Home Pets 5 Steps to Creating a Suitable Sleep Arrangement for Your Dog

5 Steps to Creating a Suitable Sleep Arrangement for Your Dog

Dog owners most frequently Google questions related to dogs’ sleeping habits, likes, and dislikes. That’s understandable, as once you welcome a pup into your home, you want the best for them in terms of health and general well-being. Like for people, a good night’s sleep is rejuvenating for adult dogs who sleep 12-14 hours a day on average. Young pups clock in anywhere from an impressive 16 to 20 hours daily, and getting the right amount of sleep is essential to grow and develop properly. So, what can you do to ensure your pooch’s quality sleep?

Step 1: Get Familiar with the Different Types of Dog Beds

Vera Dog Bed
source: coopsandcages.com.au

Even if you decide to let your pup spend the night curled up by your side or another sleeping arrangement for your dog that doesn’t include a specialised dog bed, you should buy a dog bed for your pet. That way they can unwind in a spot exclusively for them, even while you aren’t there. It’s much more crucial for your dog to have a comfortable sleeping area that isn’t on the floor if you don’t let them in your bed. When you start exploring the extensive range of dog beds on the net, you’ll come across different varieties. Getting familiar with them is a good starting point.

Calming Beds 

The purpose of nest-like soothing beds is to calm nervous pets. Additionally, they are perfect for dogs who prefer to sleep curled up or cuddle. The rounded doughnut-shaped calming beds with elevated sides encasing dogs in a warm core are common. Additional characteristics include a border of plush bolsters that provide a comforting barrier against external threats and velvety artificial fur that makes them nostalgic for cuddling with their mother and littermates.

Elevated Beds

Elevated dog beds, raised a few inches from the ground, are great for lounging outside. Their cot-style construction helps avoid coming into direct contact with the dusty ground. Additionally, it’s easy to rinse and clean the mesh fabric because it won’t absorb water. This bed variety improves air circulation, keeping dogs comfortable and cool. It’s also among the sturdiest beds available with a design that eliminates extra material for dogs to gnaw in by securing the fabric inside a strong metal, aluminium, or PVC frame.

Orthopaedic and Memory Foam Beds

Dogs of all kinds benefit most from orthopaedic beds, but large breeds, elderly dogs, and dogs with joint problems stand to gain the most. The best orthopaedic beds are often flat rectangles with a thick layer of genuine memory foam. Through body contouring and weight distribution, this material relieves pressure on your dog’s joints. There are also claims that memory foam increases movement. Although orthopaedic beds are typically more expensive than standard dog bed varieties, they typically outlast less durable mattresses.

Step 2: Consider Your Dog Needs

Marley Lounger Dog Bed
source: coopsandcages.com.au

Potential health problems are among the most important factors to consider when evaluating the best spot for your doggo to sleep. For example, if your doggo has arthritis, it’ll be hard for them to climb up and down your bed, and an orthopaedic bed might be best for them. On the other side, if you have an anxious dog, you might consider letting them sleep by your side for a few hours at night to help ease and smooth the transition to their own calming bed.

The dog’s age is another critical consideration.  Puppies may need to be close to you during the first few weeks of their lives, and you and them can both benefit from sleeping together. Older dogs are more likely to have health issues that will make it difficult for them to get up and down a bed, and they may have incontinence, which makes it difficult for them to hold their urine while they lay down or if you don’t feel comfortable getting your bedsheets wet regularly.

It turns out that many pet owners decide whether or not to share their beds based on the size of their dog. Large dogs only enjoy the privilege of sleeping in human beds 32% of the time, compared to 62% of small dogs. That makes perfect sense. 

Step 3: Think of What You Like

If your dog dislikes sleeping in your bed or if you don’t want to sleep with them, then none of the previously mentioned needs matters. You can have a lot of sleepless nights if the dog snores or wiggles a lot and you’re a light sleeper. Over time, this may harm your health. Additionally, many dogs like sleeping near the floor, where it’s cooler. The most popular options in that case would be a dog bed, a dog crate, and the floor. Pet beds provide a fair compromise, even though many people find it cruel to leave their dogs on the ground or confined in crates.

You may want your dog to sleep next to you, but if you suffer from allergies, it won’t be the best route. According to research, long-term close contact with dogs exposes you to pet dander, which can cause respiratory issues. Additionally, co-sleeping with a dog can cause problems for even those without pet allergies, particularly if they spend more time outside, as pollen and dust stick to fur, exacerbating allergy reactions.

Step 4: Pick the Right Bed

Marley Lounger Dog Bed
source: coopsandcages.com.au

Once you understand the available dog bed types and determine your dog’s needs and likes, and how you feel about them you must choose the best option for you in terms of your chosen sleeping arrangement. Ask yourself: “What type of bed does my dog need?” No matter the type you choose, a good bed for your pooch must be supportive, ensure better sleep, provide a relaxing spot throughout the day and night and offer easy cleaning and maintenance.

Step 5: Train Your Pup

Training your dog to sleep in their bed requires consistency and positive reinforcement. Start by choosing the right bed based on your dog’s size and preferences, then introduce it gently. Place the bed in a spot your dog feels comfortable, such as the bedroom, living room, or children’s room. Use a consistent command like “bedtime” to guide them to their bed, rewarding them with treats initially. Redirect them if they leave, rewarding them only for necessary actions like going potty. Practise during naps to help them adapt quickly. With patience and repetition, your dog will learn to sleep independently, bringing peace to your household.