DIY Dog Beds That Won’t Break the Bank

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A Good Dog Deserves a Good Bed

Creating DIY dog beds that won’t break the bank is not only a fun, creative project for pet owners, but it’s also a practical way to give your pup a comfy, cozy place to rest without emptying your wallet.

Dog Beds Can Be Ridiculously Expensive

Contrary to what you might expect, store-bought dog beds can sometimes cost more than dog food or toys. A cheap plastic crate? Maybe $20. A stuffed, padded, orthopedic dog bed? Potentially $150 or more.

And while you might be willing to shell out a lot for that perfect bed for your pooch, let’s face it: it’s a bed. It’s not a car, a couch, or even a smart TV.

Your dog is going to lie on it, sleep on it, roll around on it, chew on it—and eventually, they may even have accidents on it.

Do you really want to pay a ton of money for a soiled or destroyed dog bed? Me neither.

DIY Dog Beds to the Rescue

Before you rush out to buy the most expensive model your pet store has to offer, stop. Take a breath. And check out our list of DIY dog bed ideas.

We’ll show you how to make not just one, but a variety of creative, unique, inexpensive, super-simple dog beds that won’t break the bank or empty your pockets. Plus, you can customize the beds to your dog’s size, personality, sleeping style, and more.

DIY Dog Beds: Best Ideas to Keep Your Pooch Purring

Why You Should Make Your Own Dog Bed

You may be wondering, “Why would I want to make my own dog bed? Isn’t it easier to just buy one?”

As a former dog walker who’s seen it all, here are three compelling reasons to make DIY dog beds rather than buying them:

1. Cost: Good-quality dog beds are expensive—$60–$100 for a standard-size padded bed. Orthopedic beds with memory foam padding can cost $150–$300.

And those prices don’t include custom features, such as bolster pillows, elevated legs, stuffed animals, or plush covers. You can make most of these same beds and customization features from around the house for a fraction of the cost.

2. Customization: Every dog is different. Some like to sprawl out on big pillows, others need firmer surfaces to sleep on. Some dogs love bulky bolsters or benches.

Buying a ready-made bed from the store will never quite meet your dog’s specific comfort needs the way you can with DIY dog beds.

3. Eco-Friendly: Repurposing old blankets, clothing, or cushions into a dog bed is a great way to keep materials out of landfills while saving some cash.

DIY Dog Beds Are So Much Better

Not only are they easier on your wallet, but DIY dog beds are also more fun and rewarding to make. It’s a gift of love, handcrafted just for your pup.

Materials You Likely Already Have at Home

The best part about these DIY dog beds that won’t break the bank is that you likely already have the materials you need.

Here are some common household items you can use:

  • Old pillows and cushions: Soft and fluffy, perfect for stuffing a new dog bed.

  • Blankets, towels, or fleece: Great for layering and adding softness.

  • Old sweaters or T-shirts: If thick enough, they can be stuffed to make a small pillow or bolster.

  • Cardboard boxes or wooden crates: Ideal bases for frame-style beds.

  • Foam mattress toppers: Cut to size and covered with fabric for a custom-fit bed.

  • Socks and fabric scraps: A few extra socks can become a chew-friendly pillow, while scraps are perfect for small beds.

You don’t need to buy anything new—just raid your home or thrift store for materials to upcycle into the perfect dog bed.

Easy DIY Dog Bed Ideas

Here are some of our favorite, simple, no-fuss DIY dog bed projects. They’re inexpensive, stylish, and sure to keep your pup happy.

1. Pillow Pile Dog Bed

What You Need:

  • Old pillows or cushions

  • Pillowcases or scrap fabric

  • Needle and thread or sewing machine

Instructions:

  1. Stack pillows or cushions on top of each other.

  2. Sew or tie pillowcases around the pillows to hold them together.

  3. Add blankets or fleece on top for extra softness.

Why It Works: Dogs love soft, cushiony surfaces where they can bury their faces. This bed works perfectly for small to medium-sized dogs, and if pillows get lumpy or worn, you can swap them out easily.

