Dog Beds- Tips For Selecting and Purchasing a Quality Dog Bed

"All dogs go to heaven." Well, all dogs also need a				mats are portable, too.
place to rest those paws before the journey. A dog				Age is a factor. Puppies and younger dogs tend to
bed is vital to a pup's health. Why?o It provides a				snuggle and enjoy a bumper or nest bed's sense of
sanctuary of privacy and security.o It cushions joints				security while older dogs may be a little less flexible
and bones which is important if the dog is older,				and prefer a rectangular bed.
arthritic, or overweight.o It helps reduce risk of injury				Many dogs, especially small breeds, can't sleep unless
from jumping on and off furniture.o It insulates pup				their backs are tucked into something; such dogs will
from the floor.o It helps contain fur, dirt and dander,				relish a baffled cave shape that conforms to the
concentrating the "mess" in a smaller area.o A travel				body, provides support and security, and satisfies
bed or mat provides a familiar, secure resting spot on				their natural burrowing instinct.
the go.o An outdoor cot protects from				Some dogs simply prefer their owner's couch or bed.
uncomfortable or uneven surfaces, allowing air to				If so, a blanket is a wise investment. It provides a
circulate underneath.				spot to curl up on, reducing fur, dirt, dander and
Why not pay $10 at the local Pet-O-Rama for a				scratch marks on the furniture. Blankets are available
fuzzy mat or a bed festooned with laughing clowns?				in organic cotton, hemp, recycled fleece and other
Aside from potential aesthetic issues, most bargain				earth-friendly sources which are easily cleaned in the
beds are not sewn for durability and are filled with				washer.
cheap synthetic material, which bunches and lumps,				Other Considerations:o Sizing: Measure the dog in his
becoming uncomfortable and easy pickings for				most common sleeping position, determining the
chewing. Bargain beds break down quickly and need				length from nose to rump plus 12 inches. If not fully
to be replaced more often, resulting in more waste				grown, consider expected size at maturity or
and ultimately costing as much or more than one				estimate bed size based on weight.o Bed Cover:
quality bed.				Covers made from reclaimed cotton, hemp, recycled
A dog's size, age, physical condition and preferred				pop bottle fleece, or organic cotton are all terrific
sleeping position are all important factors in				alternatives to synthetics because of sourcing
determining bed size and shape.				(renewable or recycled), durability, and easy care.o
Sleeping Position				Stuffing: Recycled pop bottle poly fill, organic cotton,
Pups who curl up will enjoy round beds, which include				recycled poly-cotton scraps, kapok and other
styles that cocoon, have a bolster pillow (a bumper				eco-friendly stuffing have a longer life than standard
or nest bed) or are a luxurious cushion.				poly fill, bunch less, and provide more comfort.o
A rectangular bed does the trick for lounging dogs				Construction: Dogs get dirty! A removable cover and
because it is spacious with gentle overall support.				inner cushion that can be removed and washed is a
If a dog enjoys sleeping with his back against legs, a				must.o Style: Earth-friendly dog beds don't have to
cushion or furniture, or if he circles before curling up				be plain. They come in every shape, size and style.o
or snuggling in, he is seeking security and will enjoy a				Price: Compare pricing, considering any extra fees.
bumper or nest bed.				With a little bit of know-how, it is possible to find a
For dogs that sleep in crates, a mat provides				properly sized, quality dog bed that is consistent with
cushioning and comfort yet has a slim silhouette. Dog				a sustainable lifestyle without sacrificing anything.