8 DIY Dog Bed Ideas to Upgrade Your Pooch's Comfort

Dog beds can be quite expensive, so a DIY dog bed could be the way to go if you're looking to save some cash or repurpose some items. Dog beds are easy to make, and you don't need special tools or skills to do it! Many of the materials you need can be found at home or purchased cheaply online. Once you have all of your supplies in hand, it shouldn't take much time to make your dog their own DIY bed.

1. Make a Comfy Dog Bed With An Old Suitcase

Upcycling an old suitcase as a dog bed is perfect for keeping your furry friend off the ground and providing them with a comfortable, squishy place to sleep.

Materials:

• Old suitcase
• Old blanket or pillow

Instructions:

1. If you have a few suitcases lying around, choose the one that best fits your dog.
2. Open the suitcase and place a comfortable blanket or old pillow inside.
3. See what your dog thinks!

Quick tip: A suitcase with low sides is best, as it's easier for your dog to climb in. Putting an old pillow or blanket inside means your dog's bed will be easy to clean when the time comes, too. In just a few minutes, you have a perfect place for your pooch to sleep!

2. Use an Old Couch Cushion for a Cozy Spot

If you are throwing out an old couch, or know of someone who is, grab a cushion to repurpose as a dog bed.

Materials:

• Old couch cushion
• Blanket (optional)
• New stuffing (optional)

Instructions

1. Grab the old couch cushion to place on the floor for your pup.
2. If desired, you can leave it as is or wrap it in a blanket for added comfort.
3. Remove old stuffing and add new material - anything soft can work, including pillow filler or even old T-shirts.

Your couch cushion might be worn out, so don't hesitate to open it up and pull out the old stuffing. That way, you can customize your dog's comfort.

3. Stuff an Old Sleeping Bag for a Large Bed

If you have a large dog, an old sleeping bag can do the trick. Bonus: your old sleeping bag probably has some of your smell left on it, and it's already super soft. Your dog will love it.

Materials:

• Old sleeping bag
• Old clothes or pillows

Instructions:

1. Lay the old sleeping bag out on the floor or a table.
2. Zip up the sleeping bag.
3. Fill up the sleeping bag with old clothes or old pillows to make the bed softer.
4. Lie it down on the floor and wait for your dog to get comfy.

4. Use an Old Laundry Basket for a Circle Bed

If you have an old laundry basket lying around, it could make a great dog bed. A taller basket can work for larger dogs, but if your dog is shorter, you can turn the basket on its side so they can climb in.

Materials:

• Circular laundry basket (wicker looks great, but any material can work)
• Old pillow
• Blanket

Instructions:

1. Wipe the laundry basket down with a wet paper towel if it hasn't been used in a while.
2. Place a pillow inside that will fill up the basket.
3. Add an old blanket for extra comfort.

Use an End Table to Create a Den Bed

Upcycle an old end table by removing the legs and adding a cushion or pillow to the bottom. This will create a unique and stylish dog bed that will fit in with your decor. Here's how to get started:

Materials:

• End table
• Sandpaper
• Primer
• Paint or stain
• Foam cushion or pillow
• Fabric
• Sewing machine
• Scissors
• Staple gun
• Decorative trim or ribbon (optional)

Instructions:

First, choose an end table that is large enough for your dog to lie down in. Then, take these steps:

1. Remove the door from the end table if necessary.
2. Measure the top of the end table and cut a piece of foam cushion, or add a pillow to fit.
3. If you're using foam, cover the foam with a soft, washable fabric and wrap your filler with it (if you're feeling ambitious, you can sew the edges together too).
4. Staple the fabric-covered cushion to the bottom of the end table, making sure it is secure and centered (you can also leave the bedding loose for easier cleaining later, if desired).
5. Place the pillows or cushions along the edges of the end table to create a cozy border for your dog to snuggle up against.
6. If desired, add decorative trim or ribbon to the edges of the cushion or pillows to give the dog bed some extra flair.

4 More DIY Dog Bed Ideas

If you're looking for something different, check out these ideas:

1. Try your hand at a DIY Sweatshirt bed to create a cozy round dog bed like Sniff Design Studio
2. Repurpose your old dresser drawers for this DIY dog bed that Liz Marie developed
3. Try a no-sew fleece dog bed for dogs of any size by Luigi and Me
4. Create your own DIY Plywood dog bed for any dog breed by Our Nerd Home

Tips for Making Your DIY Dog Bed

There are a few things to keep in mind when you're creating your own dog bed:

• Make sure the dog bed is large enough for your pet. If it's too small, they may not be able to stretch out or turn around comfortably.
• The bed should be comfortable, and soft enough for your dog's liking. Some dogs prefer firmer surfaces, while others like softer ones. Create a bed based on your dog's preferences.
• Choose a material that's easy to clean - modern synthetic materials are highly washable.
• Make sure the bed is sturdy and won't tip over or collapse.
• Check the materials you're choosing to make sure they aren't hazardous.

Get Started

Before you get into creating your dog's bed, take a look at your individual dog. Make a dog bed that's their size, works with their sleeping habits, and is as soft as they need it to be. If you have a senior dog, you may elect for something that's closer to the floor so they can get in and out easily. Play around with your options. Get creative, and you'll find you can repurpose and upcycle any soft coverings or appropriate containers into excellent dog beds.