We know that your pet is part of the family, and you always want the best for them. Choosing your pet’s bed is just like buying yourself a new mattress; you should take into consideration their body type and sleeper type, any injuries, limitations, or discomforts they may have, and think about what they would enjoy most. There are more pet bed options out there than you think, and all the options can be overwhelming and confusing. We’ve rounded up seven tips for you to consider before getting your pet a new bed, as well as some great options for you to consider along the way.
Tip 1 - Consider the size of your pet
Pets come in all shapes and sizes, and so do pet beds. Cat beds tend to be smaller and only offered in one size, but dogs have a wider range of breeds, so their beds usually come in two or three size options. Take note of whether your pet is in the small, medium, or large breed category before you even start looking at pet beds.
Tip 2 - Take note of how your pet likes to sleep
You could have a smaller sized dog, but what if they tend to sleep all stretched out? Or if you have a medium sized dog who likes to curl up. A good rule of thumb is usually to go large and flat if you think your pet likes to stretch out and utilize room on their pet bed. If your dog likes to cuddle up, find a pet bed that snuggles them in and has borders around it, like a lounge bed or snuggle bed. Cats tend to like snuggle or cave-style beds that are closed on top so that they can burrow and hide.
Tip 3 - Think about temperature
If you live in hot climate and have a dog with long hair, you’ll need a bed that offers lots of airflow. Purple beds are known for their breathable Hyper-Elastic Polymer top layers, and now the company offers dog beds that use the same gel-like material. The grid-like layout helps to keep things cool by promoting airflow, so your poor pup doesn’t overheat. If you live in a colder climate and your cat or dog tends to get cold, look into a memory foam pet bed, as memory foam tends to retain body heat.
Tip 4 - Consider whether your pet has any special needs or health issues
If you have an older dog, they may have arthritis or sore joints, so make sure that your pet bed lays flat on the ground as opposed to being propped up, so that they don’t have to step up into their bed. Memory foam is also very comforting on your pet’s old joints.
Tip 5 - Think about cleaning protocol
Just like humans, some pets are cleaner than others. If you have a messier pet and you’re worried about keeping things clean, look for a pet bed that is either waterproof or a pet bed that has a removable and machine washable cover.
Tip 6 - Look for durability and environmentally friendly features
Just like you wouldn’t want to sleep on a mattress that contains yucky chemicals, you don’t want your dog to either. P.L.A.Y. pet beds are made with eco-friendly PlanetFill filler, which is made from 100% post-consumer certified-safe recycled plastic bottles, and are made with furniture-grade craftsmanship and even-basting stitching to be chew-proof. They are also made in facilities that meet the strict quality standards for infant and children products.
Tip 7 - Don't limit yourself to just one bed
Most family pets like to be around you all the time, that’s what makes them feel like they’re a part of the family! Get your pet a bed for your bedroom where they sleep at night, for the living room while you’re all watching a movie, and an outside bed for when you’re having dinner in the backyard. This way, you won’t need to move your pet’s bed all over the house, and they can always feel included. Just make sure that your outdoor or traveling pet bed is made of durable material and is waterproof, so that it doesn’t get ruined too quickly.
