To select a dog blanket, a person must determine the correct dimension for there dog. To find the correct dimension, a person can use a tape measure to measure the dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. Add twelve inches to each end of this measurement to allow for the dog to curl up on the blanket.
Additionally, take a measurement of the dog from side to side across the shoulders. Add at least eight inch to this measurement to allow for the dog to lie on it’s side without discomfort. By adding these inches to the dog’s body length and shoulder measurement, a person can ensure that the dog blanket will be of the proper size for their dog; otherwise, the blanket may be too small.
How to Choose the Right Dog Blanket
Many people attempt to choose a dog blanket according to the dog’s weight or breed. However, most people often make mistakes in choosing a blanket for their dog according to these two factor alone. For example, a dog blanket that is appropriate for a small dog breed like a Chihuahua may be too small for a dog of a long breed like a Dachshund.
Small dogs that weigh under ten pounds often require a blanket that is 24 inches in width and 30 inches in length. Large dogs that weigh over one hundred pounds often require a blanket that is 60 inches in width and 80 inches in length. Medium-sized dogs, like Labrador Retrievers or Shepherds, typically require a blanket that is 48 inches in width and 60 inches in length; however, if the dog likes to burrow into its blanket, a larger size may be preferred.
Another important factor to consider when purchasing a dog blanket is the material of the blanket. For example, fleece blankets are lightweight and dry quick; thus, fleece blankets are often best for dogs that remain indoors. Waterproof Oxford blankets are resistant to getting wet; therefore, this blanket material is best for dogs that often go outside and get into the mud.
For older dogs or dogs with joint issues, an orthopedic dog blanket can provide support for the dog’s joints. Electric blankets can provide heat for dogs that get too cold; however, you must make the cords chewproof so that the dog does not bite the cords. Lastly, crate liners are often different than the other type of dog blankets in that the blanket should closely fit the crate in which the dog sleeps.
To ensure that the dog blanket lasts a long time, it is necessary to care for the dog blanket. Most dog blankets should be washed in a cold water cycle once a week. If the dog goes outside, the blanket should be washed once a week to remove the allergens that the dog picks up outside.
Do not use fabric softener when washing the blanket as the fabric softener may gum up the fiber of the dog blanket. If the dog blanket is waterproof, air dry the blanket so that you preserve the waterproof properties of the blanket. Puppies will eventually outgrow their blankets.
Puppies may benefit from a small dog blanket that measure 24 inches. Dogs that had surgery may need an oversized orthopedic dog blanket so that their body can move without catching the blanket on there surgical stitches. The blanket that you use for your dog may also depend upon the season.
In the fall, medium fleece dog blankets are suitable as the weather may turn cooler for your dog. For the winter, if your dog has short fur, use a sherpa dog blanket as it retains heat more better. For the spring, use a microfiber dog blanket as it will help to reduce the amount of fur that your dog sheds.
During the summer, use a breathable dog blanket so that the dog does not overheat. Hairless dogs or dogs with flat faces, like French Bulldogs, may need to have a blanket throughout the year because they lose heat quickly from their bodies. Thick-coated dogs, like Huskies, may need a breathable dog blanket to avoid overheating there body.
Another feature that you should consider for your dog is their behaviors and there environment. Dogs with long bodies require more length in their blanket. Dogs that like to burrow may require more width in their dog blanket.
Dogs that live on hard floors may require a dog blanket with a non-slip back so that it does not slide on the floor. If your dog likes to chew on items, get blankets with reinforced seam so that it does not tear the blanket. Always measure your dog with a tape measure to ensure that the blanket will fit your dog proper.
