Dogs enjoy spending time outside much more than staying at home. They enjoy running in open spaces, breathing fresh air, and discovering new things. This is also where they can freely mark their territory and relieve themselves whenever and wherever they need. Spending time outdoors is crucial for any pup’s well-being. Even if you’re too busy to take them out for a walk, a simple dog access door will let them go outside whenever they need to.
If your pet spends the majority of its time outdoors, consider optimising your backyard for their comfort! A great way to make your outdoor space more pet-friendly is by investing in a high-quality outdoor dog bed. The following advice will help you select the ideal dog bed out of the vast sea of options online.
What to Consider when Buying an Outdoor Pet Bed?
An outdoor bed lets your dog bed rest and unwind after a long day of outdoor play. Place it directly on your deck or patio and you have a cosy napping area for your four-legged friend. Outdoor dog beds often have different construction than those meant for the indoors. The reason for this is that they undergo much more wear and tear than indoor dog beds. Below are four factors to consider when choosing an outdoor bed for your pup.
Material
Outdoor furniture is under the influence of heavy rains, snowfall, heat, etc. This is why quality outside dog beds are made of sturdy weather-resistant materials, such as high-density polyester. This material successfully endures Australia’s harsh weather conditions, and it’s also resistant to any scratches and abrasions. The elevated dog bed designs are made from an open-weave, bacteria-resistant PVC mesh fabric that stops fleas from breeding.
Comfort
Outside dog beds are sturdy enough to handle harsh weather conditions, but they should also be comfy enough for your dog. After all, you’ll be using the bed on hard outside surfaces rather than a plush carpet. You don’t want a bed that is too thin or frail since it won’t protect your dog from rough surfaces like concrete or sand, soggy grass, or freezing ground.
A cosy dog bed allows your dog to rest and fill up with energy for more adventures. Whether you’re shopping for a small pup or an aged dog, look for beds that provide enough cushioning. If you’re looking for more support, add a cosy mattress topper that fits nicely on top of the bed.
Maintenance
An outside dog bed requires rough handling, so make sure that it’s machine washable. Keep in mind that your pup will often cover the surface with sand, mud, or water. If you spend time around a campfire, your pet will later bathe his bed with the distinct firewood scent. Think about these situations when choosing an outdoor bed.
Elevated vs Foam
Your dog will feel cosy resting in both an elevated and a memory foam bed. For dogs who have trouble cooling off, elevated dog beds are the preferable option. On the other hand, memory foam beds keep a dog warm. Both types of beds have certain orthopaedic qualities.
As the name suggests, an elevated outside dog bed is raised a small distance from the ground. This is a great option if you’re concerned about dust and grime getting on their sleeping surface. Many owners use this bed when their dog is hurt or ill because of its convenient raised position. A raised bed will help the airflow around your dog and keep them cool.
If your dog isn’t accustomed to a raised bed, or they’re too young, a bed made of memory foam might be more convenient for them. This bed type is a great option if your dog often feels cold or if you live in a colder region. It helps to keep them warm and comfortable.
Tips on Creating a Cosy Outdoor Environment for Your Pet
Place a Green Fence
Most dogs prefer not to have a fence, but this is what they need to stay inside the yard and be safe. However, there is a way to make your fence more dog-friendly: plant some vines that will climb the posts or place bushes along the edges. Making the area feel more natural and open is possible as long as you select elements that are safe for both children and dogs. Installing a viewing bubble in your fence is a great idea if your dog doesn’t bark too much and you don’t share a fence line.
Place Marking Posts
When dogs are outside in the yard, they will want to mark their territory. You can either let them select their own spots or put up a few specified locations to encourage them to relieve themselves there. Two potential solutions for this problem are large rocks or sculpted pieces of driftwood.
Design a Digging Area
Lastly, dogs often enjoy digging holes around the yard. There’s a better way to handle this problem than shouting at them when they destroy your lovely flowerbeds. Designate a specific area of the yard as the dog’s digging territory! To make digging easier and to safeguard your yard, use materials like sand or mulch. Bury some toys or bones to make them believe that’s the right place to dig!
