Best Dog Beds By Age for Canines at Every Stage of Life
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Canine parents are an anxious bunch when it comes to their furbabies. From dog food to vet visits, there’s nothing that escapes their notice – and that’s the way it should be.
However, one aspect is sometimes overlooked in dog-care routine, which is getting Fido an age-specific bed. Getting your pup a bed that’s suitable for its age will not only help them settle in better, but it can also help your furball avoid future health concerns.
If you’ve been scouring the internet for the best dog beds – allow us to narrow down the choices. We’ve compiled a pet bed-centric guide designed to help dog parents make informed decisions about what’s best for their furry little pal. All you have to do is scroll down and discover all there is to age-specific dog beds.
Does My Dog Need a Dog Bed Based on Their Age?
You know how humans tend to pickier about their mattress options as they age? Well, selecting the right dog bed is not so different from that. The needs of a teensy weensy pupper aren’t similar to what a mature doggo needs.
That’s also why there’s such a wide range of variety when it comes to dog beds. You can find dog beds according to breed, size, and, even more importantly, age. That’s because the best dog bed will take your furball’s age-related health considerations into account.
For example, pet experts recommend a donut bed or a nesting bed for little puppers. But, the category shifts to orthopedic dog beds or warming beds to better cater to your pet’s needs when it comes to older dogs.
Why Age is an Important Factor in Choosing a Bed
For one thing, puppies often prefer sleeping in warm places – that’s because it reminds them of the warmth of their mother’s body. That’s why it’s not uncommon to see your pup snuggled under the blanket.
But, as puppies grow older, their bodies change – their coat develops, and they’re better able to control their body temperature. That’s why adolescent dogs pick up the habit of snoozing on the floor because it’s cooler.
Fast forward a few years to when Fido’s fully matured, it’s likely that your pet will have singled out a favorite sleeping position by now. Some canines like sleeping on the sides, while others prefer lying on their backs. Pet parents out browsing for dog beds need to keep their dog’s sleeping preference in mind.
Finally, when your pet enters its golden years, its body undergoes more changes. Some senior dogs face reduced mobility due to orthopedic problems. Others start to feel the cold more because their temperature regulation isn’t what it used to be.
That’s why just like when you’re out picking a human bed, buying a dog bed is inextricably linked to your pet’s age and health.
Selecting an Age-Friendly Bed
If you want to hit the mark of landing the perfect dog bed in one go, you must be aware of all the factors that truly make a difference. Selecting an age-friendly dog bed can become more straightforward than you think if you keep the following pointers in mind.
Age
Age-specific dog beds are tailor-made to look after the changing needs of your pooch. For instance, if you’ve recently brought a pup home and haven’t been able to house-train it yet, you’re going to need a bed that’s easy to clean. Additionally, you’re going to want your pup to feel safe and secure in its new surroundings – and that’s where faux-fur fabric covers can help big time. Similarly, if your pet is in its adolescence or is fully grown, look for a dog bed that offers comfort and support in terms of joint support, sleep style, and cleanability. Pet owners looking to bring warmth and relief to their senior pets’ lives can do so with memory foam dog beds. Other senior dog bed options include gel foam mattresses, egg-crate foam, etc.Size
Pet owners should know that size always matters when it comes to dog beds. A bed that fits a jack russell terrier isn’t going to be a good match for a Shiba Inu. This is why our editors always recommend measuring your dog (from nose to tail and shoulder to shoulder) to avoid any sizing mishaps. What’s more, it’s wise to factor in at least 6 to 7 extra inches (to your measurements) to accommodate your pet’s sleeping positions. If you’re the proud owner of a large or extra-large doggo (such as a Bernese Mountain Dog), you should also pay attention to the dog bed’s design. A sofa-style bed may suit a side-sleeper, but if your big boy likes to stretch out as it sleeps, you can opt for a pillow bed or a flat bed.Health
Readers may wonder what the link between health and dog beds is. Any credible dog bed guide (like ours) will consider a canine’s health concerns to ensure your pet gets the sleep it deserves. Pups often need help staying warm and cozy (especially in winters), and that’s why some pet parents opt for self-warming beds for their furry pals. Conversely, adult canines prone to conditions like hip dysplasia or need extended support for their pressure points, do very well with a memory foam dog bed. Older canines can also benefit from memory foam beds (for joint pain), along with features like temperature-regulating gel foam, non-skid bottoms, etc.Dog Beds by Age: The 4 Life Stages
Alrighty, now that you’ve understood the science behind age-specific dog beds, let’s talk about how you can go about getting one for your pooch. For ease of navigation, we’ve divided the beds by the four life stages of your pet – from puppyhood and beyond.
If you’re wondering about details like price range or whether or not the bed will match your home décor – don’t worry. Just make use of the well-placed links throughout this article to discover dog beds according to breeds, size, style, and more. Ready? Let’s go!
