Pamper Your Pup: DIY Dog Bed with Style and Comfort

Does your dog sleep on old blankets or the floor? Many pet owners struggle to find beds that last more than a few months. Dogs chew, scratch, and soil their beds, making store-bought options costly over time.

What if you could make a bed that’s stronger, cheaper, and perfectly sized for your pet? This guide shows you how to create a custom dog bed using materials you already have at home.

By following these simple steps, you’ll craft a durable, washable bed your dog will love. The raised sides provide security while the soft center offers joint support.

Ready to save money and delight your furry friend? Let’s convert those old jeans into the perfect pet bed in just seven easy steps.

What Is the Best Fabric for A Dog Bed?

The best fabrics for a dog bed are those that are durable, comfortable, and easy to clean. Here are some of the top choices:

1. Canvas: Strong and durable, canvas is resistant to tears and can withstand heavy use. It’s also easy to clean, making it ideal for dogs who shed or tend to get dirty.

2. Microfiber: Soft and comfortable, microfiber is known for being hypoallergenic and easy to clean. It’s also resistant to stains and water, making it a good option for dogs that have accidents.

3. Denim: Denim is tough and long-lasting, great for dogs that are rough on their bedding. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.

4. Fleece: Fleece is soft and cozy, offering great warmth for dogs who like to snuggle. It’s also relatively easy to wash, though it may not be as durable as canvas or denim.

5. Cotton: A breathable and comfortable fabric, cotton is a good choice for a dog bed. However, it can wear out more quickly compared to more durable options like canvas or denim.

6. Waterproof Fabrics (like PVC or Nylon): Waterproof fabrics are essential for dogs with bladder issues or those prone to accidents. They prevent leaks and keep the bedding clean and dry.

For a dog bed, it’s best to choose a fabric that suits your dog’s specific needs—whether that’s comfort, durability, or ease of cleaning. Mixing durability with comfort will give you the best results.

7 Simple Steps to Creating a Stylish DIY Dog Bed

Materials You’ll Need

Material	Purpose
Old jeans or fabric	For the bottom of the bed
Sherpa fabric	For the top of the bed
Polyfill stuffing or fleece scraps	For filling the bed
Sewing machine	For sewing the bed pieces together
Scissors	For cutting fabric
Basic sewing supplies	For construction
Thread	For stitching
Sewing needle	For closing openings

Step 1: Prepare the Jeans

Start by cutting off the legs of your old jeans. Turn them inside out and cut off the seam on one side to flatten them. Next, sew two jean legs together along the long edge.

Use a half-inch seam allowance with regular thread. A 9014 universal needle works well for sewing through denim, but you can also use a specific jeans needle if you have one.

Step 2: Cut Your Fabrics

Cut both your jeans and sherpa fabric to the same size. For a medium bed of 12 x 16 inches, cut your fabrics to 22 x 26 inches. This adds 10 inches to the sides of the bed.

To create 5-inch high sides, cut a 4.5-inch square from each corner of both fabrics. Make sure to remove these squares from all four corners of both the jeans and sherpa pieces.

Step 3: Sew the Box Corners

Work with each fabric separately for this step. Take each corner where you cut the squares and place the edges with right sides together. Sew with a half-inch seam from the corner to the outside edge.

Remember to backtack at the corner for strength. Repeat this process for all eight corners – four on the jeans fabric and four on the sherpa fabric.

Step 4: Join the Fabrics

Place your jeans and sherpa fabrics with right sides together. Match up all the corners and pin around the edges. Leave two 4-inch openings on opposite corners. These openings will allow you to turn the bed right side out and stuff it later.

Mark these openings with double pins as a reminder to stop sewing at these points. Sew around the pinned edges with a half-inch seam.

Step 5: Form the Bed Shape

Turn the bed right side out through one of the openings. Push the corners into place to form the proper box shape. Measure 5 inches from each side and mark these points.

Sew a straight line between corners, about 5 inches from the sides. Leave a 2-inch gap on each side of the corners. This creates the channels for stuffing. Sew the long sides first, then the short sides.

Step 6: Stuff the Bed

Begin by stuffing the center portion of the bed. Place fleece scraps on the bottom layer for support. Add polyfill on top for extra softness. Use both corner openings to reach all areas of the center and sides.

After the center is full, move on to stuffing the sides all around. The sides work best with fleece scraps for firmness, while the center should be soft and comfy.

Step 7: Finish the Bed

Close all the openings with a needle and thread. The ladder stitch works best for a clean, nearly invisible closure. Go slowly and make small stitches for the most finished look.

Your pet bed is now complete and ready for your furry friend to enjoy. The firm sides and soft center create the perfect spot for rest and relaxation.

Size Customization

• For any size: measure desired center size
• Add 10 inches to both length and width measurements
• Cut your fabric to these new measurements
• Follow the same steps as above

Video Tutorial

Refer to the video by Needlepointers for a complete visual tutorial:

Do Dogs Prefer Raised Dog Beds?

Yes, many dogs do prefer raised dog beds, and there are several reasons for this:

1. Comfort: High beds can provide better support for a dog’s joints and muscles, especially for older dogs or those with arthritis. The slightly firm yet cushioned surface offers relief from pressure points, improving their overall comfort.

2. Temperature Regulation: Raised dog beds allow for air circulation underneath, helping to keep dogs cool in warmer weather. The airflow prevents heat buildup that can occur with traditional beds that sit directly on the floor, which can be especially beneficial in hot climates.

3. Cleanliness: Elevated beds help reduce the amount of dust, dirt, or cold moisture that a dog may come in contact with by being off the floor. This is particularly beneficial for dogs with allergies or those prone to skin conditions.

4. Better Sleep Quality: The high position can provide dogs with a better vantage point of their surroundings, which may make them feel more secure. This can improve their quality of sleep, especially for anxious or nervous dogs.

5. Joint Health: For dogs with joint issues, an raised bed can help alleviate pressure on sensitive areas like hips and elbows. The soft yet firm surface is often easier to get on and off than traditional low beds.

That said, not all dogs may prefer elevated beds, especially if they have anxiety about being off the ground or if they are used to sleeping on softer surfaces. It’s always a good idea to observe your dog’s behavior and comfort with the bed before making a decision.

Conclusion

Now you’ve learned how to make a comfortable, long-lasting dog bed from old jeans and sherpa fabric. This project not only saves you money but also gives new life to materials you might have thrown away.

Remember, the key to a successful dog bed is matching it to your pet’s needs. When customizing dimensions, consider your dog’s size, sleeping habits, and any joint issues.

If your first attempt isn’t perfect, don’t worry! Adjust the stuffing amount or try different fabrics next time. Each bed you make will be better than the last.

Why not share photos of your creation on social media? Other pet owners would love to see your handiwork.

Your furry friend deserves a cozy place to rest – and you’ve just made that happen with your own hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Foam Do You Use to Make a Dog Bed?

Use high-density memory foam or orthopedic foam for optimal support and comfort.

How to Turn a Pillow Into a Dog Bed?

Add a soft cover and, optionally, extra padding or foam for a comfortable dog bed.

Why Do Dogs Prefer the End of The Bed?

Dogs may prefer the end of the bed for a sense of security and a clear view of their surroundings.

What Is the Difference Between a Dog Bed and An Elevated Cot?

A dog bed is typically a soft, cushioned surface, while an elevated cot lifts the dog off the ground for better air circulation and support.