My golden retriever absolutely loves his plush dog bed. I hate it. After only two months of use, the fur is matted and smells musty. I’ve bought three of these beds this year at $80 each. $240 down the drain.
Those flat cushions that are always hot and damp – ones that have your dog sinking into the saggy foam. Or worse, one that’s just thrown on the floor of your carefully-styled living room.
One solution is to get an elevated dog bed. Not only will your pooch be able to breathe under there, but they’ll also be much easier on the joints and it’ll last longer. It will also look a lot better in your space as well.
So, we’re going to show you 14 creative DIY elevated dog bed ideas which costs you $30-60 in total. Plus, we will also show you how to make a dog bed out of recycled PVC pipes, from reclaimed wood, and even dog bed from old furniture. This project only takes you 2-3 hours at the most.
Even if you don’t want to break out the power tools, there is a DIY dog bed that you can make here for almost any aesthetic and style. Can’t decide if you want a modern minimalist or farmhouse chic bedroom, you’ll find a design here for you.
#1: Outdoor Elevated Lounger with Coastal Stripes (Raised Cooling Bed, Patio-Ready Style)
Every afternoon, my terrier likes to sprawl on this raised bed. The mesh fabric lets air circulate underneath. She stays a little cooler on the raised bed.
This is an elevated dog bed that is sitting on a covered patio. The bed measures roughly 24 x 18 inches. It would work well for a small to medium dog under 30 pounds. I chose the striped blue fabric to match the other blue/pink and white shade on the patio. The white chairs and palms are on the patio as well. I have a jute rug underneath that gives the area definition and yet does not scream “pet corner”.
The raised design keeps your dog off hot concrete. Air circulates from below and above. Your dog will stay comfortable in the sun on a 85 degree day. No more panting indoors because the patio is too hot. Check out these 7 Cozy DIY Dog Beds for Large Dogs that work great outdoors.
The frame is 6 inches off the ground. Rain puddles don’t reach the fabric. Morning dew dries faster. You don’t have to wipe down the bed before every use. The tight mesh won’t sag under 25 pounds. Your dog doesn’t sink into a hammock shape.
The toys are sitting on the jute rug that is beneath them. The pineapple squeaker and ball are within their paw reach. All of their toys and bones stay in one 3×3 corner of the patio. If you are wanting to make something similar to this look, then these 7 Cozy DIY Dog Bed Frame Ideas for Pups will show you the basics of building a bed frame for your pup.
Tip: I hosed down the mesh fabric every week or so and it dried out in about 20 minutes in the sun. No mildew builds up like it can in a cushioned bed.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @lesurepet
#2: Minimalist Raised Dog Bed in Living Room Corner (Scandinavian Style Meets Pet Function)
It is nice to see your Chihuahua laid out like royalty on a raised wooden platform bed in the living room of your house. The natural pine frame of the bed matches the natural pine frame of your coffee table and makes it look like designer furniture.
This elevated dog bed fits nicely into a 3×3 corner. It doesn’t block any of the foot traffic, and it is light enough that it doesn’t really disrupt the room too much. The small simple frame is raised 6 inches off of the cold floor, which makes it a great place for your dog to get warm during the winter. This bed can easily fit into the new and popular style known as modern farmhouse and you are not going to want to hide this one when company comes to visit. If you are interested in building your own dog bed, check out some of the below DIY dog beds for some inspiration.
This platform creates airflow underneath so she stays cool in the summer. Your floors stay cleaner because the fur doesn’t have a chance to get trapped underneath a heavy bed. Or if you have a small dog who likes to be up off the floor, you can easily slide it underneath a console table to take up less floor space. For small dogs who love sleeping off the ground, these DIY dog bunk beds offer similar elevated comfort options.
After breakfast, she jumps up on it and naps there until 10 AM. It pulls off for a quick clean every week. No more struggling with bulky pet beds that don’t fit in your washing machine.
Pro tip: Put the raised bed near a window so that your dog can enjoy natural light and a show watching the outside world without messing up your aesthetic.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @petlandbradenton
#3: Backyard Pet Lounge with Raised Cooling Bed (Off-Ground Comfort, Zero Muddy Messes)
Our dog always tracked mud into the house after having been on wet grass. This setup keeps him clean and comfortable all summer.
