comfortable with it or for any reason at all then you would just be wasting precious money. Avoid this by making sure your designer dog beds do not only look great but it also fits your dog’s needs.

 

Cat beds are not only nice to sleep in, but they can become necessary to your cat’s health. If you have a lightweight cat that has trouble with their weight, a heated cat bed can stave off potential colds. Heated cat beds are also great for older cats and pets with arthritic and joint ailments

You have a bed of your own, so why shouldn’t your cat? It’s true to say that if you buy a bed or even several beds for your cat, he will probably still use your three piece suite, your own bed or indeed anywhere he wants, but you’ll feel better able to move him on if he has his own special place to sleep.