The Best Beds for Puppies and Small Dogs
Adding a new puppy or dog to your family can be one of the most exciting things that you do!
There are so many things to think of that you will need to make your home as comfortable, and puppy proof for your new addition, one of the most important considerations is a new bed.
There are many different types of beds out there, and it can be a little confusing, below we’ll go through some types of beds, and some tips for making your dog as comfortable as possible.
The Different Types Of Dog Beds
There are so many out there, and the likelihood is, that you will need to try a few types before settling on one that your dog loves above all others.
The most common types of beds are the fluffy, round beds that allow your dog to curl up, and get really settled in. They usually have slightly higher sides, so can make your dog feel more sheltered, and therefore protected, which makes them an attractive place to sleep.
These round beds are very soft, and very comfortable. This is particularly attractive to puppies and small dogs as it mimics being curled up with other dogs, and also it keeps them lovely and warm.
Cave style beds are very similar to the round ones, again they are very comfortable and warm, and they have a covering over the top to add to the feeling of security your dog will feel when curled up in them. These are also ideal for puppies and small dogs due to the warmth and security they provide.
Mattress style beds are good beds, but these tend to be better suited for older and bigger dogs. They are preferred by dogs who like to stretch out as long as possible, and as they do not have the raised sides, can be a bit cooler, meaning they are not the ideal beds for puppies and small dogs.
What Other Qualities Does A Dog Bed Need?
The best beds for puppies to sleep in, are ones that keep them warm and comfortable as we have noted above.
However, there are other qualities a good dog for a puppy needs. Puppies like to chew everything, it’s their way of exploring the world, and finding out about textures and tastes. So, ideally, you need a bed that is chew resistant.
Some beds are easier to chew than others, so whilst your puppy is going through the chewy stage, it is better to have a dog bed that discourages chewing, or at least doesn’t succumb to their teeth as easily as some do.
A bed for a puppy should also be easily washable. Until your puppy is fully housetrained, they will have accidents inside the house, this is inevitable in a puppy. House training is picked up more quickly by some dogs than others, so until you are confident they can hold their bladder, it’s better to get them a bed that can easily be put in the washing machine.
If you decide on a bed that is not suitable for the washing machine, then try to choose one that has a water resistant, removable cover. This will stop the inner layers of the bed becoming soiled, and will also mean you can wash it as quickly as possible.
Do You Need To Spend A Lot Of Money On A Dog Bed?
This is completely up to you, and what type of bed you decide to buy.
However, it is worth considering that a puppy may very quickly grow out of a bed, meaning that it needs replacing quite quickly
However, if you have a fully grown small dog, then this is not going to happen, so you can perhaps spend a bit more money than you would on a bed for a puppy.
It’s always worth having more than one bed, of different types, so that your dog can choose which one they want to sleep or lie in, depending on their mood.
Where Should You Place The Dog Bed?
Ideally, the bed should be in a place your dog can relax in, and get some much needed rest.
You will know your dog best, and where they like to sleep. Some prefer to be nearer the busy part of the household, whilst others prefer to be a little bit separated from it, where they can get some peace and quiet.
Try to have a few options of beds for your dog, perhaps with a bed on each level of your home, or at each end of the house, so that they can choose what suits them best based on their mood.
What Size Dog Bed Should You Choose?
If you decide to buy a round type bed, then the bed needs to allow them to curl up comfortably without falling out of the bed, but not so big that there is lots of excess space around them, as this won’t make them feel secure and tucked in.
If you are going for the flat mattress beds, then these need to be big enough to let your dog stretch out fully, without any of their legs, or their head falling off of the mattress.
In both cases, the beds need to be large enough to allow your dog to stand up, turn around and get resettled without falling outside of the bed.
Remember, if you have a puppy that is going to grow, you may want to buy a bed that is slightly too big initially so they can grow into it, but it may need changing as they get bigger.
If you have a small dog that is already grown, then you can be a bit firmer in your sizing choice.
Whichever type of bed you decide on, make it a comfortable, secure place that your dog can retreat to when they are feeling like they need some space, and also a place that they can rest peacefully, and wake up fully recharged for a new day of running around!
You may also like to read
