Just like people, animals also need a safe and comfortable place where they can retreat to when needed and feel protected when sleeping. Depending on how big a dog is and what the owners allow them to do, they can either rest on the sofa, on a large cushion or in a dog basket – some four-legged friends even sleep in bed with their owner. In most households with dogs, however, dog baskets are the first choice. This way, the dog has a place that belongs to them and them only – this not only makes them happy, but also their human companions, as it avoids getting fur, dirt and other contaminants on the sofa or bed. In addition, baskets for dogs are usually light and do not take up much space – unless you need a unit for a large breed. Keep on reading to find out everything you need to know about dog baskets, from materials to cleaning and where’s best to put them.

First things first: a dog basket must be able to put up with a number of things. After all, your dog will go to their basket several times a day, step in and out with their full weight and often change their lying position when sleeping. Their claws will also put the basket to the test. The basket must, therefore, be robust and stable enough, but at the same time, it must be soft and cosy inside. Another important aspect to consider is a non-slip dog basket so that your dog does not slide back and forth and their joints are protected. This, of course, means that a dog basket should be of a certain weight.
As a general rule, don’t just think about whether the basket is cheap and appeals to you, but opt for a model that meets your dog’s requirements. Although there is an obvious desire to buy a dog basket that is as cheap as possible, the health and well-being of your pet should be your first priority. In addition, your dog’s character will play a part when choosing the right basket: if your dog is very active, a basket made of a robust material is more suitable than a very soft, sensitive material. What’s more, the basket should have an edge where your dog can place their head. Dogs generally find this very comfortable.
Most dog baskets are made from one of the following materials, all of which have their own unique properties.
Rattan and willow: both are natural materials and therefore have an extremely attractive look. Dog baskets made from these materials also score points thanks to their good air circulation. They don’t hold their shape entirely, but are somewhat bendable, in contrast to plastic, for example. This has the advantage that the dog’s basket can move with your dog to a certain degree, but it also creates a certain level of noise: you can hear when your dog turns around in their basket. Make sure that the dog basket is in a stable position and attach felt pads if necessary. Otherwise, there is a risk that your floor could become scratched, especially parquet floors and floorboards. In order for your dog to feel comfortable in their basket, thick padding is also important, which the harder material does not push through. Last but not least, you should avoid buying a dog basket from rattan or willow if your four-legged friend likes to gnaw, as is the case with puppies, in particular. Then there is a risk that they will chew and swallow individual parts.
Plastic: plastic offers a number of advantages: it is inexpensive, easy to clean and usually very robust. Here too, it is important to line the basket with one or more soft pillows so that your dog is comfortable. You should also make sure that your four-legged friend cannot bite off any parts and accidentally swallow them with plastic baskets too.
Fabric: most fabrics are very cosy and these dog baskets are usually easy to clean, especially when individual parts can be zipped off and are machine-washable
Faux leather: faux leather is robust, scratch- and bite-resistant and also easy to wash, making for easy cleaning. However, the material is relatively fixed in shape and therefore not particularly soft. That’s why it can be a good idea to use extra blankets and cushions for a dog basket made of faux leather, also because the material cools down. However, a faux leather dog basket can certainly be a suitable place for a dog without a cushion too, especially for breeds with a thick undercoat.

The way your dog feels in their basket is largely dependent on the padding and cover of the cushion underneath them. Several materials can be selected here; read on to find out about the most common ones.
Plush / cotton: although cushions made of these fabrics are extremely cosy, you will have to clean the covers frequently. After all, your four-legged friend will leave dirt, fur and saliva behind in their basket. There is also the risk that the material may not be robust enough and could tear when your dog chews and pulls on it.
Polyester: polyester, on the other hand, is extremely tear-resistant and easy to clean. However, it has the disadvantage that your four-legged friend may get their claws caught in the fabric.
Faux leather: faux leather is very easy to clean and resistant to bites and scratches. However, it is less cosy than other materials.

Even if many dogs like to sleep curled up, it is crucial that your dog basket is large enough for your dog to stretch out comfortably inside, especially when you consider that dogs can doze or sleep for up to 20 hours a day.

Since puppies grow quickly, we recommend buying a slightly larger dog basket. However, it shouldn’t be too big as then your puppy may feel lost inside. Please also remember that young dogs like to chew and gnaw, especially during the teething process, which is why a dog basket made of willow or rattan is only suitable for them in particular cases – the natural material attracts curious puppies to nibble. A dog basket made of plastic or synthetic leather is the better choice for young animals, and not least because they are easy to clean in the event your puppy has a little accident. A model with a cover that you can easily take off and wash is also recommended.

It is important for you to decide on a location that meets the needs of your pet. The corridor, hallway or middle of your living room has too much hustle and bustle for your pet to relax there. In addition, many dogs tend to control people coming and going when the basket is located in a place with thoroughfare and this prevents them from calming down.
A quiet corner, without any draughts and not directly next to the heating, is therefore ideal. Quiet does not mean isolated, however, and it is important that your dog has their basket near their owners and remains in contact with their two-legged family.

Our online shop only stocks dog baskets from established brands, such as  FIT+FUN. Discover high-quality, affordable dog baskets at Maxi Zoo and buy a dog basket that’s a perfect match for your pet and your home.