At Tassut.fi pet hotel, hundreds of dogs pass through our doors daily, each with their own personality, habits, and preferences – especially when it comes to rest. Sleep is a cornerstone of a dog’s wellbeing, and one factor significantly affects its quality: a proper dog bed.
Many dog owners quickly grab a bed from a pet store, but for us, it is a central part of a dog’s overall wellbeing. A good bed is not just a soft sleeping surface, but a dog’s own safe haven where it can recover and rest. We know from experience that the right kind of bed helps a dog adjust to a new environment and alleviates stress by providing the much-needed sense of security.
Why is a dog bed more important than you think?
Your dog spends a large part of the day in its bed, often more than half. It is its own personal space – a place to retreat when tired, seeking peace, or feeling uncertain.
This is particularly emphasised in our dog daycare. When a new guest arrives for daycare or a longer holiday, our trained animal caregivers select a bed that is just right for it in its own room. A quality bed supports joints, insulates from the cold floor, and gives the dog the sense of security it needs. This is not a luxury, but a basic need for the dog.
7 key factors in choosing the perfect dog bed
Finding the right bed is surprisingly easy when you know what to pay attention to. Based on our years of experience, we have compiled seven crucial points to assist you in your selection.
1. Size and shape: Space to stretch, but security to curl up
The most common mistake is choosing either a bed that is too small or far too large. In a bed that is too small, the dog cannot fully stretch out, while an overly spacious bed does not provide the nest-like security that many dogs seek.
How to choose the right size? Measure your dog while it is sleeping relaxed and stretched out. Add 20–30 centimetres to the measurement to allow room for changing positions. Also, observe your dog’s sleeping style: does it curl up tightly or lie stretched out? The sleeping style reveals whether it would prefer a bolstered donut bed or a rectangular mattress.
2. Material: Durability, ease of care, and comfort
When choosing the material, durability, ease of care, and comfort are weighed. A removable and machine-washable cover is essential for hygiene, both at home and in the daycare.
- Fleece and plush: Soft and warm, great for chilly and comfort-seeking dogs.
- Canvas or nylon: Durable and easy to wipe clean. A good choice for puppies and dogs prone to chewing.
- Waterproof materials: An excellent option for puppy homes, senior dogs, or if the dog plays a lot in muddy conditions.
From our experience, a cover that can be washed at 60 degrees is worth its weight in gold, as it effectively destroys bacteria and dust mites.
3. Filling and support: Seniors’ joints will thank you
The filling of the bed determines how well it supports the dog. Cheap hollow fibre compresses quickly and does not provide adequate support, especially for larger or older dogs.
We have seen firsthand how a quality orthopaedic bed can improve a senior dog’s quality of life. Memory foam mattresses adapt to the dog’s body shape, relieve pressure points, and support sore joints. This is particularly important for dogs with arthritis or hip dysplasia. It is an investment that pays off with the dog’s improved wellbeing.
4. Dog breed and coat type
The breed also influences the choice of bed. A thick-coated Siberian Husky does not need the same type of bed as a short-haired whippet. The Husky appreciates a cooler surface, while the chilly whippet enjoys a deep and warm nest. The dog’s original purpose and physiology provide good clues to its natural needs.
5. Sleeping style: Curler, back sleeper, or stretcher?
The dog’s sleeping style is one of the best clues for bed selection. So take a moment to observe how your dog settles down to rest when completely relaxed.
- Curler: Seeks security and warmth. They love round, bolstered, and nest-like beds where they can burrow.
- Stretchers: Often sleep on their side or back with limbs extended. They are best suited to a large, mattress-like bed without high edges.
- Head raisers: Some dogs love to rest their heads slightly elevated. A bolstered bed or separate pillow is a great addition for them.
6. Location: Where will the bed be placed?
Consider where you plan to place the bed. Will it be in a drafty hallway or next to a warm fireplace? In a cool location, the bed needs to be well insulated and warm. By a radiator, however, a breathable and cooler material is a better choice.
Many dogs have multiple beds: one in the living room with the family and another in a quieter spot. This way, the dog can choose whether it wants to be involved in the family’s activities or retreat to its own space.
7. Special needs: Anxiety, allergies, and chewing tendencies
Finally, consider any special needs your dog may have.
- Anxious dogs: Especially with rescue dogs, we have noticed that a deep, nest-like bed provides vital security. So-called calming beds often work excellently for this purpose.
- Allergic dogs: Choose hypoallergenic materials and ensure that the bed can be washed frequently at high temperatures.
- Chewers: If your dog is an enthusiastic destroyer, invest in a bed made from extremely durable materials, such as ballistic nylon. No bed is completely indestructible, but some certainly withstand wear and tear better than others.
How do we acclimatise a dog to a new bed in our daycare?
Even a new bed needs to be acclimatised to. At Tassut.fi, we rely on positive reinforcement. When we introduce the dog to its own space and bed, we make it an inviting place by sprinkling a few treats or bringing a familiar-smelling toy.
If the owner has brought the dog’s own blanket, we place it in the bed. Familiar scents help the dog relax and settle in. We never force a dog into the bed, but allow it to explore at its own pace. Our trained animal caregivers read the dog’s body language and create a trusting atmosphere where the dog feels safe.
Choosing the right dog bed is a small act that has a significant impact on your dog’s happiness and health. It is a tangible sign of care. When your dog sleeps well, it is more energetic, happier, and more balanced – making your shared everyday life even better.
Good sleep is just as important for a dog at home as it is during a stay with us. At Tassut.fi pet hotel, we ensure that each of our guests has a suitable and clean resting place. If you are planning a holiday and wondering where your furry family member could rest safely, we are here for you. Our location with good transport links in Helsinki, near the train station and Raide-Jokeri, makes us an easy stop, whether you are heading to the airport or the harbour.
Do you need a reliable care place for your dog during your holiday or just for a day? Explore our services and easily book a spot through our booking system. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us – we are happy to help.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a dog bed be washed?
The cover should be washed about every 1–2 weeks and the entire bed as needed, for example, once a month. Regular washing keeps bacteria and allergens at bay and the bed fresh. If your dog is allergic or spends a lot of time outside, more frequent washing is advisable.
Does a puppy need its own type of bed?
Yes, it is advisable to get a puppy its own bed, but it does not have to be the most expensive orthopaedic model. Choose a durable, easily washable, and safe bed without loose parts. The puppy will likely chew on it and quickly grow out of it. The most important thing is that the puppy learns to see the bed as its own, permitted resting place from the start.
My dog destroys all its beds, what should I do?
The most common reason for destruction is boredom or separation anxiety. First, ensure that your dog gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. Try chew-resistant beds made from reinforced fabric. Also, provide your dog with plenty of allowed chew items, such as chew bones and durable toys, so it can focus its energy on those instead of the bed.
Can my dog sleep in my bed instead of its own?
This is entirely a personal choice. The advantage of having its own bed is that it gives the dog a clear place that is always available to it. It is also a more hygienic option and can improve both your and your dog’s sleep, as you do not disturb each other. If the dog sleeps in the bed, the rules must be clear and consistent.
How do I choose a bed for two dogs?
If the dogs enjoy sleeping together, one really large bed may work. However, based on our experience, the best solution is often to get each dog its own bed. This prevents competition and gives each the opportunity for its own peace. Ensure that both beds are of equal quality to avoid jealousy.