Dog Bed Sizing Guide: How to Find the Right One for Your Pet

Are you eager to bring home a new furry friend? Do you want to make sure your loyal canine companion is as comfortable as possible? Out of all the dog care essentials every pet owner could benefit from, having a proper bed where they can sleep soundly is at the top of the list.

But did you know that not all dog beds offer the same level of comfort and support? Some are designed with smaller breeds in mind while others cater to larger pups. So if you really want to ensure your pet enjoys a good night’s sleep, it’s important that you choose the right size dog bed.

How Do You Determine the Size of the Dog Bed?

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As much as we all love our four-legged friends, they can be quite difficult to shop for. That’s because they can’t tell us what they need or what they prefer. So it’s up to us to figure out what kind of a bed would suit them the most. Thankfully, there are a few factors you can take into consideration to help you make the best decision.

Your Dog’s Measurements

This one is pretty self-explanatory. You wouldn’t buy a pair of pants without first checking your size, right? The same goes for your pet. Let’s say you have a pup that will likely grow into a medium-sized dog. In this case, you might want to consider getting a medium size dog bed to accommodate them as they grow.

In contrast, if your pooch is expected to be on the smaller side when fully grown, then a medium size dog bed might be too big. In that scenario, you’d probably be better off with something smaller.

To get an accurate reading of your dog’s measurements, use a tape measure from the top of their head to the base of their tail. This will give you a pretty good idea of how long they are. Then, measure from the tip of their nose to the back of their front legs. This number will give you an estimate of how wide your furry friend is.

After you’ve done that, add about 25 cm to each number. This will give you a bit of wiggle room so your pet will have plenty of space to move around and get comfortable. So if a medium dog bed is listed as being 50 cm long and 40 cm wide, it should be big enough for a dog that’s approximately 62.5 cm long and 47.5 cm wide.

Age and Health

Depending on your dog’s age and health, they might need a bed that’s a little different from the average pup. For example, older dogs tend to have arthritis or other joint problems. As a result, they might need a bed that’s elevated slightly so it’s easier for them to get in and out of.

Even if your pet is young and healthy, they might still benefit from an elevated bed. It can help prevent them from overheating since they won’t be lying directly on the ground. As the air flows beneath them, it will help keep them cool and comfortable.

Sleeping Style

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Just like people, dogs switch positions when they sleep. Some might curl up in a ball while others stretch out completely. As they toss and turn throughout the night, they need a bed that gives them enough space to wiggle around.

Take a closer look at how your dog sleeps. If they tend to curl up, then a smaller bed might be just fine. But if they often sprawl out, they might need something a bit bigger so they’re not hanging off the edge.

Filling Type

The type of filling in a dog bed can also affect its overall size. For instance, beds that are filled with stuffing or cotton are usually more compact than those that contain memory foam. The former may change shape over time while the latter usually holds its shape quite well.

Memory foam also has the added benefit of providing extra support for your dog. If they have arthritis or joint pain, this can be a godsend. But these additional features come at a cost, as these fillings come with a higher price tag.

How Should You Care for a Dog Bed?

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Once you’ve decided on a particular bed, it’s important to take good care of it so it lasts a long time. From regular vacuuming and spot cleaning to using a protective cover, there are several things you can do to keep your pet’s bed in tip-top shape.

When you’re using a vacuum cleaner, make sure the attachment is set to low so you don’t damage the fabric. If there are any removable covers, take them off and wash them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. These usually need to be washed in cold water on a gentle cycle.

You should also spot clean any stains as soon as possible. First, blot the area with a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture. Then, use a mild detergent and warm water to lightly scrub the stain. Rinse the area thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely before you put the bed back together.

With a little bit of care, your dog’s bed will look and feel like new for years to come. Plus, your little furry friend will always have a cosy place to rest their head. Talk about a win-win situation, right?