Dog Beds Buyer's Guide
When going out shopping for your new bed or mattress, you always try it out first before buying. Moreover, you also have a few other factors to consider before settling on your best choice.
Well, the same also applies to dog beds. Since our furry friends might not help us in picking the right bed for them, here are a few key factors you should consider before getting your canine's next bed.
Fits Well To Your Dog's Size
Usually, this is the main factor to consider while buying a new bed, especially for a larger breed.
Always keep your canine companion's size in mind. Look for a bed which will provide enough stretching and sleeping space for your pooch. Make sure that no legs are left hanging outside - not unless it is by choice.
Quality Of Material Used
The quality of the materials used in the manufacture of the bed matter a lot when it comes to buying a new canine bed. Human-grade high-density foam is always recommended as it is more durable and can withstand heavy weights.
A big dog weighs more as compared to smaller one, hence it is recommended to pay a little more for a better-quality dog bed. Otherwise, you will end up having the bed/foam flatten over time and it is not cost effective to keep replacing the canine bed.
On top of that, a premium quality dog bed can last a long time, which is good for senior dogs. Older dogs are often troubled by joint pains and back problems. The dog bed will definitely pay for itself in the future. In fact, given a good bed to sleep on in the early days will reduce the chances of your dog from suffering age related problems that older dogs commonly face.
Moreover, it is also essential to know your pooch's behavior.
If it is a livelier and playful dog, then it is recommended you get a high-density memory foam bed. But if the dog is less active and what it just does is sleep and weighs less, then you may consider low-loft fiber filling foams. Playful and heavier dogs also require foams with firm and thicker bases to support their weight and take in all the pressure without getting damaged or flattening with time.
Does It Have A Removable Cover?
The best dog beds have a water-resistant removable cover. This is ideal when it comes to keeping your furry friend's bed clean at all times and maintaining your home's hygiene. Some dogs, especially the aging ones may at times have issues with their bladders and cannot make it to pee in their designated areas. Hence, the bed might get dirty.
If the bed is not made of waterproof materials, then the urine might get inside the foam which makes a foul smell coming from your dog's bed. It's also much harder to remove the urine smell from the foam as compared to the removable cover.
The cover should preferably be made from materials that are friendly to washing machines and dryers. Furthermore, the cover should be easy to remove and put back. We recommend that you lookout for one that you can open and close with a zipper.
Different Types Of Dog Beds
We all have our preferences when it comes to selecting the perfect bed for ourselves. This might be because of different varying reasons, and that accounts for the many types of beds we sleep in. Just like us, dogs too have different preferences when it comes to the different types of beds.
With different functionalities and designs, it all depends on you to understand what your pooch will be more comfortable on. A few of the most common bed types include:
- Bolster Style Dog Beds – These beds have a raised wall and give your pet a chance to lean on. This type is excellent for head support and is also great at offering your dog a sense of security, calming their anxiety. If you go for this type, always ensure that your pooch is tall enough to get in over the walls or if not, get a bed with a spot that has no bolsters or walls for easier entry.
- Orthopedic Dog Beds – These beds are a perfect solution for dogs with arthritis or other joint issues. This is highly recommended for aging dogs as they are more prone to joint or spine challenges.
- Pillow Cushion Dog Beds – Pillow cushioned canine beds are ideal for those dogs that sleep fully stretched. It is easy for any type of pooch to get onto and you can easily modify its look to blend in with your home's décor.
Location Of The Bed Matters
The location of where you will place your doggie's bed also matters a lot before purchasing one. If you will place it on a wooden or tiled floor surface, then it would be recommended if you bought one with a non-skid rubber base.
This is because dog beds with smooth fabric surfaces tend to move every time from the designated place to another. The ones with rubber bases tend to be more firm and cannot easily move unless you pick them up yourself and change their location. Moreover, beds with a rubber bottom are more secure and prevent minor accidents from occurring near them.
Colors & Design
The design and color of the dog's bed is one often overlooked trait. Getting a bed that would clash with your home's design would be a terrible idea.
Always consider your home's décor before purchasing a doggie bed. Consider the size of the room you wish to keep the bed and also consider the color. If your pooch loves going outside, then it would be recommended to get the cot-style bed which is elevated off the ground for a few inches.
Budget Considerations
Applicable to every other purchase, you should always consider the prices before buying them.
The same is the case with dog beds. Cheaper models don't always have the best materials and comfort with them as compared to the more pricy models.
However, if you want the best bed while on a tight budget, our list covers you on that. We have covered some of the best canine beds in the market, which are heavily discounted from time to time.
Warranty Of The Dog Bed
Anything from a trusted dealer always comes with a warranty. The best canine beds too come with a warranty, some cover up to 10 years! A warranty is usually one way of assuring clients that the product is safe and durable for a long period.
If anything happens to the bed during a specified period, then the company will be liable and either pay you or replace with another. Always read the manual before buying the bed to understand the terms of the warranty.
