Some owners already have an idea of what they are looking for in a dog bed, but other owners are unsure of even where to begin looking for one. While it may seem as easy as just going to a local store and selecting a bed, there are actually a large variety to consider, and with this comes a variety of different factors to take into consideration before purchasing a bed.

Pet Size

There are a large variety of dog breeds from very small to extra large and with this comes a wide variety of different dog bed sizes available. One of the most important factors to consider when selecting one is the size of your dog. Although you might simply think a small dog will need a small bed and a large dog will need a larger one, it isn’t always this simple. Remember that if you are looking at the same bed in two different sizes, it is quite possible that the larger bed will cost a substantial amount more than the smaller bed, simply because it costs more for the extra materials.

Often small dogs like to feel snuggly and warm while large dogs will most likely want to stretch out. With this in mind small dogs often feel most comfortable in a bed with bumpers that they can snuggle up against at night. On the other hand, large dogs would be extremely uncomfortable in a bed with borders and will instead be most comfortable on a flat feather pillow bed.

Pet Health

Orthopedic dog beds are available that add extra support for older pets or pets with joint injuries, such as hip problems, disc problems, knee problems or are just old and have trouble getting around. Most orthopedic beds are made from similar materials as human orthopedic beds, with high-density foam that allows for extra support on the joints and makes it much easier to go from sitting to standing.

Remember that because you will be paying for extra padding and extra support, the cost of an orthopedic bed is likely to be substantially more expensive than a regular dog bed. As well, you may have to special order an orthopedic bed from the pet store or through your local vet.

Choice of Fabric

Believe it or not, dog beds are available in canvas, denim, fleece, cotton, suede and even upholstery material. Your choice of fabric will be dependent on the type of dog you own and the climate you live in. For dog owners with a long-haired dog or an outdoor dog like a Siberian Husky, you will want to select a cool cotton or canvas, so they won’t overheat while staying inside the house.

For owners of small or short haired dogs that might get cold more easily, you should look towards a warmer material that will help keep them warm year round. A great choice for these dogs would be a fleece, suede or even couch like upholstery material.

You may also want to consider a bed cover that is machine washable, especially if you have a dog that sheds a great deal or that gets dirty easily. You may also want to consider a fabric that can be washed easily without fading or shrinking.

Location of the Bed

Where you plan on placing the dog bed in your home is probably the most important factor when selecting one. Consider whether the dog likes to sleep in the owner’s bedroom, in a spare bedroom, in a crate in the kitchen or in the living room. Remember to select a location that is large enough for the dog’s bed, but that will also make them feel safe at night.

Although it may seem silly, you will also want to consider the location of a bed so that you can purchase one that matches your interior decorating. Purchasing a red dog bed and putting it in a green and black room might be a bit of an eyesore. Find something that blends in well, if at all possible.

Keep in mind that if you will have a dog that will be crated at nighttime, there are specific crate beds, which are long and can easily be placed in the crate to provide your dog with comfort while they sleep at night.

Price

One price does not fit all when it comes to beds for dogs. Similar to human beds, there are a variety of different brands and costs. Believe it or not, there are even designer and luxury dog beds available! These will offer extra cushioning, extra support and extra room. Many of them actually resemble a couch while others look similar to a human bed. Some designer dog beds that are specially ordered will even be personalized with the dog’s name.

Because of the wide range in dog beds, there is a large fluctuation in as well. Owners can select a basic one for around $20-$30 for a small dog and $50-$60 for a large dog, all the way up to designer or luxury dog beds that can run as high as $150-$250.

When author Richard Livitski isn’t busy catching up on his own sleep, he’s busy searching for more unique, cool and funny dog names for http://www.dog-names-and-more.com where dog names as well as other helpful dog related topics can be found.

Here are 3 things you should be thinking about…

Do You Have Children?

You should know the time commitment a young puppy demands. Quite often that amount of time may be more than the time your own child needs. And it can be difficult to have both a young child and a new puppy at the same time.

Having both of them together requires constant supervision. This is to make sure that none of them hurts the other. You should keep watch at all times to prevent roughhousing, pulling, biting, and other potential injuries.

Are Your Children Ready for a Dog?

Most experts – both trainers and breeders – do not recommend getting one of the toy breeds if you have a toddler at home. This is because a toy breed puppy is so tiny that they run the risk of being squeezed too hard, being stepped on, or being dropped. However, if you really have your heart set on getting a toy breed then just to make sure you choose one of the gentler and easy going breeds.

Do you have time for a dog?

