11 Budget-Friendly DIY Dog Beds for Small Dogs That Look Amazing (and Cost Pennies)
Let’s be real—small dogs have a talent for claiming the most expensive spots in the house, usually the couch cushion or the middle of your bed. But you don’t need to drop $80 on a fancy pet boutique bed to give your pup a cozy corner. I’ve spent way too many weekends rummaging through thrift stores and raiding my own closet to find clever ways to build beds that are cute, washable, and practically free.
Whether you have a Chihuahua who burrows, a Yorkie who needs a soft landing, or a Pomeranian who acts like royalty, these 11 DIY projects are perfect for small breeds. Grab a pair of scissors, an old sweater, or a cheap pillow from the dollar store, and let’s get crafting. Your little friend is about to get the upgrade they deserve—without wrecking your budget.
1. The Cozy Sweater Bed (Zero Sewing Required)
You know that oversized sweater you never wear but can’t donate? It’s about to become the comfiest dog bed ever. This is the easiest project on the list, and it takes about ten minutes. All you need is a thick, soft sweater and a standard bed pillow.
Lay the sweater flat, stuff the pillow inside the body of the sweater, then fold the arms over the top. Tuck the sleeves underneath to create a soft rim. Your small dog will love curling into the neckline—it feels like a hug. For extra warmth, throw in a fleece blanket scrap.
Why it works: The knit material holds heat, and the raised edges make your pup feel secure. Plus, when it gets dirty, just pull the pillow out and toss the sweater in the wash. It’s the perfect winter hack.
2. The Dollar Store Fleece Donut
Donut beds are trendy, but they’re usually $40 or more. You can make one for under $5 using a cheap fleece throw blanket and a bag of poly-fill stuffing. This is a classic no-sew project that looks professionally made.
Cut the fleece into two large circles (use a dinner plate as a template). Then, cut a smaller circle out of the center of one piece. Snip fringe around the entire edge of both circles, then tie the top and bottom fringe pieces together in double knots. Leave an opening to stuff the donut, then close it up.
- Pro tip: Use two different colored fleeces for a cute two-tone effect.
- Size: Keep the circle about 20 inches across so it fits a small dog perfectly.
- Durability: Double knots hold up better than you think, even for diggers.
The raised center gives small dogs a pillow for their head and a safe spot to nest. It’s lightweight, so you can move it from the living room to the bedroom easily.
3. The Upcycled Storage Bin Bed
Look around your house—do you have a sturdy cardboard box, a wicker basket, or a plastic storage crate? That’s your new dog bed frame. Small dogs love having walls around them, so a deep bin gives them that enclosed cave feeling they crave.
Flip the bin upside down and cut a hole in the side, or just keep it upright and fill it with a soft cushion. For a quick fix, stuff a folded blanket inside and call it a day. For a more polished look, cover the outside with fabric using hot glue.
The best part is that these beds are portable. Carry the bin to the kitchen while you cook, or to the patio during sunny afternoons. If you use a plastic bin, just wipe it down with a damp cloth for easy cleaning. It’s the ultimate lazy-girl hack.
4. The Memory Foam Mattress Remake
Did you replace your old memory foam mattress topper? Don’t throw it away! That foam is the same material used in luxury dog beds. Cut a piece to fit your dog’s size (about 24×18 inches works great for small breeds).
Use an electric carving knife (yes, the one for turkeys) to slice through the foam cleanly. Then, find an old pillowcase or duvet cover to slip it into. For a more durable cover, sew a simple envelope case using an old flannel sheet.
Memory foam is amazing for senior dogs with joint pain. It molds to their body and provides support that regular pillows just can’t match. This is a premium bed at a zero-dollar cost, and your pup will sleep like a baby.
5. The Repurposed Crib Mattress Pad
If you have kids, or if you’ve ever been to a garage sale, you know crib mattress pads are everywhere. They’re usually waterproof, padded, and have a fitted sheet design. That makes them perfect for a dog bed base.
Just fold the crib pad in half or use it flat. The waterproof backing protects your floors from accidents and spills. Add a soft blanket on top, and you have a generous sleeping area that’s bigger than most store-bought small dog beds.
You can even buy a fitted crib sheet (the kind with elastic) and slip it over the pad. This way, you can wash the sheet weekly and never have to scrub the bed itself. It’s a clever parenting-meets-pet-parenting hack that works beautifully.
6. The No-Sew Fabric Knot Pillow
This one is perfect for beginners and kids to help with. Take a large piece of soft fabric (think an old t-shirt or a piece of polar fleece) and cut it into a big rectangle. Lay it flat, place a smaller cushion or folded blanket in the center, then gather the fabric up around the filling.
Secure the gathered fabric with a few strong rubber bands or hair ties. Then, trim the excess fabric into strips and tie them into knots. The result is a puffy, round pillow that looks like a boutique item but cost you nothing.
Small dogs love the squishy texture, and you can make the size adjustable by using more or less filling. If your pup is a chewer, use old jeans fabric for extra durability. It’s a fun five-minute build with instant gratification.
