Making a covered dog bed yourself brings a lot of benefits. You create a special spot that fits your dog perfectly. By using simple materials, you can make a comfortable area that looks good in your home. This project helps you and your pet grow closer and shows your creativity.
First, you need to pick up some supplies. You’ll need things like padding, fabric, and a zipper. You might also want a waterproof cover, like a mattress protector. For a regular-sized bed, you’ll want it to be about 36 inches by 24 inches by 3 inches. The amount of fabric you need depends on the bed size. Strong fabrics like fleece or canvas are best because they last longer.
You can make the bed fit anywhere, for any size dog. The steps include cutting fabric, sewing zippers, and making the corners neat. Even if you’re new to DIY, the instructions are clear. The cost is reasonable too—fabric might be about $13 per yard. For more ideas, check out this great guide.
Understanding the Benefits of a Covered Dog Bed
A covered dog bed provides many advantages, like making your pet feel safe and comfy. It offers them a cozy place to sleep. Let’s look at these benefits.
Comfort and Security
A sense of comfort and security is crucial for pets. Covered dog beds are similar to dens, which dogs naturally like. This is great for anxious pets because it makes them feel safe. It also makes the house quieter by reducing stress-related barking.
Protection from Elements
These beds also protect pets from things like cold drafts and noise. They’re especially good for older dogs or dogs with short fur. You can get heated or waterproof beds depending on what your dog needs. Heated beds ease joint pain, and waterproof beds are good for dogs still learning to be house-trained.
Customization Options
You can choose from many options to make your dog’s bed perfect. Pick from materials like memory foam or faux fur for comfort and easy cleaning. Beds with hypoallergenic materials are great for dogs with allergies. Many come with covers you can wash, which helps keep the bed clean. Choosing the right bed can make a big difference in your dog’s sleep and health.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Memory Foam | Provides superior joint support |
| Faux Fur | Ensures durability and comfort |
| Heated Beds | Ideal for older dogs with joint issues |
| Waterproof Beds | Suitable for not fully house-trained dogs |
| Hypoallergenic Materials | Creates an allergen-free environment |
| Removable Covers | Ease of cleaning and maintenance |
Materials You’ll Need for Your Dog Bed
Getting ready to make a dog bed? First, you need the right stuff. You’ll want to choose materials that are cozy, tough, and simple to clean. Knowing exactly what you need helps make your project go smoothly and becomes a fun activity.
Choosing the Right Fabric
Picking a 60-inch-thick washable cotton upholstery fabric for the cover is a smart move. It’s not only thicker and softer but holds up well under lots of use. You will need 2 yards at about $13 per yard. This fabric choice means the bed will last longer and stay clean without hassle, making a snug spot for your pet.
Foam Types for Comfort
Fill the bed with two large, squishy queen-sized pillows. Doing so makes sure your dog, no matter their size, gets the support and comfort they need. Pillows let you fluff up the bed anytime, keeping it comfortable for longer.
Optional Accessories
Adding a few optional accessories can really up your dog bed game. For example:
- Zipper: A 60” nylon coil zipper, trimmed to about 40 inches, lets you take off the cover easily. It helps in cleaning and adds convenience.
- Seam-Ripper: A seam-ripper might come in handy for fixing any sewing mistakes, helping you get the perfect fit.
- Thicker Sewing Thread: Using a thicker sewing thread means the bed’s seams are stronger and last longer—important for a pet’s bed.
These optional items not only simplify making the bed but also boost its sturdiness and maintenance ease.
Part of making the bed includes measuring and cutting the fabric right. Make sure to leave extra fabric around the pillows for a good fit. When sewing, include the zipper correctly for easy removal. The sewing trick is to stitch with a narrow seam and turn sharply at each corner to keep the fabric tight.
| Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 2 yards, 60-inch-thick washable cotton upholstery fabric |
| Foam | 2 large queen-sized pillows |
| Zipper | 60” long nylon coil, cut to 40 inches |
| Thread | Thicker than standard sewing machine thread |
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Dog Bed
To make a custom dog bed, you’ll follow some easy steps. We’ll show you how to make a sturdy base, add comfy padding, and craft a stylish cover.
Creating the Base
Start by making a strong base. This involves cutting wood and putting it together. You will need:
- 1x8x8 Pine board
- 1/2″x48″ Round Dowels (5 pieces)
- 1 1/4″ Pocket hole screws
Here’s how to build the base:
- Cut the Pine board to size.
- Drill pocket holes in specific spots.
- Assemble it using the dowels and screws.
Adding the Padding
Now, add padding to make it cozy. Choose fluffy pillows and high-quality fabric. You’ll need:
- 2 Queen-sized overstuffed pillows
- 2 yards of 60-inch wide upholstery fabric
- Extra fabric for the edges
To add the padding, do the following:
- Cut the fabric with extra edge room.
- Place pillows on the base.
- Sew the edges of the fabric firmly.
Constructing the Cover
For a beautiful and practical cover:
- Use a 60-inch wide piece of fabric
- Get a zipper, around 40 inches long
Follow these steps for the cover:
- Cut fabric to the correct size, including extra for the edges.
- Sew, leaving space for the zipper.
- Attach the zipper for easy care.
The table below shows the materials and costs:
| Material | Details | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Upholstery Fabric | 60-inch roll, 2 yards | $26 |
| Overstuffed Pillows | 2 Queen-sized | $20 |
| Pine Board | 1x8x8 | $10 |
| Round Dowels | 1/2″x48″, 5 pieces | $4 |
Tips for Measuring Your Dog’s Size Appropriately
Choosing the right size covered dog bed is very important. It makes sure your pet is comfortable and happy. Here’s how to measure your dog correctly for a perfect bed fit.
