Everything you always wanted to know about dog beds (and more)

Tue 3 Jun 2008 8:16:55 PM GMT

If you're like most people, you probably don't know that dog beds come in all shapes, sizes, fabrics, and are filled with a variety of materials. I know I didn't until I got in the business of selling dog beds.

I have since discovered a number of things about dog beds.

1) There's a lot more available than the 4-5 types of pet beds that you see in your local pet store,

2) All pet beds are not made in China. In fact, we only carry high quality, USA made dog beds at TheDogBedStore,

3) You can actually buy extra large dog beds for great dane sized dogs,

4) Buying a high-quality, long-lasting dog bed is cheaper in the long run, and

5) Dogs really will sleep in a dog bed that they like!

This post is dedicated to educating you a bit on what's available in the retail dog bed world. I welcome your comments and do keep me updated on any new discoveries.

Orthopedic beds have very thick memory foam fill, which is designed to support old joints or extra large dogs. There are various grades of memory foam on the market. Be sure to buy a dog bed that has medical-grade memory foam fill. Imitations will break down over time and your dog may end up bottoming out on the floor. One of our orthopedic dog bed manufacturers uses BioMedic memory foam that is guaranteed to never sag, flatten out, get lumpy or break down for the life of your pet.

Designer beds are luxuriously plush dog beds that come in a variety of shapes, sizes and designer fabric choices. They’re a great option for those of you who are fashion conscious and you want dog beds to match your decor. In many cases you can also select coordinating blankets, sofa pillows and crate covers.

Flat pads or crate mat are as a must have for dog crates. Dogs that like to stretch out when they sleep also love mat-type beds. Mattresses filled with thick foam are a must for large dogs who will otherwise bottom out in low profile mats.

Nesting/snuggle beds are usually oval shaped and are similar to human beanbag chairs. They are often preferred by puppies, smaller dogs and by dogs that like to curl up when they sleep.

Bolsters beds have padded sides and a center cushion filled with foam and/or recycled materials. Bolster beds are often preferred by dogs that like the security of walls around them.

Donut-shaped beds are typical donut-shaped bolster beds with removable center cushions.

Waterproof beds are good for outdoor use and incontinent dogs. Most are made with super tough tear resistant fabrics.

Heated beds function like human heating pads. They ease the aches of arthritic dogs and dogs that are recovering from an injury or surgery. They can also be used for dogs that live in colder climates to maintain body warmth.

Cooled Beds function much like water beds. They provide great joint support, keep your dog cool, and require no refrigeration or electricity.

Travel beds are light weight and typically fold up to save space. Taking a dog bed with you on trips will provide a safe and secure place for pets that are anxious about traveling.

Cot-style beds provide a dry and cool spot for your dog to sleep. Their “hammock-like” effect evenly distributes the weight of your dog, which in turn results in less joint pressure. They are great on the patio, at the park, and for camping.

Hypo-allergenic beds are made of organic materials that are less likely to irritate dogs that are allergic to non-organic materials used to make most dog beds.

Dog Furniture is the latest craze. Yes, couches, sofas, ottomans and chairs made specifically for dogs!

Dog Crates and Puppy Playpens are great training aids for puppies and untrained dogs who exhibit undesirable behavior. Crate training my dogs was the best thing I ever did!

Dog car seats, barrier gates, and portable pet crates are the best way to keep your dog (and you) safe while traveling in your car. Many states have legislation in the works, which will require that you restrain all pets that travel in your vehicle.

In summary, there are so many speciality dog beds on the market these days, that I suppose it makes sense to have more than one dog bed. I know, we have several at our house.

Helping Dogs "Sleep Like Puppies" Again

Everything you always wanted to know about dog beds (and more)