7. The Suitcase Dog Bed (Vintage Style)
Thrift stores are goldmines for vintage hard-sided suitcases. Not only do they look adorable in your decor, but they also make inherently safe beds for small dogs. The raised sides keep your pup contained, and the handle lets you carry them around.
Open the suitcase flat, and place a folded blanket or a small pillow inside the bottom half. The top half can stay open, creating a canopy effect, or you can prop it up with a small box for a cave-like entrance. Dogs love having a defined space that feels like a den.
If the suitcase has a fun pattern or retro stickers, leave it as is for a quirky vibe. If it’s worn, give it a quick coat of chalk paint. This is one of those projects that looks intentional and high-end, even though it’s basically free.
8. The Armchair Ottoman Conversion
Do you have a footstool or ottoman that’s seen better days? Instead of throwing it out, transform it into a plush dog bed. This works especially well with square or round ottomans that have a removable top cushion.
Remove the top cushion and replace it with a soft pet bed or a pile of blankets. If the ottoman has a solid top, just lay a thick, soft cushion on top and add a small blanket. Your small dog will love climbing up to their personal throne.
This is a great space-saver because it doubles as a footrest when your dog isn’t using it. And if you pick a fabric that matches your living room, no one will even notice it’s a dog bed. It’s the ultimate camouflage trick.
9. The DIY Bolster Bed Using Pool Noodles
Small dogs love to rest their heads on edges, which is why bolster beds are so popular. But buying one is pricey. Instead, use pool noodles! You can get them for a dollar at the dollar store or during end-of-summer sales.
Cut two pool noodles to the desired length and connect them into a square or rectangle using duct tape or by inserting a wooden dowel into the ends. Then, wrap the whole frame in a large piece of fleece, securing it with fabric glue or safety pins.
Place a soft cushion or folded blanket in the center. The noodle frame creates a raised rim that supports your dog’s neck and gives them a sense of security. It’s lightweight, waterproof (if they have accidents), and incredibly easy to rebuild.
10. The Repurposed Jeans Pocket Bed
For a rugged, masculine look (or just a fun DIY), grab a pair of old jeans with wide legs. Cut off one leg, sew or tie off the bottom end, and stuff it with fabric scraps or an old pillow. Then, shape it into a crescent or circle.
The thick denim is practically chew-proof, making it perfect for small dogs who like to gnaw on their beds. The pockets on the jeans can even be used to hide a small squeaky toy or treat, turning bed time into a game.
You can make several of these from a single pair of jeans, so you have spares for washing or for your dog’s crate. It’s a great way to recycle old clothes and create something that lasts for years. Plus, it looks pretty cool and rustic.
11. The Simple Blanket Nest (The Lazy Genius Method)
Sometimes, the best DIY is the one that takes zero effort. If your small dog already loves sleeping in a specific corner, just make that spot more inviting. Take a soft, fluffy bath towel and roll it into a circle.
Place a folded fleece blanket inside the circle of the rolled towel. Then, add a small, soft pillow in the center. That’s it. The rolled towel acts as a bolster, and the blankets provide warmth and softness. This is the ultimate “I have five minutes” solution.
Why this works so well: Small dogs often prefer their owner’s scent. Use a worn t-shirt instead of a clean blanket, and your pup will be instantly drawn to it. It’s not fancy, but it’s functional, and you can rebuild it in seconds.
Final Thoughts: Your Pup Deserves the Best (Without the Price Tag)
Making your own dog bed isn’t just about saving money—it’s about creating something custom that fits your dog’s exact personality. A burrower gets a deep bin, a leaner gets a bolster, and a princess gets a vintage suitcase. You know your small dog better than any factory ever could.
I hope these ideas inspire you to look at your clutter differently. That old sweater, that storage bin, that pool noodle—they’re all just waiting to become your dog’s new favorite nap spot. Take a weekend afternoon, put on a podcast, and build something with love. Your dog will appreciate the effort, and you’ll love the savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size DIY bed to make for my small dog?
Measure your dog from nose to tail while they’re sleeping curled up. Add 4 to 6 inches to that measurement. That’s the ideal diameter for the bed. Small dogs generally need about 18 to 24 inches of space.
What is the easiest DIY dog bed for a beginner?
The sweater bed is by far the easiest. You don’t need any tools or sewing skills. Just stuff a pillow into an old sweater and fold the arms. It takes less than five minutes.
How often should I wash my homemade dog bed?
You should wash the cover or blankets every two to three weeks. If your dog has allergies or is a heavy shedder, wash weekly. Always use a removable cover so you don’t have to wash the entire structure every time.
Are these DIY beds safe for puppies who chew?
For aggressive chewers, use denim or canvas materials and avoid stuffing that they could easily pull out. Always supervise your puppy the first few times they use the bed. If they start shredding it, remove it and offer a chew toy instead.
Can I make a waterproof DIY dog bed?
Yes! Use a waterproof crib mattress pad as the base, or wrap your cushion in a plastic shower curtain liner before adding a fabric cover. For senior dogs or puppies, this is a smart way to protect your floors and keep the bed smelling fresh.
