How to clean your dog bed ?

The right dog bed for your dog should also be easy to clean.

 Even if you bathe your dog regularly, dog beds pick up all sort of dust, pollen and dander that reside on your floor and your dogs paws. Dogs  shed, have dander fallout, and often carry parasites such as fleas and worms. Once the fleas and their eggs are established in a dog's bed it's only a matter of time before they spread to the rest of the house. All of these things can lead to odors, but can also cause health problems for your dog and others in the house, especially if anyone in the family suffers from allergies.

How to wash a dog bed

Dogs can also suffer from allergies and other skin diseases, many of which are caused or exacerbated by dirty living conditions or parasite infestation. For example, Demodicosis (Red Mange) is caused by tiny mites that are invisible to the naked eye. These mites can infest your dog's bed and cause reoccurring infestation. These mites (also called dust mites) eat your dog's skin scales and dander. They particularly love to live in bedding. This is why it is of particular importance to set up a sanitation routine for your dogs bedding.

Best way to wash your dog bed

Sanitation Routine

Once a day:

Remove any bedding, blankets, or other loose fabric items from the dog bed, take them outdoors, and give them a good shaking. Be sure to visually inspect the fabric for signs of insect activity or obvious dirt or other foreign matter. Also be on the lookout for blood stains. Many of the biting insects that may infest your dog and her dog bed may leave blood evidence of their presence. This is why it may be helpful to use light colored bedding and fabrics. If the weather is nice consider leaving the bedding material outside to air. If the dog bed includes a bed frame, box, basket, or some other container, check that as well.

Once a week:

You should launder the bedding materials and dry them either on a clothes line or in a dryer on low heat. Be sure to use a low-suds mild detergent, such as Woolite or Fells Naptha, and add it to the water sparingly. Dogs are not used to heavy detergents and perfumes the way we are and you might inadvertently cause an allergic skin reaction if too much or too strong a soap is used. Wash the bedding in water that is as hot as the particular fabric will stand. Again, to prevent an allergic reaction, do not add fabric softener to the wash, or a fabric softener sheet in the dryer. It may be helpful to add a tablespoon or two of a commercial disinfectant, such as Lysol, to the water after the washer is full and the agitator is working. Wash any non-fabric parts of the dog bed with a mild soap and disinfectant solution and use a clean rag. Be sure when you are finished to use another rag, and plain water, to wipe any detergent residue off of the dog bed.

Once per year:

You should consider discarding all of the bedding material and replace it with new. If your dog has grown attached to her special blanket, or some other bedding material, then you may want to consider keeping it if it does not pose a health risk for any reason.

If an infestation occurs:

If a dog bed does become infested, you will need to take immediate action. First, separate your dog and any other pets in your home, from the infested area and treat them with whatever procedure your vet recommends for the particular type of infestation. Since your dog acts as the insects "host", the parasites will continue to breed and feed on your dog, until you break the cycle. Once you have her treated, you can turn your attention to treating the dog bed. Treating the bed and not the dog will only lead to a re-infestation. 

In extreme cases it may be necessary to replace the bed. 

Depending upon how much the bedding cost, you might just want to put all of it into a large trash bag, spray it with some household insect killer, seal the bag shut and toss it all in the trash. 

If you decide that you do want to keep the bedding then you need to ask your vet the best way to eliminate the infestation. Thoroughly treat the fabric, and the area around the dog bed, according to the vet's directions. Once you have determined that the infestation is under control you can let your dog start using the dog bed again.

Remember -- whatever infests your dog will infest the dog bed. What ever infest the dog bed will infest your home, and whatever infests your home will eventually infest you! Treat dog bed sanitation as a serious chore that needs to be done regularly. 

How to choose a dog bed by breed

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and so do dog beds. While there is no substitute for measuring your dog when selecting a dog bed, here is a quick rule of thumb that you can use when trying to size a dog bed:

Extra-small dogs are typically under 10 lbs and include such breeds as small terriers, Chihuahuas, poodle and other miniature and teacup breeds. Most beds designed for extra-small dogs and cats will be around 19” long by 19”wide or smaller. Nesting type beds will have a diameter less than 22 inches.