Dogs are naturally social by nature. This is one of the main reasons that they are so popular as pets and companions. Knowing this, please do not get a dog if you plan on keeping her outside all day long. This is even more important if you are getting a puppy since they need much more attention and supervision. They also demand more interaction and regular training so that they can become a more socialized member of your family.

On an average, most dogs will spend at least eight hours a day home alone. This is usually the case at least five days of the week. Some breeds are better suited to this type of lifestyle. Most terriers, for example, will find ways to entertain themselves if you provide them with enough space to roam. Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes are also pretty adaptable.

Are you looking for guard dog?

A dog that barks when someone approaches the door may be just enough for most dog owners. It provides them with a sense of security since a dog barking, whether she is a small breed or a large dog will serve to deter most burglars. Dachshunds and most other toy breeds make excellent watchdogs. Terriers are also good at being protective.

If you are looking for a dog that can provide protection through their bark as well as their appearance then consider choosing a puppy from the herding group or one of the working breeds. Dogs from these breeds are protective of their owners and have the appearance that will scare away a burglar. These breeds are usually high skilled and easily trained.

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and so do dog beds. There is definitely no substitute when it comes to measuring your dog for selecting dog beds, but here is a quick thumb rule that you will help you in trying different size beds:

1. All extra-small dogs have their weight around or under 10 lbs and this includes dog breeds like the Chihuahuas, small terriers, poodle and any other miniature or teacup dog breeds. Most of the dog beds designed for small or extra small dogs as well as cats should be almost 19” long and 19” wide or even smaller. The nesting type of dog beds should have a diameter of less than 22 inches.

2. Different type of small dogs come in different sizes although their weight will be less than 25 pounds. Some of the small dog breeds include Dachshunds, terriers, Lhasa Apso, Miniature Schnauzer, small Poodles, Pug, Whippet, Shih Tzu, and many others. Most of the small dog beds have been designed in such a way that they will fit small dogs and will be in the range of 25-30” long and 25-30” wide. The nesting type of dog beds should have a diameter of around 25-30 inches.

3. The medium dogs stand 13-21″ tall from the ground to the shoulder and will weigh anywhere from 30 to 60 pounds. Some of the popular breeds include the Cocker Spaniel, Australian Cattle Dog, Finnish Spitz, Keeshond and Bulldogs. While choosing nest dog beds you need to ensure that the bed has a diameter of 30-35 inches and while the pillow dog beds should measure 35” long by 35” wide.

4. Large dogs stand anywhere from 21-26 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 60 to 90 pounds. Some of the popular breeds include Chows, Akita, Dalmatian, English Setter, Doberman Pinscher, Golden Retriever, as well as the Siberian Husky. The nest dog beds for large dogs should have a diameter of 40-45 inches while the pillow dog beds should measure 45” long by 45” wide.

5. Extra Large dogs stand around 26″ tall and weigh almost 90 lbs. You need to ensure that nest dog beds for such dogs are at the least 50 inches in diameter while the pillow dog beds should measure 50” long by 50” wide. Some of the extra-large dog beds can even run up to 6 feet in length and are perfect of popular large dog breeds like Great Pyrenees, Great Dane, Irish wolfhound and others.

You need to remember that if you have a large or extra large dog at home then the fabric of the dog beds need to be durable and the frame style should be able to take your dog’s weight. There are some dog beds that are mostly made from commercial grade materials and hence can hold almost 200 lbs.

If you are someone who is looking for a dog that will require lots of regular exercise and who has a great deal of natural energy and exuberance, consider sporting dogs. Sporting dogs are very active and alert and do require a fairly constant schedule of activity. Some examples include Cocker Spaniels and Golden Retrievers.

Dogs from the hound group were bred for hunting, whether they hunt with their eyes and with their nose. Like sporting dogs, they do require regular and fairly intense exercise, but they are also quite diverse. Make sure that you know if you are getting a breed that bays, because the sound is quite loud. Beagles and Norwegian Elkhounds are a part of this group.

Working dogs, on the other hand, have been bred to perform certain specific jobs, whether it means that they have instincts to herd sheep or guard property. Siberian Huskies, Boxers and Doberman Pinschers are all members of this group.

Terriers are often distinguished by their small size and their bright and energetic personalities. They are usually not dogs that are friendly with other dogs, and in the past they were bred to kill rats and other vermin. They are quite lively and you may want to think about it before you bring them into a house with small children. Jack Russell Terriers and Welsh Terriers are part of this group.

Toy dogs are, as the name implies, small and bred to be house dogs. They are great for people who don’t have a lot of space and make good apartment dogs. Consider some of the very popular breeds like Chihuahuas or Yorkshire Terriers.

