Choosing a pattern for your dog’s bed may at first seem trivial, but once you begin shopping around you may find that the available options can be overwhelming. The pattern of your dog’s bed will become a part of your home’s décor and will communicate both you and your dog’s personalities. From polka dots to toile, every dog bed pattern speaks volumes about you and your dog. You may think that your dog won’t notice the pattern on his new bed, but many will. You’ll want to choose a dog bed pattern that you can live with and that you think your dog will be attracted to. Your dog’s new bed should be a place where he can feel comfortable, safe and at home.

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Dog beds, in particular, come in a wide array of colors, shapes and patterns: polka dots, stripes, toile, floral, embroidered, zigzags, light or dark colors, muted or bright colors, square, rectangle, round, reversible, couch, lounger … the list goes on and on. Finding a fun pattern can make your dog’s bed interesting and fun to look at, but shopping in a store with this many varieties of dog bed patterns can be overwhelming if you don’t have an idea of what you’re looking for or some tips to help you along.

First, consider you dog’s personality. Just like your personality dictates the patterns on your shoes, clothes and of course, your own bedding, the pattern on your dog’s bed should do the same. For example, if your dog is assertive and has a big, strong personality, (like a Rottweiler or a Pitt Bull) look for beds in dark colors or strong, bold patterns like zigzags or thick stripes or even a skull and cross bones print! If your dog is small and has a shy, quiet personality, choose a dog bed pattern in a muted, neutral color like beige or a soft pastel like pink or light green. Other details like lace, piping, ribbons or bows can also add to the pattern and further portray your dog’s identity. The material on which the pattern is printed is also important. If your dog is tough and energetic, try something durable and low maintenance like twill or corduroy. A floral pattern on luxurious suede or micro fiber would suit dogs who like to be coddled and praised and tend to be more high maintenance.

You must be sure to choose a pattern for your dog’s new bed that will look good anywhere in your house. For this purpose, the key is versatility. Although you may think that your dog’s bed will stay in one room, his preferences may change as he gets older. If you choose a bed pattern that looks great in your bedroom and your living room, your dog will have the option of sleeping wherever he is most comfortable. For example, if you have one room painted blue and another painted green, choose a polka pattern in beige and white or a red striped pattern - either of these will look great no matter which room you choose to keep it in.

Finally, consider your own tastes when choosing a pattern for your dog’s bed. Although your dog’s comfort is the most important thing, you’ll have to live with and look at the pattern every day, so you want to make sure it doesn’t annoy or bore you. If you make all of these considerations when choosing a bed pattern for your dog, you’ll be sure to end up with something that both you and your dog love.

Candis Reade is an accomplished niche website developer and author.

To learn more about dog bed patterns, please visit My Dog Beds for current articles and discussions.