15 DIY Dog Bed Ideas You Can Make Cheap
Let’s be real—dog beds can cost a small fortune. And half the time, your pup ends up sleeping on your pillows anyway, right? I’ve been there. That’s why I started making my own dog beds at home. Not only do they save money, but they also let me pick fabrics that match my living room instead of that weird plaid print from the pet store.
I’ve rounded up 15 of my favorite budget-friendly DIY dog bed ideas. Most of these use items you might already have lying around, like old sweaters, pillows, or even a suitcase. Your furry friend won’t care if it’s fancy—they’ll just love that it smells like you and feels cozy. Let’s get crafting!
Before we dive in, a quick note: you don’t need to be a sewing pro for these. Some ideas are literally no-sew. If you can stuff a pillowcase or fold a blanket, you can make a dog bed. Ready? Let’s go.
1. Repurposed Old Sweater Bed
Got a wool sweater that’s seen better days? Turn it into the coziest little nest for your small or medium dog. The thick knit feels warm and soft, and the collar naturally creates a little rim your pup can lean against.
Simply sew the bottom and sleeves shut, stuff it with old pillow filling or fabric scraps, and stitch the top closed. For a no-sew version, knot the sleeves together underneath. It’s like a hug in a bed.
Pro tip: use a sweater that already has some stretch so it molds to your dog’s shape. Your pup will curl up in it instantly.
2. Pallet Pet Lounge
Wood pallets are basically free if you know where to look. They make a super sturdy, elevated bed that’s perfect for bigger dogs who like to sprawl out. Plus, it keeps them cool in summer since air flows underneath.
Sand the pallet smooth first so there are no splinters. Then add a thick outdoor cushion or a folded memory foam topper on top. You can stain or paint the wood to match your porch or patio.
I love this one because it doubles as a side table. Just add a tray on top when your dog isn’t using it. Two birds, one stone.
3. No-Sew Fleece Knot Bed
This is probably the easiest DIY on the list. All you need is two yards of fleece fabric and some polyfill stuffing. Cut both pieces of fleece into a large rectangle, then cut fringe strips along all four edges.
Lay one piece flat, add a thick layer of stuffing, and place the second piece on top. Then, simply tie the fringe strips together in double knots all around. That’s it—you’ve got a fluffy, washable bed in under an hour.
Fleece comes in a million colors and patterns, so you can go wild with cute prints. Your dog will love the soft texture, and you’ll love that you can toss the whole thing in the washing machine.
4. Repurposed Crib Mattress Bed
If you have an old crib mattress lying around (or can snag one from a garage sale for cheap), you’ve got an instant giant dog bed. These mattresses are the perfect size for large breeds and come with waterproof covers already.
Just throw a fitted sheet over it—crib sheets fit perfectly. You can even layer two sheets so changing them is a breeze. For extra coziness, add a soft blanket on top.
This is one of those “why didn’t I think of this sooner” ideas. It’s basically a human bed for your dog, and they will feel like royalty.
5. Upcycled Tire Bed
This one looks super cool and costs almost nothing. Grab an old tire from a garage or auto shop, clean it thoroughly, and wrap it in thick rope or fabric. The round shape mimics a cave-like den, which many dogs find comforting.
You can paint the tire first if you want a pop of color. Then glue a round cushion inside for the bottom. For bigger dogs, use a tractor tire. For small pups, a regular car tire works great.
Just make sure the tire is completely dry and free of any chemicals before you start. It’s rugged, durable, and totally unique.
6. IKEA Hack Dog Bed
You know those IKEA storage bins or small tables? Flip one on its side, add a cushion, and boom—instant dog cave. The best part is that the furniture already has clean lines and fits into modern decor.
Remove any doors or drawers, then place a pet bed or folded blanket inside. You can also add short legs to elevate it slightly off the floor. Dogs love having a little roof over their heads when they sleep.
This hack costs under $20 if you already have a bin or find one secondhand. It’s sleek, simple, and your guests won’t even know it’s a dog bed at first glance.
7. Vintage Suitcase Bed
Thrift stores are full of old suitcases that nobody wants anymore. With a little love, they become the cutest vintage dog beds. The hard shell provides structure, and the interior feels like a secret hideaway.
Remove the top half or keep it attached for a closed den look. Add a soft cushion or pillow inside. You can leave the suitcase as-is for a retro vibe or paint it a fun color.
Small dogs fit perfectly in carry-on sizes. Medium dogs might need a larger checked bag. Either way, it’s a conversation starter every time someone visits.
8. Folded Blanket Bed
Sometimes the simplest idea is the best. Grab a large, thick blanket and fold it into a rectangle that’s roughly the size of your dog. That’s literally it—you now have a soft, portable bed.
You can use a fleece throw, a wool blanket, or even an old comforter. The key is to fold it so it has some thickness and cushion. If you want it to stay put, sew a few stitches along the edges to keep the folds in place.
