How Many Dog Beds Should a Dog Have? A Pet Parent’s Guide

Plenty of articles on the internet discuss the type of dog bed you should buy for your pet, but very few answer the question: How many dog beds should a dog have?

Like many aspects of dog ownership, there’s no single answer.

Why? Because every dog is unique!

Now expert research does suggest that having more than one dog bed is beneficial in most cases. But the exact number, whether 2, 3, or more, depends on various factors like your dog’s age, health, sleeping habits, and living situation.

For instance, having multiple orthopedic beds for joint support can greatly benefit senior dogs and those with arthritis.

Meanwhile, dogs that follow their owners around the house benefit most from having a dog bed in each room. This ensures they have a designated resting spot wherever you are and eliminates the constant need to move a single bed from room to room.

Yet, regardless of the situation, a dog bed is so crucial in providing comfort and support to our furry friends that having more than one bed can significantly improve their well-being.

So, get ready because today, we will explore the reasons why multiple dog beds are better than one and, most importantly, help you answer the burning question: How many dog beds should my dog really have?

Ready to dive into the dog bed guide? Click here to skip ahead to the infographic!

What Are the Benefits of Giving a Dog a Bed?

As a dog owner, you’re likely familiar with your furry friend’s exceptional ability to locate the most comfortable sleeping spots within your home. 

It’s as if they have an innate talent for discovering cozy places to sleep, whether it’s a plush armchair, your inviting bed, or even unconventional spots like under furniture.

However, these makeshift beds do not offer the proper support or comfort your dog deserves.

Which is why it would be best to provide your dog with their own designated resting spot instead of them searching for a comfortable place to rest.

Providing your pup with their very own personal bed gives them the perfect place to relax after a long day of chasing their tails or fetching frisbees.

Yet there are a few more reasons why dog beds are so important.

First, dog beds offer physical support to your pup’s joints and bones. This is vital for elderly dogs and breeds prone to arthritis because it helps improve mobility and relieve discomfort.

Next, a dog bed can protect your pet from any dirt, dust mites, and allergens on the floor.

Lastly, giving your dog their own bed helps maintain your home’s cleanliness. By encouraging your canine to lounge on their designated bed rather than your furniture, you can better control the spread of fur and dander throughout your home.

So, if you’re questioning the value of a dog bed, recognize that it is more than just a comfort item- it’s an essential element in improving your pet’s quality of life.

Is One Dog Bed Enough? Factors to Consider

Now that we have established why every dog needs a bed, the question remains: how many dog beds should your dog have?

As simple as this question may seem, it’s kind of like asking someone, “how many pairs of shoes should a person own?”

There isn’t really a one-size-fits-all answer.

In fact, some dog owners feel they only need one indoor dog bed and may purchase an additional outdoor bed for their pooch later.

While others would prefer to place a dog bed in each room, allowing their beloved pet to always be within reach of a snoozing spot.

So who’s right? Or better yet—is there even such thing as ‘right’ when it comes to parenting our four-legged companions?

Well, the ideal number of dog beds for your pet will ultimately depend on the following factors: their sleeping preferences, age, health, and the layout of your living space.

Understanding Your Pet’s Sleeping Preferences

Did you know that dogs spend about 50% (roughly 12 hours) of their day asleep?

With all that time spent sleeping, it would probably be a good idea to consider your pet’s sleeping habits when determining the number and placement of dog beds in your home.

For example, dogs like to change their sleeping positions throughout the day. 

They might burrow or curl up for a deeper nighttime sleep but prefer to stretch out when taking naps during the day.

And in this case, having a soft, den-like bed for nighttime sleeping can support their nesting instincts. Meanwhile, an easy-access bed would better suit those sprawled-out naps after playtime.

Overall, having two separate dog beds creates a designated space for specific needs. One bed is for nighttime sleep, while the other is for post-play relaxation.

By catering to your dog’s natural sleep preferences, you can ensure they feel comfortable and secure throughout the day, leading to a happier and well-rested pup.

