How to size your dog for a bed
Like humans our dogs spend a good deal of time in their dog beds. While there are designer dog beds of many styles getting the right size is important. A bed proportionate to your dog is needed as a small dog bed is much different than large dog beds. Although the size is part of it larger breeds are heavier and sometimes need a bit more durability in their dog bed.
Designer dog beds are also often priced on size, so you must get one large enough for the dog. Additionally proper size is needed for an orthopedic dog bed to give the dog the maximum comfort and benefit from it. A bolster dog bed is another option among choices for your dog’s most comfortable bed depending on your dog’s sleeping style.
Like people some dogs will curl up to sleep while others lay sprawled as if covering every inch of territory they possibly can. Making note of your dog’s natural sleeping position will greatly affect the size and sometimes the type of bed that works best for your dog.
Observe your dog when sleeping and quietly measure the area covered, whether sprawled out or curled up. Note your dog’s natural preferences…some dogs like to “fluff” their beds around them while others are more apt to seek a soft cushion. Still others fall between the extremes but almost all dogs prefer some type of bedding to a bare floor. This gives your dog a private area that is his.
If you are ordering or buying the type of bed with a formed ‘wall’ around it you should account for this in your measurements. A dog that naturally fluffs and curls up will have a different bed preference than the retired working dog who takes comfort on an orthopedic bed.
Allowing a little extra room in the dog’s bed is good. Choosing a dog bed means considering your dog’s preferences, not just price and style.
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