Does Your Dog Share Your Bed?

                    By "share", I mean "take over completely".

What I find hard to believe is that Parental Unit insists there was a time when a dog (or a cat) did not share her bed. She was much too clean for that, and didn't want to be forced to cover up her pretty quilts and duvet covers.

My have times changed! I started out sleeping underneath the bed (a spot soon to be turned into my private man cave). Within a few weeks of my arrival, I was making myself comfortable at the foot of the bed— I didn't want to appear greedy so early in my tenure at my new home. And things just progressed (upward) from there...I soon learned those pillows that Parental Unit rested her head on are mighty comfy, and the blankets quite warm

I now hear Parental Unit wondering aloud if she should sleep elsewhere.

Given our current sleeping arrangements, Parental Unit and I  loved this New York Times piece that discussed the merits (and sometimes dangers) of sharing a bed with your dog. And if you also have a human companion that you'd like to share your bed and you don't agree on the dog's sleeping arrangements, that can really make for an interesting "discussion".

How many of you share your Parental Units' bed...or completely take it over, as the case may be?

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The Art And Science Of Choosing A Dog Bed

As a proud dog-owner, our list of dog supplies, at times, probably seems unending (and they say human kids are expensive!) A dog bed, however, should be near the top of that list. One look at the doggie bed aisle at your local pet store might have you feeling overwhelmed simply because of the huge selection. But knowing your options as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each bed can make your decision-making process much easier.

Surprisingly, dogs sleep quite a bit, even though a new puppy might have you believing otherwise. For the same reason you lie down on a dozen different mattresses in the furniture store, you want just the right bed for your precious pooch. Picking the best bed will depend on a few key factors such as your dog’s size, age, and health.

Your dog will typically use his bed for sleeping, napping, or simply lounging... and occasional chewing, of course! Most beds fall into one of two categories:

• Soft, plush dog beds: Designed for indoor use. This type is the most comfortable, but also tends to absorb the most scent, making it difficult to clean. 

• Outdoor dog beds: Typically more durable and easy-to-clean, but may not be as comfortable.

You’ll also find quite a few specialty beds out there, including cooling beds that hold water and heated beds that often require a power source. A heated bed is an especially good option if you have an older or ailing dog.

Regardless of which type you choose, be sure it is slightly elevated to eliminate drafts. Of course, you want your dog to slumber in comfort, but you’ll also want a bed that is easy-to-clean, perhaps one with a machine-washable cover. Buy a dog bed that is the appropriate size for your dog, thinking ahead to his size when he reaches adulthood. And while you’re out there shopping, look for durability and moisture-resistance, two qualities you’ll appreciate later.

Providing your pet with the right dog bed can actually help keep your dog happy, healthy, and well-behaved, so you’ll want to take the time to select a bed that can best meet his or her individual needs. Your pooch will thank you, if only with a slobbery kiss, the wag of his tail or a contented sigh.

Note: This is a compensated guest post.

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What Does Your Dog's Bed Say About You?

We love this slide show from Modern Dog Magazine that shows a variety of dog bed styles and hypothesizes what each style says about the style preferences of the humans who (usually) choose them. Enjoy it here: www.moderndogmagazine.com/gallery/our-dogs-beds-ourselves?gp=0

The above photo is probably our favorite style bed, but it's so hard to choose! We'd love to hear what your choice is and why...

Meanwhile, back at the ranch...here's my current favorite place to sleep.

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