Beds for dogs are as important as beds for humans. Dogs spend more than half their lives sleeping, typically around 10-16 hours a day, depending upon the age and activity level of the dog. Working dogs tend to sleep less, non-working house dwellers usually sleeps longer hours.
Dogs sleep patterns are very similar to humans. They go through slow wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement sleep (REM) just like us. However their sleep cycles are shorter then humans, that is why dogs take frequent short naps instead of sleeping at one long stretch like most humans do.
It's a lot of fun to watch your dog when they are in their REM sleep, every dog owner has seen their buddy running after and maybe even howling and barking at their dreamland squirrels. I have seen dogs wake themselves up with their load barking during REM sleep, the confused look on their face is priceless!
When a dog is curled up in a ball she is usually in the SWS phase of sleep, and is easily awakened. Dogs usually spend their REM sleep stretched out on their sides or lying on their backs, that is when they sleep the most soundly. So be sure your dogs bed has plenty of room for her to stretch out and sleep deeply.
You may also need more then one bed for your dog. Your might need a heated dog bed outdoors, but indoors, you want something that is comfortable for your dog and looks attractive in your home. Or maybe a bed in the family room so she can hang with the pack during the day, and another bed where she spends the night while the human pack members are sleeping. A dog sleeping beside the bed of a child is a sweet sight to see.
Beds for dogs come in as many varieties as there are dogs. Always consider the unique needs of your dog when buying your friend a bed.
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