Dog Bed Basics

Article Title: Dog Bed Basics
Author: Renske Buursma

Domesticated dogs, much like humans, like to be pampered and
comfortable. A dog bed is just a dog bed before you get one.
Your dog will likely take to it like a fish to water. A 'cuddly'
cushion makes a good dog bed. It extends the sides to form a
protective ring and simulates the feeling of sleeping in a pack.
This gives your dog the added psychological comfort for a good
sleep.

It is a great idea to buy a dog bed. There are certain benefits
that a dog bed provides. It gives your dog a comfortable sleep
zone, in the same way a mattress does for a human. The ideal dog
bed raises the dog above the ground, provides warmth and
supports the joints of the dog. A whole range of dog beds is
available. From expensive sofas that heat and cool as required
to simple foam filled cushions, there is a dog bed for every dog
and every level of spending. Some dog beds are filled with chips
of cedar. These discourage the growth of fleas. Fabric that is
machine washable makes washing easier.

Plastic, rattan and wicker are used in the making of dog beds.
Rattan and wicker dog beds are constructed as low profile round
or oval baskets fitted with a custom-made cushion. Plastic is
often used in the same manner to make beds. Care should be taken
however to see that it is chew resistant and without sharp
edges. Stainless steel is used in beds that are more expensive.
This is easy to clean.

Beds should use fabric that is resistant to chewing and easily
washable. Some beds use foam or polyester fiber as filling.
Though these are comfortable, they do not stop the laying of
flea eggs. Dog beds that act against egg laying fleas have an
outer zippered covering of cedar chips. These are less
comfortable than other types of beds, but more functional.

Some dog beds offer the option of heating and cooling. They do
this through a heated or frozen gel pad fitted within the
cushion. This is not a good idea for canines that have the habit
of chewing furniture. Some dog beds heat in the manner of an
electric blanket that is placed on top of the bed and under the
dog. These warmers are necessary for some dogs, particularly
ones with joint issues.

A dogs sleeping environment should duplicate its natural
sleeping habitat. The bed's size should be proportionate to the
dog. It should be large enough but not overly large. It should
make the dog feel natural and unthreatened. For those who want
the perfect custom-made bed for their dog or want one cheaper
than would otherwise be available, the option of making a custom
dog bed is always available. Here is one way to make such a bed.

You will need a string, pillow cover or tee shirt and plastic
grocery bags. Choose designs that look best to your eye. Fill up
the pillow cover with the grocery bags and sew it up. You can do
this with the t-shirt as well. Optionally sew a zipper onto the
pillow cover or t-shirt and periodically fill it with plastic
bags, as you like.

A good dog bed can provide all the rest your dog needs to
remain healthy and happy. A healthy and happy dog means more
fun-filled hours for you with your dog. In short, a good dog bed
is a small price to pay for what you get in return.

About The Author: By Renske Buursma, pet store owner with lots
of helpful articles about pet care at
http://yourhealthypetsonline.com

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