Measuring Length and Width
First, measure your dog from nose to tail end, and then measure across their shoulders. It’s smart to add 6 to 12 inches to these numbers for extra room. Many people get these measurements wrong, ending up with beds that are too small. Learning the right way to measure can help avoid this mistake.
Considering Height for Comfort
Also, think about how tall your dog is. Dogs often like beds with sides to lean on, so measure from the floor to their head while sitting. This helps you find a bed tall enough for them, for better sleep and joint support.
Accounting for Growth
If your dog is still a puppy, remember they will get bigger fast. Choose a bed that is a bit larger than you need right now. For older dogs, an orthopedic dog bed is a good choice for extra care, especially for those with joint pain. This keeps your dog comfy as they age and saves money on buying new beds often.
Knowing how your dog likes to sleep is also key. Dogs that curl up can use a smaller bed, but sprawlers need more space. For additional help, visit online guides and reviews to find the ideal bed.
Unique Design Ideas for Your Covered Dog Bed
Make your dog’s bed more than just a place to sleep. Use trendy fabrics and patterns that match your home. Adding personal touches makes it cozy and stylish.
Trendy Fabrics and Patterns
Choosing the right fabric is key. Zazzle polyester poplin is great for its wrinkle resistance. For comfort, pick fleece for its softness and many designs. You’ll need about 2 yards of 60″ wide fabric for the bed.
Think outside the box for a DIY project. Use old sweaters, dresser drawers, or suitcases. These items are not only eco-friendly but can also fit any dog size, focusing on comfort and looks.
Color Schemes to Match Your Home
Match your dog’s bed with your home decor by choosing the right colors. You can go for neutral or bright colors. The goal is to make the bed blend in for a unified look.
| Dog Bed Type | Color Options | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Orthopedic Calming Bed | Gray, Blue, Pink | Faux Fur |
| Modern Dog Crate | Black, White, Brown | Wood |
| Sedona Pillow | Red, Yellow, Green | Cotton Blend |
Personalized Embellishments
Make the dog bed unique with personal touches. Monogram your pet’s name or add decorative trims. Protect it from stains with ScotchGard fabric spray.
For a luxury feel, try a no-sew fleece bed. It’s easy to make by cutting and tying the fabric. This takes about an hour.
These ideas help you design a bed that’s both stylish and comfy for your pet. For more DIY dog bed ideas, click here.
Maintenance and Cleaning of the Dog Bed
It’s important to keep your dog’s bed clean for their health and comfort. Regular care helps the bed last longer. This makes sure your pet has a clean place to sleep.
Choosing Washable Materials
Choosing a dog bed with washable materials makes cleaning easier. If the cover comes off, you can wash it often. This means you don’t have to wash the main bed as much. Plastic beds are simple to clean since they don’t hold onto fur, odors, or bugs. Beds off the ground have fabric that’s easy to wipe down, unlike ones filled with fibers.
Cleaning Techniques
The Canadian Medical Association Journal and the CDC suggest washing the bedding every week. This keeps parasites and diseases away. The EPA says to deep clean every 2 to 3 weeks to fight fleas.
For stains, use Nature’s Miracle. Let it sit for 20 minutes, then blot it. Wash bedding in cold water to keep it in good shape. A second spin dries it well, and use low heat to dry it fully. This avoids shrinkage and bunching.
Tips to Extend Lifespan
Here are some tips to make your dog bed last even longer:
- Use the SEBO Airbelt K3 Premium vacuum cleaner for removing pet hair effectively.
- Black+Decker 20V Max Dustbuster AdvancedClean+ handles tough pet messes well.
- ChomChom Pet Hair Remover is great for cleaning up hair. It’s reusable and doesn’t need refills.
- Tide Ultra Stain Release Free is a good choice for pets sensitive to smells. It’s fragrance-free.
- Regular bed cleaning can reduce the risk of fleas found in pets’ sleeping spots.
Following these maintenance steps keeps your dog’s bed clean. This helps the bed last longer. Your pet stays comfy and healthy.
Final Touches and Training Your Dog to Use the Bed
After making a cozy dog bed, it’s important to get your pet to love it. Dogs stick to habits and rely on their sense of smell. Use consistent and thoughtful methods to help them with this change.
Introducing Your Dog to the New Bed
Put the new bed in a spot your dog likes. Use blankets or toys with familiar scents on the bed. This helps your dog feel at ease. It might take some time for your dog to see the bed as theirs. Beds like the Hoodie Cuddler are great for dogs needing a safe spot.
Encouraging Use with Treats
Use treats and praise to teach your dog to love the bed. Consistently doing this makes the bed a happy place for them. Dogs’ strong sense of smell helps them learn that the bed is good.
Making Adjustments for Comfort
Watch how your dog acts and tweak the bed to make it better. Add more padding if they like it, or take some away if not. The Calming Ortho Bed has a soft cover that helps lower stress. If your dog doesn’t like the new bed right away, mix it with their old one. It can take a few weeks for them to fully get used to it.
Hey there, I’m Alex Hanson and I’m passionate about all things covers! Whether you’re looking for a car seat cover to protect your vehicle or an oven cover to keep your kitchen clean, I’m here to help. With years of experience in the industry, I have plenty of knowledge and insights to share with my readers. So, if you care about protecting your belongings and making them look their best, you’re encouraged to read my blog as I explore the perfect cover for every need.