Small dogs are typically any dog less than 25 pounds. Breeds include most terriers, Dachshunds, Lhasa Apso, small Poodles, Miniature Schnauzer, Pug, Shih Tzu, Whippet, and others. Most beds designed for small dogs will be around 25-30” long by 25-30” wide. Nesting type beds will have a diameter around 25-30 inches.

Medium dogs run 13-21" from the ground to shoulder and weight 30 to 60 pounds. Breeds include Australian Cattle Dog, Cocker Spaniel, Finnish Spitz, Bulldogs, and Keeshond. You will need to choose a nest dog need that's at least 30-35 inches in diameter and a pillow dog bed that is at least 35” long by 35” wide.

Large dogs stand 21-26 inches and weight between 60 to 90 pounds. Breeds include Akita, Chows, Dalmatian, Doberman Pinscher, English Setter, Golden Retriever, and Siberian Husky. They need a nest dog bed that is at least 40-45 inches in diameter and a pillow dog bed that is at least 45” long by 45” wide.

Extra Large dogs stand over 26" and weight at least 90 lbs. Choose a nest dog bed that is at least 50 inches in diameter and a pillow dog bed that is at least 50” long by 50” wide. Some extra-large dog beds are up to 6 feet long and are great for large breeds such as Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Irish wolfhound or households with multiple dogs that like to share beds.

Remember that as you get into the larger breeds it is important to select a sturdy fabric and a frame style that will stand up to your dog's weight. Many dog beds are made with commercial grade materials and can hold up to 200 lbs.

If you plan to measure your dog for a dog bed, here's how to do it:

Measure your dog once standing up; from tip of nose to base of tail and also from floor to shoulders or head. If you will be buying a mattress dog bed, add 6-12 inches. This will give you an approximate width and length for a flat dog bed. Measure your dog another time in his favorite sleeping position; perhaps his length when fully stretched out, or his diameter when curled into a ball. For nest and ball-type beds measure the length of your dog while he is curled up. Measure from the top of his head to the point where his tail meets his hindquarters, and then add 7 to 9 inches. 

The right size dog bed will match or be slightly larger than your measurements. Beds that are too small may not be comfortable for your dog. You want to allow room for growth, if you dog is still growing, and you want to allow room for movement regardless of whether your dog is still growing or if he's already at maximum size.

How to select the right dog bed cover

Lets face it, dogs can be messy so make sure that your dog bed cover is up to the challenge. Choose 100% machine-washable fabrics that can be removed from the mattress when it's laundry time. Choose a durable fabric that can stand up to sharp toenails. Make sure that the seams are double-stitched and insist upon a "self-repairing" synthetic zipper. Of course, a stain-resistant fabric for your dog bed is another must-have feature. Many of the new sofa-type dog beds can be purchased with a washable slip cover and are worth the extra money.

Your dog's health and comfort depend upon his getting a good night's sleep. Make an informed decision when you purchase a dog bed and your dog will benefit for years to come

How to select the right filler material

Your basic dog bed filler choices are either solid foam, or stuffing. Since the type of filling that you choose will impact your dog's comfort, you should make an informed decision that takes into consideration your dog's size, age, and health. Inexpensive dogs beds often use cheap foam that can flatten out within several months. It is often worth while to pay a little more a quality bed that will last several years.

Poly-fill dog beds are stuffed with little pieces of foam. There are different types of Poly-fill to choose from. You want to make sure that your dog bed uses "high-loft" which means that it will not flatten out and lose its "spring" over time. Also make sure that you choose a dog bed style that uses "baffled chambers" which keeps the fill evenly distributed throughout the bed and keeps it from shifting to the outer edges as your dog snuggles in for the night.

Solid foam dog bed mattresses are best for large breeds and older dogs who are still in good health. If your dog has arthritis, or any back or hip problems, then you need a medical-grade, orthopedic foam dog bed.

The two key issues when choosing a solid foam mattress are firmness and density. Just like your mattress, the firmness determines how hard or soft the mattress is, while density determines how much "bounce" is in the mattress A good quality solid foam dog bed mattress will have a higher density and more firmness.

There are some specialty beds available that are made to hold up against a teething puppy or a dog who likes to chew and tear up traditional dog beds. Many platform beds (such as Kuranda Dog Beds) are designed like hammocks so that your dog rests comfortably on chew-proof mesh or fabric. These types of beds are a great alternative if your dog has already chewed his way through several foam beds!

