Dog supplies: Dog beds

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Every dog should have a bed of his own. Or two or three or four, actually. A bed can be used for napping during the day and sleeping in at night. Unlike the floor, a bed will keep your dog warm, support arthritic joints, and prevent calluses. And if you're allergic to your dogs, it's best if they sleep somewhere besides your bed.

A bed shouldn't be used as a place for punishment or confinement. A bed is a place of security that belongs only to that one dog, and he should always feel safe in it. It's a spot for Spot. A bed makes a crate more comfortable, but that doesn't mean a dog can spend 12 hours a day in a crate just because it has a bed.

The best bed is one that suits your dog

Beds can be as simple as your old pillow or as fancy as a wrought-iron frame with a lace canopy. Your selection depends on your taste, budget, and decor--but you may find that your dog expresses a preference by taking over another dog's bed.

Basic styles

• Flat pads or mats are inexpensive and fit in crates.
• Nesting/snuggle beds are similar to beanbag chairs, and often preferred by smaller dogs who love to curl up.
• Cuddler/nest beds come in the "traditional" oval bowl shape.
• Bolsters have one long side with a built-in pillow and are often preferred by large dogs.
• Doughnut-shaped beds are circular bolsters with a removable center pillow.
• Waterproof beds are good for outdoor use or incontinent pets.

Special beds for older or ill dogs

• Orthopedic beds support old joints or very large dogs; they usually have medical-grade foam and/or box-spring construction.
• Heated beds maintain body warmth.
• Travel beds are portable, so your dog can have the security of the same bed every night while on the road.
• Cot-style beds keep your dog off the ground and comfortably support joints by distributing the dog's weight evenly.