Find the Right Dog Bed, Crate, and Collar for Your Dog

     If you find yourself wishing beds were made in sizes larger than king, if you wake to find your poodle's head on the pillow next to yours where your loved one's should be, if your sleep is interrupted by your lab's scratching your family may be in need of a dog bed. A quality dog bed is not only good for your canine companion's health, comfort, and well being, it's good for yours as well; you will all sleep better in beds made for your own species.

Like beds made for people, dog beds come in different sizes, styles and materials. Most dog beds are round, square, or rectangular. A bed may be flat or have edges; small dogs seem to have a particular preference for the coziness of beds with sides. You can even buy beds that are shaped like sofas, with sides and a back. A bed may be stuffed with a solid piece of foam rubber, chopped up foam rubber, down, cedar chips, or synthetics such as poly foam. Covers are typically denim, canvas, heavy cotton, or corduroy, available in a range of colors. Beds with removal, washable covers are the easy to keep clean.

For dogs with limited mobility-due to age or arthritis, for example-you can find beds with therapeutic foam mattresses that distribute the weight more evenly so there is less stress on aching joints and muscles. Some dogs are more comfortable in a raised, cot-like bed, with canvas or synthetic stretched within a frame. Waterproof dog beds are ideal for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.

Like dog beds, dog crates improve the lives and relationships of dogs and humans. Crates are excellent training tools, and many dogs find them to be great sources of comfort. For those of you who travel with your dogs, crates with sloping sides fit easily into most cars. Cushion pads make crates homey and comfortable.

A dog collar is not only useful for attaching a leash and carrying tags, it can also be another great training tool. Many collars on the market today control and teach without causing harm, like humane versions of the old choke collars. They also help keep dogs and dog walkers safe by restricting the dog's ability to pull.

Dogs need toys as well as practical necessities. Dogs can be quite fussy about the toys they play with; some like stuffed animals, others prefer balls or Frisbees, while others like anything that squeaks. (For retrievers, there's nothing better than a stick!) Whatever toy you select, make sure it is safe for dogs. Button eyes on a stuffed toy, for example, are easy to swallow and are dangerous for all but the gentlest players.

Having a dog is a big commitment of time, money, energy, and affection. The right supplies will help make you and your dog happier and more relaxed in your lives together. With so many choices available today, you should have no trouble finding the right bed, crate, collars, and toys for your canine friend.