Every pet needs a comfortable place of their own.  Selecting the right type and size of pet beds, pet carriers or pet crates can provide that comfort. Things to consider: How does your pet typically sleep?  Are they curled up or stretched out?  If your answer is stretched out, you'll want to consider square or rectangular beds or sofas instead of round ones.  Does your pet typically sleep with their head off to the side?  You may want to buy a bed with sides to it for support, instead of a flatter bed. Does your pet have special needs?  Are they older, do they have joint problems or arthritis?  If so, you'll want to consider orthopedic dog beds, gel beds, air beds and memory foam beds.  These beds are also excellent for a pet recuperating from an illness. Is climate a consideration?  Choose from a variety of heated pet beds, cooling pet beds, or heating and cooling inserts.  Outdoor pet beds with waterproof covers or liners, and those that sit off the ground are also available.  For outdoor pets, elevated pet beds keep away unwanted fleas and insects found on the ground.  Additionally, a raised bed keeps your pet off the cold ground in the colder climates, and in warmer climates allows air to pass under them keeping them cooler. Make sure to measure!  Measure your pet when they're lying down to get the correct size bed, carrier or crate.  Measure from the nose to the rump and then add 9" to 12".  If in doubt, select the larger size.  For crates, however, getting a crate too large may allow your pet to defecate at one end and sleep in the other.  Your pet's crate should be just big enough to comfortably lie down, and stand up and turn around.