Creating a cosy cove for a dog isn’t as easy as many people think. If you have ever owned more than one dog, then you know that they are all different. What works for one may not work for another. While one is fine with a floor blanket, another may want a dedicated space inside a crate. This can be tricky when you live in a small flat or house, but not impossible. From choosing the right location to using multifunctional furniture, here are some handy ideas.
Invest in Quality Supplies
There are so many places you can buy stuff for pets now that it is hard to know where to go. Cheap sites like Amazon, Temu and Shein are popular because of the lower price. However, with a lower cost comes a lower quality. And poor quality dog toys, chews and even food aren’t the best option. Your dog, and indeed, other pets, deserve better. Sourcing small pet supplies from Moony Paw takes your mind off their needs so you can get on with making some space!
A Cosy Cove for a Dog by Location
There are an estimated 13.5 million dogs in the UK, and all deserve a comfy space to feel safe. Choosing the right space for your dog’s bed can be a tricky thing, especially in a small flat. It can get in the way, and it can be confusing for the dog if you keep moving its bedding, so try these:
- Find a space with minimal foot traffic that is out of the way for minimal disruption.
- A space with fewer visual distractions will help the dog stay relaxed and calmer.
- Dogs are sensitive to temperature, and they will love a warm space with no drafts.
Finding the Right Bedding
Bedding is essential for dogs, just like it is for humans. Precious little pooches enjoy comfort and warmth and will snuggle into anything they can find. However, they won’t just sleep anywhere and on anything. When it comes to sleep, some dogs can be restless if they aren’t comfy. Bedding ranges from blankets to covered foam beds, and you may have to go through some trial and error. However, there are also fold-away products available for smaller spaces.
Use Your Flat’s Vertical Space
There is so much unused space in small homes, such as vertical space. Vertical space is typically classed as space on the walls. You can use the walls to put up shelves, units and even hooks. Any of these can be pretty handy when storing dog stuff such as food, treats, collars, leads and clothing. Just as you would for your own stuff, you can make better use of limited space by designating an area for the dog’s stuff that doesn’t take up valuable floor space.
A Den-Like Cosy Cove for a Dog
Whether a beloved childhood pet or the family dog today, we all love our pooches. The average Brit spends around £150 a month on their dogs, but this varies based on the breed, size and medical needs. Of course, a dog also needs a space of its own to feel comfortable and safe.
Provide plenty of blankets and toys
Dogs, of course, love to be comfy, and they usually have their favourite blankets and toys that they prefer. Any suitable doggy den should include these to help the dog feel safe and calm.
Include your scent
You are the alpha in the eyes of a dog, and a dog feels safest when it knows the alpha is around. However, rather than seeing you, dogs are at ease when they can smell your scent.
Allow for free access and exit
Unless there is a good reason why, it isn’t fair to keep a dog locked in a cage or crate. Free access allows the dog to stretch its legs but also feel unrestricted and safer when at home.
Install a Multi-Purpose Feeding Station
If there is a bit of space available, then you might want to try a multi-purpose feeding station. These are very handy units that combine storage with pet bowls for water and food. In one handy unit, you pretty much have everything you need. Most good pet suppliers have these impressive units at various price ranges, depending on the size and features. However, they are a Godsend when you have limited space and need a safe and valuable place for the dog.
Add Personal Touches
Dogs are most relaxed when they are in familiar surroundings. They love a personal space they feel is their own, and just like humans, they enjoy personal touches. For the most part, this includes toys and blankets. However, there are other ways to make a cosy space for a dog. You can include everything they love, such as water bottles, collars and clothing, in a designated area. With their scented items in one place, they are likely to stay there and enjoy the comfort.
A Multifunctional Cosy Cove for a Dog
A recent survey found that 81% of Brits feel they don’t have enough space at home, and this is especially apparent with a smaller flat. However, like furniture for people, you can utilise multifunctional furniture that can double as storage for keeping your pet supplies out of the way:
- A storage ottoman has plenty of space and can be a cosy spot for the dog and your feet!
- Benches with built-in pet crates are available and will make great use of limited space.
- Bookshelves and consoles come in handy as you can make use of the drawer space.
Keep the Space Clean and Tidy
Living in a small flat alone can be trying if something is out of place. Throw in a dog, and it gets a bit complicated. Like the kids, dogs will just leave their stuff all over the place. It’s just how they are. It is up to you to ensure their stuff is kept tidy and their area is clean. This will help keep your flat safer and look and feel better. Also like the kids, you can use storage solutions to keep the dog’s stuff in when they aren’t using them, such as extra toys, clothes and blankets.
Summary
Quality pet supplies don’t make better use of space when creating a cosy space for a dog in a small flat, but you will have better peace of mind when thinking about space. Space for a den, even in a small home, can make a world of difference to the welfare of a dog. However, you can also make better use of the limited space by keeping the home and dog area clean and tidy.
