AKC is a participant in affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to akc.org. If you purchase a product through this article, we may receive a portion of the sale.
There’s nothing more relaxing and rejuvenating than a good night’s sleep. This is true not just for people, but for dogs, too. Dogs sleep between 12 to 18 hours a day, depending on age. They deserve a comfy dog bed to snooze on just like you do.
Although you might find your pup snuggled at your side during the night, dogs should have a bed of their own. Then, even when you’re not there, they can relax in a spot that’s dedicated to them. If you don’t let your dog in your bed, it’s even more important for your pooch to have a cozy spot to sleep that isn’t the floor.
A great dog bed provides your pup a space that’s not only comfortable but also supportive and soft. Think about how you sleep best. Don’t you feel better on a comfy bed with your head supported by a soft, cloud-like pillow? There are a variety of features that make for a good dog bed, and they should come into consideration when shopping for one for your furry friend.
A Good Dog Bed Supports Joints
As dogs age, they may develop problems like arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other joint issues. To help with these issues, a supportive dog bed is imperative to cushion your dog’s body and provide relief from the pain associated with age-related health problems. A comfy dog bed also supports the joints of developing puppies too, ensuring a good night’s rest.
Beds that contain special interlocking fill materials ensure that the bed provides soft, supportive comfort for your dog’s body, especially the joints. This keeps pain for older dogs with arthritis to a minimum at night and during naps throughout the day.
Good Beds Ensure Better Sleep
Dogs, like people, need good quality sleep to stay healthy. Not only that, but a good night’s rest improves your dog’s memory and can even make your pooch smarter, according to a study published in a 2017 edition of Scientific Reports. That’s because when dogs learn new commands, they tend to do better in repeating those commands when they sleep properly. After all, when pups are well-rested, they have more energy to devote to learning.
Like people, dogs also need a good night’s rest to stay healthy. This is especially important for older dogs and larger breeds who need a bit more sleep than their younger, smaller counterparts. A cozy bed that cushions their bodies encourages pups to go to sleep and to stay asleep throughout the night.
Your Pup Needs a Spot to Relax
A cozy dog bed should be an oasis for your dog, away from the hustle and bustle of your home. Dogs are den animals so they appreciate having a spot where they can relax.
You’ll want to choose a good dog bed that is an appropriate size for your pup. Naturally, large dogs need bigger beds than small ones. This ensures that your canine companion has more than enough space to stretch out and snooze. You can even place the bed within your pup’s crate. That way, it gives your pooch a cozy hide-a-way to hang out when they’re feeling stressed.
Good Dog Beds Are Easy to Clean
Dogs can track in a lot of dirt and pests like fleas so it’s important that you can easily clean their dog bed. Look for a good dog bed with a removable cover that you can easily toss in the wash weekly. This helps keep dog hair, dander, and germs to a minimum.
You’ll also want a bed that itself is machine washable and dryable. This is especially important for older dogs who may have incontinence issues and young pups who are still potty training.
Let’s face it- you love the feel of freshly washed bedding, and so does your dog. Having a clean spot to sleep is important. If the bed itself is simple to care for, it will make it snap to keep fresh for your pup.
Encourage Your Dogs to Sleep in Their Own Bed
Sometimes it’s comforting to have your dog sleep on your bed with you. But often, it can disturb your sleep if your pup is tossing and turning. Or, worse yet, your dog is a large breed who takes up most of your sleeping space.
It’s great to have your pup share your room but it’s best if your pooch has a cozy bed to sleep on away from your own bed. In fact, a study published in the 2017 edition of the Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed that having a dog sleep in your room improves your sleep, but having that pup sleep in the bed with you does not.
The way to make your bed and your own comfy pillows seem less appealing dogs is to get them a cozy bed of their own. You can even get your pup more than one bed to snooze on. Consider placing several around your home. This encourages your dog to hang out on these beds rather than on your furniture. It also means you’ll clean less dog hair off of your couches and chairs.
Different Types of Dog Beds
Orthopedic Dog Beds
Many different dogs, not just senior dogs, can benefit from orthopedic dog beds. While orthopedic dog beds provide relief to senior dogs and dogs suffering from joint and hip pain, orthopedic beds are also great for dogs of all ages. Orthopedic dog beds can offer preventative care to younger dogs. When you’re searching for an orthopedic dog bed, it’s best to find one that’s durable and easy to clean. Both senior dogs and puppies have accidents, so finding a bed that is machine washable is ideal.
Pillow Dog Beds
If your dog loves to snuggle up next to you in bed, chances are they’ll also adore a pillow dog bed. These soft and plush dog beds are great for dogs who love to feel like they’re sleeping on a cloud. If they can’t curl up with you, a pillow dog bed is the next best thing!
Elevated Dog Beds
Elevated dog beds are perfect for dogs on the go and for so much more. Elevated dog beds can help keep dogs cool and help support their joints. It’s important to find one one that’s durable, breathable, and easy to keep clean. Plus, they’re good options if you’re looking for an outdoor dog bed.
Covered Dog Beds
Covered dog beds are great options for dogs who get anxious and nervous. Covered beds are also great for small dogs who love to burrow and feel cozy. They’ll feel snug and secure in covered dog beds, like they’re in a small cave. It appeals to the same senses that prompts your dog to crawl under the covers.
With a good dog bed, your dog will sleep more comfortably and generally feel better. Let your dog settle down for a sweet dream-filled snooze in comfort.