How to Choose the Best Dog Bed

Every pup deserves a comfy dog bed to lounge around on, take naps on, and enjoy. No matter if your dog is big or small, every pup needs a cozy spot to call their own. There are so many different types of beds designed for dogs...but which one is best? Is there one that will work better for the type of dog you have? Where should you start? 

These are all great questions and asking them shows just how much you care for your furry best friend. Pet parents who want to learn more about the different types of dog beds and how to choose the right one for their pup should keep reading.

The Importance of a Good Dog Bed

Just like you need a good mattress to support your body as you rest, so does your dog. Dogs also need help protecting their joints, muscles and more as they grow. 

As your pup ages, they can develop issues with their body just like you can. Dogs can get arthritis, hip dysplasia, joint conditions and more that all have them needing a supportive place to rest and feel relief.

Making sure your pup has a good dog bed is an important part of their care. Giving them a comfortable space to rest that supports their body is a huge part of helping them live their best life! 

Making sure your pup has a great bed is more than just supporting their health and body. Giving your pup a dog bed that they love is also a great way to give them feelings of safety, comfort and relaxation. Dogs often see their beds as a source of safety where they can retreat after a long day or rest when they’re home alone. Whether it’s a bed in their dog crate or one around the house, they can go to it to relax and recharge. 

There are a lot of reasons to make sure your dog has the best dog bed. So what are the different kinds of dog beds and which one is right for your pet? 

Different Kinds of Dog Beds

There are many different types of beds so it might be hard to pick the right one for your pup. Dog bed options include:

• Pillow Dog Beds - The most popular style of dog bed is the pillow dog bed and it comes in all sorts of shapes and sizes. For small dogs or large dogs, this type of bed is great for lounging. They often come with removable covers that are easy to clean in the washer whenever it starts to get dirty or smelly! 

 

• Crate Mats - For dogs that like a flat surface or go to their crate to sleep, a crate mat can be a great option. These beds are usually durable, washable, and make a crate more comfortable for a pup. 

 

• Cuddler Dog Beds - Does your dog like to snuggle? A cuddler dog bed is one that has raised sides around it to hug your dog and give them extra comfort. 

 

• Orthopedic Dog Beds - Orthopedic dog beds are designed for dogs with orthopedic needs. They are often made out of support materials meant to help dogs with joint issues, hip dysplasia, arthritis or obesity and can offer relief from the pains of those conditions. 

What Kind of Dog Bed Should You Buy Your Pup?

Now that you know the types og beds, how do you choose? Pet parents should consider the following when picking a bed for their pup.

Do They Have Health Conditions That a Bed Could Help With? 

If your pup has any joint conditions, arthritis, is overweight or has any health consideration that a bed might be able to support, then you should consider that when you choose a bed. Your veterinarian should be able to point you in the right direction about what kinds of beds might help your pup and maybe offer them some relief. For example, some dogs with arthritis benefit from heated beds or orthopedic beds that support the health of their joints. 

Where is Your Dog’s Favourite Place to Sleep? 

Where is your dog’s favourite place to sleep or lounge? If it’s in front of a window, then they might want a pillow bed that helps them stay comfortable as they observe outside. If they like to be in their crate, then they might need a crate mat that makes it more cozy and comfortable. Think about where your dog likes to sleep and what kind of bed would work best for that place. 

How Do They Like to Sleep? 

Does your dog like to sleep curled up in a ball or do they like to stretch out their whole body? If your dog is a stretcher then they might not like a cuddler bed that doesn’t give them room to do that. If your dog is a cuddler, then they might like the raised sides of the bed that keep them warm and closed in. Think about how your dog likes to sleep when choosing a bed for them. 

Finding the right dog bed might take time as you learn more about your pup, what they like and what they need. There is no doubt that you’ll be able to find the right dog bed at PetSmart.  

To shop our selection of dog beds and other dog supplies, click here. 

Information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure your pet and is not a substitute for veterinary care provided by a licensed veterinarian. For any medical or health-related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet, contact your veterinarian.