There are hundreds and perhaps several thousand dog beds on the market with a little something for everyone.
Hence selecting the perfect bed for your pup can be challenging. New beds, however, are often returned to the seller because they are the wrong size.
The wrong sized bed can cause health issues for your poodle such as sore muscles if cramped, sore joints for a lack of support, hip and back pain, and interrupted sleep due to discomfort.
Take Your Dog’s Measurements
The first thing to consider when selecting a bed for your canine BFF is the size and the weight of your dog. Standard poodles are dogs that are medium to large in size. Their height will average at 15 inches but is most probably more.
Male standard poodles will weigh between 45 and 70 pounds while females weigh between 45 and 60 pounds, even if the American Kennel Club determines poodle sizes by height and not by the dog’s weight. Know that poodles 15 inches or less in height are not considered standard poodles.
How Big Should a Dog’s Bed Be?
There are no pre-sized beds like humans have such as king or queen-sized beds for humans and trusting your eye isn’t necessarily the most trustworthy method.
The best way to determine the size of a dog bed is to measure your own pooch from the nose to the tail with a tape measure. Then add 6 inches to a foot to the measurement to the length to allow some room for your dog to stretch.
To determine the proper width, measure your pooch from one shoulder to the other at the point that appears the widest. Again add 6 inches to a foot to arrive at your desired measurement.
Selecting the Perfect Dog Bed for Your Poodle
Even within the same breed, dogs will have different sizes and body shapes, so don’t automatically select on the basis of breed or breed sizes. Do not base your selection on weight alone.
Two dogs can weigh the same but have very different physical shapes and needs. Standard poodles will vary in how much space they need or want. Don’t buy a smaller bed to save money. Give your pup some extra room to stretch and move about.
If you select a bed style that has headrests or bolster pillows, you may want to get one size larger if your pooch decides not to lean on them. Also consider your poodle’s age. Senior dogs may have joint issues and feel better with more space to stretch in.
Standard poodles are active canines with lots of energy, so when it’s time to sleep, they need to rest comfortably. When selecting a bed look for beds that offer good support.
Poodles have wiry body shapes so they will bear the brunt of their weight on ankles and elbows when in bed. Get a bed with adequate cushioning to avoid your pet wearing through it quickly.
Consider that standard poodles will measure approximately four feet in length, and their legs may measure 2 feet long so they will need the space in their bed for these limbs.
1.) Don’t Forget Your Dog’s Personality
While dogs share common traits, each canine will be unique, and they will sleep in a preferred position. If your dog has a position he or she likes to sleep in, also consider this when choosing a dog bed.
Some like to curl up while others prefer to stretch their full length. Still others may do a combination of various positions, so it’s important to include this in your final selection.
If your dog has a specific or debilitating medical issue, you may want a larger bed for added comfort and support.
2.) Consider Material and Bedding
When selecting, how to wash the bed can make all the difference. The material you select can influence your choice.
Remember that your pooch will be outdoors and about, so he or she can bring home dirt, debris, fleas, mites, and more. Dog beds collect saliva, hair, bacteria, and whatever your pooch brings home.
You’ll want bedding that you can remove easily and then toss in your washing machine. The alternative is a bed with fabric that is anti-bacterial as well as waterproof. It all depends on how much time you have to dedicate to keeping your poodle’s bed clean.
Especially large dog beds may need to be cleaned professionally or washed at a laundromat with huge industrial washing machines.
3.) Cushioning
Many dog beds on the market come with foam, pellets, or pillow filling. These are soft and may be relatively inexpensive, but they will also need to be washed and replaced more often. If the filling is loose, the bed may also deteriorate more rapidly.
When cushioning flattens, moves around a lot, or shrinks, the bed may become uncomfortable for your pup. Memory foam will maintain shape and resist deterioration longer.
Solid foam structures like memory foam generally come with covers that are removable to facilitate washing them. Some may even come with anti-bacterial treatments.
4.) Extras
Nonslip backing or feet on beds can prove to be life savers. Poodles are active and fast when moving. If your dog leaps into or out of a bed, the bed may fly across the room. This will help keep your pup’s bed stationary.
5.) Where to Purchase
Beds can be purchased in brick-and-mortar stores or online. The advantage to store shopping is that you are able to see and feel what your dog will be sleeping on.
And you may want to bring your poodle with you. Nonetheless, ordering online may be less expensive and more convenient. If you have any doubts, think about purchasing one size larger.
See also: Will My Dog Be Too Cold in a Garage?
A Final Thought
Poodles were bred to be hunters and water dogs used to retrieve fowl. They are genetically geared to be energetic and active.
So, your standard poodle needs a well-cushioned bed to keep their wiry limbs off hard pavements and floors, permit them to comfortably stretch out, and provide them with a wonderful place to rest.
