Dog rug: which ones to choose

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If you are going to buy a dog rug you may need some advice. In fact, all carpets do not have the same utility. Some are recommended for the dining area: waterproof, these non-slip accessories will keep your floor clean even if Fido eats too hard.

Other rugs are suitable for rest: soft and cuddly, they are perfect for a nap or for the night.

A carpet for the car, on the other hand, will be useful for a more comfortable transport and to avoid hair on the seat. Also, if your pet is sensitive to heat, you can invest in a dog cooler mat, which is essential for warm weather.

If your pet is cold, then a warming mat will do the trick! Preferably, choose a removable cover, so you can wash it easily.

How to choose a dog rug?

Before buying a dog rug, you need to consider what you want to use it for. Is it for sleeping? To eat? To travel?

It was also necessary to take into account the dog’s personality when choosing the right model. Does Fido get very dirty? In this case, a washable or anti-odor mat is recommended. Is it cold? Then a heating accessory will be the right choice. Or do you suffer from the heat? Cooling mats are for you. And if your dog is a textbook chewer, an indestructible mat will be the right choice.

Finally, the size of Fido must be taken into account: for a Neapolitan Mastiff or a White Swiss Shepherd, an XXL rug will be needed!

What are the different types of dog mats?

Several models are available on the market, with different functions.

You will find some mats to put on under the bowls to avoid splashing. They are usually made from plastic or silicone and will keep your home clean.

Sleeping mats are used to sleep, rest or in the car. There are several types:

• Padded rugs in foam, wool, memory foam…
• Heated dog rugs: they can be electric or self-heating (thanks to an internal isothermal layer),
• Cooling mats for the summer (with an inner layer of self-cooling gel).

Where to place it at home?

A dog bowl mat should be placed under the bowls, so probably in the kitchen, preferably away from busy areas of the house as Fido’s dining corner needs to be quiet. Beware of children who may want to annoy your dog while he eats.

Even in the case of a sleeping mat, a quiet place should be favored. It is recommended to avoid sofas and armchairs which should be reserved for humans. Instead, choose a dog mattress or dog bed.

A dog mat can also come in very handy in the car. In the trunk, it provides comfort and on the seat, protects from hair.

How to clean a dog rug?

Cleaning these accessories is usually very easy, but it depends on the material.

Dog mats made of plastic or silicone can be washed with water and a conventional detergent.

Fabric cushions are usually machine washable (refer to the manufacturer’s instructions).

Electrically heated mats are a little different: of course you have to avoid water on the heating element and on the cable, but they generally have a plastic cover that can be cleaned with a sponge and a removable cover that can be washed in the washing machine.

What should I look for when buying a dog rug?

Before buying a dog rug, you should consider:

• Its size: from S for a Chihuahua to XXL for a Leonberger,
• The padding: is it thick enough for my dog? Are there any risks of allergies? Is it of good quality? Don’t hesitate to sit on it and try it out!
• The material: is it resistant? For textile mats, pay special attention to the seams,
• Safety: won’t my dog ​​ingest foam? Pieces of plastic? Beware of electric mats, they are not recommended for destructive specimens and should always be plugged into a grounded power outlet,
• Aesthetics: You’ll see this rug every day, so it might as well be beautiful!
• Its priceThere are also cheap dog rugs on the market.