Dog Beds for Puppies
Itsy bitsy canines qualify as pups from birth to 6 months of age. If you’re on the lookout for a dog bed for your pupper, you need to focus on three things: comfort, coziness, and cleanability. Puppies will appreciate a bed that allows them to snuggle or curl up, and that’s where donut-shaped dog beds come in. The raised rim design of these beds helps calm your pup’s nerves while providing contentment. Next up, look at the type of fabric material the bed offers. Faux fur (aka faux shag fur) is loved by pups worldwide because it reminds them of the feel of their mother’s fur. This allows them to relax and fall asleep quicker in the own beds. As far as cleanability is concerned, you want a bed that allows for spot cleaning and features a removable cover that washing machine safe. Puppies are prone to dirtying their beds if they haven’t mastered the art of house training. And, that’s precisely why you should select a bed that’s easy to clean to maintain hygiene standards.Dog Beds for Adolescent Dogs
Parents of adolescent canines (between 6 and 18 months of age) are well-advised to search for durable beds made from high-quality materials and are chew-proof, scratch-proof, etc. A dog bed with regular ole cotton batting and low-quality fabric may lead to replacements within a few months. To avoid spending money hand-over-fist, consider pet beds with materials like ripstop nylon, canvas, or denim because they’re better suited to a teething pup. Heavy-duty fabrics can also help keep the filling safe from your puppy’s rough antics and make the bed last longer. Some dog parents aren’t crazy about sofa dog beds or cushion beds. In that case, opt for the K-H elevated dog bed for your adolescent pup because it’s sturdy, chew-proof, and promotes air circulation to keep your pet in comfort as it sleeps.Dog Beds for Adult Dogs
Dog owners with fully mature canines (from 18 months to three years of age) should think about investing in a top-notch dog bed that’ll last your pet a good while. Unlike puppies, adult dogs are over their growth spurts and need a mattress that not only provides comfort but looks after their overall well-being. While the internet is teeming with tips on looking after your doggo’s health, you can’t overlook the importance of mattresses because canines spend at least 12 hours per day sleeping. Think about getting your pet an orthopedic dog bed (be it with a gel base layer, memory foam, support foam, etc.). This will ensure your dog’s body and musculoskeletal frame will get the cushioning it deserves so your dog can avoid problems like stiff joints for as long as possible. Pick out the mattress’s thickness according to your dog’s breed, size, and weight. Thankfully, adult dogs are house-trained, and that’s why the danger of doggy accidents is almost nil. Nonetheless, dog beds are exposed to all types of germs and selecting a removable microfiber cover that’s machine wash, and dryer safe can be a big help. Here’s another one of our editors’ helpful tips – if you’re sure about which memory foam option is best for Fido, take a look at the dog bed by Casper. It’s got an excellent rating on all major retail sites and comes recommended by the North American Veterinary Community’s Chief Veterinary Officer.Dog Beds for Senior Dogs
Older dogs between 7 to 10 years of age need special care and support to ensure their quality of life isn’t diminished in any way. For example, some canines suffer through weak eyesight in their advanced years, which makes them anxious. Other times, joint-related aches and pains can affect your dog’s mobility. Be it small, medium, or large breed dogs, experts make it a point to recommend a high-quality memory foam dog bed because such a product can look after your pet’s bones, muscles, and joints. Additionally, other helpful features make your pet’s and your life easier, such as a plush removable bed cover, a handy water-proof liner to protect the mattress (for canines with incontinence), an easy-access opening, non-slip bottom, etc.Our Final Thoughts
Our readers (and their pets) have a special place in our hearts, and that’s why we’re always trying our best to keep you up-to-date with the latest 411 on dog beds.
Our age-specific dog beds feature was undertaken to inform dog parents how their furbaby’s needs can change throughout its life and how you can help your pet adapt by taking care of its comfort needs – starting from its bed.
Before we sign off, be sure to go through the sidebar to check out all our other canine-centered bed guides. Not to mention, don’t forget to comment on what your favorite dog bed is and why – we’re always looking forward to your comments and queries!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of bed should I get my dog?
The kind of bed you should get for your pooch depends primarily on its age, health, size, and breed. For instance, if your pet happens to be a senior German Shepherd, a large-sized dog breed, you should measure your pet for good measure and look at large-sized orthopedic dog beds that will offer optimal support for your canine’s joints and pressure points.What is the best dog bed for older dogs?
The best dog beds for older dogs feature either an orthopedic or memory foam mattress along with added features like a removable and washable cover, easy access entry, non-slip bottoms, and a protective liner for the mattress.Are dog beds good for dogs?
Dog beds are specifically manufactured with canine comfort in mind in terms of age, health, and breed. Your pet may like sleeping on the floor, but napping on hard surfaces isn’t recommended because of the extra pressure it exerts on your doggo’s pressure points and joints. Besides that, sleeping on the floor in winters can lead to your canine developing a cold, or in severe cases, pneumonia. Investing in a high-quality dog bed can save your canine from these concerns and from developing orthopedic problems in the future.How often should you change your dog’s bed?
How often you need to replace your pet’s bed depends on the bed’s quality and how long it can withstand regular wear and tear. A dog bed made from durable materials is likely to last longer. Some products even come equipped with mattress warranties to put your mind at ease. Nonetheless, it’s a good idea to research a product extensively and to read through customer reviews before purchasing it.