Age and the Number of Dog Beds

Another essential factor to consider is your dog’s age. 

Like us, dogs experience changes in their bodies and energy levels as they age.

And when our loyal companions journey through each life stage, their needs and preferences evolve, and so does the number of dog beds needed. 

During puppyhood, our energetic pups often take short but frequent naps in between playtime sessions.

Therefore, having two to three beds scattered around your home allows your little one to have a nearby spot to quickly take a breather before starting the next play session. 

Also, puppies are infamous for being heavy chewers, especially during the teething stage. With backup dog beds, you can easily replace the bed that was destroyed with an intact one.

However, as dogs age, they may struggle with health issues like arthritis or general muscle weakness.

And in most cases, they will require extra support when sleeping or resting.

By providing several orthopedic or supportive dog beds in your home, you can help them cope with their limited mobility.

In fact, multiple beds allow your dog to choose the best option that offers them the most pain relief at that moment.

Not only that, but older dogs appreciate having various dog beds in different areas of your home, making it easier for them to find warm or shaded areas throughout the day.

Thus, regardless of your dog’s age, supplying them with various resting spots can cater to their age-related needs.

Do You Live in a Multi-Dog Household?

Last but not least, you should also factor in the number of pets in your home.

If you live in a multi-dog household, dog experts recommend that dogs not share a bed. It is suggested that you have at least one dog bed for every dog and another for backup.

Not only does this allow every pet to have its own space, but it also helps to avoid territorial disputes over prime napping sports.

Also, assigning a specific bed to each pet based on their individual needs ensures everyone has a comfortable place to relax.

And as a dog owner, you want to ensure each fur buddy gets a good night’s sleep because it is fundamental for their health and well-being. Thus, providing individual beds for each pet helps promote this goal.

11 Reasons You Should Have Multiple Dog Beds

Like many other dog owners, I have spent a lot of time searching for the one dog bed that satisfies my furry friend’s needs.

Yet, through my experiences, I discovered that having more than one dog bed has many advantages.

Whether you’re looking to cater to your dog’s unique sleeping habits or maximize their comfort throughout the day, there are several compelling reasons why having a variety of dog beds is far better than having just one.

So, let’s take the time to determine whether having more than one dog bed is an overindulgence or a necessity.

1. Velcro Dogs: When Your Dog Follows You Around the House

Imagine this: You’re lying on the couch, reading a captivating novel, or watching your favorite movie. And your loyal companion cozily sleeps on their dog bed at your feet. 

Sounds nice, right?

Now imagine wanting to move to the bedroom. With just one dog bed, you’d face the inconvenient task of carrying the bulky bed from one room to another. 

But if you were to have different dog beds strategically placed around your home, you can easily move to the next room without the need to carry your dog’s bed with you.

And not only is this more convenient for you, but it also allows your dog to have a designated resting spot wherever you are in your home.

Sounds like a win-win to me!

2. Traveling With Your Pet: Use a Portable Bed for On-The-Go

Sometimes, the optimal amount of dog beds extends beyond your home.

Say you’re an adventurous pet parent who enjoys hitting the road with your furry companion, whether it’s a scenic road trip or a relaxing getaway.

If you only have an indoor dog bed, lugging that bulky, comfort-like bed around every time you travel becomes a hassle. 

Can you imagine wrestling with it at the airport or trying to shove it into an already crowded car? It’s not exactly a recipe for a relaxing adventure with your furry friend.

This is why a travel dog bed offers the perfect solution.

Unlike bulky indoor dog beds, travel beds are lightweight and easy to pack, making them ideal for road trips, plane rides, or hotel stays.

In fact, whenever my dog and I take a trip, a travel dog bed becomes more than just an accessory; it’s a necessity. 

Because these portable and convenient beds allow my dog to rest comfortably in the car or hotel room.

On top of that, traveling to unfamiliar places can sometimes leave a dog feeling anxious.

So, having their own familiar travel bed can provide a sense of security, acting as a comfort item they recognize. This, in turn, eases travel anxiety and makes the journey enjoyable for everyone.

