A very typical habit of dogs is to sleep as close as possible to their owners. That is why most dogs love to sleep in our bed or take a nap on the sofa where we usually sit. However, it is essential that they have a bed for when we are not there or simply to avoid hygiene problems. In this article, we give you certain guidelines for choosing the bed of a large dog, since it can be a complicated task.
A made-to-measure bed
First of all, size will play an important role, since it is not enough to buy a bed your dog fits in; we must also bear in mind whether it sleeps stretched out or curled up. The best way to work out the ideal size is by measuring our pet. The standard measurements and their corresponding size are as follows: S (55 x 40 cm), M (65 x 50 cm), L (75 x 60 cm), XL (85 x 70 cm) and XXL (95 x 80 cm).
The filling, fundamental
The bed’s filling will be key to the animal’s comfort. In this respect, it should be of better quality the more the pet weighs, so large-breed dogs require thick mattresses or ones with dense foam slabs. We recommend polyurethane foam (also known as memory foam), ideal for large dogs.
The shape
If your dog likes to curl up, moves a lot or tends to rest its head on a pillow, the nest-type mattress will be ideal for it. This is because the edges of the nest provide warmth to the inside, as well as a soft surface on which to rest the head.
Consider buying a kennel
Dog kennels are not only suitable for outdoors. During winter, or if you live in a cold place, having a house inside your home will be a good option. Regarding this, most people decide not to buy a little house for large dogs because they think they will not find the right size. However, there are kennels of all kinds, even for the largest breeds.
Bear in mind the coat
Another aspect we must bear in mind is our dog’s coat. Although most large breeds have short hair, during the moulting season they will shed a large amount of hair, so it is essential to choose the right fabric for the bed. More than the type of fabric, it is important to look at its characteristics. This way, it is recommended that it be water-resistant, so it can be washed easily, and that it does not have very rough textures, to prevent the hairs from getting embedded and being harder to clean. Have you already faced those hairs stuck to the bed that are impossible to get out? Choosing the ideal bed for our dog requires taking into account a great many aspects, so that it is functional, attractive and, above all, comfortable. Remember that our dog will spend a large part of its time there and it will be the place intended for its rest. Is it not true that you also need a comfortable bed? Remember, too, the importance of it being located in an area with good temperatures and, if possible, near a bowl of water. Consult a specialist with any doubt in this respect.