The elevated mesh bed sits 8 inches off the ground, on a 36×24-inch frame. Place it on your patio or under a tree where grass stays damp. The blue fabric dries in 20 minutes after rain, but ground-level cushions might stay soggy for hours.
Air flows underneath so your dog stays cool on 85-degree days. He’ll choose this spot over hot concrete or muddy grass every time. You won’t need to give your dog a bath after he plays, because he lounges off the ground instead of rolling in dirt.
The bed is placed on waterproof outdoor rugs that defines his zone. Make a 5×4-ft corner in the yard with the bed, a toy basket, and water bowl. Everything wipes clean with a hose in under 5 minutes. If your dog likes to rest in other spots around the house, check out these best dog beds to keep your pup comfy.
Add a small bin to store towels and grooming tools nearby. After muddy play time, simply towel him off before he heads inside. Store homemade dog shampoo ingredients nearby for quick paw rinse as needed.
Pro tip: Spray the mesh with the hose weekly to remove grass clippings and hair. It air-dries completely in 30 minutes and is ready for afternoon naps.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @the_duke_of_illin
#4: Elevated Bed on Modern Platform (Clean Lines, Zero Floor Contact)
Layla on the raised bed (it’s gold, but that’s hard to tell on my shitty camera phone). The bed is raised up off the hardwood floor by the black metal frame; this makes it so that there are no dust bunnies under the bed and no fur in the corners.
[IMAGE] My bed is situated in a 4×4 corner near the window. The sun shines in here during the afternoons. She claims it after every walk, and stretches out on it like it’s hers.
The high design also means you can sweep under it in 15 seconds flat. No need to move heavy furniture or drag your bed across the room. Just run your vacuum underneath it twice a week.
This gray fabric blends great with my modern home, the metal frame matches the industrial decor, and no one knows it’s dog furniture from across the room!
We have these pads under all our medium to large dogs. In the winter I want them off the cold floor, and also off the cold concrete garage floor. The raised platforms keep their joints from getting cold too. And in the summer they stay cool from the air circulation under the pads.
If you’re planning on building your own dog house, there are a lot of dog house tips to be had from looking at DIY dog houses. We show you how to construct a custom dog house frame, the same way you’d frame a dog house elevated platform.
Morning routine is really simple. She jumps up after breakfast and you throw the old blanket in the washer and the removable cushion takes only three minutes to wipe down.
We understand how some of the simpler dog collars are just plain boring. We know how you would like to add your style to the look of your dog’s collar, so check out the best DIY dog collars for your dog below.
Pro tip: Measure your dog, right out, so he can lie outstretched on it. Add 4 inches on either side. She’ll use it and leave your couch alone.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @bessieandbarnieofficial
#5: Corner Elevated Dog Bed With Guest-Ready Styling (Keeps Floors Clear, Blends With Your Decor)
My dog rules the hallway every afternoon. We step around him, my guests do too. This 4×3 corner setup gives my dog a spot to call his own without looking like I surrendered my home to pet furniture.
8 inches off the floor to allow air to circulate underneath to keep the floor clear of dog hair for vacuuming. The coral cushion matches the color of the throw pillows – the guest thinks it’s part of the decor and not doggy gear! *Black metal frame will not show against dark wood floors.
Put it down by two outlets so you don’t block one completely. I like the raised design so the joints are never uncomfortable for large breeds. He’ll choose it over your couch because it’s his territory.
Life just got a little easier. I no longer have to tiptoe around him when I get up to make my coffee in the morning. He now goes to his corner after he has eaten breakfast instead of lying in the doorway and I don’t have to hopscotch over him anymore. I also wanted some cooling treats for when he has been outside in the heat so I looked on Amazon for some frozen dog treats that he could just lay on his bed and work on to keep him occupied.
Pro tip: Wash your cushion cover once a week in cold water. It takes less than 3 minutes to take it off and toss it into the washing machine. Make sure you air dry it (so it won’t shrink) and you should have it back on your bed in 24 hours.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @jaxxonthegsd
#6: Bedside Corner Dog Sanctuary (Elevated Wood Frame, Nightstand-Level Comfort)
If your dog gets excited when it’s bed time, he or she will gravitate to the spot closest to your bed. Why not set up your bedroom corner so that it looks like this piece of furniture was there on purpose. This bedroom corner looks like the dog just loves to be as close as possible to the pillow of his human!
