Ensuring the comfort of your furry friend requires having a dog bed. However, it’s inevitable that with time and frequent use, the bed may no longer serve its purpose.
But how often should you replace dog beds? Depending on the condition of the dog bed, you may change it once every 1 to 3 years. If your dog’s bed is completely damaged, you may replace it even earlier.
However, before you change your dog bed, there are some things you need to know.
So keep reading to learn more about:
Let’s get started…
How Often Should I Replace a Dog Bed?
After using a dog bed, you might’ve wondered when you should replace your dog’s bed for various reasons.
Let me tell you, you are not alone.
Many dog owners have the same question.
Therefore, I conducted a small research to find out when dog owners usually start looking for a new bed.
For that, I went to Amazon and generally searched for “dog beds.”
Then, I sorted the results by “Best Sellers.”
Once I got the results of the most selling dog beds, I randomly chose five beds with 20K or more reviews.
Then, I went to each dog bed’s Reviews and Customer Q&As and started analyzing them.
After completing this small research, I found out that, on average, the dog beds lasted somewhere between 1.2 years and 3 years.
Meanwhile, there were some instances where some beds didn’t last two weeks due to getting chewed by dogs, and some even lasted five-plus years.
So from that, you might need to change your dog bed once every 1 to 3 years, depending on the condition of the bed.
You’ll find more info on when to change your dog bed below.
When Should You Replace a Dog Bed?
Now that you know how often you should change your dog’s bed, it’s also good to consider the different factors before deciding.
I will start with the most obvious one (wrong size) and then move on to some specific factors.
1. The Bed Size is Wrong
Bed size is the most crucial part of choosing a dog bed. Choosing a small bed for your buddy can be uncomfortable for him.
The bed size could be wrong due to two reasons.
First, you might’ve not considered your dog’s size before getting the bed. Or, second, your dog has outgrown his bed.
In both cases, it’s a clear sign that you need a new dog bed for your dog.
2. The Bed is Damaged
One of the main reasons you need to consider a new dog bed is when your existing dog bed is damaged and unusable.
For example, if your dog bed is worn out, unsupportive, or aesthetically unpleasing, it’s time to change.
3. Shape is Uncomfortable
You might already know that each dog has a unique sleeping style.
Some like to curl up, while others like to sleep in a more stretched position.
Different dogs have different sleeping preferences. If your dog likes to curl up when sleeping, it would prefer a donut-shaped dog bed with circular bolsters. On the other hand, if your dog sleeps in a stretched position, it would prefer a rectangular and flat type of dog bed with ample space.
Therefore, if you’ve got a wrong-shaped dog bed, you might need to change it for the betterment of your furry friend.
4. Your Dog is a Heavy Chewer
If your dog has destructive behavior and doesn’t spare any dog bed, you may get an indestructible dog bed such as the Kuranda Chewproof Dog Bed.
The Kuranda Chewproof dog bed is designed with Aircraft-grade aluminum and high-strength PVC that is hard to chew.
5. The Bed is not Hygenic Anymore
Ensuring your dog has a clean and hygienic bed is crucial for maintaining their health and well-being.
An unclean bed can cause allergies, such as skin itching, leading to discomfort for your furry friend.
If you notice that your dog’s bed has an unpleasant odor that persists even after washing, or if it is infested with pests, consider replacing it with a new one.
Remember, a clean and hygienic bed can go a long way in promoting a healthy and happy life for your dog.
6. Your Dog has Joint Issues
When dogs get older, they tend to develop joint issues over time. Some adult dogs can also develop joint issues such as arthritis.
And it can be heart-wrenching to watch your buddy suffer from pain.
If your dog faces any joint discomfort or recently went under surgery or even to prevent such joint issues, you should change to an orthopedic dog bed if not already.
An orthopedic dog bed will be expensive but will provide your dog with the support they need to stay comfortable and fight pain.
An orthopedic dog bed that I and many more dog owners always recommend and which is already clinically proven is the Big Barker 7″.
What to Consider Before Getting a New Bed?
When you’re getting a new bed, here are a few things to look for in a dog bed:
- Size: Measure your dog to get the perfect fit.
- Cover Material: Get a high-quality, soft, cozy material, such as faux fur.
- Support Material: Consider Orthopedic Foam, Memory Foam, or Fiberfill
- Home Decor: Go for an aesthetic dog bed that matches your home decor.
- Your Budget: Get a bed that doesn’t break your wallet but should be high quality.
What Are Alternatives to a Dog Bed?
If a dog bed is not an option for you anymore due to some reason, you can use the below things instead:
- Old Pillows
- Comforters
- Blankets
Many dog owners use the above things as a bed and still find them efficient.
However, if budget is not a concern or you don’t have any other significant issues, getting a dog bed will be a much better option because it is easy to clean, provides better support, looks pleasing, etc.
FAQS:
Here are some frequently asked questions:
What Should You Do With an Old Dog Bed?
You can give your old dog bed for recycling or donate it to your local animal shelter.
What Is the Lifespan of a Dog Bed?
The average lifespan of a dog bed is 1 to 3 years, depending on the bed’s quality and use.
Conclusion
Dogs are our furry friend that deserves the best. And when thinking about the best, it is also essential to consider their overall health.
A dog bed plays a significant role in the health of our buddies.
A dog bed can be great for comfort and preventing joint pain. But with time and use, dog beds might lose their core function.
And that is where we should consider replacing it.
On average, you can replace your dog’s bed once in 1 to 3 years, depending on the condition. However, you may change it even earlier if it’s completely ruined.
If you want to find your furry friend’s next best dog bed, read our buying guides.