Herding dogs were bred to protect their charges from predators and to make animals move from place to place. Some members of this group might surprise you, like the Welsh Corgis and Swedish Vallhunds who are just about a foot tall and capable of driving cattle into pastures. These dogs are great companions, but do require good socialization and training. Border collies and Pulis are two examples of this type of dog.

Non-sporting dogs are very diverse, and this is something of a catch-all territory. They do not fit into any other group, but they might share characteristics with them. Poodles, Bulldogs and the Japanese Shiba Inu fall into this category, as do the long haired Lhasa Apso and the Keeshond.

When you are thinking about choosing a breed of dog, consider what your requirements are in terms of temperament and think about what the dog itself needs in terms of exercise, space or socialization. This is an important choice for you to make, so think about the options and make sure that you get a companion animal who suits your space and lifestyle.

Children In The Household

Whatever type of puppy you decided to pick, keep in mind that taking care of a young pup involves the same amount of commitment and time that a young child needs, and sometimes more.

Having both together under the same roof requires constant supervision to keep them from literally hurting each other. Keeping a close eye at all times prevents roughhousing, pulling, biting, and any potential injuries to occur.

Most trainers and breeders recommend that homes with toddlers should not get a toy breed because of the risk of the puppy getting squeezed, dropped, or stepped on by the young child. However, if you already have your heart set on a toy breed for your child to grow up with, pick one with a gentle disposition and an easy-going personality.

Level Of Protectiveness

For most dog owners, a dog that barks when someone approaches the door is enough to give them a sense of security, just like having a living home alarm system. The bark of a small dog is just as effective in turning away an intruder as the bark of a large dog would be. Dachshunds and most toy breeds are excellent watchdogs. Terriers are also great for the job.

If you are looking for a dog that can protect you and has the physical appearance to prove it, think about getting a herding breed or a working breed. Dogs from these breeds are protective of their owners and have the looks that deter burglars. They are also highly skilled and easily trainable.

Time Spent

One of the reasons why dogs are such popular pets is because they are naturally social in nature, making them a great companion. Keeping this in mind, do not get one if you plan on keeping him out in the backyard all day long. This is especially true for puppies, since they require more supervision, more interaction, and regular training to be a more socialized and civilized member of the family.

The average dog spends at least eight hours a day, five days a week, home alone. Some breeds are more adaptable to this kind of living situation. Most terriers, for example, find ways to entertain themselves given enough space for them to roam around. The same is true for Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes.

Children In The Household

Whatever type of puppy you decided to pick, keep in mind that taking care of a young pup involves the same amount of commitment and time that a young child needs, and sometimes more.

Having both together under the same roof requires constant supervision to keep them from literally hurting each other. Keeping a close eye at all times prevents roughhousing, pulling, biting, and any potential injuries to occur.

Most trainers and breeders recommend that homes with toddlers should not get a toy breed because of the risk of the puppy getting squeezed, dropped, or stepped on by the young child. However, if you already have your heart set on a toy breed for your child to grow up with, pick one with a gentle disposition and an easy-going personality.

Level Of Protectiveness

For most dog owners, a dog that barks when someone approaches the door is enough to give them a sense of security, just like having a living home alarm system. The bark of a small dog is just as effective in turning away an intruder as the bark of a large dog would be. Dachshunds and most toy breeds are excellent watchdogs. Terriers are also great for the job.

If you are looking for a dog that can protect you and has the physical appearance to prove it, think about getting a herding breed or a working breed. Dogs from these breeds are protective of their owners and have the looks that deter burglars. They are also highly skilled and easily trainable.

Time Spent

One of the reasons why dogs are such popular pets is because they are naturally social in nature, making them a great companion. Keeping this in mind, do not get one if you plan on keeping him out in the backyard all day long. This is especially true for puppies, since they require more supervision, more interaction, and regular training to be a more socialized and civilized member of the family.

The average dog spends at least eight hours a day, five days a week, home alone. Some breeds are more adaptable to this kind of living situation. Most terriers, for example, find ways to entertain themselves given enough space for them to roam around. The same is true for Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes.

First, we will look at dog breeds. There are certain dog breeds that demand respect and kids often don’t have those feelings. Most children do not understand that pulling on the pet’s tail or stroking too roughly can not only harm the animal, but make it resentful of the child. You can of course work with your child to help him develop proper pet-handling behavior, but you should first consider starting out with a pet breed that is best for children. For instance, the following dog breeds are well-known for being especially good with children: St. Bernards, Golden and Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes, German Shepherds, Poodles, Siberian Huskies, and Mastiffs. While you do have to be careful about their size and make sure they are socialized and housetrained, they make wonderful pets. They are very affectionate and tend to exercise care and protectiveness of the children. These dog breeds will also stand up to a certain amount of abuse. If the child pulls on the tail or accidentally falls into them they are more likely to be worried and protective rather than distasteful or aggressive. You do have to teach your kid to be respectful, but generally these dogs as pets will offer a wonderful family addition.

