It is a common problem, the dog or cat has taken over your couch, your favorite lounge chair, or even your bed.  While some may enjoy cuddling up with your pet on the furniture, it is also important to give them a place/or furniture of their own. Buying a bed that your pet will like can be a daunting task.  So, what do you look for when purchasing a bed?

The first question to ask is what position does your pet sleep in:

If they like to stretch out (either on their side with paws completely out to one side, or on their belly with paws stretched out in front and back of them), your best bet is to go with a traditional square, rectangular or round bed.  Usually larger dogs prefer to sleep in a stretched out position. Measure your pet in their usual sleeping position and add at least 5 inches to the measurement for added comfort and compare the measurement for the bed (for a round bed you want to compare your pet's measurement to the diameter).  If you find yourself in between sizes based on the measurements, always go for the larger. 

If they like to sleep curled up, or in a position where their paws are tightly tucked under their body, a cuddler type bed is the best.  It is a donut shaped bed, the pet sleeps in the center surrounded by a full circle of cushioned comfort.  Perfect for small dogs and those that like to burrow into a sleeping position. This is also a  perfect bed for dogs and cats that like to be surrounded on all sides when sleeping for added protection.  Again, measure your dog in the usual sleeping position, add about 2-3 inches for added comfort and compare to the inner dimension of the bed.  

Other items to look for in a pet bed:

• Make sure it is washable.  Please note that the larger the bed, the larger machine you may need to wash the entire bed.
• A nice feature is a way to replace the stuffing (this helps if you purchase a larger bed, but don't have a washing machine capable of the size, removing the stuffing should be able to allow you to wash easily) through a zipper, or outer cover, etc.
• Pick a color and pattern you like as well.  Since this item will be in your home, you need to make sure you like it as well.

For special need dogs:

• If your pet is an aggressive chewer or scratcher, look for a bed that can resist their behavior.
• If you have an older pet, a low, orthopedic bed may be easier for their joints.
• Do not give a new puppy a bed until they are potty trained.  The risk of them having an accident is high, and they might learn that going potty on the bed is acceptable, unless you are there to correct the problem the minute it happens.  It is best to hold off on a bed until they are properly potty trained.  Even if the bed is washable, the trace of urine smell can linger and attract a puppy to believing it is o.k. to do their business where they sleep.

Tips to get your pet to use their new bed:

• Positive reinforcement!  Never use the bed as punishment and reward the pet for retreating to the bed with treats and love.
• Make bed time a routine, whether it is a treat and a command of "bed," once the dog is a routine, they will automatically know when and where they should be at "bed" time.
• Make it their own.  If you have multiple pets, make sure they have their own bed (although some pets like to sleep together).  And remember, they are going to lick the bed, maybe wipe some dirt on it--don't always run to wash it, this is a way of them marking it their own.

And hopefully you and your pet will enjoy your relationship more with a little extra room on the couch or bed!