Just as it is an excellent hunting dog, the Shiba Inu adapts just as well to apartment living, provided you can exercise it. Moreover, it is a particularly clean animal, so the choice of its bed is very important.
A bed for a Shiba Inu should measure 80 to 100 cm in length.
For my Shiba Inu, cushion or bed?
Your Shiba Inu deserves a resting place that provides the necessary comfort. Indeed, like most dogs, he likes to have his own space. If he doesn’t have it, he will quickly tend to take refuge under tables, beds, or sofas. In that environment he feels more reassured and protected. Otherwise a good bed prevents disturbed sleep and back pain. There are therefore several options for a dog bed, but the most popular are the cushion and the basket-style bed. In both cases they must provide him with the comfort and protection he needs.
When choosing one or the other, you should consider its length and width. In addition to selecting the type of resting place itself, you should also take into account the material used to make it. Moreover, it is important to observe the habits of the Shiba Inu to know whether he prefers to sleep stretched out or curled up. In general, it should also be noted that this dog, like other breeds, prefers baskets to cushions.
How to choose a dog bed?
Yes, Shiba Inus prefer beds to cushions. This is because beds have sides they can nestle against. However, when choosing a bed you should take your Shiba Inu’s size into account. Indeed, it should not feel cramped and your dog should also be able to stretch out. On the other hand, the bed should not be too large either, because that might not give him the feeling of a ‘protective shelter’ that he loves so much. This resting place is ideal, especially if your dog likes to curl up.
The other important aspect to consider is the material. Keep in mind at this stage that plastic is recommended if it’s a puppy. Indeed, remember that at this age discipline is not their strong suit and he will quickly wreck his bed. Plastic beds, however, are very durable and easy to clean, and therefore more hygienic. Once the dog is an adult, you can replace the plastic with a bed covered in leather or soft faux fur.
There are also wicker baskets, but they are less recommended. It’s true that they offer better ventilation, but their twigs deteriorate over time and can injure your pet. Several cases of perforated stomachs were reported because dogs had swallowed the wicker twigs. In addition, dust gets trapped there and they are not at all pleasant to clean.
All dog beds for Shiba Inus on bol.com.
How to choose your dog cushion?
The cushion should be soft and comfortable to keep him warm. You should also take his size into account and it should therefore be slightly larger than him, so he can stretch without going beyond it. Otherwise he may not accept it. Some cushions have covers that can be removed for washing. Others are waterproof and can be washed directly. Furthermore, the cushion is better suited to your companion if he prefers to lie down with his whole body.
Preferred materials are cotton, fleece or nylon. Avoid foam cushions. Be aware that if your Shiba Inu eats one, he cannot digest it and it could cause his stomach to swell. Suffice it to say, the consequences can be fatal for him. In general, a poor-quality cushion can deform quickly and become uncomfortable. Additionally, cushions are more practical for traveling.
If you are undecided between a basket and a cushion, keep in mind that you can always compromise by choosing both. It is indeed possible and recommended to place a cushion inside a basket, especially if the basket is made of plastic. Finally, the cushion and/or the dog basket should be placed in an appropriate location. It can be a corner sheltered from drafts and from passing traffic. Otherwise, passersby might disturb him, while his shelter should be his place of rest. Lastly, it should not be placed in an overly isolated space so he does not feel abandoned.