How to select the basic shape

Dog bed come in several different shapes; round nests, donut or cuddler beds, round fluffy balls or pillows, square flat mattresses and sofa shaped furniture. Again, to select the right shape for your dog, pay attention to how he sleeps. If your dog curls up when sleeping, then a nest or ball is the right choice for him. Nests provide excellent cold-weather insulation as well since your dog can snuggle down inside of them. However most nesting beds are just fabric and fill and are not intended for outdoor use.

If your pet stretches out when sleeping, then a more conventional dog bed mattress should be your choice. Mattress beds let your dog toss and turn, curl and stretch, and find whatever position suits him best.

Dogs that enjoy both stretching out and curling up usually do well with furniture-like dog beds. The arms and back of these small sofas are great for snuggling, but the long length make them great for stretching out. These beds are often more expensive because they many are made with wood frames like real sofas and couches.

There are also platform style dog beds, many of which can be used out doors. These beds are often made from wood or plastic and provide an elevated sleeping area. These are often ideal for hot climates as some allow for air circulation

Selecting the right dog bed for your best friend?

Dogs are creatures of habit and enjoy sleeping in the same spot, so it is important that you choose the right bed to fit into your dogs current habits.

 For most people it isn't possible to take their dog to a large pet supply store and try out several types of beds. Most dogs will be too distracted or scared by the surroundings to pay any attentions to the beds.  Therefore, this section is designed to help you make the right choice on your dog's behalf.

There are several factors you need to consider when selecting a bed for you dog or dogs:

1. Size- The bed must be big enough and strong enough to match your dog's breed, but not so big that you waste money on unused bed space. Carefully measuring your dog will assure the proper fit.

Measure your dog once standing up; from tip of nose to base of tail and also from floor to shoulders or head. If you will be buying a mattress dog bed, add 12 inches. This will give you an approximate width and length for a flat dog bed. Measure your dog another time in his favorite sleeping position; perhaps his length when fully stretched out, or his diameter when curled into a ball. For nest and ball-type beds measure the length of your dog while he is curled up. Measure from the top of his head to the point where his tail meets his hindquarters, and then add 7 to 9 inches. 

The right size dog bed will match or be slightly larger than your measurements. Beds that are too small may not be comfortable for your dog. You want to allow room for growth, if you dog is still growing, and you want to allow room for movement regardless of whether your dog is still growing or if he's already at maximum size.

2. Climate and local weather- Will you want your dog bed to provide warmth in the winter or provide air circulation in the summer? Will you being using this bed outside in a dog house or on a front porch? What are the seasonal temperature ranges where you live? You will need to select a dog bed that can stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws at it.

3. Shape and style- The shape and style of the dog bed should be determined by the size and sleeping habits of your dog. Pay close attention to their favorite sleeping positions and locations. Does your dog enjoy sleeping in a sunny spot in the morning and by the bed in the evening? You may want a bed that can be easily moved about the house and fits the decor in several rooms. Buy a bed that matches the room where your dog spends the most time sleeping, usually where ever the family spends the most time. Also keep in mind the height of the beds. Small dog or dogs with arthritis may have a hard time climbing up onto a platform or furniture type dog bed.

What type of dog bed would be best for your dog ?

You want your dog to like his new bed, so you need to take some time to carefully select the right bed for your dog. In addition to the size of your dog, you need to take a careful look at how and where your dog sleeps. This will help you to determine the correct shape and size dog bed for your dog.

 

Donut or Cuddler dog beds are a great choice for dogs who love to curl up into balls or prefer to lean up against walls or snuggle into your couch or bed. Cuddler dog beds are great for cold weather, as they protect your dog from drafts and insulate his body heat. Most dogs prefer a cozy fit, but a larger size will work for dogs that like to stretch out as well. 

 

 

Does your dog like to stretch out on his side or back? Or does she prefer to circle around and make a "nest" of her bed? These types of dogs need a large flat surface and soft fill. We suggest a round, or square pillow style for this dog. 

 

 

Does your dog have arthritis or other bone or joint ailment? Providing adequate cushion for older joints is essential for the comfort of senior dogs. If incontinence is an issue, you may prefer a waterproof or machine washable dog bed. Heated dog beds are a great aid in the winter as is the Canine Cooler bed for the summer. Visit our choosing a bed section for more information.