Large dogs need a cozy spot to rest and recharge just as much as their smaller counterparts. However, finding the perfect dog bed that’s both comfortable and stylish can be a challenge, especially when you’re on a budget. Fear not, pet lovers! In this article, we’ll explore some DIY dog bed ideas that are perfect for your large furry friend. Not only will these projects save you money, but they’ll also allow you to customize the bed to suit your dog’s needs and your home decor.
DIY Dog Bed Ideas for Large Dogs
1. Pallet Bed
Materials: Wooden pallets, sandpaper, paint, cushion
Instructions:
- Start by sanding down a wooden pallet to remove any rough edges.
- Paint or stain the pallet in a color that matches your home decor.
- Place a thick, comfortable cushion on top of the pallet. You can either buy a cushion or make one using foam and fabric.
2. Old Furniture Transformation
Materials: Old dresser or table, cushion, paint
Instructions:
- Remove any drawers or shelves from an old dresser or table.
- Cut out a space large enough for your dog to comfortably lie down.
- Paint the furniture to give it a fresh look.
- Add a cushion inside the space for comfort.
3. Tire Bed
Materials: Old tire, paint, cushion
Instructions:
- Clean an old tire thoroughly.
- Paint the tire in a vibrant color or a shade that complements your interior.
- Place a round cushion inside the tire for a cozy resting spot.
4. Suitcase Bed
Materials: Vintage suitcase, pillow or cushion, legs (optional)
Instructions:
- Find a hard-shell vintage suitcase that’s large enough for your dog.
- Remove one side of the suitcase so it can lay open flat.
- Fill the bottom with a fluffy pillow or cushion.
- For added height, attach legs to the bottom of the suitcase.
5. Wooden Crate Bed
Materials: Large wooden crate, paint, cushion
Instructions:
- Choose a wooden crate that’s sturdy and spacious enough for your dog.
- Paint the crate to match your decor or leave it natural for a rustic look.
- Add a soft cushion inside for comfort.
6. Memory Foam Mattress Bed
Materials: Memory foam mattress topper, fabric, sewing machine, zipper
Instructions:
- Cut the memory foam mattress topper to the size of your dog.
- Sew a cover for the foam using durable fabric. Include a zipper for easy removal and cleaning.
- Place the foam inside the cover, and your dog has a comfortable, orthopedic bed.
7. Sweatshirt Bed
Materials: Old sweatshirt, stuffing, sewing kit
Instructions:
- Stuff the sleeves and body of an old sweatshirt with soft stuffing material.
- Sew the cuffs of the sleeves together to create a circular shape.
- Tuck the stuffed body into the circular sleeves, forming a cozy nest-like bed.
8. Drawer Bed
Materials: Old drawer, paint, legs, cushion
Instructions:
- Take a drawer from an old dresser and paint it to suit your home’s aesthetic.
- Attach small legs to the bottom to raise it off the ground.
- Place a soft cushion inside for a simple, chic dog bed.
9. Rope Bed
Materials: Cotton rope, hot glue gun, non-slip mat, cushion
Instructions:
- Coil a thick cotton rope into a circular shape, using a hot glue gun to secure it as you go.
- Continue until you’ve reached the desired size for your dog.
- Place a non-slip mat underneath to keep the bed in place.
- Add a cushion on top for extra comfort.
10. Bean Bag Bed
Materials: Durable fabric, zipper, bean bag filling
Instructions:
- Sew a large, round cover using durable fabric. Include a zipper for easy filling and cleaning.
- Fill the cover with bean bag filling until it reaches the desired firmness.
- Zip it up, and you have a soft, moldable bed that your dog can sink into.
11. Quilted Blanket Bed
Materials: Old quilts or blankets, sewing machine
Instructions:
- Take several old quilts or thick blankets and stack them on top of each other.
- Sew around the edges to secure them together.
- For added comfort, you can quilt the layers together at intervals to prevent shifting.
12. Outdoor Hammock Bed
Materials: Sturdy fabric, rope, hooks
Instructions:
- Cut a piece of sturdy fabric to the size of your dog.
- Hem the edges and attach loops of rope to each corner.
- Hang the hammock between two hooks or trees in your backyard for a relaxing outdoor bed.
13. Denim Bed
Materials: Old jeans, sewing machine, stuffing
Instructions:
- Cut the legs off several pairs of old jeans.
- Sew the denim pieces together to form a large, flat surface.
- Stuff it with soft filling and sew it closed for a durable and comfortable bed.
14. Faux Fur Bed
Materials: Faux fur fabric, sewing machine, cushion
Instructions:
- Cut two pieces of faux fur fabric to the desired size of the bed.
- Sew them together, leaving one side open for stuffing.
- Insert a cushion or stuffing and sew the opening closed for a luxurious and cozy bed.
15. Tire & Rope Combo Bed
Materials: Old tire, thick rope, hot glue gun, cushion
Instructions:
- Clean and paint an old tire.
- Wrap thick rope around the tire, using a hot glue gun to secure it in place. This adds a textured look and extra cushioning.
- Place a round cushion inside the tire for added comfort.
