How to choose the best dog pillow.
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Whatever the breed and character of your pet, it’s important that it has its own place, a small shelter where it can go to sleep in peace. There are various types of dog pillowsround with padded edges, non-slip, to put in a dog house or not.
You have to choose the right one for Fido, taking into account his body shape and taste for…destruction!
He’ll need a comfortable pillow that he can relax or stretch out on (including his paws). You should also choose a non-slip pattern. Whether or not the cover is removable, the dog cushion should also be machine washable.
Your new best friend is about to do his entry into the house? With this comparison, we’ll help you choose the best pillow so your pup sleeps well from day one.
How to choose the dog cushion?
To choose the best dog cushion, first consider the breed of your dog. The size of the cushion must be adapted to the body type of the animal
This accessory should also be waterproof, easy to clean and that it can be easily put in the washing machine. This is very important because your puppy will tend to get it dirty. If the specimen is female, it can also stain the pillow when in heat.
Choose a material soft, comfortable and breathable to keep your pet away from the cold and heat. This is especially important in the summer.
Avoid buying a sponge-filled cushion because a young specimen will have a greater tendency to break it.
How to choose the right size?
It is important that the dog’s cushion is neither too big nor too small for the dog who should be able to sit comfortably without his paws touching the floor. Conversely, if the pillow is too big, it won’t feel secure.
The best thing to do is choose a pillow that fits your puppy’s size and buy another one as he grows. This way, your furry friend will always be comfortable in his sleeping area.
If you have a small dog, such as a Chihuahua, Yorkshire or Dandie, a cushion that is 60-80cm long will do just fine.
For medium breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels or Shetland Sheepdogs, a cushion 80-100cm in length will do the trick.
Larger dogs, such as the Bracco or Greyhound, will need a cushion that is 100 to 120cm long.
How to wash the dog cushion?
To wash the dog cushion, first of all you need to remove the hair and other residues with a vacuum cleaner. If the cushion has a removable cover, remove the cover and rub the stains with a stain remover. Then put the entire cushion, or removable cover, in the washing machine, unless the manufacturer recommends hand washing. Air dry the cover. In the meantime, put your dog on another pillow so he doesn’t sleep on the floor!
It’s important clean the pillow regularly of your pet, as a dog sleeps 50% of the time, this means that the sleeping area quickly becomes impregnated with the dog’s smell, which is quite unpleasant, especially if Fido is in the living room. In addition, proper cleaning of the pillow will remove any parasites (fleas, ticks, mites, etc.)
Why does my dog dig on his pillow before sleeping?
Numerous specimens have a habit of digging on their pillow before going to bed. This is normal behavior, so don’t worry!
More often than not, it’s just old instincts that surface. The ancestors of our dogs lived outdoors and dug the ground to make a comfortable bed before sleeping.
Digging up the pillow also allows animals to impregnate it with their smell. Dogs have glands in their paw pads, which allow them to release soothing scents that relax them when they want to sleep.
Your dog may also simply enjoy digging for fun. If Fido has a destructive temper, you will need to change this habit by diverting his attention.
What is the difference between a pillow and a dog bed?
It’s not always easy to choose the ideal basket kennel for a dog. The basket is bulkier than the cushion and has raised edges to keep your dog safe. The basket is usually made of wicker, plastic or fabric and allows the dog to rest in a corner all by himself.
The cushion is lighter, easier to carry than the basket and invites the dog to sleep in comfort. It is shaped like a pillow, but has no edges. The cushions are often removable and easy to clean.
Where to buy a dog cushion?
You can find dog cushions at many pet stores. You can ask the shop assistants for advice on the best one for your specimen. Test different materials and take your dog with you to see if he is tempted by any one in particular.
There’s also a range of pillows also available online. Read buying guides and look at comparison sites to find the best value for money. You can check pet forums for consumer reviews and find answers to all your questions.