Budget-Friendly DIY Dog Bed Ideas to Try

by Carolyn Ross 02/21/2022

A comfortable pet is a happy pet. But sometimes, pet furniture is not comfortable for your budget. Instead of overspending on a dog bed, consider the DIY approach. If you're interested in some clever ways to upcycle items into budget-friendly dog beds, here are some ideas to inspire you.

Wine Barrel Bed

Wine barrels are a favorite among the DIY community for their sturdiness, versatility and rustic charm. If you take half of a wine barrel and add a shallow cutout for your dog to climb in and out, it can make an excellent pet bed. Make sure you sand and treat the wood with non-toxic treatment and then add a comfy cushion or blanket of choice. If you have a smaller dog, opt for cutting the barrel lower down to make a shallower container.

Suitcase Bed

Do you have an old broken suitcase you haven't gotten rid of? Now's the perfect time to give it new use as a dog bed. If you have either a hard or soft shell suitcase, you can simply add a cushion and lay it open for your dog to sleep in. One of the advantages of this DIY idea is that due to the myriad choices of suitcase sizes, you can make a perfect bed for any breed and size of dog. Decorate and customize as you wish for a funky, upcycled bed your pet will love.

Dresser Drawer Bed

An unused dresser drawer can become a cute and funky dog bed with only a few DIY steps. Remove a drawer from an old dresser and add a soft piece of foam or cushion inside. Decorate or paint the outside and you have an instant dog bed ready for the bedroom or anywhere else in your home. If the drawer is made of wood, give the edges some extra sanding for safety and to protect your pet from splinters.

About the Author
Author

Carolyn Ross

Carolyn Ross spent her career in the advertising world as a commercial photographer. She is no stranger to meeting challenging deadlines and working with many people in a fast paced environment. 

She has shot for various magazines such as Architectural Digest, Boston Globe Magazine, Wellesley Weston, South Shore life as well Boston Magazine to name a few. Her love of homes and visual spaces has evolved through the years and has lead her to expand her career. She currently serves on the board of a national organization: The American Society of Media Photographers for the New England chapter. She has been involved in the school art programs as well as teaching photography classes.

Carolyn's expert knowledge of staging and art direction is what differentiates her from other agents.  She has also taken her keen business background and artistic talents to successfully renovate numerous investment properties in the Metrowest area over the last several years. 

This is what inspires her and with determination and passion, she will bring these unique skills to your next real estate transaction.