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Dog beds can be simple or fancy, expensive or homemade, and everything in between.

How do you pick the right dog bed for your pup when there are so many on the market? Does your pooch even need a dog bed? Should you spend a lot of money when your dog is just as happy lying with you in your human bed or on the couch?

Does Your Dog Need A Dog Bed?

Even if your dog is allowed to sleep with you in your human bed, every dog should have a bed of their own — or two or three or four, actually.

There are plenty of benefits to having dog beds. They can be used for napping during the day and sleeping in at night.

Unlike the floor, a bed will keep your dog warm, support arthritic joints, and prevent calluses. And unlike a couch or human bed, dog beds are spaces that pups can have all to themselves.

And if you’re allergic to your dogs, then it’s best if they sleep somewhere besides your bed.

Dog beds can also be taken with you when you travel so that your dog feels comfortable and is able to sleep somewhere familiar. They’ll rest easier and feel less anxiety.

A dog bed shouldn’t be used as a place for punishment or confinement. It’s a place of security that belongs only to that one dog, and they should always feel safe in it.

A bed makes a crate more comfortable, but that doesn’t mean a dog can spend twelve hours a day in a crate just because it has a bed. It’s a place dogs should be able to go and relax without feeling trapped or anxious.

All dogs could benefit from having a place where they can feel calm and de-stress during the day or night.

What Kinds Of Dog Beds Are There?

Dog beds can be as simple as your old pillow or as fancy as a wrought-iron frame with a lace canopy. Your selection depends on your taste, budget, and décor, but you may find that your dog expresses a preference by taking over another dog’s bed.

Keep an eye on where your dog feels most comfortable, as this can help you decide which bed will be best.

Flat pads or mats are inexpensive and fit in crates.

Nesting/snuggle beds are similar to beanbag chairs and often preferred by smaller dogs who love to curl up.

Cuddler/nest beds come in the “traditional” oval bowl shape.

Bolsters have one long side with a built-in pillow and are often preferred by large dogs.

Donut-shaped beds are circular bolsters with a removable center pillow.

Waterproof beds are good for outdoor use or incontinent pets.

Homemade beds can be inexpensive and easy to customize. There are plenty of tutorials on how to make your own dog bed that you can find on YouTube or by searching online. Just make sure you’re using safe materials and that it will hold up, especially if your dog likes to chew.

Special Dog Beds For Seniors Or Dogs With Medical Needs

Orthopedic beds support old joints or very large dogs; they usually have medical-grade foam and/or box-spring construction.

Heated beds maintain body warmth. This can be beneficial for dogs who get cold easily or for dogs with arthritis that is worsened by the cold.