This is a narrow topic that widens as it is contemplated. My young dog recently tore up the cover of an expensive LLBean bed that we had owned for several years. Enjoying a challenge, I repaired it satisfactorily and it went unmolested for about five months, then suddenly was thoroughly shredded. At this point, I gave up on the cover and wrapped the orthopedic foam in a few blankets. No further issues for a few weeks. Foam and covering blanket were destroyed after several days in the kennel. Not wanting to deal with an intestinal foreign body, everything was trashed.

My previous dogs have been very considerate of their bedding. Apart from a small nibble, blankets had been respected. We temporarily went with layered bedding. I felt bad for our geriatric Chinook, and started looking at dog beds. Interesting fact: they are MUCH cheaper after the holidays.I looked at indestructible beds… they look like a great opportunity to break human toes, and the older dog has a tendency to dig (which reviews suggest leads to destruction). I settled on another orthopedic foam bed, in a color that matches the couch. It was in place for less than 12 hours when the young dog nibbled the piping and removed a tenth of it (very discreetly). I covered this bed and went in search of repellent sprays, and enforced more crate use.

So far, after using “YUCK” spray, the bed is holding up, and the geriatric dog is looking really comfortable.

I have since asked several friends about pet bedding and their preferences. The answers are completely dependent on the beasties in question. They range from NONE!!! for the inveterate chewer, to magnetic beds purported to decrease arthritis. Consistent themes include comfort for the respective pet, ease of passing eaten components without surgical intervention, safe (non-toxic) materials, ethical sourcing and manufacturing, compostability, and reasonable pricing.

This applies to all species of pet or companion animal from mouse to horse. We also tend to discuss the aroma of the bedding; pine and cedar smells good to us humans, but the aromatic amines can be harsh on delicate lung tissue. Colorful bedding can look more pleasing, but we should ideally try and remove artificial dyes from our environment.

I was surprised by the variety of opinions and preferences. Bottom line is that we all feel and act better when we are well rested. Comfort is important. I hope that you and your pets rest well.