Dogs have the same sleep patterns as humans. When they first go to sleep, they enter the quiet (slow wave) phase of sleep. They lie still, breathing slows, body temperature drops and heart rate decreases. After about ten minutes, they enter the active (REM) or stage of sleep. During this phase they may bark, whine, jerk their legs. The brain activity is similar to that seen during the dreaming sleep of humans, and is seen as evidence that dogs have dreams.

Style of dog bed

Just like people, different dogs have different comfort positions for sleeping. A comfortable and supportive dog bed provides a place where your dog can rest and relax. Also think about where the bed will be kept, or example if the bed is going in the corner of the room then you might want to purchase a bed that is made to fit in a corner. If you have more then one animal and they tend to sleep together then you also need to take this into consideration.

Nest & Bolster style dog beds

Some dogs sleep all curled up nose-to-tail. If your dog likes to sleep curled up then check out a donut bed or nest bed.

Pillow beds, Cushion or mattress style dog beds

If your dog tends to sprawl try an oval or rectangular pillow bed, or cushion style dog bed.

Sofa bed

Some dogs like to keep their heads propped up as they nod off, or like to sleep both stretched and curled. In this case then you might want to consider a sofa bed, these beds usually have the length for stretching plus the raised back and arms give them the option to snuggle against something should they choose to do so.

Materials

Regardless of the type of material you choose, is should be easy to clean, preferably 100% washable. Consider purchasing a bed that is made of tough material such as corduroy or cotton in order to withstand a hard time.

Size

Size is the most obvious thing to consider when purchasing a dog bed. Check the dimensions of the thoroughly before buying, when checking the width of the bed take into account the breed of the dog you have and how much space it will be comfortable with. Remember that it is better to select a slightly larger size then a small one in order to avoid discomfort. If your animal is still growing then you also need to take this into account.

Make sure you measure your animal correctly before picking the bed size, if you are purchasing a mattress make your animal stand up and measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. Add about 25-30 cms to these measurements and then use this as a guide for selecting the correct sized mattress.

If your dog likes sleeping curled up then you need to measure from the top of their head down to the base of the tail. Add approx 20 cm to this measurement and use this as a guide for selecting the correct bed.