Choosing dog bed size

Finding the perfect bed for your dog should be simple. Big dogs need a bigger bed, and small dogs need a smaller bed. That is a start, but there are a number of considerations when choosing the size of your dog's new bed. Your dog's breed, age, and sleeping position are important. And the type of bed makes a difference, too! Here are some pointers to help you.

Dog size

The first thing to consider is the size of your dog, which is usually related to the breed or weight. This is the most common and easiest method of choosing the size of your next dog bed. For example, the Blue Toby Sustainable Pet Bed System offers a helpful table of dog (and cat) weights and example breeds for specific sizes of beds.

Hint 1: Start with your dog's weight to narrow the choices of dog beds.

Dog shape

Your dog's weight may not be the only factor to consider. The shape of your dog can make a big difference, too. For example our dog Toby is a stocky, broad-chested mixed breed - with American Bulldog and Walker Coonhound contributions to his background. His weight is more than most people would guess. If choosing a bed solely on weight, he might end up with a larger bed than he needs. Alternatively, if your dog is lean and long - she might not weigh much but could use a bed that accommodates her long limbs and back. Measuring your dog from the head to base of the tail is a good idea.

Hint 2: Consider a smaller bed for heavy, stocky dogs and a larger bed for tall lightweight dogs. If unsure, measure your dog and compare to the length of the bed. Be sure your dog will fit comfortably from head to base of the tail.

Dog sleeping positions

Is your dog a side sleeper or stomach sleeper? Your dog probably has a few favorite sleeping positions. Marcus often lies on his back with his head thrown back and legs splayed out! Sometimes he curls up in a ball. The way your dog sleeps or rests makes a difference regarding the size of the bed that is needed.

Hint 3: Consider what position your dog is usually in when sleeping or resting. Dogs that prefer to be stretched out may need a larger bed. Dogs that curl up tightly may feel more comfortable in a smaller bed. However, most dogs sleep in a variety of positions so don't choose a bed that is too small.

Pet bed characteristics

Bed shape and width

Pet beds come in different shapes and proportions. Rectangular, round, or oval - they all fit your dog differently. Plus, some beds are wider and some narrower. This makes a difference in terms of how your dog can use the bed. For example, most dogs can only fit on a rectangular bed lengthwise if they stretch out because the bed's width is narrow. However, Blue Toby Sustainable Bed is much wider than most beds. This allows your dog to sleep in any number of positions and orientations, and allows more than one pet to sleep together.

Hint 4: Consider the shape of the bed and be sure that it fits your dog's favorite sleeping positions. Choose a wide pet bed if your dogs likes to sleep in a variety of positions or if more than one pet sleeps together.

Bed bolsters

Some pet beds have bolsters (those arms around the sides of the bed) and some do not. When choosing a bed, keep in mind that dogs use a bed in a variety of ways. As an example, sometimes Toby likes to sleep with his body on the cushion but his head on the floor. Other times, he likes to use a pillow or bolster to support his head.

A great solution is a pet bed system, like the Blue Toby Sustainable Pet Bed System. It was developed so that you start with the core mattress and reversible outer cover. Then you can add bolsters, a blanket, or pillow. The core mattress fits inside the bolster section, making the entire bed system larger.

Hint 5: If buying a bed with bolsters, review the size of the mattress section (without bolsters) to ensure that your dog's body will fit comfortably first. Then review the overall size with bolsters and remember that (usually) only your dog's head will go on the bolsters.

Maybe you have made the wise decision to get a Blue Toby Pet Bed for your favorite pooch! Keep in mind that the overall size of the bed is larger when the bolsters are added. So if your dog is between the medium and large mattress sizes, he might be fine in a medium with bolsters, or a large without bolsters.