Dog Beds for Winter

Winter is here, and your beloved pal will love and appreciate a cosy bed more than ever! He may wear a fur coat permanently (some breeds with thicker coats than others), but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t get chilly in cooler weather! Choosing the right dog bed can be overwhelming, and the cost is also a factor. The cooler months can also be a great time to find a dog bed sale from a range of dog beds in Australia.

Like us, dogs feel the cold, appreciate comfort and love to relax and sleep. At times, you and your dog may snuggle up together, especially in winter, but it’s also important that dogs have their own dedicated place to relax and chill out. Remember, the best dog bed is one that supports your dog’s body, is comfortable, and that your dog uses! Here are some tips to help you find the perfect dog bed to keep your dog warm and comfortable.

Older dogs can develop issues such as joint problems, hip dysplasia, and arthritis, and some conditions can become worse in cooler weather. A supportive, comfortable, appropriately-sized dog bed can help provide pain relief and promote warmth and comfort – for sleeping, napping, and chilling out.

Puppies also like to feel secure, and a cosy bed that keeps them warm and cushions their body can encourage them to get to sleep and stay asleep.

There is a huge range of warm, cosy dog beds available in various shapes, styles, prices, sizes, and materials. To find the best bed for your pal, some factors to keep in mind include size, comfort, material, durability, appearance, where the bed will be located (inside, outside, or both), and cost. In winter and all year round, it’s also useful to find a dog bed that is easy to clean, such as a removable, washable cover. Regularly washing your pal’s bed will also minimise odours, dog hair, and germs.

Durable Dog Beds

A good-quality, sturdy bed may be more expensive than some cheaper dog beds, but it will last longer, particularly in the elements if it is an outside dog bed, and is likely to be worth the investment. A strong dog bed is also useful if your dog (or puppy) is destructive and prone to chewing. Durable dog beds are more likely to be made of heavy, robust materials such as ballistic nylon, knitted fabric, or denim.

Elevated beds can keep your dog warmer in cold weather as they are raised off the ground. These types of beds are usually steel-framed and made from durable shade-cloth or hessian. They are sturdy, high-quality, easy to clean, and particularly great for larger dogs who are predominantly outside.

If your dog does sleep outside, a warm, comfortable bed, blanket, or mat placed inside a sheltered kennel away from the elements will also provide added protection.

Orthopaedic Support

High-quality, orthopaedic memory foam dog beds offer additional support (ideal for older dogs and/or dogs with muscle or joint issues), warmth, comfort, and a good level of durability. These types of dog beds provide maximum support and comfort in whatever sleeping and resting position your dog is in.

Appropriate Size

Whether your dog is a toy, small, medium, or large breed, choosing a bed to suit their size is important. To be warm and comfortable, your dog should be able to curl up, lay flat on his bed without hanging over the edge, and stretch out on his side. If your dog isn’t with you to help choose his own bed, ask sales staff for assistance, check size/breed guidelines on the packaging, or measure your dog’s full body length, from nose to tail.

Warmth & Comfort

Particularly in cooler weather, your dog may love a ‘nesting’, ‘snuggle’, or ‘doughnut’ bed to curl up in and stay warm. These types of beds are particularly great for smaller dogs. For a medium or larger dog, try a sturdy, raised bed outside, and a supportive, comfortable mat or larger bed indoors.

Anxious Dogs

Dogs prone to anxiety will really appreciate a warm, comfortable bed in which to relax. Calming dog beds can ease stress and anxiety by giving dogs a sense of security. There are various calming dog beds available, including cave style beds with an area to burrow into, raised-edge beds to support your dog’s body, snuggle beds to curl up in, non-slip beds, and supportive orthopaedic beds. A warm, comfortable bed can help to promote calm, resulting in a healthier, happier dog.

Self-Heating Dog Beds

What could be better in winter for your pal than a self-heating dog bed? Like their own electric blanket, these special dog beds are super comfortable, with added padding, and generally work by featuring a cushion with a reflective heat pad that radiates your dog’s body heat, providing extra warmth.

Portable Beds

Lightweight, take anywhere, portable dog beds can be fantastic when you go on an outing, take your dog to a friend’s house, or when travelling. Your pal will appreciate a warm, comfy bed to relax on rather than the cold ground or flooring!

Remember, even if it’s warm and comfortable, your dog may not take to his bed immediately. Give him time and space, try putting a treat or favourite toy on the bed, and even lie or sit on the bed with him. Eventually, your dog is bound to love and appreciate a warm, comfortable bed where he can sleep and relax through the winter months.

Popular Questions Asked