In general, most cats are going to have issues with children. With cats, who are not as easy to train, you will find they tend to nip or bite a child who pulls their ears/tail or hurts them in any way. It is the cat’s way of showing anger. Cats by nature tend to choose one owner. This owner usually showers them with affection and treats them properly. If you do introduce a cat into your household, you should make sure your children are old enough to understand and exercise the proper treatment of it. Typically you want a child no younger than three dealing with any pet, especially cats. At this age the kid is old enough to understand right from wrong and deal with the pain if the cat bites them for a good reason. Some cats you may want in your home include the Abyssinian, American bobtail, American shorthair, Balinese, Birman, Bombay, Burmese, Manx, Persian, and Siberian. Typically you should not have a Siamese cat around children, as they tend to be very moody and are often one who demands respect. When you consider getting a pet for your child, it is important to realize that not all pets are great for a home.

Do I have time to give a dog the attention it requires?
Do I have the ability to provide proper grooming, exercise and training for a dog?
Can I afford the expenses that come with a dog?
Do I have what it takes to be a strong pack leader?
Do I want to buy a dog from a breeder or adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue?

If, after answering the above questions, you decide to move forward with getting a dog, it would be wise to learn about the different breeds and their characteristics, personality/temperament, possible health conditions and exercise and grooming requirements in order to make an informed decision.

This article is a basic overview of one particular breed — a Tamaskan.  Read on to decide if this breed of dog is compatible with your particular lifestyle. 

History/Background: The Tamaskan, meaning “Mighty Wolf” in North American Indian language, is said to have originated in Finland, although that is uncertain.  Five husky-type dogs were imported into the UK from the USA in the early 1980s and were then bred to Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky and German Shepherd crosses, attempting to create a dog that resembled a wolf but with high intelligence, a good temperament and good working ability.  Breeding continued down through the years to improve the bloodlines and the bloodlines were finally closed in 2006.  The Tamaskan was first imported into the USA in 2005 and has since grown in popularity.  The Tamaskan Dog Register was formed in February 2006. Although it looks like a wolf, it has no wolf content. 

Physical Characteristics: The Tamaskan is large and athletic, slightly taller than German Shepherds.  It has a wolf-like appearance with small ears, a straight bushy tail and coarse,thick coat in three main colors, red gray, black gray and wolf gray, with black overlay and characteristic wolf mask.  Eyes are yellow through amber and brown, with light colored eyes being very rare. Adults typically measure 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 95 pounds.  

Personality/Temperament: This breed is highly intelligent and excels in agility, sled racing and obedience training but can be stubborn and requires pack leadership.  It is highly sociable, friendly, affectionate, eager to please and makes an ideal family dog and loyal companion.  It is tolerant toward other dogs and gentle with children.  It prefers the company of people or other dogs and, if left alone for long periods of time, may become destructive or try to escape.  It responds well off leash and, with a small amount of training, will return when called.  It makes an excellent working dog.  A Tamaskan is not a good guard dog because of its friendliness toward strangers.  Some Tamaskans, like other arctic breeds, will howl.

Possible Health Conditions:  No known health issues have yet arisen.  The average life expectancy is 14 to 15 years. 

Exercise/Grooming: The Tamaskan is very active and needs a great deal of exercise such as a daily long walk or brisk jog.  It requires free running and, if trained, will return when called.  Because it is highly intelligent, it needs mental exercise, as well.  Grooming is fairly easy and includes a good brushing once a week, more during times of molting. 

Living Conditions:  The Tamaskan is not recommended for apartment life and may become destructive or attempt to escape if left alone for long periods of time.  It needs a large place for free running every day.  

Summary:  The Tamaskan is a large dog that resembles a wolf but is highly sociable and affectionate and makes an ideal family dog.  It requires little grooming and has no known health issues so far but does require a great deal of physical and mental exercise and may display destructive behavior if left alone for long periods of time.  So, now that you’ve learned a little about this breed of dog, one question remains — Is a Tamaskan the right breed for you?

Do I have time to give a dog the attention it requires?
Do I have the ability to provide proper grooming, exercise and training for a dog?
Can I afford the expenses that come with a dog?
Do I have what it takes to be a strong pack leader?
Do I want to buy a dog from a breeder or adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue?

If, after answering the above questions, you decide to move forward with getting a dog, it would be wise to learn about the different breeds and their characteristics, personality/temperament, possible health conditions and exercise and grooming requirements in order to make an informed decision.

