If you’re a canine lover, you know all the perks of having a dog: There’s *always* a hyper fluffball to play with when you get home. If your pizza delivery shows up or there’s an Amazon Prime package, your dog alerts you ASAP through bark code, even though they might get a little too protective when the mail carrier arrives. While you love getting cuddly with your canine, sometimes you can’t both share the couch, which is why you should get a good dog bed, stat.
But, where to start? Your furry best friend can’t just have any old bed. Before you drop major bucks on a dog bed, there are some factors you might want to consider:
Size: Size is important, because you don’t want your dog to feel like they’re in a stuffed burrito or sinking ship. Keep their dimensions, height, and weight in mind when you’re browsing online for a dog bed.
Health Needs: If your puppy is actually a senior dog or if they have joint issues like arthritis, they’ll need a little extra support. In these cases, opt for an orthopedic-style dog bed for extra comfort, since these cushioned beds will help ease pressure on joints and muscles, so dogs can move and sleep comfortably without pain. For dogs with diagnosed arthritis, The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) advises that home environment changes, including adding an orthopedic bed and stair steps, can help reduce dog arthritis symptoms.
Cleaning: If your pooch is a bedwetter or rolls in mud on repeat, invest in a dog bed that’s easy to clean. Search for dog beds with waterproof and removable, machine washable fabric, so you can keep your dog’s crib dry and odor-free.
Safety: You might find the perfect bed for your pup, but it’s important to safely take care of their sleeping area. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says household products, including fabric softener sheets and bleach could be potentially dangerous for your pup, so if you score a washable dog bed, be mindful of how you’re cleaning and washing it.
Value: With the huge amount of dog beds on the market, it’s easy to spend a lot of money on features you don’t need, or to accidentally end up with a cheap dog bed that won’t last. Some beds have additional features including breathable fabric, memory foam, or anti-slip material, so be sure to read the full product descriptions to choose a bed that’s best for your lifestyle and your dog.
At the end of the day, you want your pup to be comfy whenever and wherever they need some downtime. From plush pads to stylish teepees, we’ve picked the best dog beds for your canine’s relaxation needs.
