Types of dog beds
How to choose the best design to ensure your dog gets a good night's sleep
THE IMPORTANCE OF YOUR DOG'S REST
Estimated reading time: 9 minutes
You may think that your dog will sleep anywhere and that they don't need a specific bed adapted to their characteristics. Nothing could be further from the truth. Rest is a vulnerable time for your pet and vital for their physical and mental recovery. Therefore, depending on their age, size, weight and preferences, there are several factors to take into account. The most suitable bed for a dog is one that adapts to their needs and offers them a truly restorative rest. It is not the same to have a small dog, such as a Chihuahua, as it is to have a German Shepherd, just as the rest of a puppy has nothing to do with that of a senior dog.
Table of contents
1- What type of bed does your dog need to rest properly?
2 - Consequences of choosing an unsuitable bed for our dog
What kind of bed does your dog need to rest properly?
If you are looking for a bed for your pet, you may be overwhelmed by the variety. Nowadays there are many different designs of dog beds and each one has different characteristics. Before buying a bed for your dog, we recommend that you consider the following aspects.
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Beds according to the size and weight of the dog
The needs of a small dog are very different from those of a large dog. This is due to the length of their body but also to their weight. A dog's bed should be as long as the dog's body when fully stretched, from muzzle to tail. It should also be of an appropriate thickness, directly proportional to your dog's weight.
Beds for large dogs: Mattress-type beds are ideal for large dogs, as they allow them to move freely and stretch out. In the case of these dogs, we also recommend that they are made of viscoelastic material or memory foam, for greater adaptability and a better rest for your furry friend.
Beds for small dogs: Due to their size, they do not have so much trouble finding a bed design that fits them, but if our pet is an adult and is not going to grow any bigger, we do not recommend a bed that is too big for its size. To make them feel cuddled and protected, a good option could be a cradle bed, with a wicker structure and a mattress, or the typical oval, rectangular or square foam beds.
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Beds according to temperature
Just as it is difficult for people to sleep in summer because of the high temperatures, the same thing happens to dogs. A bed that does not adapt to the outside temperature could have a negative effect on our pet's rest. Therefore, the ideal is to have one bed for winter and another for summer. It is also very important to consider whether your pet is rather warm or they are more sensitive to the cold.
Dog beds for cold weather. There are many beds on the market with warm finishes (such as plush, for example) that are perfect for when temperatures drop. For example, sleeping bag type beds are ideal, as they wrap our dog completely, keeping them warm and comfortable.
Dog beds for warm weather. When temperatures are very hot, it is best to choose a bed that allows air to circulate and is made of cool, breathable materials. An excellent choice is a hammock dog bed or a mat bed. The latter are very practical because they can be spread out anywhere, but they must be at least as thick as possible to keep your dog comfortable. In addition, there are also beds filled with a cooling gel in case our dog is very hot or we live in a very hot area.
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Beds according to the age of the dog
Throughout their lives, a dog's needs change. When they are puppies, they have a lot of energy and everything is new to them, so they will need a bed that offers them a restful sleep but also allows them to feel protected and safe. For older dogs, it is essential that the bed protects their joints.
Beds for puppies. For the puppy to feel safe, the ideal would be a trundle bed or igloo bed that gives them that space where they can relax and rest from all the new stimuli and emotions that surround them. In addition, a good idea is to opt for waterproof fabrics, as while we are teaching our puppy to do their business outside the house, accidents can happen.
Beds for senior dogs. A senior dog will have very specific needs depending on their state of health, but in general, we recommend orthopaedic beds, which are made of a gel that adapts to the posture of their body. These beds protect the joints and bones of our dogs in their mature age, but they are also ideal for post-operative care in adult dogs. Another highly recommended option for senior dogs are heated beds, which relieve muscle and bone pain. Waterproof materials are also very practical in these cases, as older dogs can suffer from incontinence.
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Beds according to the dog's temperament
Not all dogs have the same needs when it comes to resting in their bed and this is due, among other things, to their temperament. Depending on their character and habits, we will need one type of bed or another.
Beds for quiet and shy dogs. If your dog is introverted and you notice that, from time to time, they need a space to retreat to to be on their own, it is best to buy them an igloo or cot bed, which are more secluded and will make them feel safer and more protected. It is also a good option for dogs that like to sleep curled up, as they will feel the embrace of their bed around their body and it will be very pleasant for them.
Beds for nervous and fidgety dogs. If your dog loves to rest stretched out, taking up as much space as possible, their perfect bed is a mattress, rug or pillow type. They will have no limits to move as they like, twisting or stretching out in any direction they want.
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Dog beds according to material
In almost all cases it is a good idea to buy a dog bed made of waterproof fabric, as it will save us from having to wash it every so often, with the inevitable wear and tear that this entails. A liquid-repellent fabric allows for quicker cleaning with a damp cloth, and is perfect for puppies that are not yet able to go outside or have no sphincter control, as well as for elderly dogs with incontinence or bitches that are about to become mums. However, there are other materials to consider.
Plastic beds. If you want to have a bed on the terrace or in the garden, opt for a plastic support, as a wooden or fabric bed could be damaged by the sun or rain. Add a comfortable, waterproof mattress and you'll have a lightweight outdoor bed that's perfect for your pet's outdoor naps.
Wooden beds. Wood is a hard-wearing material and perfect for a beautiful bed that you want to be part of your home's décor. Just make sure the wood is well finished, with no splinters or protrusions that could hurt your dog.
Fabric beds. If you are going to buy a fabric bed for your dog, we recommend breathable fabrics such as cotton. Keep in mind that if it is not a waterproof bed, you will have to wash it often to prevent your pet's resting place from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. Your dog can bring in all kinds of dirt from the street, on their paws, on their snout, stuck in their fur...
Wicker beds. Do not opt for this option if your dog is not yet trained not to bite. This type of natural finish is very attractive to them and they could tear it apart if they bite it, or even hurt themselves with a wicker stick.
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Dog beds by design
Functionality and your dog's rest should be the most important requirements when choosing their bed, but if you also want its design to add a fun touch to your home, we recommend these models.
Dog beds in the shape of a sofa. If your dog loves getting on the sofa to stretch out and rest their head on the armrest, buy them a dog bed that emulates the shape of a sofa for people. You'll see how much they love it!
Dog beds in the shape of a bed. If you have got your dog used to climbing on your bed (DOGKING generally does not recommend this for reasons of hygiene, possible conflict and hyper-attachment, except in cases of special need), they may still prefer it to their own, even if you buy them a model in the shape of a human bed, with a mattress and pillow.
Consequences of choosing an unsuitable bed for our dog
If the bed we buy for our dog does not take into account the characteristics we have mentioned, it is possible that they will not feel comfortable in it and will reject it or, in other cases, they will use it but will not rest properly. As social animals and explorers, dogs need adequate rest to regain strength, consolidate memories and learning, and maintain good bone and joint health. Dogs' rest is also essential to ensure mental health, a strong immune system and a balanced, calm and happy demeanour. So, now you know, to give your dog a good quality of life, choose a bed that suits their physical characteristics, preferences and needs. Sweet dreams!