Dog Beds

"Dog beds vary based on how they are filled (foam, plastic polyfil, springs), shape, price and finishing touches. Beds that combine springs and other filling tend to be most comfortable. Dogs that need orthopedic support or are older tend to do best with foam. "

There are a number of different types of dog beds available, and it can be confusing to choose among them all. Your choice of beds is a function of your personal taste, your dog's needs based on age (arthritis, age) and how your dog likes to sleep.

There are three "core" choices when selecting a bed:

1. Styles: such as "classic", "Bolster/Nesting", and Travel as indicated in the sections below.

2. Stuffing: There are 4 options.

* Polyfil - There are two types of polyfil:

High Loft Fibers Lowest priced models made with recycled plastics such as drink bottles.

Baffled Polyfil The bed contains tubes that have polyfil. Each tube acts as a separate section which moves with your dog for comfort.

* Box Spring - Provides good support like a human mattress

* Foam - Conforms to your dog's body. Foam options include a classic approach and beds made for orthopedic support. This is preferred choice for owners that have dogs that need orthopedic help or are older.

* Combination - Found in premium priced mattresses and tend to the most comfortable.

3. Price: Prices range from $10 to hundreds of dollars depending on the fill and type.

4. Finishing Touches: Premium fabrics and having your dog's name inscribed on the bed can add to the cost.

Classic Canine Bed

First there is the classic bed. These dog beds look rather like a mattress for a people bed. They work well for medium to large breeds. There is plenty of room to stretch out on them. They are either made with polyfil or foam. Some options are waterproof or come with covers that can be washed.

Bolster or Nesting Canine Bed

Then there is bed that you�re probably used to seeing. It�s round or rectangular, has soft sides on it, and a cushioned bottom. It�s covered with something soft and cozy like fleece. The cover may or may not be removable for washing. These beds are good for medium to small breeds.

These beds are easy to find at any pet store and are quite affordable. The downside is that they can be difficult to clean. They absorb liquids and may hold odors.

Shown: PETCO Bolster Pet Beds (Large; 35" Length; Tan; Off-White)

Wicker Bed

Wicker canine beds are difficult to clean. Your dog might chew and swallow pieces of the bed.

Slumber Ball Bed

Slumber ball beds are another choice for small breeds. These look rather like beanbag chairs, with a hollow place on top. They are covered with something like suede or fleece, and are very comfortable and cozy. Your dog can snuggle right into them.

These beds may have covers that can be removed for washing, but the beds themselves may be difficult to clean.

Shown: Caddis Pet Poly-Suede Bagel Bed in Sage (Medium; 10" H X 35" Diameter; Green)

Inflatable Dog Bed

Inflatable dog beds are another choice. Some are round and some are rectangular. Most have a �lip� around the sides for your dog to rest his head on. The dog air bed itself is made of PVC, which is very durable and claw-proof. The bed is then covered with a removable cover made of something cozy like fleece.

They are a good choice for dogs with arthritis, because they provide good support. They are also very easy to clean- the cover is machine washable, and the bed itself can be wiped down with a mild soap and water. They may be a bit on the expensive side, however.

Orthopedic Dog Bed

These canine beds are made for dogs with arthritis or other joint problems. They are designed to provide extra support and are made with special kinds of foam inside. They may be more costly than other types of beds, but are worth looking into if your dog has joint problems.

Covered Canine Bed

Many beds come with covers that are water resistant and easy to clean. Companies such as Pottery Barn offer fabrics that turn any bed into a covered dog bed.

Steps for Dog Bed

Steps for canine beds and furniture come in a variety of sizes with most models coming in 1, 2 or 3 steps. Steps are made our of wood, plastic. If you dog needs a ramp and step solution, some manufacturers build both features into one transportable unit such as those offered by THREE STEP - Fold-Away Pet Steps and Ramp in One from Amazon.com.

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