Specials

Dogs and puppies alike need a lot of sleep and relaxation in a comfortable safe place. When you pick out a mattress to sleep on for yourself, what do you look for? Size and comfort are usually the two most important things we look for when we are thinking of a good nights sleep. Well, our four legged friends need the same considerations and more. More you ask, well, first of all how your dog sleeps is a very big consideration. Does it sleep curled up or all sprawled out. If it sleeps curled up it would probably enjoy a round bolster type bed, if spread out a rectangular lounger style would suit it best.  Think about your dogs personality. Does it prefer to hide under the table to sleep or be in the middle of the floor?  What size bed does your friend need?  Go to this link www.furpersondogbeds.com/bed_size for some guidelines on measuring your dog for a great fit. Many dogs like to be under something when they sleep for security like a table or inside a carrier, it imitates the cave or den their ancestors would have used in the wild. There are beds now that are designed like a cave and nesting beds for the small dogs that are quite decorative but still have your four legged friends comfort, security and warmth in mind.

Having a bed for your dog has benefits for you too. It trains your dog to sleep in it's bed and not on the furniture or in your bed which leads to a cleaner home. Pet professionals encourage sleeping separately for its health benefits. According to dog trainers, sleeping together is a privilege of the pack not to be taken lightly. Until your dog understands it's position, he or she should sleep in a comfortable bed on the floor thus using the bed as a behavior training tool. When company comes over or you are eating put your dog in the sit/say command on his bed until you are done with your activity. They will learn better self-control, obedience and who is the master.

If your dog likes nesting or sleeping with their head cradled, try a donut bed which come in many sizes and colors or one of the orthopedic beds with a built in pillow. For your older and arthritic friends try the orthopedic beds recommended highly by veterinarians everywhere. Orthopedic beds help to cushion bones and joints for a more restful sleep. They are great for the overweight dog whose extra weight also puts additional pressure on joints.

Whichever kind of bed suites your four legged friend the best there are all shapes, sizes and colors to go with your homes decor so there is no need to hide the dog bed in the mud room anymore, let it be part of your home's atmosphere and decor. This also allows your well behaved friend to be near you while resting.

When choosing your four legged friends bed read over the care instructions for durability. Some are stuffed with poly-fill which is very economical and can be refluffed and refilled again and again. Some are made of combination of poly-fill, different kinds of beneficial foams, or springs. They are more expensive but offer better support for your dog.   Some of the beds today offer other benefits for your dog as well as the family such as cedar chips which provides order absorption as well as a flea and insect repellent in the bed.  There are many beds available on the market today.  Take some time, consider your four footed friend and your home and choose the dog bed that is best for both of you.

Dogs sleep on an average of 18 hours a day so they should sleep in the safe, secure comfort of their own bed. You can expect a more energetic pet which will live a longer, healthier life when they sleep on the right bed for them.

Jeannine & Walt Miller

Long time dog owners and lovers of all breeds.

 Copyrighted 2006 all rights reserved, this article may not be reproduced in any manner without the express written permission of the authors.