Therefore, purchasing a travel-specific dog bed can be a thoughtful investment for on-the-go parents. 

Because providing your dog with a familiar resting space while traveling can ensure a smoother and less stressful experience for both of you.

3. Support Canine Wellness with More Than a Single Dog Bed

When dogs experience health issues, additional comfort and support become crucial. In such circumstances, extra dog beds are invaluable.

For example, large dogs like Great Danes and Saint Bernards are susceptible to hip problems (hip dysplasia), while smaller breeds like Chihuahuas and Dachshunds may face ailments such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and kneecap slipping (luxating patella).

Unfortunately, these conditions can cause discomfort that persists even during rest.

And if you are like me, the thought of seeing my fur baby in pain is distressing. 

Luckily, dog beds made with orthopedic or memory foam can help relieve sore joints and muscles. These beds offer comfort and targeted support, promoting your dog’s well-being while alleviating discomfort.

Thus, placing supportive beds in different areas of your home reduces the need for long treks between naps, making it easier for your dog to find a comfortable resting place.

On top of that, some dogs may struggle with incontinence due to age or illness. 

In these situations, having multiple beds strategically placed around your home can be a lifesaver. 

Extra, readily accessible dog beds will give your pup a clean and dry place to rest, even after accidents.

So, whether your dog has joint problems or incontinence, providing several cozy beds around your living space can significantly improve their well-being.

And since they depend on us for their care, it only seems right that we go the extra mile to maximize their comfort, especially when they need it the most!

4. Anxious Dogs: Why They Need More Than One Bed

It is important to note that the benefits of a dog bed pertain to more than just their physical health. 

An appropriately placed dog bed can also be a psychological haven to help reduce anxiety. 

And although dogs are resilient, they can experience stress from house guests, thunderstorms, or other anxiety-inducing situations.

In these moments, their dog bed becomes the perfect place for them to feel secure and at ease. 

Whether it’s a cozy dog bed tucked away in a quiet corner or a specifically designed calming dog bed, dogs need a designated safe space to calm down and manage their emotions.

Placing dog beds in quiet areas around your home ensures your furry friend will always have a familiar spot to retreat to, regardless of the source of their anxiety.

5. Maintain Cleanliness with Additional Dog Beds

Having addressed your dog’s physical and emotional needs with strategically placed beds, let’s focus on another benefit of multiple dog beds: keeping things clean!

Keeping our homes clean and healthy is a priority for all pet owners, but let’s be honest – our furry companions can be messy! 

From muddy paws after a walk to shedding fur and drool, keeping a dog bed clean can feel like a constant battle.  

Well, this is where the beauty of multiple dog beds truly shines. With several beds, the cleaning process becomes less daunting. 

Because while one bed gets washed (either in the washing machine or by hand), your dog can comfortably lie on another clean bed.

This allows you to stress less about rushing through laundry cycles and ensures your pooch always has a designated spot to rest.

6. Reduce Wear and Tear with Multiple Beds

Dog beds provide a cozy space for our furry friends, but like any other item in constant use, they can wear down over time.

This is especially true during puppyhood, when our beloved pups are more likely to have destructive chewing tendencies. 

In addition to the constant wear and tear, the pre-sleep rituals that dogs like to perform, such as scratching at their bed, can damage a single bed.

So, instead of having one dog bed bear all the stress and damage, you can provide your dog with a variety of resting spaces. 

By distributing this wear and tear, you can extend the longevity of each bed, saving you money on replacements in the long run and reducing the need for frequent replacements.

7. You Have a “No Pets on the Furniture” Policy

When we first brought our puppy home, we had a strict “no dogs on the furniture” rule, at least until he was fully potty-trained.

However, keeping your canine companion off the furniture can be challenging, especially when those puppy dog eyes plead for a cuddle session on the couch.

But despite the temptation, there are several good reasons to maintain this boundary.

Firstly, allowing pets on the furniture can cause an accumulation of fur and dander, which can be a problem for anyone with allergies or sensitivities.