This is perfect for travel or for dogs who like to move their bed around the house. Plus, it takes zero skill and about 30 seconds to make.
9. Wooden Crate Bed
Wooden crates from the grocery store or craft store are cheap and sturdy. Stack two side by side or use one large crate for a simple, rustic dog bed. Sand down any rough spots first.
Add a cushion or pillow inside the crate. You can also attach casters to the bottom so it slides easily across the floor. This is great for older dogs who need a little extra support getting in and out.
Paint the crate or leave it natural. Either way, it looks farmhouse-chic without spending a lot of money.
10. Memory Foam Scrap Bed
If you’ve ever replaced a mattress, you know the old one is full of usable foam. Cut a piece of memory foam to the size you want for your dog’s bed. You can use a serrated bread knife to shape it cleanly.
Cover the foam with a tightly fitted sheet or a zip-up pillow cover. For extra durability, add a waterproof liner underneath. Memory foam is amazing for joint health, especially for senior dogs.
This is probably the most comfortable DIY bed on the list. Your dog might not want to sleep anywhere else after this.
11. Toddler Bed Conversion
Got an old toddler bed taking up space in the garage? Remove the railings and add a thick mattress topper. The frame is already the perfect size for a medium to large dog, and it’s raised off the floor.
You can paint the frame a fun color or leave it as is. Add a fitted sheet and a small blanket, and your dog has their own little bed frame just like the humans. It’s adorable and practical.
Some dogs even like to jump up onto it, which gives them a sense of ownership. Plus, it’s super easy to clean since you can just wash the sheets.
12. PVC Pipe Frame Bed
For a raised bed that’s lightweight and portable, use PVC pipes as the frame. Cut four pieces for the legs and four for the base rectangle. Connect them with elbow joints and add a piece of sturdy fabric stretched over the top.
You can use canvas, outdoor fabric, or even an old tarp. The fabric should be taut so it supports your dog’s weight. This bed is great for outdoor use because it dries fast and doesn’t absorb mud.
It’s also super easy to disassemble for camping trips or beach days. Your dog will have a cool, elevated spot to lounge anywhere you go.
13. Old Dresser Drawer Bed
That rickety dresser you’ve been meaning to toss? Pull out one of the drawers and turn it into a cozy dog bed. The drawer sides act as natural bumpers, which some dogs love for leaning against.
Sand and paint the drawer to match your decor. Add a cushion or folded blanket inside. You can even add short legs to the bottom for a furniture-like look.
This is a great option for dogs who like to feel enclosed while they sleep. It’s like a little wooden cave that’s all theirs.
14. Repurposed Coffee Table Bed
If you have an old coffee table with a lower shelf, you can turn it into a built-in dog bed. Remove the top if needed, or use the space underneath. Add a cushion and some pillows, and your dog has a spot right in the middle of the action.
You can also cut a hole in the front for a cave-like entrance. Paint or stain the table so it looks intentional. This is perfect for small spaces where every piece of furniture needs to multitask.
Your dog gets to be near you while you watch TV, and you don’t lose any floor space. Win-win.
15. Laundry Basket Bed
This one is almost too easy. Grab a large plastic or woven laundry basket, flip it over, or leave it upright. Add a soft cushion or blanket inside. The basket provides structure and ventilation.
For small dogs, a standard laundry basket is perfect. For bigger pups, use a storage tote or a larger bin. You can even cut one side lower for easy access if your dog is older.
It’s lightweight, easy to move from room to room, and costs next to nothing. Plus, if it gets dirty, you can hose it down in seconds.
Conclusion
Making your own dog bed doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a little creativity and some items you probably already own, you can create a cozy spot your dog will love. Whether you go for a no-sew fleece bed or a wooden crate lounge, the best part is knowing you made it yourself.
Your pup doesn’t care about brand names or price tags. They care about comfort, warmth, and being close to you. So pick your favorite idea, gather your materials, and enjoy some quality craft time. Your dog will thank you with extra snuggles.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the cheapest material to use for a DIY dog bed?
Old blankets, towels, and pillows are totally free and work great. Fleece is also cheap and easy to work with, especially for no-sew projects.
2. How do I make a dog bed that’s easy to clean?
Use removable covers or pillowcases. For no-sew beds, you can toss the whole thing in the wash if it’s fleece. Adding a waterproof liner underneath helps too.
3. Can I make a dog bed without sewing?
Absolutely. The no-sew fleece knot bed, folded blanket bed, and crib mattress bed all require zero sewing. You just tie, fold, or cover.
4. What size should I make the bed?
Measure your dog from nose to tail while they’re sleeping curled up, then add a few inches. For sprawlers, measure them stretched out. Bigger is usually better.
5. Are these DIY beds safe for dogs who chew?
For heavy chewers, avoid loose stuffing and soft fabrics. Use durable materials like canvas, wood, or thick denim. Always supervise your dog with new beds at first.
