DIY Dog Beds Made Easy: Simple, Affordable & Stylish Ideas

Did you know that the average pet owner spends over £100 on a quality dog bed, only to watch their furry friend snooze on the floor instead?

Enter the world of DIY dog beds, where your creativity meets your pup’s peculiar sleeping preferences. Not only will crafting your own pet sanctuary save you a pretty penny, but it also lets you tailor every detail to your dog’s unique quirks – from the Great Dane who thinks he’s a lap dog to the Chihuahua who needs a fortress of cushions.

Why Make a DIY Dog Bed?

Making your own DIY dog bed saves money – often costing 50-70% less than store-bought options. Plus, you’ll create something that fits your pup perfectly, whether they’re a sprawler or a curler-up. Want to help the planet? Use old blankets, pillows, or clothes to make a cozy spot for your four-legged friend.

Another major advantage is durability. Many store-bought beds flatten over time, while a DIY bed lets you choose high-quality, long-lasting materials. Plus, you can design it for easy maintenance with removable, washable covers.

When I made a bed, I spent just £30 on materials compared to the £90 orthopaedic bed I was eyeing online.

Materials Shopping List with Approximate Costs

Material	Approximate Cost	Notes
Outer fabric (2 yards)	£10-20	Canvas, denim, or fleece
Waterproof fabric (1 yard)	£8-15	For bottom layer
Filling	£5-25	Memory foam, polyester stuffing, or repurposed pillows
Zipper or buttons	£2-5	For removable cover
Thread	£2-3	Heavy-duty recommended
Total	£27-68	Compared to £100+ for store-bought

How to Choose the Right Materials for Your Dog’s Bed

Choosing the right materials is essential for ensuring your dog’s bed is comfortable, durable, and safe. The fabric should be sturdy yet soft, and the filling should provide the right balance of support and coziness.

For the outer layer, consider these options:

• For chewers: Ballistic nylon or ripstop fabric offers exceptional durability
• For dogs with allergies: Hypoallergenic fleece or organic cotton prevents skin irritation
• For accident-prone pets: Waterproof or water-resistant fabrics make cleanup easier
• For style-conscious owners: Fabrics that match your home décor will blend seamlessly

I once made the mistake of using a beautiful but thin cotton fabric for my terrier’s bed. Within a week, he had chewed through to the stuffing! Lesson learned: always prioritize function over fashion when selecting materials.

What’s the Best Filling for a DIY Dog Bed?

Different fillings offer various benefits for your furry friend:

• Memory foam – Ideal for older dogs or those with joint issues. A 4-inch piece can cost around £15-25 but provides exceptional support.
• Shredded foam & polyester mix – A balance of softness and support that resists flattening. Expect to pay about £10-15.
• Old clothes or blankets – Eco-friendly and cost-effective. Free if you’re repurposing items you already own!
• Wool batting – A natural filling that stays warm in winter and cool in summer. More expensive at £20-25 but offers excellent temperature regulation.

If you have a dog who struggles with arthritis, a memory foam bed is a great option.

Tools Required for the Project

Most DIY dog bed projects need these basic tools:

• Fabric scissors (sharp ones specifically for cutting fabric)
• Measuring tape (flexible, not rigid)
• Straight pins or fabric clips
• Sewing machine (optional, but speeds up the process)
• Hand-sewing needles (if not using a machine)
• Iron and ironing board
• Chalk or fabric marker for tracing patterns

Don’t have a sewing machine? No problem! Hand-stitching works well for dog beds, though it takes longer. Use a backstitch for strength at stress points like corners and seam junctions.

How to Measure Your Dog for the Perfect Bed Size

The perfect bed starts with proper measurements:

1. Watch your dog during nap time – are they a sprawler or a curler?
2. Measure your dog from nose to tail base while they’re in their typical sleeping position
3. Measure their height from the floor to shoulder when standing
4. Add 6-12 inches to the length and width measurements to give them room to shift positions
5. For puppies, consider their expected adult size – they grow quickly!

