How to Pick the Right Size Dog Bed

Most adult dogs need to sleep between 12 and 14 hours a day, while puppies made need upwards of 18 hours. In order for your pooch to get enough restful sleep, it is essential that you pick the right size dog bed.

To ensure the dog bed is the correct size, you will need to measure a few areas on your dog. It is easier for you to do this when your dog is fast asleep!

Measure the following on your Fido:

• The base of the tail to the tip of your dog’s nose (for example, 9.8 inches).
• Length of the front legs (for example, 7.8 inches).
• Length of the back legs (for example, 7.8 inches).
• Add together (9.8+7.8+7.8 = 25.4 inches).
• Finally, half of the length of the dog’s front legs must then be subtracted,   (25.4 – 3.9 inches = 21.5 inches).

Well done! You have successfully calculated the sprawl length of your dog when they sleep. It is important to establish the weight of your dog as well. Most dog beds do have a maximum weight allowance. Be sure to check the label for this. It will give you an indication of the support your dog will receive for the amount of surface area the bed has.

The chart below will help you with picking the correct dog bed for your best friend!

Bed Type	Bed Size (Rectangular)	Bed Size (Round)	Dog Breed
Small	16” x 12.8”	23”	e.g. Terriers, Maltese, Chihuahua
Medium	20” x 16’	28”	e.g. Jack Russel, Beagle, Spaniel, Corgi
Large	22” x 18”	30”	e.g. Collies, Labradors, Springer Spaniel
X Large	26” x 22”	33”	e.g. Greyhound, German Shepherd,Great Dan, Rottweiler, Ridgeback
XX Large	39″ x 28”	47”	e.g. St Bernard, Mastiff, Irish Wolfhound

If you are still not sure what size dog bed to buy, it’s far better to buy a bed that is too big than one that is too small so that your dog will sleep comfortably in it.

Where to Place Your Dog Bed

When deciding on the right size dog bed, be sure to see where you will place the bed and whether it will work with its surroundings. You need to ask yourself the following:

• Will it ever have to be moved?
• Will it blend in with the area of my house where I intend to put it?
• Is that a suitable area for my dog to sleep?

Which Dog Bed Shape and Design?

The manner in which your dog likes to sleep will also go a long way in helping to determine the correct bed to purchase.

A rectangular bed will be best if your dog sleeps in a sprawled out manner. A round bed will be best if your dog likes to curl up when they sleep. An extra large round bed will work for a dog that likes to sleep sprawled out, as long as the dog fits comfortably in it while sleeping.

When buying a dog bed, there are many options available. Start with finding out what the anatomy of the best dog beds consist of. If you are unsure as to which is best for your dog do some research or consult your pet store or local veterinary practice. Whatever size dog bed you need to help give your canine a good night’s rest – be sure to pick one that will also last by choosing an indestructible dog bed.