Giraffe Cotton Canvas Dog Bed Cover: What to Know

Quick answer

The Giraffe Cotton Canvas Dog Bed Cover by Harry Barker is a stylish, durable option for small to medium beds, but you need to check your bed insert dimensions carefully since the cover is sold separately and fit can vary.

Why fit matters for this cover

The Giraffe Cotton Canvas Dog Bed Cover is designed as a slipcover for a separate bed insert. Because Harry Barker does not include the insert, you must match the cover to an existing bed or buy a compatible insert separately. The cover's envelope-style closure and canvas fabric mean it fits snugly, but an insert that is too thick or too large can cause bunching or difficulty closing.

Measure your current bed insert (length, width, and depth) before purchasing. The cover is intended for smaller beds, so a bulky insert may not work well. If you are between sizes, it is safer to size down to avoid a loose fit.

Canvas care considerations

Cotton canvas is durable but requires specific care to maintain its appearance. The Giraffe print is custom and may fade if washed too frequently or with harsh detergents. Spot cleaning is recommended for minor stains, and machine washing on a gentle cycle with cold water will help preserve the print.

Tumble drying on low or air drying is best to prevent shrinkage. Canvas can shrink if exposed to high heat, so avoid hot water and high dryer settings. If you live in a humid climate, air drying may take longer, but it will extend the life of the cover.

Durability and style trade-offs

The cotton canvas fabric is heavier than typical cotton blends, offering better resistance to wear and tear from scratching or digging. However, it is not waterproof or stain-resistant. If your dog has accidents or is a heavy drooler, you may want to add a waterproof liner underneath the cover.

The giraffe print is a distinctive, classic pattern inspired by African explorers. It is a conversation piece but may not suit every home decor. If you prefer a more neutral look, consider other Harry Barker patterns like Grain Sack or Buffalo Check.

Diagnosing fit and care issues

• Symptom: The cover is loose or bunches after washing.
• Likely cause: The bed insert is too large or the cover shrank due to high heat drying. Always measure your insert before buying. If the cover fits before washing, use low heat or air dry.
• Corrective action: If the cover is too loose, try a smaller insert or add padding to fill gaps. If shrinkage occurred, the cover may not fit again; contact Harry Barker for replacement options. For future washes, always use cold water and low heat to minimize shrinkage.
• Stop or choose another option: If your dog is a heavy chewer or digger, canvas may still wear over time. Consider a more heavy-duty cover or add a protective layer. If the print does not match your decor, choose a different Harry Barker pattern. This cover is best for small, stylish dogs with moderate activity levels.

Product details

• Giraffe Cotton Canvas Dog Bed Cover: This custom print pays homage to African explorers Martin and Osa Johnson. Looking both distinctive and classic, the Giraffe Bed Cover is the perfect resting accouterments for the most stylish of little Barkers. NOTE: Bed Inserts NOT included. You must supply your own bed insert, so measuring your existing insert is essential to ensure a proper fit.