Size recommendations by dog type:

• Small breeds (Chihuahua, Yorkie): 24″ x 18″
• Medium breeds (Beagle, Corgi): 36″ x 28″
• Large breeds (Labrador, German Shepherd): 46″ x 36″
• Extra large breeds (Great Dane, Saint Bernard): 52″ x 42″

Short-legged breeds need lower sides for easy access, while anxious dogs often prefer higher sides that create a sense of security.

Step-by-Step Guide to Constructing the Bed Base

Follow these detailed steps for a basic rectangular dog bed:

1. Prepare your pattern: Cut two identical pieces of your chosen fabric for the top and bottom layers, adding 1/2 inch all around for seam allowance
2. Cut the waterproof layer: If using a waterproof bottom, cut this to match the size of your base fabric
3. Assemble the layers:
   • Place the outer fabric pieces right sides together
   • If using a waterproof layer, place it against the wrong side of the bottom piece
   • Pin all layers together around the edges
4. Sew the layers:
   • Using a straight stitch, sew around three sides with a 1/2 inch seam allowance
   • Leave a 12-inch opening on the fourth side for turning and stuffing
   • Reinforce corners with a second line of stitching
5. Turn and press:
   • Turn the bed right-side-out through the opening
   • Press the seams with an iron for crisp edges
   • Fold the raw edges of the opening inward and press
6. Add the filling:
   • Insert your chosen filling through the opening
   • Distribute it evenly throughout the bed
7. Close the opening:
   • Hand-stitch the opening closed using a ladder stitch or whip stitch
   • Make small stitches close together (about 1/4 inch apart) for extra strength

The first bed I made took about 3 hours, and it could never be described as perfect. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t great – dogs care about comfort, not craftsmanship!

How to Make a Washable Dog Bed Cover

A removable, washable cover extends the life of your dog bed and makes cleaning much simpler:

1. Measure your finished bed base, adding 1 inch all around for a snug but not tight fit
2. Cut fabric to size, allowing extra for your chosen closure method
3. For a zipper closure:
   • Sew the zipper along one side first
   • With right sides together, sew the remaining three sides
   • Turn right-side-out through the zipper opening
4. For a button or velcro closure:
   • Create a 12-inch overlap on one edge
   • Add buttons and buttonholes (or velcro strips) to this overlap
   • With right sides together, sew the remaining three sides
   • Turn right-side-out through the overlapped opening

I recommend making at least two covers so you always have a clean one ready while the other is in the wash. My dog’s covers get washed every two weeks, and they’ve maintained their color and shape through countless wash cycles.

How to Prevent DIY Dog Beds from Flattening Over Time

Keep your DIY dog bed plush and supportive with these maintenance tips:

• Fluff stuffing regularly by shaking and kneading the bed (weekly is ideal)
• Use high-quality foam that retains its shape longer
• Rotate and flip the bed weekly to distribute wear evenly
• Add extra stuffing over time to maintain loft as filling compresses
• For foam-based beds, consider using multiple layers of different densities
• Allow the bed to air out in sunlight occasionally to prevent odors and moisture buildup

My neighbour’s dog bed flattened within months, but I’ve maintained my DIY creation for over a year by following these simple steps. The five minutes of maintenance each week saves the cost and effort of making a new bed!

How to Make an Orthopedic Dog Bed for Older Dogs

Senior dogs benefit tremendously from proper support. Here’s how to create an orthopedic bed:

1. Start with a 4-inch layer of high-density memory foam as the base
2. Add a 2-inch layer of gel-infused foam on top to regulate temperature
3. Wrap the foam layers in waterproof fabric to protect from accidents
4. Create a removable cover with a non-slip bottom for stability
5. Consider adding bolsters for extra neck and joint support

DIY Bolster Ideas for Extra Neck Support

Add comfortable bolsters to your dog bed with these methods:

Rolled Towel Method:

1. Roll several towels tightly
2. Wrap them in fabric to create a tube
3. Attach the tube to three sides of the bed using heavy-duty thread

Foam Bolsters:

1. Cut pool noodles or foam pipe insulation to size
2. Cover with fabric for comfort
3. Sew along the edges of the bed base

Stuffed Pillow Edge:

1. Create a C-shaped pillow filled with polyester stuffing
2. Attach it to the bed with strong stitching at multiple points
3. Make it removable for easier washing

The bolsters on my dog’s bed are her favourite feature – she loves resting her head on them while watching the household activities.