This article is a basic overview of one particular breed — a Tamaskan.  Read on to decide if this breed of dog is compatible with your particular lifestyle. 

History/Background: The Tamaskan, meaning “Mighty Wolf” in North American Indian language, is said to have originated in Finland, although that is uncertain.  Five husky-type dogs were imported into the UK from the USA in the early 1980s and were then bred to Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky and German Shepherd crosses, attempting to create a dog that resembled a wolf but with high intelligence, a good temperament and good working ability.  Breeding continued down through the years to improve the bloodlines and the bloodlines were finally closed in 2006.  The Tamaskan was first imported into the USA in 2005 and has since grown in popularity.  The Tamaskan Dog Register was formed in February 2006. Although it looks like a wolf, it has no wolf content. 

Physical Characteristics: The Tamaskan is large and athletic, slightly taller than German Shepherds.  It has a wolf-like appearance with small ears, a straight bushy tail and coarse,thick coat in three main colors, red gray, black gray and wolf gray, with black overlay and characteristic wolf mask.  Eyes are yellow through amber and brown, with light colored eyes being very rare. Adults typically measure 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 95 pounds.  

Personality/Temperament: This breed is highly intelligent and excels in agility, sled racing and obedience training but can be stubborn and requires pack leadership.  It is highly sociable, friendly, affectionate, eager to please and makes an ideal family dog and loyal companion.  It is tolerant toward other dogs and gentle with children.  It prefers the company of people or other dogs and, if left alone for long periods of time, may become destructive or try to escape.  It responds well off leash and, with a small amount of training, will return when called.  It makes an excellent working dog.  A Tamaskan is not a good guard dog because of its friendliness toward strangers.  Some Tamaskans, like other arctic breeds, will howl.

Possible Health Conditions:  No known health issues have yet arisen.  The average life expectancy is 14 to 15 years. 

Exercise/Grooming: The Tamaskan is very active and needs a great deal of exercise such as a daily long walk or brisk jog.  It requires free running and, if trained, will return when called.  Because it is highly intelligent, it needs mental exercise, as well.  Grooming is fairly easy and includes a good brushing once a week, more during times of molting. 

Living Conditions:  The Tamaskan is not recommended for apartment life and may become destructive or attempt to escape if left alone for long periods of time.  It needs a large place for free running every day.  

Summary:  The Tamaskan is a large dog that resembles a wolf but is highly sociable and affectionate and makes an ideal family dog.  It requires little grooming and has no known health issues so far but does require a great deal of physical and mental exercise and may display destructive behavior if left alone for long periods of time.  So, now that you’ve learned a little about this breed of dog, one question remains — Is a Tamaskan the right breed for you?

Most people would obtain their first husky dog from a breeder. Poor standards enforced by breeders can often lead to poor general health and even deformities in the husky dog. As such, when choosing your husky dog, it is important for you to choose from a list of qualified breeders. Your local vet would in this case be your best bet as he would be able to recommend to you an entire list of qualified, reputable breeders located within your vicinity of residence. Check with your vet the practices and standards of the breeder with your local vet before making your adoption.

Thereafter, it is important for you to examine the general health and physical well-being of your husky when choosing one. As working dogs, huskies are generally active dogs who welcome people with great enthusiasm. If the husky dog you are looking at is lifeless and bored, then something must be wrong. It could possibly be suffering from one of the many dog-related illnesses. Also, examine the huskies coat thoroughly. This should be healthy with no spots or allergies. The husky’s coat should also be thick and thoroughly covered with fur. Color varies from breed to breed, with some breeds taking on a completely black appearance while others taking on a completely white appearance. In any case, a healthy coat of fur is necessary when choosing your husky dog.

Temperament testing is also another important point to look into when choosing your husky dog. Most reputable breeders place ratings on their husky dog’s temperament. If this is absent, request your breeder to perform such a rating before purchasing your husky dog. While most husky dogs are largely friendly, mild tempered and sociable in nature, exceptions do exist, as in the case of all dogs. This is important especially if you have small children or other dogs at home. A bad tempered husky dog will result in much mess and misery around your home.

The above are some of the important things to look out for when choosing your husky dog. In all cases, it is definitely of utmost importance to assess your own ability to commit time to raising your Siberian husky before making that decision to purchase one. Raising a husky dog requires much commitment and individuals unsure of their commitment levels should never purchase a husky dog at the spur of the moment. Otherwise, if you are able to commit time and energy to raising your husky dog, observing the above mentioned guidelines will leave you with years of satisfaction with your husky dog.