Buying a dog bed seems simple… until you realize how much it actually affects your dog’s sleep, health, comfort and behavior. The wrong bed can lead to restless nights, joint pain, or even chewing accidents.
To help you find the perfect fit, we’ve listed the 7 biggest mistakes dog parents make when shopping for a bed and how you can easily avoid them. After all, shopping for a dog bed is like shopping for a mattress: There is no one size fits all, and you will need to take your dog's personal needs into consideration. This is how to make sure you have thought of it all:
1. Choosing the Wrong Size
Common mistake: Guessing your dog’s size or buying based on weight alone.
Why it matters: A bed that’s too small makes your dog curl up unnaturally, while one that’s too large may not feel cozy or supportive.
How to avoid it: Measure your dog from nose to tail when they’re stretched out, and add 15–20 cm for comfort. Always check the size chart as sizes can vary.
Pelsbarn tip: Our beds come in multiple sizes designed for every breed, from tiny Chihuahuas to large Golden Retrievers. This way you can find the best size bed for your dog.
2. Ignoring Your Dog’s Sleeping Style
Common mistake: Buying a bed because it looks cute, not because it matches how your dog sleeps.
Why it matters: Dogs that love to curl up need beds with bolstered edges, while sprawlers need open, flat surfaces.
How to avoid it: Observe your dog for a few nights. Do they curl, stretch, burrow, or lean against walls? Pick a bed that supports their natural posture.
3. Overlooking Material Quality
Common mistake: Choosing cheap or low-quality fabrics (often because they are cheaper)
Why it matters: Low-grade materials flatten quickly, trap odors, and can irritate sensitive skin.
How to avoid it: Choose high-density foam and sturdy, breathable fabrics such as cotton blends. Skip beds with flimsy filling or fragile materials. A quality bed should maintain its shape and comfort no matter how playful or restless your dog gets.
Pelsbarn tip: Our Luxurious beds have thick bolsters and washable, high- quality faux-rabbit fur for cloud-like comfort. Some of our products even use orthopedic foam for extra comfort.
4. Forgetting About Washability
Common mistake: Buying a bed that’s hard to clean or too big for your washing machine.
Why it matters: Dirt, hair, and bacteria build up quickly, especially with shedding or drooling dogs. And of course, accidents can always happen.
How to avoid it: Always choose removable, machine-washable covers and water-resistant liners.
Pelsbarn solution: All our covers unzip easily for quick washing, and the inner foam is protected by a water-resistant layer.
5. Ignoring Age and Health Needs
Common mistake: Giving every dog the same type of bed.
Why it matters: Puppies, seniors, and dogs with joint issues need specific support.
How to avoid it:
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Puppies: opt for durable, chew-resistant options.
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Senior dogs: choose orthopedic or memory foam beds.
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Arthritic dogs: look for low-entry, orthopedic beds for easy access.
Pelsbarn recommendation: Our Orthopedic Beds are designed with joint health and pressure relief in mind.
6. Not Considering Climate or Season
Common mistake: Using the same bed year-round.
Why it matters: Dogs can overheat easily in summer or shiver in winter, especially short-haired breeds.
How to avoid it:
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For warm weather: use cooling materials like ice-silk or breathable mesh.
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For cold months: use plush, insulating covers.
Pelsbarn tip: Alternate between our Cooling Bed in summer and Luxurious Sofa Bed in winter for year-round comfort.
7. Forgetting Safety and Placement
Common mistake: Placing the bed in drafty, noisy, or unsafe spots.
Why it matters: Dogs need a calm, stable place to feel secure.
How to avoid it: Place the bed in a quiet corner, away from direct sunlight, doors, or heaters. Choose non-slip bottoms for tiled or wooden floors.
Final Thoughts
A good dog bed is more than just a comfy spot. It’s an investment in your dog’s well-being, health, and happiness.
Avoiding these 7 mistakes will help you find the perfect match that keeps your pup rested, supported, and loved every single day.
Happy dog bed shopping!
Warmly,
Elle from team Pelsbarn
