A Place to Call Their Own

 Just in case you are in any doubt, let’s make this clear: no, your dog should not sleep in your bed. That is unhygienic, and potentially detrimental to both your own and your dog’s health (after all, either one of you could be the germ carrier).

On the other hand, you may think that dogs can sleep just about anywhere. And they can, if they are not given any other option. However, your pet deserves better! He or she deserves a proper dog bed. Dog beds provide our furry four-legged friends with a place to call their own, a place where they can feel safe, and a place they can retreat to when they need some alone-time.

To make sure your dog uses his or her bed, it has to be the right bed. The size and the personality (yes, personality!) of your pet have to be taken into account. You also need to consider the material the bed is made of and to put some careful thought when deciding where to place it.

The Dimensions of the Dog Bed

The size of the dog bed should correspond to the dog’s size. If it is too small, the dog will be uncomfortable. If it is too big, your pet may feel lonely and exposed in it. The rule of the thumb is to measure the dog from nose to tail and add 20 to 30 centimetres to determine the length or diameter of the bed.  

You can buy a bigger bed for a puppy and add blankets or padding to it to help the little one feel secure.

The Design of the Dog Bed

If you think that you only need to worry about how the dog bed goes with your interior, think again! Dogs may not know much about design, but they have definite preferences, depending on their favourite sleeping position and their personality. Observe your dog carefully and decide which style of dog bed is the best match:

Cave, igloo or tent dog beds are ideal for dogs that like to burrow. This style is also the perfect choice for shy or nervous dogs, offering them and a hide-away whenever life gets overwhelming. These beds are typically designed for smaller dogs.

Nesting and donut dog beds offer the pleasure of sinking into a high-walled nest. Your dog will appreciate this style if he or she likes to snuggle for security, or to curl up when sleeping. The cup shape helps retain body heat, making this style suitable for smaller dogs. Select a donut bed if you notice that your dog likes to walk in circles a few times before settling down.

Bolster style dog beds are great for all dogs, particularly larger breeds. A bolster bed is similar to the nesting bed, but has a lower profile. Dogs that love to sleep with their head cradled on an armrest or a pillow will appreciate this design.

Mats, pillows and pads are an economical way to provide comfortable rest for your pet at home or on the go. They are also a great choice for dogs that enjoy sprawling out. Large dogs especially tend to stretch as much as they can while sleeping, so the freedom offered by a rectangular pillow bed or large pad will suit them well.

Heated dog beds provide gentle warmth and may be necessary during cooler months for small breed dogs, older dogs, or ailing dogs that need a little extra warmth.

Cooling dog beds are made out of airy materials, to help your dog stay cool in the summer heat. As long-haired dogs and dogs with thick fur can easily overheat while sleeping, beds that offer a chance to cool off are essential.

The Dog Bed Materials

Choose the dog bed made of material that will not collect pet hairs and is easy to wash. If the whole bed cannot be put into the washing machine, make sure it has easily removable bedding. Waterproof and anti-bacterial fabric can be washed less frequently.

Most economical dog bed models are stuffed with synthetic fibre (pollyfill), while more up-market models usually have foam only or a combination of foam and polyfill. A memory foam dog bed will last longer without losing shape. However, memory foam tends to absorb odours, so make sure to cover it with a waterproof, washable cover.

The Placement of the Dog Bed

In the dog world it’s all about location, location, location! Place the dog bed somewhere warm, draught-free, and away from the excessive foot traffic. The bed should not be close to the dog’s feeding and drinking area, because dogs have the bad habit of bringing food into their bed.

As to where specifically to put the bed… well, ask your pet. Observe it for a few days and note his or her favourite resting spot. That is the perfect placement for the bed!

If you have more than one dog, you will need one bed per dog. For dogs that like to snuggle up together, get an additional large dog bed they can share when they feel like it.

Just like humans, dogs do not like being disturbed when we are trying to catch some sleep. Make sure that everyone, including children, leaves the dog alone while he or she is in the bed!