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We spend countless hours shopping for a bed for ourselves, not to mention thousands of dollars. This is because sleeping comfort is important. We want the place where we rest our head to be a sanctuary.

The same is true for your beloved dog. A good dog bed can last years, be the perfect resting place for your dog, and it can also help with training. (But a dog bed doesn’t, it shouldn’t, cost a fortune!) Finding the right dog bed for your dog can solve a number of problems. It can help your dog feel secure and safe. It can give you a special location to send your dog when you need them to stay.

For example, during mealtime, bedtime or when you have company you can send your dog to their bed and if you’ve chosen your dog’s bed wisely, they’ll happily go. It makes sense then that not just any and all dog beds will do. You need to choose a bed that’s perfect for your dog and their unique needs and personality. There are many very important considerations to make. Let’s take a look at them individually.

Size Matters

Sure, a Chihuahua would love to rest their little head in a giant dog bed because they tend to behave as if they’re large dogs. However, a Great Dane isn’t going to enjoy spending time in a dog bed built for a Chihuahua. Size is important. You want your dog to feel safe, secure, and comfortable in their dog bed. Find a bed that fits your dog and the space in your home comfortably.

Material Girl, or Guy

There are many different materials a bed can be made out of. And just as many that it can be filed with.

For example, a bed can be made of polyester and stuffed with fiberfill much like a pillow on your own bed. A bed can also be made from micro-suede or vinyl and filled with memory foam. The material the bed is made from can be critically important. Dogs can have allergies or skin sensitivities to some materials and fillings. Additionally, the purpose for your dog’s bed and their health need to be considered when choosing dog bed materials. For example, if you’re using the bed outdoors you’ll want a waterproof dog bed.

If you have a dog with bladder control issues then waterproof or washable materials are important too. And if you have a pet that is older or you just love to pamper them then the memory foam is great on their joints, tendons and muscles.

Health & Age

Your dog’s health and age are also important considerations when choosing a bed. For example, if you have an older dog, you want the bed to be easy for them to get into and out of. An elevated bed, like a pet couch, may be ideal for larger animals so they don’t have to stoop down to get into their bed. Likewise a smaller bed with low sides would be ideal for an aging toy breed. This eliminates them having to step over any tall sides. And as mentioned before if your pet has bladder control issues you will want to make sure the bed is easily washed to resume its form or that it’s waterproof.

Location, Location, Location

Beds come in almost every shape, style and color. This is important because it means you can find the perfect bed for your home. For example, what if you have an empty corner in your living room that’s perfect for your dog’s bed? Then why not get them a bed that’s designed to fit into a corner? And what about the dog bed that sits at the end of your bed? You can find great elevated dog beds or couches that perfectly match your needs. Circles, squares, rectangles, ovals, raised beds, couches, and the good old fashioned dog pillow are all options depending on where you’re placing your dog’s bed.

Purpose & Personality

Now you already know your dog has a unique personality and you can get a bed that matches their wonderful characteristics. For example, what if your dog enjoys snuggling or burrowing or if you have a dog that is particularly shy? You can get a dog bed with a cover on it for them.

And if your dog likes to feel like one of their humans then an elevated bed or dog couch might be perfect. And what if you have a dog that loves playing and hanging out outside? You can get a bed for them that weathers well, is durable, and matches your dog’s personality. Do you have a dog that you love to spoil? What about an extra cushy micro-suede couch? And of course you can match your dog’s bed to your own style and decorating personality too. From whimsical to contemporary and everything in between, there’s a dog bed to match your purpose and personality.

Let’s Not Forget Price

The first step to finding the perfect dog bed for your dog is to make a list of what your dog needs. Prioritize these needs with the most important need being first on your list. You can add a list of wants, like color and shape, under the list of needs so you can compare dog beds.

Once you have a list of the features and functions you’d like your dog bed to have, the final element to compare is price. Dog beds can cost a small fortune but they don’t have to. Comparison shop online and look for the shipping costs too. A retailer may drastically cut the price of the dog bed and make up for it in what they charge for shipping.

A dog bed should be something that lasts a good long time. They should be easy to keep clean, comfortable for your dog and they should fit your dog’s needs and personality. Create a list of what you and your dog want in a perfect dog bed and start comparing.

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