How to Make a Chew-Resistant Dog Bed

For dogs who love to chew, special precautions ensure a longer-lasting bed:

1. Choose ultra-durable fabrics like ballistic nylon or ripstop fabric
2. Double-stitch all seams with heavy-duty nylon thread
3. Avoid decorative elements like buttons, tassels, or exposed zippers
4. Consider a simple design with fewer seams and edges
5. Apply bitter apple spray to deter chewing (test on a small area first)
6. Provide appropriate chew toys nearby as alternatives

If your dog persists in chewing their bed, try raising it on a simple frame to change their relationship with it. My friend’s destructive Labrador stopped chewing his bed entirely when it was elevated just 4 inches off the ground!

Is Cedar Safe for Dog Beds?

Cedar chips are sometimes suggested for dog beds because they repel pests and control odors naturally. However, they require special consideration:

• Cedar can cause respiratory irritation in some dogs, particularly those with allergies
• If using cedar, place it in a separate, breathable inner pouch that can be removed
• Monitor your dog closely for signs of discomfort like sneezing, coughing, or itchy skin
• Consider safer alternatives like lavender sachets or activated charcoal for odor control

I personally wouldn’t use cedar, but I do have a dog that doesn’t smell. Well, unless she rolls in something.

Upcycling Ideas for a Budget-Friendly DIY Dog Bed

Get creative with these upcycled dog bed ideas:

Old Suitcase Transformation:

1. Remove the top portion of a vintage suitcase
2. Sand rough edges and clean thoroughly
3. Add padding and a washable cover
4. Optional: Add short legs for elevation

Wooden Crate Conversion:

1. Sand down a wooden crate to remove splinters
2. Apply pet-safe paint or sealant
3. Insert a cushion sized to fit perfectly
4. Add casters for mobility if desired

Side Table Flip:

1. Remove the legs from an old side table
2. Turn it upside down to create a frame
3. Add comfortable bedding inside
4. Finish with paint to match your décor

Sweater Bed:

1. Collect 4-6 old sweaters
2. Sew the arms closed and the neck openings partially closed
3. Stuff each sweater and sew them together in a circular pattern
4. Create a center cushion from another sweater or fabric

Troubleshooting Common DIY Dog Bed Issues

Even experienced crafters encounter challenges. Here are solutions to common problems:

Filling shifts or clumps:

• Sew internal dividers to create compartments that keep filling in place
• Use foam instead of loose filling

Dog slides on bed:

• Add non-slip fabric to the bottom
• Place rubber shelf liner under the bed

Seams coming apart:

• Reinforce with double stitching
• Use stronger thread designed for upholstery

Cover difficult to remove:

• Install a longer zipper
• Add corner ties to help position the cover correctly

Bed too hot in summer:

• Make a summer cover from cotton or linen
• Use cooling gel foam for the interior

When my dog’s bed filling kept shifting to one side, I added internal stitching to create a quilted effect. This simple fix solved the problem completely and added a decorative touch to the bed’s appearance.

Final Paw-fect Touch

Crafting a DIY dog bed isn’t just about saving money or flexing your creative muscles – it’s about creating a personalized haven that your furry friend will actually use. With the right materials, a dash of patience, and perhaps a few comedy-worthy sewing mishaps along the way, you’ll have a bed that’s uniquely tailored to your pet’s needs.

Remember, perfection isn’t the goal here – your dog won’t critique your stitching or judge if the sides aren’t perfectly symmetrical. What matters is the love and thought you’ve put into creating their special spot.

I’d love to see your DIY dog bed creations! Share photos in the comments below. And if you have questions about your project, drop them in the comments – our community of pet-loving crafters is always happy to help!

Now, watch as your proud creation becomes your pet’s favourite snoozing spot (until they decide the laundry pile looks more inviting, that is). And don’t get too despondent if your dog barely uses your hard work. Despite having numerous beds, Poppy’s favourite place to sleep is still my head.

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Have you made a DIY dog bed before? What materials did you use, and how did your furry friend like it? Share your experiences in the comments below!