Getting the right dog bed for your pet will improve their sleep and quality of life. But, how do you decide on one when there are so many products in the market and so many factors to consider?
In this article, we surveyed 205 pet parents to see what factors they consider the most important when choosing a dog bed. Read on as we share their insights and the best dog bed recommendations!
Most Important Factors To Consider When Choosing A Dog Bed (Survey Statistics)
We conducted a survey with 205 local pet parents to ask them about the top factors that they considered when choosing a dog bed. Here are the results!
#1 Factor: Material
49.8% of pet parents chose material as the #1 deciding factor when choosing a bed for their pet, 26.8% chose it as their #2 deciding factor and 11.7% as their #3. More specifically, they are particular about how comfortable the material is, and whether the material is non-toxic and safe for their furkids.
Some pawrents also mentioned that the beds have to be
cooling enough for Singapore’s weather and
sturdy and indestructible to prevent aggressive chewers from destroying it.
#2 Factor: Price
The next thing that most parents consider is the price point — 19.5% cited it as their #1 factor, 21% as their #2 and 29.8% as their #3. This is no surprise as we all know it’s pretty expensive to own a dog in Singapore.
In fact, SingSaver estimated the total cost of owning a dog for 10 years to be $17,484. And this is excluding the initial cost of buying or adopting the dog, the expenditure after 10 years of age and any additional expenses should they fall ill. A dog bed is part of the many expenses to consider!
#3 Factor: Size
The size of a dog varies quite a bit due to the many different breeds available. Thus, 11.7% of local pawrents named size of the bed as their #1 deciding factor, 23.4% as their #2 and 25.4% as their #3.
Some also mentioned that the way their dog sleeps (i.e. curled up or stretched out) will determine the size of the bed chosen.
“If buying online, always double confirm the size of the bed or really measure how long your doggo is – we once underestimated the length of our furkid thinking 45cm is ‘quite big what’ when we bought her first few beds 😜”
— Mummy of @cocothejapchin and @scoobydoodle._.doo
#4 Factor: Design
Ranked at #4, the design of the dog bed was chosen by 11.2% of pawrents as their #1 factor, 20.5% as their #2 and 22.9% as their #3.
After considering its functionality, it’s only natural for pawrents to consider the aesthetic. Afterall, who wouldn’t want a dog bed that’s both functional and fits into the interior theme of your home? 😍
“Do a thorough research about what kind of bed your dog needs at different life stages rather than bandwagon on whatever’s popular in the market. Older dogs will need beds with better joint support so they can get up easier after naps or long sleeps.
Every dog has different needs and preferences when it comes to fabric materials as well so that’s something to take into consideration too!”
Other common factors cited include being machine washable or easy to clean! This improves convenience for keeping up with hygiene.
Brand reputation and popularity are also considered as pawrents tend to trust long-standing brands and tried and tested products that are recommended by other pawrents.
One pawrent also quoted:
“Please do get a dog bed because once your dog overtakes your own bed, there’s no going back.”
Best Beds For Small Dogs
1. Dog Gone Smart Chenille Donut Bed
Whether you have a puppy or a small breed like a Toy Poodle or Dachshund, these dog beds will give them an optimum space to retreat to after a long day of play.
| Key features | |
| Material | Chenille yarn, faux fleece |
| Dimensions | 68cm |
Crafted with upholstery grade chenille fabric, this durable and luxuriously soft bed hides dirt well while providing ultimate comfort.
The memory fibre-filled bolster offers maximum support and accommodates various sleeping positions. The bed also features a cuddly faux fleece sleep surface, ensuring optimum nuzzling comfort.
2. Ibiyaya Snuggler Pet Nook
| Key features | |
| Material | Polyester, cotton |
| Dimensions | 100cm x 60cm x 14cm |
Designed for small puppies and kittens, this bed will become a favourite comfort item to your canine friend. The bed’s high-density weave and PP cotton filling will ensure durable support and long-lasting relaxation for your pet. Use it as a cushy semi-circle bed or zip it up for an enclosed fortune cookie-style.
Need more sleeping space? Connect two Snuggler Pet Nooks to form a full circle bed!
3. Trustie Lounger Bed – Pineapple
| Key features | |
| Material | Polyester |
| Dimensions | 35cm x 30cm x 12cm |
Your pup will lounge in style with this fun, tropical pineapple bed! Stuffed with lots of fluffy filling along with bolstered sides, this is the perfect option for pets who like plush surfaces. The dotted oxford bottom also makes this bed anti-slip – even on wet floors.
4. Trustie Watermelon Style Pet Bed
| Key features | |
| Material | Oxford fabric |
| Dimensions | 45cm x 45cm x 12cm |
Another fun fruity choice, this watermelon dog bed features a sheltered top which gives your pet a dim cosy nook to sleep in. For playful pets, they’ll enjoy the hanging vine toy that they can claw and bite at instead of your precious furniture.
Best Beds For Medium Dogs
Discover a range of options that effortlessly blend comfort and style, specifically curated for medium-sized dog breeds such as Shetland Sheepdogs and Golden Retrievers.
