How to Choose the Right Pet Bed

Dogs and cats are serious sleepers. When it comes to your pet’s priorities, a good siesta is right up there with cuddles, treats and tantalizing toys. That’s why, as pet parent, your choice of a bed for your kitty or pup is so important. Selecting the right furniture for naps and nighttime will make their dreams even sweeter – and help you get a better night’s sleep as well.

Five benefits of pet beds

Pet beds offer some big advantages for you and your dog or cat.

Keep your pet safe: When your pup sprawls out in a busy hallway or your kitty curls up in a sunny spot on the stairs, they’re at a greater risk of getting stepped on. Giving them a bed of their own – somewhere safe from foot traffic – can help prevent avoidable accidents. 

Prevent injuries: Older dogs and cats risk injury when they attempt to jump on and curl up on beds, sofas and other higher spots. A comfortable bed on the floor minimizes damage to joints and hips. 

Get a better night’s sleep for all: Encouraging pets to sleep in their own beds is bound to improve your sleep and theirs. 

Make them comfortable: Cozy pet beds mean more relaxing snoozes for dogs and cats – especially older pets with arthritis and weight issues. 

Maintain their well-being: Dedicated pet beds provide dogs and cats with a place all their own where they can feel secure and relaxed. 

Make cleaning easier: Pet beds with washable covers help keep the other furniture in your home free from shedding fur, dander, dirt and parasites brought in from outside.  

Types of pet beds

When looking for pet beds, you’ll come across a wide range of options for both dogs and cats.

Dog beds

• Orthopedic beds beds feature a layer of memory foam that evenly distributes weight to take the pressure off aching joints.

• Cuddler beds let pups bed down in a protective space surrounded by a soft, raised rim where they can rest their heads.

• Pillow beds provide a comfortable and portable place for dogs of any size to sleep.

• Heating and cooling beds offer surfaces with optimal temperatures to help your dog sleep more comfortably.

• Elevated beds let dogs sleep on a surface with a bit of height and can help keep larger dogs cool during warmer months.

• Padded mats are ideal for crates and for larger dogs that like to stretch out.

Cat beds

• Covered beds provide kitties with a hideaway from the world where they can sleep in peace and security.

• Cuddler beds let cats curl up in comfort and security, snuggling against a thick rim of fabric and foam.

• Heated beds are perfect for older cats with orthopedic issues or kitties that prefer a warmer place to sleep.

• Window perches let your cat curl up and watch the world outside or catch some winks in a sunny spot.

Choosing the right bed for your pet

Keep these factors in mind when choosing a bed for your pet.

The right size: Pet beds should be large enough for a cat or dog to stretch out comfortably, but cozy enough to help them feel secure. The ideal size is likely a few inches more than the length of your pet when measured from nose to tail.

A match for their sleeping style: Pets that love to curl up with pillows or in enclosed spaces will need a different bed than those that love to sleep sprawled out.

Durable material: Look for beds made from material that will support their weight and withstand chewing, scratching and digging behavior. Memory foam is a good option for older pets with arthritis or joint issues.

Easy to clean: Pet beds with removable, machine-washable covers make cleaning a breeze.

Portable options: If your pet travels with you, a lightweight bed that’s easy to move or pack is a must.

Climate considerations: An elevated bed improves air circulation to help keep pets cool in the warmer environments, while heated beds or self-warming fabrics can keep your pet cozy during cold winters.

FAQs

What should I consider when choosing a pet bed?

Size, style and maintenance are the most important things to consider when looking at pet beds. The size of the bed should be just a little larger than the length of your dog or cat when sleeping. Your pet’s sleeping style will help you determine whether a protective, cuddly space or a flat, cushioned mat is best. Be sure to choose a bed that will be easy to clean and maintain.

Should my pet have more than one bed?

Since most pets love to sleep near their pet parents, placing beds in different areas of your home will let your pup or kitty find a comfy place to sleep no matter where you are.

What kind of beds are best for older pets?

Many older dogs and cats benefit from orthopedic beds with memory foam that help to relieve the stress on aging joints.

At PetSmart, we carry a wide variety of pet beds and other furniture. We offer lots of online options, along with convenient shopping with Curbside Pickup or in-store pickup. Need something today? We have select items available for Same-Day Delivery in most areas powered by DoorDash. For items you purchase frequently, PetSmart has Autoship that automatically delivers the items you want to your door as often as you’d like. Check the website to see which items are eligible.

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.