Having a comfortable bed is an essential part of having a good night's sleep, and the same goes for your four-legged friend; providing them with a comfortable bed is a crucial part of ensuring they get a restful sleep as well. But picking the right dog bed can be quite complicated, as there are different types of beds on the market to suit different breeds as well as the preferences of dog owners, especially when it comes to the aesthetic of their home.

One way to ensure that you purchase the right bed for your pup is to consider a range of factors, such as size, cleaning and maintenance requirements, the type of materials used, price and any other relevant details. 

The most common dog beds and their features

Different types of dog beds have their own benefits and features and they will be shared in this segment. Below are some of each type of dog bed. 

Pillow dog beds 

Pillow dog beds are a type of bed that have a simple, pillow-like design. These beds are great for dogs that like to stretch out and sprawl, and they can be used in any room of the house. Pillow dog beds come in different sizes to fit dogs of different breeds.

• A good night's sleep.
• Cosy place for a dog.
• Affordable, high comfort.
• Great for cuddlers, many designs available.

Crate mats 

Crate dog beds are specifically designed to fit inside a dog crate. They are usually made from a soft and durable material like nylon or canvas and have a non-slip bottom to keep the bed in place inside the crate. These beds are great for providing a comfortable sleeping surface for dogs who spend time in their crates, whether it's while you're away at work or when you're travelling with your pet.

• They are easy to clean and sanitize.
• A better night's rest.
• High comfort.

Orthopaedic dog beds 

​As dogs age, they can develop joint pain and arthritis, and an orthopedic bed can provide the extra support and comfort they need to sleep comfortably. These beds are often made with memory foam or supportive egg-crate style foam, which contours to the shape of the dog's body and provides pressure relief for joints.

• Relieve joint pains, great support for dogs with arthritis.
• Prevent future joint pain.
• Ensure your pooch is well-rested and energized for a new day. 
• These beds can be somewhat more expensive than other types but they make a big difference for the pet.

Other types of dog beds are:

Raised beds: elevated off the ground to keep pups cool in warm weather.

Nesting beds: feature raised sides, walls or bolsters to provide a sense of security for dogs.

Donut beds: shaped like a donut to provide a cozy and snug sleeping experience.

Outdoor beds: designed for use outside and made of durable, weather-resistant materials.

Heated beds: designed to keep dogs warm in cold weather.

Cooling beds: designed to keep dogs cool in hot weather.

Travel beds: lightweight and portable beds for dogs on the go.

Things to consider when picking a bed for your dog

Knowing the factors to consider when picking a bed for your dog will help you purchase the right bed for your furry friend. The things to consider are listed and explained below - let's get into it!

• Dog bed materials. 
• Size.
• Cleaning and maintenance.

Dog bed materials 

Dog beds can be made from a variety of materials, including:

1. Memory foam: provides support and pressure relief for joints
2. Polyester fill: provides softness and cushioning
3. Cotton: breathable and hypoallergenic
4. Microfiber: soft and durable
5. Nylon: durable and water-resistant
6. Canvas: durable and easy to clean

Memory foam is considered one of the best materials for dog beds as it provides excellent support for dogs with joint pain or arthritis. It also holds its shape well and doesn't flatten over time. Orthopedic beds made from memory foam are very comfortable and help to ease pressure on joints.  The Snooza Orthobed is made of orthopaedic foam to help a dog relax and soothe its joints. 

Cotton and microfiber are also good options as they are soft, breathable and easy
 to clean. Nylon is a good material for outdoor beds as it is durable and water-resistant. It is also easy to clean, but not as soft as other materials.

Ultimately, the best material for a dog bed will depend on the individual needs and preferences of the dog, as well as the people's budget and preferences.

Size 

The correct size of the bed contributes significantly to the fact that your four-legged friend will be able to relax completely. The bed must allow the dog to fully stretch out in it and have plenty of space for a good rest. Therefore, make sure that you choose a large enough bed with the correct depth of the lying surface. You can determine the size by measuring the dog from head to tail and adding about 10 cm to the length.

The most common sizes are Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large. If you plan to place the bed or a mattress in a crate, make sure it will fit inside.

Cleaning and maintenance 

Our pets spend a lot of time in their beds. If the bed is not maintained properly, it can become dirty due to the oils from the pet's fur, and it can also start to emit an unpleasant smell.

When picking a bed for your furry friend, cleaning and maintenance of the bed is important. If the care procedure isn't easy 
to follow, then you'd want to avoid purchasing that kind of bed for your dog. Another important factor to consider is the cover of the bed. Look for a bed with a removable and machine-washable cover, as this will make it easy to keep the bed clean. Some beds also have water-resistant covers, which can be helpful if you have a dog that likes to drool or is prone to accidents.

How often should you replace your dog's bed?

You should replace your dog's bed every 6 to 9 months. Once you notice that your puppy doesn't like resting in its bed or the bed smells bad, you'd want to prepare a replacement bed for your pet.

No matter how much time and effort you put into finding the perfect bed for your pet, if it's not comfortable or the bed smells bad, it's important to take the necessary steps to replace it in order to ensure your pet's comfort and well-being.

Choosing the right place - where should you put the bed for the dog?

When choosing a suitable dog bed, the location in the house plays an essential role. For example, if the dog bed is going to be placed on the floor in a corner, a square shape makes more sense than an oval or round one. Do not place the dog mat in a room where there is a strong draft or choose a spot where it will be in everyone's way. In this way, you will provide the dog with a place for everyday retreats. If you like to have your dog by your side at night, make sure you place the bed somewhere where you won't accidentally step on it in the middle of the night.

Conclusion 

Choosing the perfect dog bed can be a difficult task, but by considering your dog's size, sleeping habits, and overall comfort, you can find the perfect bed for your furry friend. It's important to look for a bed that is appropriately sized, supports the weight of your dog, is made of quality materials, is easy to clean and fits your home decor. It is also important to test the bed before making a final decision and observe how your dog interacts with it. Remember that a good bed is an investment that will provide your dog with a comfortable place to rest and sleep.

The pet store Pet Goodies offers you a wide range of equipment and other accessories for your pets. From basic necessities to special products to meet the highest requirements - an extensive selection of quality products at affordable prices for dogs, cats, birds, small pets and other animals. You will find anything from pet collars to feeders and bird cages to pet toys and dog beds, cat beds or small pet beds.