Every dog is unique and special in different ways. It is important to find the right bed for Australian Shepherd so they have a comfortable and special place to rest and sleep on. One of the challenges in finding a dog bed is the vast array of options.
You also don’t want a bed your furry friend won’t use, which would be an absolute waste of money. Reading over this buying guide on choosing the best dog bed for the Australian Shepherd will benefit you.
Does Australian Shepherd Need A Dog Bed?
You may be wondering whether to share your bed with your Australian Shepherd? Or maybe your furry friend should be sleeping on the floor? Many experts agree that this breed should have its bed to answer this question.
Beds made for this dog breed feature the comfort they need to alleviate joint pain. It is also possible to remove the covers to wash them easily, which may not be the case if you allow your doggy to sleep in your bed.
At the same time, pets also need a space of their own. When they have their own dedicated space, they feel secure and comforted. You can set up a dog bed in your room if you would like to maintain a feeling of closeness.
Australian Shepherds are generally athletic and energetic dogs. A great day for one of these dogs involves lots of play and exercise. However, this breed is not hyperactive, which means they will also enjoy a dog bed close to you where they can rest or sleep after a funfilled active day.
Buyers Guide For Australian Shepherd Dog Beds
Now that you know that your dog should have a bed, the next step involves picking bedding that will suit your doggie and you. Here are a few things to consider before choosing one.
What Is The Dog Bed Made From?
Since a mini Australian Shepherd will shed a lot from time to time, this is something to be mindful about. You will want to avoid the fabrics that trap hair and is not easy to wash, and you should be looking for something opposite.
Going with a dog bed with fluffy and soft fabrics may sound tempting, but these materials are well known for catching fur or hair.
Regardless of the bed you choose, make sure it is easy to wash, but it goes further.
Certain fabrics won’t release smaller hairs even after washing, and some even work these hairs deeper into the materials. I have thrown out bedding for this reason, so being washable doesn’t always mean everything.
Choosing The Right Size Bed For Your Dog
The Australian Shepherd adult males weigh between 50 to 65 pounds (22.7 to 29.5kg). They stand at around 20 to 23 inches (50.8 and 58.4cm). That makes this breed one of the medium-sized dogs.
The female Aussie Shepherds are slightly smaller, weighing between 40 to 50 pounds (18.1 to 24.9kg). They stand between 18 to 21 inches tall (45.7 to 53.3cm).
If you own a miniature Aussie Shepherd, the medium or small-sized beds will usually work.
For pets that prefer to curl up while sleeping, the small-sized beds should provide enough space. However, if your doggy prefers stretching out, go for one of the medium-sized dog beds; look for beds that are at least 30″ X 48″.
If you are using a crate, make sure the bed fits snugly in the crate. You should also consider your climate before making a final decision.
If you live in a hot and humid climate, a larger bed provides more circulation and even more so if you choose a bed that features raised edges. If you live in one of the colder climates, a smaller bed may provide a cozier feeling.
Things to Look for In A Bed for Aussie Shepherd
When you start shopping around for the best bed for Australian Shepherd, look for a bed that features a firm enough bed to support your dog’s weight (approximately 40 pounds) and is large enough so that your doggy can stretch out. In addition to size, here are a few important factors to keep in mind before you buy a bed for your Australian Shepherd:
| Supportive Bed
Similar to other breeds, Australian Shepherds are prone to elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and osteochondritis dissecans (an orthopedic disease). A bed that features a supportive foam layer can help to alleviate joint pain.
| Side Bolsters
If you have Australian Shepherd with mobility or joint issues, side supports greatly help their joints and spine. Firm support that surrounds the sides and the back is a better option, and a raised bed is also beneficial to alleviate pain in the joints.
| Hypoallergenic Design
Allergies are a common problem in several dog breeds, including the Aussie Shepherds. Dogs are often allergic to many things, such as dust mites, and dense bed with tightly woven fabrics help stop dust mites and other allergens from breeding inside the bed.
| Washable And Removable Cover
Australian Shepherds enjoy spending most of their time outdoors. You may find that your doggy tracks mud and dirt into their sleeping space. Moreover, that is also a breed that sheds. Instead, choose a removable cover that you can wash to maintain your dog’s comfortable and clean sleeping area.