5. Trustie Memory Foam Sofa Bed
| Key features | |
| Material | Polyester |
| Dimensions | 122cm x 76cm x 23cm |
For the pampered pet, this memory foam dog bed will contour and support your dog’s body with every use. The velvet-like fabric case gives a luxe feel and is machine-washable for easy clean-up. A water-resistant inner cover also ensures that pee doesn’t leak through!
6. Trustie Bed With Pillow
| Key features | |
| Material | Oxford fabric, cotton |
| Dimensions | 76cm x 51cm x 13cm |
Always matching with your pet? This dog bed replicates the bed we humans lay on every night, pillow included! For dogs that like to sprawl instead of curling up, this bed provides plenty of space to do so.
Moreover, the anti-slip bottom is a great feature that prevents your pet from getting injured. This is especially so if your furry friend has the habit of jumping from your sofa or bed to his own dog bed. The anti-slip bottom ensures that the bed remains stable and in place even when jumped on, so your dog can avoid any potential sprains or dislocations.
7. Trustie Lattice Printed Pet Bed
| Key features | |
| Material | Cotton, polyester |
| Dimensions | 57cm x 52cm x 14cm |
This beautiful lattice print dog bed will add a stylish touch to any home. Not compromising on cosiness, this bed boasts an incredibly cushioned bottom which is great for dogs with weaker joints.
Best Beds For Large Dogs
Large dogs deserve a comfy bed to kick back too! These options are great for bigger breeds like Greyhounds and Boxers.
8. Dog Gone Smart Chenille Lounger Bed
| Key features | |
| Material | Chenille fabric |
| Dimensions | 87cm x 72cm |
Made with soft yet durable upholstery grade chenille, this bed is both comfy and dirt-resistant. The plush memory fibre-filled bolster provides maximum support, making it the perfect spot for your dog to curl up and relax.
9. Kong Rectangle Bed
| Key features | |
| Material | Chenille fabric |
| Dimensions | 86cm x 114cm |
Trying to train your pup to not climb up on your sofa? This day bed is a great option for training them to lay in their own space while giving them a large bed to lounge on. The plush memory fibre filling will also give your pet the support he needs.
10. Trustie Houndstooth Print Mat
| Key features | |
| Material | Polyester, Oxford fabric |
| Dimensions | 86cm x 57cm x 7cm |
For our silly pets who prefer lying on the floor rather than any plush dog beds we get them, this dog mat may just be the thing that’ll get them off the floor. Cushy enough to provide support for joints, this versatile mat can also be placed in your car, on your sofa or brought along for trips with your pup.
Dog Bed Accessories
Your dog’s bed isn’t complete without accessories. Here are some of our favourites to enhance your pet’s lounging experience.
Trustie Pet Cooling Round Mat
| Key features | |
| Material | Synthetic |
| Dimensions | 45cm |
This ice-cream inspired gel mat is perfect to keep your pet cool in Singapore’s weather. Use it on its own or put it on top of your dog’s bed for instant heat relief. This portable mat doesn’t require you to chill or freeze it to keep it cool, so use it indoors or bring it out for your next picnic!
Dog Gone Smart Dirty Dog Cushion
| Key features | |
| Material | Microfibre |
| Dimensions | 57cm x 90cm |
For pups that are going through crate training, this cushion fits nicely in most standard-sized crates and provides a comfortable pad for your dog to lie on. The antimicrobial, microfibre cushion is also machine-washable in case any accidents happen.
FAQs About Dog Beds
Do dogs really need a bed?
We all know that our dogs need a comfortable space to sleep. While they can sleep almost anywhere at any time, a dog bed would provide them with a safe and comfortable place to retreat to when they need time alone. This will also help to instil discipline as they’ll be trained to sleep in a designated space.
Do dogs need a soft bed to sleep on?
That’s a common misconception! Dogs actually need firm beds that aren’t too soft, as this will provide sufficient support for their joints. This is especially true for senior dogs who may find it hard to get in and out of bed. Common materials that pawrents opt for are polyester, microfibre and suede.
Are high beds bad for dogs?
An elevated bed provides ventilation which is great for Singapore’s warm weather. It also provides firm and even support for younger dogs. However, this may not be the best option for senior dogs as they’ll have trouble getting up and down unless a small flight of stairs is provided.
Are flat beds better for dogs?
While some dogs may prefer a larger, flatter bed to sprawl on, owners should consider one that isn’t too flat so that there’s sufficient cushioning for their pets’ joints.
Do dogs need blankets to sleep?
Dogs love cuddles and that’s the comfort that blankets bring them! If your dog sleeps in an air-conditioned room, you can consider providing him with a blanket to keep him warm. But if he’s sleeping in a non-airconditioned room, he may not need a blanket in Singapore’s weather.
How often should you wash the dog bed?
Dog beds should be washed thoroughly once a week, or at least once every 2 weeks to prevent any infestations of fleas and ticks. In between washes, you may also want to vacuum the bed regularly. To make cleaning up easier, pawrents are advised to get a bed that’s machine washable!
Where is the best place to put a dog bed?
Depending on your dog’s behaviour and traits, here are some places you can consider:
- If your dog likes sleeping with you: Place the dog bed in your bedroom or near your bed.
- If your pup is sensitive to loud noises and is a light sleeper: Have the dog bed in low-foot traffic areas which may include a secondary bedroom or study.
- If he’s picky: Choose a spot where your dog always lies at in your home and place the dog bed there.