16. Wine Barrel Bed
Materials: Half a wine barrel, sandpaper, paint, cushion
Instructions:
- Cut a wine barrel in half and sand down any rough edges.
- Paint or varnish the outside to protect the wood and match your decor.
- Place a thick cushion inside the barrel for a rustic and unique dog bed.
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17. Stuffed Toy Bed
Materials: Large stuffed toys, sewing machine, fabric, stuffing
Instructions:
- Arrange large stuffed toys in a circle, with their backs facing inward.
- Sew the toys together at their sides to create a ring.
- Cover the center with fabric and fill it with stuffing to create a soft, playful bed.
18. Cabinet Bed
Materials: Old cabinet, paint, cushion, decorative knobs
Instructions:
- Find a sturdy old cabinet that’s large enough for your dog.
- Remove the doors and any shelves.
- Paint the cabinet in a color that complements your decor.
- Add decorative knobs or handles for a finished look.
- Place a soft cushion inside for a cozy sleeping area.
19. Knitted Bed
Materials: Chunky yarn, knitting needles
Instructions:
- Using chunky yarn, knit a large, flat rectangle or circle.
- Sew the edges together to form a thick, soft bed.
- You can also knit a border around the edge for added structure.
20. PVC Pipe Bed
Materials: PVC pipes, connectors, fabric, screws
Instructions:
- Construct a frame using PVC pipes and connectors.
- Cut a piece of durable fabric to size and attach it to the frame using screws, creating a hammock-like bed.
- This bed is great for outdoor use as it’s easy to clean and provides airflow.
21. Bookshelf Bed
Materials: Old bookshelf, paint, cushion
Instructions:
- Repurpose an old bookshelf by laying it on its back.
- Paint it to match your home decor.
- Add a cushion or mattress inside one of the compartments for a cozy nook.
22. Sleigh Bed
Materials: Wooden sleigh, sandpaper, paint, cushion
Instructions:
- Find an old wooden sleigh or build a simple sleigh-shaped frame.
- Sand down any rough edges and paint it in a festive or neutral color.
- Add a thick cushion to fit snugly inside the sleigh for a charming and cozy bed.
23. Picnic Basket Bed
Materials: Large picnic basket, fabric, cushion
Instructions:
- Choose a sturdy picnic basket that’s large enough for your dog.
- Line the inside with a soft fabric, securing it in place.
- Place a cushion or pillow inside for a quaint and comfortable bed.
24. Ottoman Bed
Materials: Old ottoman, fabric, foam, sewing machine
Instructions:
- Remove the top of an old ottoman and hollow out the inside.
- Cut foam to fit the interior and cover it with fabric for a soft base.
- Reattach the top, now serving as a cozy, hidden bed for your dog.
25. Log Bed
Materials: Large log, saw, sandpaper, cushion
Instructions:
- Find a large log and cut it in half lengthwise.
- Hollow out the center to create a cavity for sleeping.
- Sand the edges smooth and add a custom-sized cushion for a natural and rustic bed.
26. Staircase Bed
Materials: Old wooden staircase, paint, cushions
Instructions:
- Repurpose an old wooden staircase by laying it on its side.
- Paint it to match your home decor.
- Add cushions on each step to create a multi-level bed for your dog.
27. Skateboard Bed
Materials: Old skateboard, metal legs, cushion
Instructions:
- Attach metal legs to an old skateboard deck to elevate it off the ground.
- Place a cushion on top of the deck for a cool and modern dog bed.
28. Boat Bed
Materials: Small wooden boat, paint, cushion
Instructions:
- Use a small wooden boat or half of a canoe as the base for the bed.
- Paint it in a nautical theme or leave it natural.
- Add a cushion inside for a maritime-inspired dog bed.
29. Concrete Block Bed
Materials: Concrete blocks, plywood, paint, cushion
Instructions:
- Arrange concrete blocks to form a rectangular frame.
- Place a piece of plywood on top of the blocks as a base.
- Paint the blocks and plywood for a modern industrial look.
- Add a cushion on top for comfort.
30. Old TV Console Bed
Materials: Old TV console, paint, cushion
Instructions:
- Remove the electronics from an old TV console.
- Paint the exterior to freshen it up.
- Place a cushion inside the console for a retro-inspired dog bed.
31. Wagon Bed
Materials: Old wagon, paint, cushion
Instructions:
- Clean and paint an old wagon for a vintage look.
- Add a cushion inside the wagon for a mobile dog bed that can be easily moved around.
32. Hanging Macrame Bed
Materials: Macrame rope, wooden ring, cushion
Instructions:
- Create a macrame net using rope and a wooden ring to hang it from.
- Place a cushion inside the net for a bohemian-style hanging bed that gently sways.
33. Foam Block Bed
Materials: High-density foam blocks, fabric, sewing machine
Instructions:
- Arrange high-density foam blocks to create a rectangular or square shape.
- Sew a cover using durable fabric and slip it over the foam structure.
- This bed is great for dogs that need extra support for their joints.
Conclusion
Creating a DIY dog bed for your large furry friend is a fun and rewarding project. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also end up with a unique and comfortable bed that your dog will love. Remember to choose materials that are safe and durable, and don’t forget to add your personal touch to make it truly special. Happy crafting!
