Does it make a big difference whether a dog sleeps in their own bed or the bed of their owner? Does a pet parent need to go through the trouble of acquiring a bed for their dog, or is it perfectly fine for the pup to snooze the night away in the same space as their human?
These are common questions among new pet owners who are wondering whether a dog bed is a purposeful investment for their pooch’s health, comfort, and well-being. The answers may seem surprising at first, but they’re perfectly logical considering how similar canines and humans are, especially when it comes to the issue of a good night’s sleep.
For those seeking answers, here’s an explainer of the rationale behind pet beds. Also included below are some helpful tips on how to choose and take care of dog beds.
Why Should Dogs Have Their Own Dedicated Beds?
As far as sleep is concerned, dogs are just like their human owners. They need deep and restorative sleep to keep their immune systems healthy, and good quality sleep also boosts their mood and alertness. Recent studies have also demonstrated that healthy sleeping habits can improve a dog’s memory and ability to learn. This means that good sleep is crucial in a pet’s early years, especially when they’re still being trained by their owner.
A dedicated dog bed provides a pup with a soft and comfortable surface to lie on, which is conducive to healthy sleep. This can delay the onset of health conditions like a bad back, joint pain, arthritis, or hip dysplasia. Additionally, this product will also keep the pet from getting cold or incurring cuts or bruises on their pelt.
In addition to the various health benefits of having a dog bed, the pet will be assured of a clean and hygienic environment for resting. It’s also quite easy for owners to keep their fur babies’ beds clean, as many of these products come with helpful features like removable liners or waterproof covers.
One thing that pet owners should remember is that having a dedicated sleeping area for their pups serves their own interests, too. If a pet sleeps in its own dog bed, the owner will have more free space on their mattress as well as fewer interruptions to their nighttime rest. The owner can also keep their fur baby from tracking dirt, moisture, and other unwanted elements into their space and potentially damaging the pillowcases, sheets, or bedframe.
The Pet Parent’s Guide to Choosing and Taking Care of Their Dog’s Bed
Pet owners shouldn’t settle for just any dog bed. Neither should they think of these products as one-off purchases that they don’t need to maintain. To provide their pooch with healthy and comfortable sleep every night, pet parents should do the following things:
Choose the Right Size
Dog beds are not a one-size-fits-all type of product. Rather, owners will need to choose one according to their fur baby’s size and breed. Pet parents must also consider the maximum size the pup will grow to according to the characteristics of its breed. In addition, the bed should be big enough for the pet to have ample space when they’re nestling into their favorite sleeping position.
Choose a Dog Bed Made Out of Comfy and Durable Material
The bed should be made out of warm and comfortable materials, as an uncomfortable surface will discourage a dog from sleeping on the product. Owners can opt for versatile materials like cotton, fleece, or polyester, given that these fabrics are comfy and easy to clean. It’s also recommended to find a model that comes with a rubber bottom to keep it firmly in place. That way, the pup won’t be able to knock the bed around by accident.
Wash and Vacuum the Dog Bed as Needed
A dog bed should be washed once a week or, at the most, once every two weeks. Pet detergent can be used for mild dirt or mud stains, while enzyme cleaner is a helpful aid against tough stains like those left by a pup’s urine or poop. Pet parents should refrain from using overly harsh chemicals to wash their pet’s beds in case their fur babies are prone to skin conditions or allergies. In addition to being washed, these products should also be vacuumed regularly to ensure that it’s free of unwanted debris.
Train the Dog to Sleep on Their Own Bed
If a pup is not used to sleeping far away from its owner, the pet parent can train their fur baby to see their new dog bed as the ideal place to sleep. The owner can use positive reinforcement to get their pet used to sleeping separately from them. They can, for example, reward the pup with treats or praise the pet each time they settle into their own bed.
Final Words
The verdict is clear: it’s better if pups have their own place to retire to every night. A dog bed is a good long-term investment and a must-have in every pet parent’s arsenal of equipment. As such, pet owners should choose their fur baby’s beds wisely and do everything they can to guarantee sweet dreams, both for their dogs and for themselves.
Related article: Best Dog Beds