Tips on How to Choose a Dog Bed

Measure your dog once standing up, from tip of nose to base of tail and also from floor to shoulders or head. If you will be buying a mattress dog bed, add 12 inches. This will give you an approximate width and length for a flat dog bed. Measure your dog another time in his favorite sleeping position; perhaps his length when fully stretched out, or his diameter when curled into a ball. For nest and ball-type dog beds measure the length of your dog while he is curled up. Measure from the top of his head to the point where his tail meets his hindquarters, and then add 7 to 9 inches. 

The right size dog bed will match or be slightly larger than your measurements. Dog beds that are too small may not be comfortable for your dog. You want to allow room for growth, if your dog is still growing, and you want to allow room for movement regardless of whether your dog is still growing or if he's already at maximum size.

2. Climate and local weather- Will you want your dog bed to provide warmth in the winter or provide air circulation in the summer? Will you be using this dog bed outside in a dog house or on a front porch? What are the seasonal temperature ranges where you live? You will need to select a dog bed that can stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws at it.

3. Shape and style- The shape and style of the dog bed should be determined by the size and sleeping habits of your dog. Pay close attention to their favorite sleeping positions and locations. Does your dog enjoy sleeping in a sunny spot in the morning and by the bed in the evening? You may want a dog bed that can be easily moved about the house and fits the decor in several rooms. Buy a dog bed that matches the room where your dog spends the most time sleeping, usually wherever the family spends the most time.

If you travel a lot, find yourself constantly washing your dog’s bed, or need a cushion for a crate or kennel, consider a flat mat, such as our Nature Nap Dog Mat, ZooRest, or go green with Eco Naps. Our flat dog mats come in a variety of standard sizes, in your choice of fabrics, and all have padding sewn inside.

On the other hand, if your dog enjoys a little extra cushion, and you have a designated space for his bed, look at a pillow dog bed. These dog beds take a little more consideration to choose and have an extra step in their maintenance, but they are well worth it for the additional comfort they provide. Check out our Tuckered Out Dog Bed, Bumper Dog Bed, Big Sky Dog Bed, or an Organic Bumper Dog Bed. For any of these dog beds, you’ll want to consider how large your dog will grow, if he is not already full-grown. Also think about whether multiple dogs will end up using the same dog bed.

Finally, observe your dog’s sleeping habits before you choose your dog’s bed. Does it like to curl up in a ball or sprawl out? Does it always tuck itself in a corner, or does it lie down in the middle of the room? Does it look for the most comfortable cushion it can find, or does your dog flop down anywhere, including the hardwood floor?

We offer dog beds for any personality sleeper, from quality mats to lofty and luxurious pillow dog beds. For miniature toy breeds, small dogs, and puppies, our smallest dog beds measure approximately 15”x20” and are available in styles across our mat and pillow dog bed offerings. For large dogs, multiple dogs, or dogs that just love having room to spread out, look at our Extra Large (XL) size in both mats and pillow dog beds. Whatever your size dog, we’ve got you covered!