| Resistant Materials
Aussie Shepherds may be clever, but they are also destructive when their intelligence is not channeled correctly. If your dog is still young, rather don’t risk one of the flimsy beds. Durable and robust fabrics are better for avoiding destructive behavior such as chewing and scratching.
| Heat Regulation
If you live in an area where the summer months are hotter and longer when compared to the winter months, you should be looking for a dog bed that will help your dog stay cool. Stuffing, fabric, and anything else used to manufacture the dog bed can be the things that trap heat to a certain level. That can be a good thing for those that live in cold or cool areas.
An elevated dog bed is a fantastic option since the air will circulate below the bed, helping to stop your doggy from overheating.
An elevated bed is also kinder on the joints, making it a good choice for an older dog. This type of bedding is often made from materials that will not trap or hold onto your dog’s hair.
| Additional Features
There are lots of added features that are available when choosing dog beds. If you reside in a region prone to cold weather, a common feature you may be interested in includes built-in heating pads to help your dog stay warm.
If you live in a hot region, you may want to choose a cooling bed containing a gel that will help your doggy stay cool.
Certain heating or cooling pads might need an outlet where you plug the device in. That could be problematic if your dog likes to chew on cords, or you could trip over the cord.
Things To Steer Clear Of When Choosing A Bed For Your Australian Shepherd
| Hard Surfaces
Since this breed is prone to joint issues, they should not be sleeping on a hard surface. A tough bed can result in pain and discomfort, making it harder for your best friend to sleep or rest comfortably.
| Surfaces That Are Too Soft
On the other side of the scale, a bed that is too soft won’t provide sufficient support for joints that may be sensitive. Loose stuffing and soft beds also allow allergens to thrive inside the bed, so we have not listed donuts or pillow beds for these herding breeds.
| Fabrics That Cause Itchiness
Synthetic fabrics can result in an allergic reaction due to chemicals present in the materials. These types of beds may make your dog feel uncomfortable or itchy, which will disrupt the dog’s sleep patterns.
| Bedding That Is Easy To Destroy
Poorly made bedding or thin fabrics are not the best choices for Aussie Shepherds. If the dog bed looks flimsy, opt for a more robust option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Bed Size Should You Choose for The Australian Shepherd?
At the minimum, your dog will probably need one of the medium-sized beds. Consider investing in a large or extra-large bed if your dog loves stretching out.
Are Aussie Shepherds A High Maintenance Breed?
These dogs are regarded as active working canines, and they could become “high maintenance” for regular suburban families that prefer peaceful pets. Australian Shepherds require at least 1 to 2 hours of exercise every day.
Since this is one of the active breeds, pet owners should be prepared to invest in one of the higher-quality dog beds. Your dog will need a comfortable and supportive bed when ready to retire for the night.
What Should You Look for In A Bed for Mini Australian Shepherd?
The mini Australian Shepherd is very loyal, and they tend to stick around their owners. So, when you start shopping for a bed for your miniature Australian Shepherd, here are a few key features to look out for:
A Firm Bed: These breeds are dense, which means they are heavy, considering their size. That is due to their athleticism. And because of this, you should choose one of the firmer beds that will hold its shape. Choose a baffled construction or foam cushions so the bedding doesn’t flatten after a few uses.
Choose a Bedding That Is Easy To Wash: Mini Aussies have long and beautiful coats that can bring loads of dirt from outside. They are also a breed that tends to shed at certain times, so make sure you choose easy to clean bedding. Most high-quality dog beds come with removable covers so that you can wash them in a machine.
Non-Slip Bottom: Mini Aussie Shepherds are the most loyal breeds that adore greeting their owners. With this energy and strength, they could send their bedding flying each time you arrive home from a long day in the office. Choose a bed with either a bottom that is rubberized or non-slip feet to prevent this.
Final Thoughts
Consider your doggy’s needs before choosing a bed for your Australian Shepherd. Think about how destructive they are, any health needs, or sleeping preferences. It is also essential to think about how much you are willing to spend.