Furthermore, dogs often track dirt and grime from outside into the house. Over time, this can cause your furniture to become soiled.

Another reason to consider is the cost. You may end up spending more money on professional furniture cleaning than on buying a new dog bed.

Luckily, by giving your pup several comfortable beds to choose from, you can offer an attractive and practical alternative to furniture. That way, you can keep your furniture clean and your furry friend content.

8. Enhance Crate Training Success with Multiple Beds

Crate training can sometimes raise concerns for pet parents. However, it’s important to remember that a crate can provide den-like comfort to puppies. In fact, dogs will seek out cozy enclosed spaces to feel secure. 

Contrary to popular belief, a crate can deliver the perfect den-like structure, offering a safe haven for your dog to retreat for alone time or rest.

Yet, the key to successful training is making the enclosure a positive space for your furry friend.

Thus, a comfortable bed that perfectly fits inside the crate is essential to make it more inviting and pleasant for your dog.

If set up correctly, a welcoming enclosure can provide a sense of security for your furry friend while creating a spot for naps and bedtime.

So before you start introducing your dog to the crate, make sure to insert a snug and appropriately-sized dog bed.

Next, you can toss in treats or their favorite toys to entice them into the crate. Lastly, remember to always use positive reinforcement when training your pup.

Eventually, your dog will see the crate as a happy place to relax and unwind instead of a form of punishment.

9. Accommodate Weather Changes with Multiple Kinds of Dog Beds

Often overlooked, seasonal changes can significantly impact your dog’s comfort!

In fact, extreme temperatures can be stressful for our canine companions. 

And just like us, dogs enjoy a comfortable place to rest that adapts to the weather.

For example, imagine a cold winter night with howling wind and snow blanketing the ground. Being curled up with a soft blanket and a cup of hot cocoa would sound nice, right?

Well, your dog would likely love a similar experience to feel warm and cozy. This is where a cozy bed for your canine comes in.

A plush, comfy dog bed would be an excellent option for your furry friend to have a place to snuggle and beat the nippy air. 

The same goes for the summer heat.

While a plush bed may become too hot and uncomfortable for your pet, an elevated or cooling bed offers them a perfect spot to lounge and regulate body temperature.

Supplying your pup with seasonal sleeping options keeps your furry friend comfortable year-round, promoting well-being and preventing weather-related health issues.

Because remember, when your furry one is well-rested, they become happy pups.

And what better way to keep them well-rested than with a dog bed that keeps them cool during summers and another that keeps them warm during winters?

10. Active Dogs Need More than One Dog Bed

Remember, dog beds aren’t just for nighttime. Your dog’s favorite activities can dictate any additional type of dog beds they may need.

For instance, is your dog an outdoor adventurer who joins you on hikes and camping trips? Then, an outdoor dog bed is an absolute must!

These tough, water-resistant beds are specially made to withstand the elements, making them perfect for outdoor adventures.

On the other hand, maybe your energetic pooch takes playtime very seriously when chasing squirrels or playing fetch.

This is when an activity-specific dog bed can be a game-changer.

A memory foam bed would be a great option, as it molds to your dog’s body for added comfort and aids muscle recovery after a long day of play.

By recognizing their favorite activities, you can choose the perfect bed to complement their lifestyle and keep them comfortable throughout the day.

A happy and comfortable dog makes for a happy dog parent, so invest in a bed that reflects your furry friend’s unique personality!

11. Letting Your Canine Choose from a Variety of Quality Beds

Lastly, dogs, like us, appreciate variety—be it in their wardrobe (well, maybe not literally!) or their meal options. And their sleeping preferences are no different!

One day they might bask in the sunshine by the window on their favorite bolster bed.  On another day, they might curl up and take a quick nap in their donut bed.

Offering a variety of beds empowers your furry friend to choose the one that best suits their current needs and mood, whether it’s a cooling mat on a hot summer day or a fluffy fleece bed when the winter chill arrives.

Plus, having numerous options aligns with a dog’s natural instincts.

