Finding the Right Bed for Your Dog

Just like you, dogs are also creatures of habit. Often, you will see them sleeping in the same area, so when buying a dog bed, make sure it fits your dog's habits.

 

When choosing a bed for your dog, consider size, climate or weather, and style.

 

 Size

 

The size of the dog bed you buy should be just right for your pet's size and breed, and certainly not too big that space will be wasted. Before you go shopping, make it a point to take your dog's measurements.

 

Let your dog stand upright, and then measure the length from the floor to his shoulders or head, and from the tip of tail to the tip of his nose. If you're planning on getting a mattress dog bed, add 12 inches to get the approximate length and width for a flat dog bed. Then when your dog is sleeping in his usual position, measure him again. If he often sleeps with his body stretched out, get his length. Measure his diameter if he's usually curled up like a ball. If you're buying a nest and ball-type xl dog beds, take his measurement while he's curled up from above his head to the point where his tail starts, then add 7 to 9 inches.

 

The right dog bed size must match or be a bit larger than your measurements. If your dog is too small, he probably won't like it. If your dog is still growing, be sure to leave space for growth, and have space for movement too, whether the dog is growing or already an adult. Read facts about dogs here at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dog.

 

Weather or Climate

 

How's the weather in your area? Will your dog need a warm bed or the opposite? Where will the xxl dog beds be placed - indoor, a dog house, a front porch, or an open area? If you put it outside, what are the seasonal temperatures likely? Obviously, you should choose a dog bed that can withstand the elements.

 

Design

 

Lastly, consider the shape and style of the dog bed relative to the size and sleeping habits of your pet. Observe his sleeping positions and where in the house he usually dozes off. Do you usually find him in a sunny spot in the morning and in a shadowy area at night? If he likes to change "sleeping quarters," then you'd like to get him a dog bed that will be easy to move around, and of course, one that matches the d?cor in most areas of your home.

 

Finally, check his sleeping habits. Is he usually curled up or stretched out? Is he more inclined to sleep alone or with company? All these can help you pick that bed that your dog and the whole family will love to have.