The bed frame sits 8 inches off the floor. It is 3 feet wide by 2 feet deep. The headboard has a simple shelf that can act as nightstands for both of you. Your dog’s bed sits at furniture level and does not get cold from floor vents. The dog print cushion fits perfectly in the frame. The lamp and diffuser are on the shared shelf so this bed looks like 10 creative pallet dog bed ideas for your furry friend taken upscale.
Looks like your furniture. Someone won’t think it’s a dog bed immediately. It’s actually a low bench or reading nook. No fur under the bed! Vacuuming will only take 5 minutes instead of 15! Your dog can sleep by your bedside without taking over your bed.
I have a very hard time getting out of bed in the morning. When my dog knows it’s getting close to the time I need to get up, she’ll usually stay in her spot until I’m ready to get up. No jumping on the bed, or paw nudges to get up. The shelf beside my bed has her calming treats from the DIY dog treats recipes in this post. It’s nice to have everything close.
Try this: Measure the height of your nightstand before you begin building the frame. Make sure the top of the frame (the part that will be showing) is the same height as the top of your nightstand.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @prattceramics
#7: Sunlit Window Corner Dog Lounge (Dual-Dog Setup, Zero Floor Clutter)
Your two doodles sprawl on their raised bed soaking up the window light while not blocking your walkway. This 5×3 corner space looks like modern furniture, creating a double-dog headquarters.
The wood bed is elevated 8 inches from the ground for easy sweeping underneath in 30 seconds. My two dogs fit just fine on the platform which is 48 inches long and just wide enough for two dogs comfortably. A woven basket beside the bed stores their toys and keeps the floor clear. The design of the bed matches with my living room furniture so my guests think it’s a decorative bench!
Since the windows are facing, the light will make this spot the most enjoyable for the dogs to rest in, instead of the couch. The raised design keeps the dogs off cold floors and reduces pressure on joints for older dogs. Everything is contained in one zone so you won’t be tripping over beds and toys.
Seriously, make it near a large window so that the sun shines in it. You can take back your floor space! I’ve even got it set up in my living room or bedroom. It doesn’t scream “dog area” to me, though it would if set up in the mudroom.
The neutral wood and cream color of the pillow is perfect for cozying up on the couch or a nice and comfy reading corner. In order to help define the space, add a tall plant beside it. I am loving these stylish wooden dog beds. Which one do you like best?
For more dual-dog setups, check out these cozy dog bedrooms that keep multiple pups organized.
Pro tip: Place a washable runner underneath the “circle” to catch dirt and to define the boundary.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @breezedesignco
#8: Fireside Dog Lounge with Raised Bed (Built-In Comfort Meets Living Room Style)
You’ve got a fireplace corner in your living room. Why not turn it into your dog’s personal retreat?
It fits perfectly in a 5×4 fireplace alcove. The dog bed sits 6 inches off the floor on a wood platform. Behind the bed you can see some stacked firewood, creating a rustic backdrop.
A raised bed keeps your dog off the cold floor, and the air circulation under the cushion keeps the bed dry. Wooden sides give your dog a sense of security without blocking the warmth of the fire. It looks like intentional furniture, not a pet afterthought.
I like the neutral colours and the look of the living room would work in anyones house. You could easily get away with this being a dog bed without your guests realising. I also like the look of the wood platform – it adds to the farmhouse feel of the room rather than taking away.
The bed is a great space for your dog to spend time near the fire without overheating. The idea is to place the bed 4 feet from active flames. It works for small dogs up to 80 pounds. You can also enjoy these 17 creative DIY dog run ideas for your furry friend and 18 creative DIY dog fence ideas for your yard.
If you do not own a platform, you can build one from 2x4s and plywood for only $45. The entire construction process will take only 2 hours, with basic tools, and the rough edges of the wood can be sanded to prevent your cat’s paws from catching on any splinters.
Morning routine: Every morning my dog goes and lays down in that corner after breakfast and sleeps for about 3 hours. image from visual studio .net Here, does your dog nap for a few hours after breakfast?.
Pro tip: This guest room is super comfy with its removable pillow covers in machine washable canvas. Throw them in the washer once a month to keep your guest room looking fresh.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @drakewaterfowl
#9: Corner Bench Dog Bed With Hidden Storage (Cute Table Setup, Zero Bedroom Space)
If you have a dog, but your bedroom is small, then you probably need a spot for him. Check out the idea of a corner bench, it will turn a 3×3 foot space into a dog station.