In the wild, dogs don’t just have one designated sleeping spot. They instinctively alternate between various locations based on factors like temperature and perceived threats.

Therefore, supplying a “buffet” of dog beds isn’t just about indulging our love to spoil our pets (although, let’s be honest, that’s certainly part of it!). It also caters to their natural desire for comfort, security, and variety.

So, How Many Dog Beds Should a Dog Have?

After exploring the factors to consider and the advantages of having multiple dog beds, the next thing to determine is: how many dog beds will your dog really need?

Pet Parent Guide to Choosing the Perfect Number of Dog Beds [Infographic]

To answer this, we will begin with the following guide:

Using our guide, let’s explore some real-life experiences of pet owners to show how you can customize this approach to your furry friend’s unique needs.

Experience 1: Dogs with Arthritis or Other Joint Issues

Experience 2: Dogs Who Follow Their Owner Around the House

Experience 3: Puppies and Crate Training

Tip: It is helpful to visualize your setup before making your final decision. Consider sketching a floor plan of your home and marking every dog bed location!

By doing so, you can create an environment that caters to your furry friend’s specific needs and enhances their overall well-being.

All in all, invest in your furry friend’s well-being with multiple high-quality dog beds.

While the initial cost may seem high, the long-term benefits for your dog’s health and happiness far outweigh the expense. 

How to Get Your Dog to Use Their Bed

So, you proudly present your pup with a new fancy bed, only to find your furry friend sleeping everywhere else BUT their new bed.

I know how frustrating this can be. Luckily, teaching your dog to sleep in their bed is easier than you think!

Here are some steps you can take to help your dog start enjoying their designated sleeping spot:

1. Familiar Surroundings: Start by placing the bed in a familiar and well-loved area where your dog typically rests. This familiarity helps them feel secure when exploring their new bed.
2. Treasure Hunt: Scatter a few of your dog’s favorite toys or treats on the bed. This will pique their interest and encourage them to investigate the new spot.
3. Positive Luring (treat time!): Gently guide your dog towards the bed using a cheerful and encouraging tone. If they’re hesitant, use treats to lure them onto the bed.
4. Praise and Reward: Reward your four-legged friend with treats and praise every time they choose their bed over the furniture.
5. Consistency is Key: Regularly encourage your dog to lie down on the bed. Then gradually increase the time they spend on the bed, making sure each session is a positive experience for them.

Helpful tips on making your four-legged friend more comfortable with their new bed:

• Provide Familiar Scents: Helping your dog feel more at ease is key. Place an item with your scent, like a used blanket or clothing, on the bed. This gives reassurance and makes the new sleeping spot more inviting.
• Establish a Bedtime Routine: Establish a bedtime routine to signal to your dog that it’s time to settle down. Common cues, like a calming phrase or gentle petting, create a routine that helps your dog associate the new bed with security and relaxation.

Luckily, with patience, positive reinforcement, and a gradual approach, you can guide your dog to embrace and enjoy their new sleeping spot.

Key Takeaways

So, how many beds does your furry friend truly need?

As previously stated, the answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as you think.

Why? Because a dog bed is much more than just a decorative element or an excuse to spoil your furry friend.

It’s an essential part of their health, comfort, and well-being. 

And for most pet parents, having at least two dog beds seems to strike a harmonious balance between canine comfort and owner convenience.

In fact, providing multiple beds ensures your canine companion gets the rest they need.

With a variety of resting spots, they will be encouraged to use their beds over less desirable locations like your favorite couch or a newly purchased rug.

But if you’re still on the fence about the ideal number of dog beds, consider this: it’s always better to prioritize your dog’s comfort. After all, they bring so much joy and happiness into our lives.

So, remember that investing in multiple dog beds isn’t an indulgence- it’s a thoughtful investment in your dog’s well-being. Whether two beds or five, the correct number depends on factors unique to your family and your pup! 

Therefore, pay close attention to your dog’s needs (e.g., sleeping preferences, age, and health conditions). By doing so, you can confidently decide on the perfect number of beds your dog should have.

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