When buying dog beds, many new dog owners assume that they're one size fits all. Not only do you have to pick the right size bed for your new dog, but you also have to take considerations like material into account.

Whether you have a puppy or an older dog, your dog needs to be comfortable while sleeping so it can get the rest it needs to grow and recover. Plus, a good dog bed can help reduce stress on joints and muscles, especially for older dogs.

But with so many options out there, how do you know which kind of dog bed to buy? 

If you're a new dog owner and you're looking to buy a dog bed, this article is for you. Keep reading to learn everything you need to consider when buying a dog bed for the first time.

Measure for the Right Size 

Before you go look at pet beds, you need to measure your dog from head to tail. This will help you determine how long you need the dog bed to be.

To get the most accurate measurement for buying a dog bed, measure your dog when it's in its usual sleeping position. Then, add 8-12 inches on each side to determine a good length for the bed.

Compare these measurements to the dog beds you're looking at so you get the right size. If you're buying online, remember that photos can be deceiving. Always go by the measurements listed in the product description.

Keep in mind that if your dog likes to sleep while sprawled out (instead of curled up), you may need to get a slightly larger bed.  

If you have a puppy and you want your dog to be able to use its bed when it gets older, use a dog-size calculator. This will roughly estimate how big your puppy will be as an adult. 

Shape and Sleep Style

Did you know that your dog's sleep style influences what kind of dog bed would be best?

Some dogs like to sleep sprawled out, while others like to lean up against things. Yet others like to go under the covers and dig until they've found the perfect spot.

Dog bed shapes accommodate these sleeping styles. For example, if your dog likes to curl up and be cozy, then a bolstered dog bed is the perfect option. 

When you pick a bed shape that fits with your dog's sleeping style, your dog is more likely to use its bed, which makes the money you spent on the bed worth it.

Plus, a hard surface like your floor isn't the best material for a dog to lie on all night, so you want your dog to use its bed and support its joints as much as possible.

Pick the Right Material

Next, you want to make sure that you pick the right material for your dog bed.

For example, beds for large dogs often include more cushioning to better support the dog's joints. You also want to get specialty orthopedic material like padded foam if your dog has a condition like arthritis. 

You may have a small dog that gets anxious often. A soft bed that your dog can sink into and feel comforted by would be a good option in this case.

If you go camping a lot or want the bed to be used outdoors, consider getting a bed made out of waterproof material. You can use these in the forest, by the beach or pool, or wherever you're traveling.

Lots of travel dog beds come in portable designs, so the inside material might be flatter so you can fold up the bed.

If you're planning to use your dog bed both indoors and outdoors, make sure to get a bed that's easy to wipe off and wash.

Make It Chew-proof

If you have a puppy, you'll know that their chewing habits can destroy your furniture in the blink of an eye. 

You don't want this to happen to your new dog bed. This is why you need to check all the dog bed features for any parts that your dog could chew. These include zippers and the outer fabric of the bed.

While the zippers are there to help you remove the cover of the bed for cleaning, your dog may play with the zippers, bite them, or break them.

It can also be dangerous if your dog chews through the outer fabric of the bed, as it might eat the inside fibers of the bed by accident.

Most dog beds these days are lined with strong materials like canvas to make sure your dog can't bite through the bed easily. 

Cleaning Considerations

Given that nearly everyone has a busy lifestyle these days, you likely don't have hours to spend cleaning your dog's bed if it gets muddy or soiled. 

This is why you want a dog bed that's moisture resistant. You also want to be able to put it into your washing machine whenever you need to.

When comparing dog bed prices, you need to make sure that you don't have a hard time cleaning the bed. No matter how comfortable the bed is, at the end of the day, it's not worth your money if it takes hours to wash.

For example, our wool dog bed is not only made of natural materials but is machine washable for easy cleaning. 

Keep These Tips in Mind When Buying Dog Beds

A dog bed can be one of the best gifts you can give to your dog to help it sleep better and support its joints and muscles. 

When buying dog beds, remember to consider your dog's size, sleeping style, and any safety considerations such as chewing.

At Nest Bedding, our luxury pet beds are moisture-resistant, eco-friendly, and dissipate heat to give the best comfort for your furry friend. Plus, we offer a 2-year warranty on all pet beds.

Ready to get your dog a wonderful new bed? Check out our luxury pet bed collection today.