"Dogs don't need all that fluffy lining, they have enough hair on their body to keep them warm"
"A large tough plastic kidney shaped bed, with a soft blanket or a 'doggie' mattress is ideal"
"If used properly, a cage can relieve a lot of pressure of owning a dog"


Image of a dog in bed

Which bed should you use

Beds are going to be a personal choice by the owner not the dog. Dogs can't say what bed they would like, so it's up to you as a dog owner to choose. It is no good buying a small bed which looks nice and cosy for your pup, it will only last a few months before you have to buy a much bigger one. Small beds are fine for the miniature dog. But for a large dog, you might as well purchase a large bed in the beginning.

There is no need to go to a lot of expense buying something fur lined and packed with cushions. Dogs don't need all that fluffy lining, they have enough hair on their body to keep them warm. Don't put a dog's bed too near a fire or radiator, this can make them become very warm and they may develop skin disorders, and tend to scratch.

Many dog's chew their bedding until taught not to, so fluffy materials can become quite harmful.

A large tough plastic kidney shaped bed, with a soft blanket or a 'doggie' mattress is ideal. The sides of the bed are raised so as to keep out the draft. It is easy to clean and dry in no time, and should last the lifetime of your dog.

Crate/Cage: Please read on before passing judgement. Canine crates are one of the best inventions in the canine world. Why? They are designed to make the owners life much easier, and as a safe haven for your dog by thus giving him his own 'space'. If used properly, a cage can relieve a lot of pressure of owning a dog. A cage must be introduced at the VERY beginning of your puppy coming to live with you. Introduce the crate to your dog for short periods at a time. Feed your dog in the cage, put it's water bowel in there. Leave the door open so that your dog knows you haven't confined him, and he will soon learn that it is his space, and good things like food and water are in there for him.

When you have to leave the dog for some time, start by closing the door with your dog in the crate. Without saying anything, leave the room for five minutes only. Go into another room so you can hear what he is doing. Return, say hello to your dog but don't say anything else, wait a few seconds, no more, then go to the crate open the door and if your dog has been good, praise him and have a little play. Do this several times, leaving the dog a little longer each time, so he gets used to it. By leaving your dog for a few minutes longer each time, he will know you are coming back. If your dog cries and barks while you are in the other room, go back after a few minutes, just the same, but say nothing to him, wait until he quietens down, praise him for being quiet and then let him out of the crate.

Most dogs do not foul their bed by choice. So, by taking your dog from it's crate to go outdoors regularly will teach him where to go for his toilet. At night, some dogs may ask to go 'out'. You will soon learn to distinguish the cries for 'I need the loo' or 'please get me out of here'.

Remember, whatever the bed, it is up to you as an owner to keep your dog's bed clean and hygienic.