What are the different kinds of Dog Beds available?

There are as many types of dog beds available as there are dog breeds. They come in different categories, shapes, sizes, designs and colors and are made of various materials. We are providing you information on some of the most widely used and popular dog beds to give you a good idea of what is available on the market to help you make an informed decision about your purchase.

Classification based on Use:

Orthopedic Beds :
If your pet is getting along in years or recuperating after an accident or illness, you should consider getting an orthopedic bed. These beds are also wonderful for dogs who suffer from arthritis, other joint problems such as hip dysplasia, or other old age diseases.

Therefore, an orthopedic bed for your pet means a sleeping cushion where the main concern is to ease the aching bones and muscles. Truly, this dog bed is not just an ordinary bed but a therapeutic bed that provides many benefits for the well-being of your dog. Don’t consider it an indulgence as much as a necessity which will ease your pet of pain and discomfort after (or throughout) a tiring day.

Orthopedic beds are generally made of higher quality materials than standard dog beds, such as high-density, medical-grade foam that provides more support and comfort. Some beds even include electric heating pads to provide soothing warmth, which helps to relieve joint pain. Waterproof or washable fabrics may be needed for older dogs that are incontinent.

Outdoor Dog Beds:
Does your pet like to spend a lot of time playing outdoors? Does he/she prefer the cool air and the freedom of open areas over the confinement of staying indoors? In that case, he will roll and play in the grass and come home to rest with all the dirt on him.

Solve this problem by getting an outdoor bed that will allow your pet to play and rest outdoors; and save you the bother of cleaning up. These beds are made to withstand the elements and designed for your pet’s security and comfort.

If you are worried about your pet staying outdoors during the winter; heated outdoor dog beds are the answer. With a thermostat control installed within, you need not fear about the bed getting over-heated.

Heated Dog Beds:
Please don’t make the mistake of thinking that your pet’s thick fur protects it from the cold. If you are living in a place where temperatures become low, then you should get your pet a heated bed to protect him from the cold and keep him healthy all through the winter.

Many pet parents try to cover their pets in a warm blanket during the winter. But, in reality, have you ever seen a pooch nicely wrapped in a blanket the whole night? They roll and turn and make their blankets come off and then keep shivering in the cold for the rest of the night.

However, with heated beds you will not face this problem. Moreover, all dog breeds can use these beds. All heated beds have a thermostat that controls the temperature of the bed. In addition, some heated beds also come with the massage feature; your pet is surely going to love the heat and massage combination!

Water Beds:
Unlike regular beds which are filled with foam and are like a thick mattress, these beds are more like thick pads. The pad/bed needs to be filled with water so as to provide a comfortable and extremely cool surface for your pet to sleep on.

They are usually thermo-regulating, which means that they can absorb the body heat of your dog and help it to cool down. As dogs do not sweat like humans do, it is very difficult for them to cool down. Dog water beds, just like human water beds, can usually be heated as well using the thermostat and built-in heater.

This is why such dog water beds can be very useful. However, make sure they are filled properly so that they provide adequate support and comfort.

Classification based on Design: 

Bolster Beds:
Well, if you see your pet nicely curled up while sleeping or with paws tucked in tightly under the body; then a bolster bed is the best for him. This popular type of bed has 'bumpers' surrounding it giving the animal a sense of security.

Imagine how difficult it is for us to sleep without a pillow. Your pet is no different and likes to have something to rest his/her head on and a bolster bed provides just that. It also resembles a 'nest' that dogs create as they turn around before curling into a ball to sleep.

A bolster bed can have bolsters on all sides making it look like a square or round donut. The smaller breeds find these very comfortable. However, if you have an aging pet, then it’s better to go for a bed which has bolsters on two or three sides. This way your pet will not need to climb over the bolster to get into the bed.

Designer Beds:
Needless to say, these beds are the creme-de-la-creme of all the dog beds available and are the epitome of luxury and style. You could choose from the ones that are available in the market or have them custom-made to meet your requirements and taste.

Many are like small sofas made of wooden frames covered with commercial grade foam and custom fabric options. Other beds are made from polished wood, such as canopy or day bed styles, and can fit any decor from rustic to colonial.

There are also wrought iron headboards and footboards, and even hammock-style dog beds. Well, pet dreams (or owner dreams) are what designer beds are made of!!

Donut Beds:
If you want to provide your dog the ultimate in comfort then a donut dog bed is the perfect answer. These snuggle dog beds have an unique two-piece design. The oval outer ring provides a sense of security and comfort, while the removable inner cushion can be used as a dog crate pad or a travel mat. The fabric used is remarkable in its durability and easy care. These dog beds will cradle your dogs in softness.

Classification based on Shape: 

Rectangular Dog Beds:
These beds are ideal for corners and niches and save a lot of space. The shape allows your pet to lounge around in a carefree manner or sprawl luxuriously.

Round Beds:
Round dog beds are a favorite for comfortable bedding. The round dog bed is a good buy for dog owners who are looking for a place for their dogs to sleep comfortably.

The shape of this bed allows the dog to stretch and provides ample space for a dog to sleep in a position it is most comfortable in. Most round beds come with removable covers so they can easily be washed at any time.

It is next to impossible for any dog to resist sleeping and cuddling up onto a soft and cozy bed. So go ahead and pamper your loyal friend with a comfy dog bed so that he too can enjoy this luxury. After all, a good night’s rest is what it takes to make any dog happy.