2. Sweater Dog Bed

What You Need:

  • Old oversized sweater

  • Pillow, cushion, or stuffed material

  • Scissors and needle/thread

Instructions:

  1. Turn the sweater inside out and sew the bottom closed.

  2. Stuff it with pillows, t-shirts, or blankets.

  3. Sew the top closed or leave the neckline open for small dogs to snuggle in.

Why It Works: This bed creates a warm, cozy spot for your dog, filled with your scent—a comfort factor most dogs love. Perfect for small dogs or puppies who like tight, secure spaces.

3. Crate or Wooden Pallet Dog Bed

What You Need:

  • Wooden crate or pallet

  • Cushion, foam, or old blankets

  • Sandpaper, paint (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Sand the wood to avoid splinters.

  2. Paint or stain if desired.

  3. Add a cushion or blanket inside.

Why It Works: Larger dogs often prefer a well-defined space or “nest” to lounge in. This bed is customizable in size and height and can double as stylish pet furniture.

4. Rope or T-Shirt Braided Dog Bed

What You Need:

  • Old T-shirts or fabric strips

  • Scissors

Instructions:

  1. Cut T-shirts into long strips.

  2. Braid or twist them into a long rope.

  3. Coil the rope into a circle and sew or tie the ends together.

Why It Works: Ideal for medium-sized dogs. The braided texture provides firmness while keeping the center soft and comfy. A tightly braided bed also resists chewing.

5. No-Sew Fleece Mat Dog Bed

What You Need:

  • Two pieces of fleece or blanket fabric

  • Scissors

Instructions:

  1. Layer the fleece pieces on top of each other.

  2. Cut 1–2 inch fringes along the edges.

  3. Tie the fringes together to secure the layers.

Why It Works: One of the quickest and easiest DIY beds. Soft, warm, washable, and great for small to medium dogs. Ideal for crates or travel.

Dog Bed Hacks and Tips

A dog bed isn’t just a pile of cushions. Here’s how to make your DIY bed extra comfy and long-lasting:

  • Measure your dog: Ensure the bed is big enough for stretching out comfortably.

  • Consider sleeping style: Some dogs curl up, others sprawl. Adjust shape and padding accordingly.

  • Use washable covers: Makes cleaning easy.

  • Non-slip base: Helps beds stay in place on hardwood or tile floors.

  • Layer textures: Combining fleece on foam creates softness with support.

  • Safety first: Avoid small parts that could be chewed off. Use durable stitching and solid fabrics.

Customizing Your DIY Dog Bed

Add flair to make your dog bed truly special:

  • Dog’s Name: Sew or stencil it onto the bed.

  • Favorite Fabrics: Use t-shirts or blankets with your scent.

  • Decorative Elements: Add pom-poms or bolster pillows for style.

  • Seasonal Beds: Light-weight for summer, fleece-lined for winter.

Dog Bed Costs Compared to Making Them Yourself
Bed Type Store-Bought Cost DIY Cost
Standard Medium Dog Bed $60–$120 $10–$25
Orthopedic Memory Foam Bed $150–$300 $20–$40
Small Plush Dog Bed $40–$80 $5–$15

DIY beds can save up to 75% or more, especially if you repurpose materials from home.

Taking Care of Your DIY Dog Bed

To make your homemade bed last:

  • Wash regularly: Machine or hand wash covers weekly.

  • Rotate cushions: Prevent uneven wear.

  • Inspect for damage: Check seams and fabric, especially for chewers.

  • Replace padding: Flat cushions can be replaced without remaking the whole bed.

Final Thoughts

Making DIY dog beds that won’t break the bank is fun, rewarding, and practical. Dogs don’t need expensive, designer beds—they need comfort, style, and durability.

With a bit of creativity, some basic materials, and a few dollars, you can craft a bed your pup will adore—soft, cozy, and made with love.

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Benjamin Otu Effiwatt
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