Dogs spend 50% of their day asleep, 30% awake but relaxed, and 20% staying active. They have irregular sleeping patterns and wake up easily. They also need to sleep more often to make up for the mere 10% they spend in the deep REM stage compared to 25% for humans. 

Giving your pet a safe, comfortable spot to sleep is one of the best things you can do for them. Your bed may seem like the best place, but letting them have one of their own is better for them and you.

Read on for 7 reasons to buy beds for dogs and how to choose the right one.

1. Better Sleep

The most obvious and important reason that your dog needs a dog bed is that it helps them get a full, restful night's sleep. Remember to place it in a calm, closed-off area where friends and family won't pass by and wake them up.

Dog beds are an effective method of improving sleep for dogs, and they also work wonders for their memory. Humans become groggy and forgetful after a poor night of sleep, and our furry friends experience the same thing. They won't be able to remember commands and may exhibit poor behavior. 

2. Joint Support

Approximately 1 in 4 of the 77.2 million dogs in the US have arthritis. This is only one of the joint issues they may develop as they age. Puppies also need extra support for their growing bodies. 

Choosing the right beds for dogs provides them with the gentle cradling their joints need. It'll make them happier and healthier and can even save you money on vet bills.

3. Creating Their Own Space

Every dog, no matter how friendly they are, needs a secret corner of the house to go to. It speaks to their pack instincts, makes them feel safe, and gives them a place to hide if they feel stressed or overwhelmed.

Your dog may also appreciate it if you place their bed in their crate or one of our Puppy Tents. It makes their hideaway more comfortable and encourages them to go to it.

4. Easy Cleaning

Dogs are messy creatures, and their beds can get covered in filth such as:

• Dirt and mud
• Fleas and ticks
• Shed hair
• Dander
• Pee and poop

These messes are more than an annoyance for owners; they're also a problem for your dog. A dirty bed can make them sick, and they won't want to lie on it, causing them to miss out on comfortable sleep.

Most beds for dogs are easy to clean. Look for one with a removable cover. All you'll have to do is wash it once a week to freshen it up for your pup's next nap.  

5. Protecting Your Bed and Furniture

Studies have found that having a dog in the room with you improves your sleep, but not if they're sharing your bed.

There are several potential explanations for these results. A dog in your bed may take up too much room. They may also disturb your sleep in other ways or bring pests into your bed. 

The best alternative to sharing a bed with your pet is to get a dog bed and place it in your room. Your best friend will feel like they're close to you without having to be directly next to you. They can stretch out as much as they want to and sleep in whatever position feels best. You'll both get better sleep as a result.

Providing proper beds for dogs also keeps them off of any furniture you may not want them to lay on. They'll learn to go to their bed if they want to sleep instead of spreading dirt and hair to your couch. 

6. Proper Insulation

Dogs who sleep directly on the floor will have to experience the temperature extremes of cold winters and hot summers. This can be difficult for them to deal with but is an even bigger problem if they have a heavy or short coat.

Finding a dog bed with proper insulation helps them stay warm in the coldest parts of the year. You can also try covering a long-haired dog with a cooling pad in the warm months.

7. Customizability/Premium Features

There are many types of dog beds on the market today that differ in size and style, and this means that you're almost guaranteed to find one that fits your needs. 

Start by measuring and weighing your dog to find out what fits them. This is the most important step because it ensures they'll enjoy and use their bed.

The next step is to look for the style you want. You may want a nested dog bed if your dog gets cold or likes being cradled. Try a flat bed if you have an energic jumper.

You can also add a range of extra dog bed features. You may need an orthopedic bed with memory foam for your arthritic dog or want a specific material such as microfiber.

Your dog bed budget is going to affect what you can buy your best friend, but you need to go for the highest-quality option you can afford to fit their needs. You won't have to replace it as often, and they'll get better sleep.

Don't forget to look for the best dog bed provider as well. Find one that's experienced, has positive reviews, and sells the product you and your dog need.

Where to Buy the Best Beds for Dogs

It's tempting to bring your dog to sleep in your bed with you, but it's better to give them their own place to sleep. 

There are several benefits of buying beds for dogs, including better sleep for you and your pet, better insulation, preventing joint issues, easy cleaning, and providing a haven. The range of options available today ensures you'll find the right one for your pet.

We here at Nest Bedding have made a name for ourselves with our comfortable bedding and mattresses, but we also offer superior-quality dog beds. Contact us to learn more or order one today.