It’s on top of tile or hardwood so I can wipe the drool off in about 10 seconds. There’s only one small table and there are no cabinets. The pillow-top mattress lays underneath the bed when I have company. The whole thing probably only cost about $45 because I painted it myself.
It’s also a great idea if you have some decorative items on top of your coffee table, as your pooch can lie down on the bench underneath. If you don’t have the cash to buy a dog bed for your pooch, this coffee table also doubles up as storage for your pup’s toys and treats. Plus, it’s a dog bed with no additional floor space required. See these 13 brilliant DIY dog stuff ideas for building your own coffee table.
I like the look of the painted birds and leaves so it looks intentional and not pet-messy. Guests think it’s decor. My dog thinks it’s a cave. I grab the dog treats from underneath the bench and put them on the table. Takes about 2 minutes.
Multi-dog homes can fit two beds under a longer bench (about 5 feet). Separate the beds by 2 feet to reduce squabbles. For more ways to style your functional dog spaces, check out these 11 cute items for your dog bed room that don’t scream “pet zone!
Pro tip: Paint the bench top with a semi-gloss varnish. This cleans more easily when paws are jumping up!
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @sxemonster
#10: Living Room Elevated Dog Bed Corner (Stylish Raised Bed, Keeps Dogs Off Furniture)
My dog has now stopped sneaking onto the couch because he likes this living room corner better. He has his own elevated bed right next to where I sit and it sits on top of a thick shag rug so it’s it’s own little nook.
The frame is 30×24 inches so it fits perfectly in the corner of a room. It fits in the corner of my bedroom so it doesn’t take up walkway space. The gray canvas fabric matches my home decor so my guests don’t know that it’s a dog zone. The metal frame lifts the bed off the floor 8 inches so the dog can stay cooler in the summer and away from drafts in the winter.
This is a perfect setup as everything is in one spot. The dog knows exactly where his space is. Place the dog bed near some furniture so that your dog feels part of the family. You can also place a basket beside the dog bed where your dog can put his favourite toys in. Have a look at some of these creative dog bed ideas for more corner bed ideas.
Not only will I no longer have to clean up all that dog hair from the furniture, I’ll spend less time vacuuming my couches. My dog will have a spot that he likes to sleep in that is actually comfortable and no longer try to take my spot on the couch. There are also some cute DIY dog house ideas to consider for inside your house.
Put the elevated bed in a spot where your dog already likes to lay down. He’ll make the switch faster because the location feels familiar.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @treatyourdoguk
#11: Raised Outdoor Dog Lounger (Elevated Mesh Bed for Patio Living)
Your deck has cushioned chairs for your guests. Why not your dog? This elevated mesh bed for dogs slides on any patio but does not look like pet gear.
The olive-green canvas is laid over the purple metal frame of the pet bed, which rests about 8 inches off the ground. The dog bed is about 24×36 inches (perfect for dogs up to 50 pounds) and the raised design keeps your pooch cool on hot days.
No cushions mean no soggy fabric after rain. Your dog lies down, the mesh will support them and you will not need to scrub mildew off every week. If it gets dusty, just hose it down in 60 seconds. If you are looking for more elevated dog crate options, check out these DIY dog crate ideas which keeps the dog off cold floors all year long.
I keep it in my sitting area so the dog is near me in the morning when I’m drinking my morning coffee. It looks neutral enough for outdoor seating. Guests don’t know it’s dog gear. I store it flat against the wall when not in use.
While your dog lounges, you’ll enjoy covered patio ideas from these DIY dog house ideas. Enjoy shade, elevation, and airflow.
Quick tip: Make sure your bed is only in part shade. Full sun on the metal frame even with air circulating underneath.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @zeedog
#12: Striped Bed + Storage Backpack Zone (Floor-Level Comfort Corner, Zero Woodworking)
It was a shoebox turned dog headquarters without tools. The black and white striped floor bed sat against the wall. Behind it was a textured yellow backpack with toys, treats and grooming supplies.
It took me 10 minutes to arrange my 3×3 feet setup. Just put the bed against the wall and put the backpack directly behind it. Done! It’s a dog zone.
I put a floor level bed in the doggie den. My french bulldog just steps on it without stressing any joints. He walks to his spot after every meal and no jumping on me and no stress on his old hips. On the other side of the doggie den I put a bed on the bottom of a step stool. This is where smaller dogs can jump up or down.
