Puppy Beds - types & things to consider
Puppies need a lot of sleep and beds are part of the necessary basic puppy equipment. They come in all shapes and sizes, from bean bags to orthopedic mattresses. Choosing the right bed for your puppy can be a difficult decision, but it's important to make the right choice for your pup's health and comfort. Here are the types of puppy beds available, their pros and cons, potential costs, and important factors to consider when buying a bed for your puppy.
Round/Donut Style Beds
These beds are circular, with a raised middle and a cushioned edge. They come in a variety of fabrics, so you can choose the one that will best fit your pup's needs. Pros: The raised middle is great for puppy’s who like to curl up, providing them with a sense of security. The cushioned edges also provide comfort and support. Cons: These beds are not ideal for larger or more active puppies, as they may not provide enough support or space. Costs range from $20 to $100, depending on size, fabric, and quality.
Bean Bag Beds
These beds are filled with tiny beans or foam, providing comfort and support for any size puppy. Pros: Bean bag beds are lightweight and portable, making them perfect for puppies who like to travel. They also provide plenty of cushioning and support. Cons: These beds are not ideal for puppies who like to chew, as the beans or foam can be easily destroyed. Potential Costs: Bean bag beds range from $20 to $100.
Cave Beds/ Tents/ Soft Houses
There are plenty of options for small dogs in particular when it comes to cave shaped oder house shaped beds. The main difference to standard beds is that they have a top or kind of roof. Most dogs don´t necessarily need one of these, but puppies and anxious dogs can feel more safe in them. If your puppy seeks out places like under the sofa or under the bed, a cave bed or soft house might be your best option. Another plus is that these cave beds are well cushioned and thus warmer than puppy beds without a top. Costs range from $15 to $100.
Orthopedic Mattresses
These beds are designed to provide support and cushioning for aching joints. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are filled with supportive foam to provide extra comfort. Pros: Orthopedic mattresses provide optimal support and cushioning, which is great for senior dogs, as well as puppies with joint pain. Cons: These beds can be more expensive than other types of beds, and they don't provide the same sense of security as round/donut beds. Potential Costs: from $50 to $200 and more.
Getting a Puppy Bed - important factors to consider
When buying a bed for your puppy, it’s important to take into account their size, activity level, sleeping habits, and any existing health issues. The bed should provide enough support and comfort. If you want a bed that will be used for the dog´s adult life too, you should consider how big it will become and get a bed accordingly. Puppy beds should not be too small.
If you´re asking yourself whether you need a bed special bed for a puppy, meaning a small one and once your pet grows into a big dog you´ll need a new bed, the answer is: usually not. Puppies will feel comfortable with a very big bed as well.
The cover material should be sturdy and not to thin, so your puppy won´t start to chew and rip it.
Waterproof material is more hygienic and washable fabrics are easier to keep clean.
Choose a spot for the puppy bed where it´s quiet and not too hectic, ideally along a wall or in a corner. Avoid busy areas such as the kitchen or around the dining table.
To help your pup enjoy its new bed, give it some time to get used to it, spend some time together with your pup at the bed. If your pet is hesitant, you can use treats to encourage it to go into the bed.
