Choosing The Right Bed

While some pet owners do allow their pets to sleep in their beds, you should provide your dog with a bed of his own and allow him to decide when he wants to use it. Also consider where your dog stays during the day while you are at work and provide him with a comfortable place to rest. Outside beds must be placed in a shaded area, ideally on an enclosed patio or inside a lapa where he can find shelter from sun and rain.

Size, Style And Material

Consider your dog’s size when choosing a bed. He should be able to stretch out comfortably on the bed. Some smaller breeds may enjoy snuggling up inside a covered bed, but not all dogs like them.

Consider your dogs disposition. Some breeds, especially those from cooler climates or longhaired breeds, may not like a bed that is too snug – and pet owners end up distressed to find their dogs stretched out on cold tiles. In this instance, a stretcher-type bed – raised off the floor and providing airflow from below – may be a good compromise. Crates are also suitable beds for dogs of any size and breed. Crate-training should be considered early on and started during puppyhood. Provide bedding for comfort inside the crate.

Lifestyle also impacts on your choice of bed. For example, if your dog enjoys playing out in the garden (think mud and other yucky stuff), a basic plastic bed with extra pillows and blankets that can be easily washed may be a better choice for him.

Speak to our resident vet or a pet assistant in store, or see more options on www.familypetcentre.co.za.

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