- Here’s An Opinion On:
- Marc Ching
Submitted by: Sara Miller
We all appreciate the importance of a comfortable bed to sleep in and this is usually one of our most expensive furniture items, but how many of us take the same time and effort in choosing a bed for our pet as we do for ourselves? As a recognised dog-loving nation, with over 10 million dogs living in our homes, don’t we owe it to our pets to give them a decent bed of their own to sleep in, instead of expecting them to bed down on the floor, or at the foot of our own bed?
People give all sorts of reasons and excuses for their pets to be given such freedom. Mostly it boils down to the owner’s beliefs and preferences. If dogs are discouraged from the outset, they will soon learn the rules, but if owners relax the rules on occasions, confusion can set in and our canny canine friends will be quick to seize their advantage whenever the occasion arises. If the owner doesn’t mind, the dog certainly will not.
The main reason dog owners give for allowing this behaviour is that dogs enjoy this close physical contact with their owners. What this generally means is that the owners enjoy close physical contact with their dogs! Perhaps this is because of some need in the owner’s life that cuddling dogs like babies can fulfil. However it is also well known that young children, the sick and the elderly can benefit particularly from the presence of a pet.
Of course dogs will prefer the warmth and comfort of a human bed in cold weather but a bed of their own can be just as warm and cosy. There are so many comfortable and colourful dog beds available that any self-respecting pooch should feel very proud and protective of his own personal sleeping space. And why wouldn’t you want to reward his loyalty and devotion with his own special bed?
When choosing a bed for your dog, the main thing to consider is how your dog prefers to sleep. Some dogs – often the smaller ones – like to curl into themselves, while others prefer a luxurious stretched position. Whatever sleeping pose your dog adopts, watch and take measurements to help you decide on the shape and dimensions of his bed. Allow an extra five or six inches to these measurements to allow for shifting and turning in sleep.
Nest, or donut-shaped beds with shallow walls and warm, fleecy linings are extremely popular, especially with small dogs. You pet will feel cushioned and comfortable curled up in one of these. If your pet likes to sit in dark, enclosed spaces, a tent or pyramid-shaped bed would be ideal for him as this will completely enclose him apart from one opening.
The range of fabric finishes for dog’s beds is as wide as the range for household furniture. In fact it is possible to match your dog’s bed to your decor with very little discernible difference – there are even dog beds with leather-effect fabrics. However, when choosing the fabric and composition, it is important to take into account the climate, the environment and the coat of the dog to ensure his bed remains at a comfortable temperature. A washable cover or lining is also necessary to keep the bedding fresh and clean.
For the absolute ultimate in style and comfort, dog sofas and chairs that replicate real living room furniture are also available. These may sound extreme, but they will certainly ensure that your dog knows the difference between your zone and his; though woe betide you if you try to commandeer his personal sofa space!
About the Author: Chloe J Holden is a breeder of pedigree dogs and an expert in the care of all pets. For more information, including choosing bird cages visit Alex at
pawspetsupermarket.co.uk
Source:
isnare.com
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