PETCO Free Shipping Offer

Thursday, August 2, 2007

An Introduction to Dog Beds

Some people are so attached to their pets that they wouldn’t dream of asking them to simply curl up on the floor to go to sleep. Pet owners, especially dog owners, have created an industry for dog beds that rivals the bedding industry for humans in both creativity and profit margins.

Just as dogs come in a variety of sizes -- from toy Chihuahuas that fit in the palm of your hand to Great Danes who are large enough to command most of the back of that family SUV -- so do dog beds. The very first designs for dog beds stressed comfort and ease of cleaning for the small, medium, large and extra large pooch in your life. Today there is a dizzying array of options for dog beds. There are dog beds designed to look like real beds so the lucky canine doesn’t feel left out, dog beds designed to look like real furniture, and dog beds for that aging canine, designed to accommodate his creaking bones and stiff joints. There are dog beds made out of fabrics designed to blend in with the décor of your home and there are dog beds that can accommodate a dog who likes to stretch out while he naps versus the type who prefers to curl up into a ball.

No longer is it sufficient to simply walk into a pet store, find a comfortable looking bed for Rex, choose a color that matches your décor, (or his) and leave. Today you have to take many factors into consideration when making decisions about your dog’s sleeping quarters.

The first thing to think about is where in the house you intend to place the bed. Some people put the dog’s bed in the living room, so the dog has a place to lounge other than the family sofa. Other people put the dog bed in their bedroom, so the dog can be close without needing to jump into their bed. Some other things to consider are the size of your pet, and his sleeping habits.

There are also extras such as eucalyptus treatments and cedar filling (both to repel fleas), foam filling for the comfort of arthritic animals, and various Velcro attachments. Washing and cleaning are factors to take into account as well, both in terms of everyday wear and because of the dirt incurred from other uses for the bed such as a carrier liner or car seat protector. Gone are the days when buying a dog bed was simple and easy, but the tradeoff is a truly mind-boggling array of options.

Dog Beds Info provides detailed information about small and large dog beds, as well as designer, orthopedic, and discount dog beds. Dog Beds Info is the sister site of Bird Cages Web.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Marlborough
Article Page: http://www.ezinearticles.com/?An-Introduction-to-Dog-Beds&id=60811

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Dog Beds, Choosing a Dog Bed

How do you begin to find the right dog bed for your pet? There are so many dog beds to choose from and it's not like you can take Bowser into the pet store and let him try out the various selections. It is important, however, that you put some thought into choosing a dog bed. Dogs are creatures of habit and these habits extend into sleeping. They like to be comfortable and if the bed isn't right for them, you may have wasted time and money on the dog bed.

There are several things to take into consideration when you are choosing a dog bed. Taking the time to do this will help you choose a dog bed that is a perfect match for your pet. Size does matter for a dog bed. You want a dog bed that is large enough to accommodate your dog but not so large that there is a lot of unused space. One way to tackle the size issue is to measure your dog before you buy a dog bed.

For the measuring process you will want to have your dog stand up and measure him from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail. Then take one more measurement from his shoulders or head to the floor. These measurements will give you the approximate length and width for a flat dog bed. If you will be using a dog bed that has a mattress, you will need to add 12 inches to your measurements.

There are also dog beds that are referred to as "nest and ball-type" beds. If you are thinking about buying this kind of dog bed you will need other measurements. Choose a time when your dog is curled up and measure from the top of his head to the place where his tail meets his hindquarters and then add 7 to 9 inches.

Also pay attention to the shape and style of the dog bed. These factors will be determined by the size of your dog and by his sleeping habits. Will you need a dog bed that can be moved around the house? Think about the size of your dog before you purchase a dog bed. Make sure the dog bed is not to tall for a small dog.

Factor in the climate when. the correct dog bed will keep your warm in the winter and cool in the summer? Will the dog bed be used outside?

Being prepared when searching for dog beds will allow you to choose the best dog bed for Bowser.

http://www.petsupplies4ypc.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Pappalau

Wednesday, July 4, 2007

Dog Toy Choosing Guide - Getting The Best For Your Dog

Not many dog owners give much thought to dog toys because many think of dog toys as just amusement and fun for their dog. The fact is like toys for young children, dog toys are an important aspect that contribute to the development and well being of your dog.

There are many advantages in getting dog toys, to name a few, they help to keep your dog away from destructive behaviors, keep them from becoming bored, thereby keeping them out of trouble, relieves stress, and provides physical exercise and mental stimulation.

While dog toy is important and beneficial for your dog, one must also know how to buy the right one. When choosing a dog toy, dog owners should take into account the size, breed and activity level of your dog. The following listed below is a comprehensive guideline on how to choose and buy the right dog toys:

1. Size - Toys should be appropriate for your dog’s size. Be sure the dog toy is large enough that so that your dog isn’t able to swallow it and possibly suffocate on it.

2. Durability - Toys should be virtually indestructible and able to withstand the daily demands of a dog. Toys should be of high quality and crafted especially for dogs.

3. Safe - Dog toys should not pose a threat to your dog and should be non-toxic. Avoid dog toys that may splinter or come off in chunks, possibly causing trauma to your dog. Be sure to dog proof all toys- remove strings, tags and small parts (including squeakers) that could be remove by your dog.

4. Practical - Dog toys should be easy to clean and good for your dog. When looking for chew toys, find those that can help freshen his breath and those that are beneficial for his teeth and gums.

5. Exercise - Choose dog toys that encourage exercise and puts their natural instincts to good use. Frisbees, balls, ropes, tugs, and Kongs are great toys to aid in exercising you and your dog.

6. Challenge - Select toys that stimulate the dog’s mind and gives him a reward to work for. These types of dog toys give your dog something to look forward to.

7. Therapy - Dog toys provide a form of therapy for dog’s suffering from separation anxiety. Choose dog toys that offer encouragement and comfort when you are away. Select toys that provide entertainment to prevent boredom and help the dog to adjust while you are gone.

8. Fun - Dog toys should be fun! Select toys that reinforce positive play with their owners and constructive games and toys that strengthen the bond between dog and owner. Find dog toys that allow your dog to interact with you.

9. Variety - Rotate your dogs toys every once in awhile. This helps to keep your dog interested in the toys he already has.

By following the guide listed here closely, you would have no problem in getting a good dog toy for your dog. Lastly, understand that dog toys are not a substitute for you, use dog toys to engage in games with your dog and most importantly have fun along the way!

Moses Wright is the founder of Dog Carriers and Grooming. He provides more useful information on Dog Toy and Dog Clothes on his website. Webmasters are welcome to reprint this article if you keep the content and live link intact.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Moses_Wright

Sunday, July 1, 2007

Dog Toys for Fun & Health

Oh what fun a Dog is to have as a companion. They can lift your spirits as no one else can, especially when they are playing with their favorite dog toy!

There are hundreds of dog toys available today. Finding the perfect dog toys for your best friend can be alot of fun too.

Finding a snuggly stuffed dog toy for your new puppy can help him / her feel safe and happy.

Some dog toys can also help in maintaining your dog's health. For instance, the right kind of chew toy can help keep you dog's teeth and gums in better health (along with regular brushing).

One of the best places to find a full range of dog toys online is Petco:

PetCo for Dog Toys & Bedding - Click Here.


Signup FREE for Petco.com Coupons & Discounts.

All About Dog Toys & Bedding

Learn All about the best dog toys for your dog here at our Blog.

We will also be discussing various types of dog bedding to keep your dog happy and comfy.

There are a lot of FUN dog toys available and we will be reviewing many of them.

There are also alot of dog bedding choices, which we will also be reviewing.