Not only is this the cutest dog backpack around, it’s the perfect craft project for your pup. Open up to give them toys that’ll keep them entertained (or just close it for company over!). It’s disguised as a weekend bag, not a toy stash.
My morning routine only takes me 3 minutes to get to work instead of 15. One of the nice things about this place is that I am still able to take a treat from the backpack without getting into trouble. After I put the cover back on the bed, I threw yesterday’s cover into the wash and wiped the floor in one swipe.
The black and white stripes blend in with our house. But the yellow backpack adds a bit of color. It’s not like guests see our dogs and think kibble and chew toys.
it’s fine- no holes, no paint. i wouldn’t do it with a landlord. but do what you want. it’s fine for a rental.
Pro tip: I usually keep the homemade treat recipes in the front pocket of the backpack. That way if the boys do something good, I can reward them in 5 seconds.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @midas_frenchie_gold
#13: Cozy Sofa Nook with Plush Blanket Bed (Multi-Purpose Comfort Zone, Zero Floor Space Used)
Your living room sofa is also your dog’s bedroom. The grey couch has a soft taupe blanket on it which creates the sleeping zone.
It fits in 4×3 feet of space on your existing sofa, and you are just using furniture you already own. No building required. The fluffy blanket at the bottom forms raised edges so your dog feels secure. It also lifts her off of the flat cushion, creating a nest-like bed. The neutral taupe blends with your cream floral wallpaper and grey sofa upholstery so guests do not see that your dog is using it.
This is a great product if you have a small dog because they get their own spot without taking up floor space. My dog knows just where to sit when she comes in from a walk. The blanket raises up enough that it supports her head and back. It can be folded up in 10 seconds if company is coming over. I just throw it in the washing machine weekly. It’s easy and comforting like making my own dog food.
Put the blanket on one of the sections of the couch. Your dog is taking up her space, your spot’s clear. She has the window behind her, natural light and a view outside she loves, and it doesn’t need any fancy DIYing to look nice. The whole setup costs under $40 for one quality faux fur throw.
Pro tip: I would recommend a blanket that is about 1-2 inch pile height. This is thick enough to provide some cushioning, but thin enough to wash.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @hooksofficial
#14: Under-Stairs Dog Lounge with Elevated Hammock Bed (Dead Space Becomes Design Feature)
Aww, look at my German Shepherd in his hammock chair at the bottom of the stairs. No remodeling needed, I just took up more space in under 30 minutes.
Fits in a 4×4 corner without blocking stairway traffic. Elevated hammock bed is 12 inches off the floor. You can sweep underneath it in 20 seconds. For large breeds up to 90 pounds. It also works as a stylish accent piece in your home that guests might mistake for modern furniture.
I love that the elevated design keeps my dog cool in the summer since the air circulates underneath him and his fur stays off the floor so I only have to clean up once a day. This is great for apartments where you don’t want dog zones. It has gray carpet for a neutral background and white walls.
This could be a great idea if you have dogs. I’ve installed dog gates at the entrances to my rooms. I put the hammock where he can watch all the action without being underfoot. If you are planning for outdoor spaces as well, check out my DIY dog run ideas.
In the morning, he settles into his hammock after breakfast and watches you leave. He naps until you return.
Add a small basket beside the hammock for his two favorite toys. This keeps everything contained in one visual zone that looks intentional not chaotic.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @tiko.and.kujo
Make Your Pup’s Dreams Come True
You’ve got tons of great ideas for DIY elevated dog bed now. So pick your favorite one, and make it this weekend. Make your dog the most comfortable little pup ever and of course, you’re going to be much happier with your space too!
Looking for more pet-friendly project ideas? Check out these 14 Stylish DIY Dog Crate Furniture Ideas You’ll Love or these 7 Adorable DIY Dog Clothes Ideas to Try. If you have room for your pup to run around, then check out these 7 Creative DIY Outdoor Dog Kennel Ideas.
Pin your top three designs so that you don’t forget them! Which elevated bed style do you like best?
Amr Mohsen is a software engineer who traded his keyboard for a leash — at least on weekends. His love for dogs inspired him to share what he learns as a dog owner and enthusiast, bringing a detail-oriented, research-driven perspective to every article he writes. If it’s about dogs, he’s probably already looked it up twice.
