What to Look For in a Dog Bed (Outdoor Model)

By Johnathan Livingston

Finding a dog bed of any sort is difficult, but it can be especially hard selecting one for your outdoor dog. There are a number of different dog bed outdoor styles to take into consideration, plus several other things you need to think about before purchasing an outdoor bed for your dog or puppy.

Some people might hesitate to buy any dog bed outdoor model at all. It's just going to get dirty or torn up, they might argue. However, your dog will greatly enjoy having an outdoor area where he or she can lie down and rest. This is especially true if you leave your dog outside a lot.

The biggest factor in selecting a dog bed outdoor model is the material it's made out of. You certainly don't want to get an indoor dog bed and try putting that outdoors, even if it is under a covered patio or in some other location that might protect it somewhat. These beds, even the ones made out of very sturdy material, just won't stand up to the outdoors.

There are several things to look for in the material. You want it to be waterproof, of course, even if it's on the porch. Your dog will track water on it if he or she is out in the rain. Waterproof material can also be hosed off if anything really nasty gets on it, too. It's better than putting it in your washing machine and risking tracking mud and who knows what all through your home.

Even with waterproof material, it's a good idea to select a nice, dry area for your dog bed outdoor location. You wouldn' t like sleeping in a damp bed, and neither does your four-footed friend. Make sure his or her bed is in a spot where it won't get much rain, and try to avoid getting it wet when you water or wash off the patio.

Next, you need to make sure the bed will provide your dog with enough warmth. Some dog bed outdoor models come with specific stuffing designed to hold in heat. Other outdoor dog beds need to be filled with some sort of material such as sawdust, hay, or even old towels or sheets. Either way, you 'll want to be sure your dog' s outdoor bed is warm.

One way to avoid the heating issue is to send a little extra money and get a self-heating dog bed outdoor model. While generally only used in really cold areas, they're available for purchase from most pet stores. These beds have a built-in heating pad that needs to be plugged into an outdoor outlet. Just be sure that you follow all the instructions and don't put your heated bed anywhere that could start a fire.

Also, be certain that your dog isn't going to get overheated. You 'll want to be certain that you 've turned off the heating feature when it's warm outside. If your heated dog bed has a thermostat, be sure you don't sit it too high. Vary the temperature at first and watch your dog. When he or she starts sleeping in the bed a lot, you 'll have found the right setting.

Select a sturdy bed for your dog - you want to be sure it's strong enough to withstand the elements and the wear and tear your dog will give it. Also, realize that your dog bed outdoor cushion may be the target for other animals, too. Be ready with some odor remover if a stray cat or other animal decides to mark it as their territory.

Beyond selecting a sturdy bed and the right type of bedding for your dog, the only other real concern is the location. Again, you want it to be sheltered from the elements, but you also want your dog to be able to easily get in the bed. Place the bed somewhere where your dog already likes to sleep and he or she will start using it right away.

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