How to Choose a Bolster Dog Bed

How to select the right size of bolster dog bed?

Large and small dogs alike need a place to relax after long walks, gamboling about in the sun, and a hard day's work of chewing, panting, and being your best friend. A bolster dog bed gives them a place to stretch out their legs in an irresistibly adorable way!

There are many different sizes of dog beds, to accommodate different sizes of dogs. The size of dog bed you should get will correspond to how large your dog is - generally measured in weight.

• Extra Small: This type of bed is good for dogs who weigh less than 10 pounds such as Yorkies or Chihuahuas.

• Small: Small dog beds are good for the 11-25-pound range - think French bulldogs, pugs, and Shih Tzus.

• Medium: For a medium-size dog bed, you'll likely have a dog in the 26-40-pound range, such as a Beagle or a Schnauzer.

• Large: Got a larger dog, in the 41-70-pound range? These may be bulldogs, boxers, or cocker spaniels. The large size bed is likely what you're looking for.

• Extra Large: For dogs 71+ pounds such as German Shepherds or Retrievers, get an extra-large bed. They'll appreciate the space!

However, you know your dog best! If you have a chihuahua who likes to sprawl, perhaps getting the extra-small bed won't be enough room. Start with your dog's weight, and then consider sizing up instead of down, just to be safe.

How thick should a bolster dog bed be?

This will pretty much depend on the weight of your dog, but the general recommendation is that a bed should be at least 4 inches thick. But that's for small and medium size lightweight breeds. The ideal thickness for bigger and heavier dogs should be 6-7 inches so that the foam doesn't collapse under their weight.

What features are helpful with a bolster dog bed?

• Washable: If you're a dog owner, you know that dogs aren't the cleanest of creatures. Dogs shed like it's they're job, they chew toys with gusto and tend to track mud all over the place - even the place in which they lay down their head. Being able to wash the cover or entire cushion can help keep your home looking and smelling its best.

• Removable Cover: One thing that might aid you in your quest to keep your home looking nice is a removable cover! These zippered or buttoned cases will be easier to launder and generally keep clean. If your pet struggles with or you are house training a puppy, consider a waterproof cover lined with a TPU coating that's proven to protect the pad from accidents.

• Memory Foam: Consider investing in memory foam to pamper your pet: this cushiony material will mould to your dog's shape, allowing for the ultimate in comfort for your furry friend! This option is particularly recommendable if your dog suffers from joint issues.

• Cooling and Heating Function: Whether it's a hot summer day or the middle of winter, your dog will be using his bed for comfort - so why not make that comfort even more attractive? Purchasing a bed that heats or cools your dog will help keep his body temperature in a healthy window - definitely worth the investment.

• Outdoor Use: If you think your dog would appreciate a chance to relax indoors as well as out, purchase a bed covered in material - such as duck canvas, polyester, or denim - that's been treated for outdoor use. As a bonus, these incredibly durable fabrics will likely last longer, as well!

• Chew Resistant: If you're a dog owner, you know - dogs love to chew things, even the beds we give them! Purchasing a heavy-duty chew resistant bed can up your odds that this bed will last you and your dog for years to come.

What type of bolster dog bed should I choose for my dog?

Think about your dog's personality. There is an almost endless array of differently styled dog beds on the market, from ones with tents and hammocks to novelty beds shaped like fruit or other pieces of food. What's your dog's personality? If he's an experimental pup, getting him an oddly shaped bed might be a great puzzle to explore; if he's sillier, then a fruit-shaped bed might suit his character.

As far as materials go, if your dog is harder on toys or if you wish to keep the bed outside, go with treated duck canvas, denim, or polyester for the bed. If you'd like to give your dog more comfort, sticking with fleece, chenille, or cotton can give your best friend the comfort he so deserves!

If you have a small dog and want to bring it closer to you or give it a better vantage point, get an elevated dog bed that rests on risers or steps!