How to Determine When You Need a Large Dog Bed

Choosing A Bed For Your Large Dog

When looking at dog beds for your large-breed canine, there are lots of options, but only a few key considerations. One major concern is the material of the bed’s outside. Some materials will be easier to clean than others, so look for beds labeled as machine-washable and dryable—just check that the bed won’t shrink after washing.

Beds equipped with a Velcro snap can be opened to remove the stuffing, which is contained in an inner sack. This is a convenient feature that can help you keep every part of the bed clean and fresh.

Some beds also have anti-bacterial liners or fillings, which can ward off smelliness when the bed is old and heavily used. Others are even treated with an anti-odor guard, which is also another good option for keeping bad smells at bay.

The shape of the bed is another key point. Watch your dog lying down, and see what some of his or her favorites positions are. A bigger bed might be a better choice for a dog that prefers to lie flat on its side. Also, an overly soft and fluffy bed could make it harder to transport.

Your large dog would probably be perfectly happy with a bed that isn’t necessarily cloud-soft, but will also appreciate a soft border around the edge of the bed. These borders serve two functions that increase the dog’s comfort dramatically. First, they allow the dog to lie up against the border to bolster their backs, and second, your dog will be able to use the surface as a convenient and cozy head pillow.

With larger, heavier breeds, durability is a very important consideration for both the bed’s filling and its outer material. All bed fillings are not created equal!

When a bed is stuffed with natural fillings like cotton and feathers, they tend to settle inside the bed and become sparse and less fluffy over time. The ideal filling consists of synthetic fibers, which won’t loosen as much and will extend the bed’s lifetime.

The durability of the bed is also greater when it’s manufactured with a double-stitching around all the seams, so be sure to check before you buy.

With these simple considerations in mind, your large dog will have a cozy place to sleep and rest for his or her entire lifetime!