Pet Beds

This one is an absolute treat to write on. If you have a pup (nearly 46% of the US population does), you also are likely one of those owners that allows said pup to sleep inside. This shouldn’t sound odd or off to anyone. The role of a dog in US culture is one of companion, and less of a mechanism for protection. And you don’t leave a companion outside in the cold.

Now, where your pup sleeps inside is where things get interesting. Less than 1% sleep in the kitchen, 3% in the basement, 21% in the living room, and 75% in the bedroom. The kitchen one is a bit surprising, as your scribe has seen some elaborate pet bed setups in multiple kitchens over the years. Most veterinarians will recommend that you let your dog choose where he or she would like to sleep. But make no mistake about it - they will naturally gravitate to the bedroom of the person they are most attached to in the home.

While you might feel comfortable having Mr. Wigglesworth hopping in bed with you, a good pet bed is what he/she really needs. Standard dog beds look like giant cushions. They don’t really have any edges, and come in a square, rectangular, round or oval shape. The materials on these beds range from denim to flannel, faux suede or even micro fiber. You can also throw in some cedar chips to keep the smells away. Standard dog beds are made for all dog breeds, but do keep in mind that dogs getting up there in age, or those with orthopedic problems, might have trouble.

Raised dogs beds are basically a flat surface, like a mattress, raised on a frame. The frame can be plastic, metal, wicker or wood, and the benefit of a raised bed is there is then some distance from a dirty floor and your pup. Dogs that also suffer from fleas and ticks do much better on a raised bed as it takes some effort from those buggers to reach their host. A dog that has trouble jumping or suffers from sore joints should definitely sleep closer to the ground though. It’s a lot to ask to consistently hop up and down off their resting area.

A fun niche, if you feel so inclined, is covered dog beds. The styles here are honestly outrageous. You can find the classic “home style,” where it’s a cushion on the bottom and the walls and roof are all made of the same cushy material. Then there are those modeled after a bus, a train, a plane, or anything really with a roof and four walls can be replicated. These are great options for smaller dogs that need to feel more secure and pampered. They are also quite decorative and fun to have around.

Lastly, we’re going to take this post to another level – heated dog beds. If you think a pet needs a specially heated bed, well, you’re not alone. Some pups are unfortunately not made for the great outdoors. Heck, they even get chilly indoors as well. If this is the case with your pup, heated beds work just like heated blankets, keeping your life companion at an adequate temperature all night long. The only thing to be mindful of – they might not ever want to get up!

Pet beds are fun for all. Your pet will certainly enjoy them, but do know that regardless of the bed you purchase, where they really want to be is with you.