There’s something so oddly specific about trying to find a dog bed that doesn’t completely ruin the room. Like, sure, I want my pup to be comfortable—but does it have to look like a sad, lumpy cushion tossed in the middle of the hallway? I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve tried to “hide” the dog bed behind a chair or under a side table, just to make the space feel like a home again and not a pet aisle explosion.
That’s when I realised: we don’t need to settle for ugly or oversized or awkward. We can actually make dog beds that feel intentional—ones that match the vibe of the house, sit neatly in a corner, or even look kind of stylish? Whether you’ve got a boho balcony, a farmhouse-style hallway, or a little suntrap in the yard, there’s always a way to make it work with what you’ve got (and maybe a bit of plywood or leftover paint).
So here are 11+ dog bed designs you can DIY, that actually fit into your home or garden—and don’t scream “DOG LIVES HERE” the second someone walks in. They’re simple, cute, and most importantly… pooch approved.
1. A Raised Wooden Dog Bed Frame in the Living Room
Let’s start in the lounge—where most dogs sneak naps anyway. A raised wooden frame is one of the easiest ways to make a dog bed look like actual furniture. Go for simple pine or birch wood with clean lines. You can leave it natural or stain it to match your coffee table. A platform base with a little lip around the edge helps keep the cushion in place, and gives it that ‘built-in’ look.
Place it near the sofa (but not too close, unless you want dog hair on your throw blanket). Add a neutral cushion that looks like part of your colour scheme—beige, soft green, muted rust, anything that blends in. Suddenly, your pup’s spot looks like it belongs in the room.
2. A DIY Pallet Dog Bed for the Patio or Porch
If your dog loves to lounge outdoors—and you’ve got a little covered patio or shaded corner—this one’s for you. Grab a couple of wooden pallets, give them a good sanding, and stack them to create a raised platform. You can even paint them to match your garden fence or porch trim.
Add a weather-resistant cushion and maybe a blanket that can be chucked in the wash. It’s the kind of project you can knock together in an afternoon, and it instantly gives your dog a designated chill spot outside. (Which means they might stop stealing your chair. No promises.)
3. A Corner Dog Bed That Tucks Neatly Into the Mudroom
Got a weird corner in the hallway or a bit of dead space in the mudroom? Build a little triangle-shaped wooden frame that fits snugly into the space. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a flat base with two side panels, all painted to match your trim or storage units.
Pop in a washable cushion or foam insert with a cover in a simple print, and add a couple of hooks on the wall above for leads or towels. It’s organised, tidy, and finally gives that corner a reason to exist (other than collecting shoes and mystery crumbs).
4. A Low Dog Bed Bench That Doubles as Storage
This one’s perfect for the foot of the bed, hallway entrance, or anywhere you’d normally stick a bench. Build a low wooden box with a lid that lifts off or hinges open—inside, you’ve got space for toys, blankets, maybe even a backup lead or two. On top? A soft cushion that doubles as a dog bed.
Paint it a warm neutral, add simple legs if you want to elevate it slightly, and choose a fabric that looks like part of your usual decor. It’s one of those sneaky designs that looks totally human-friendly, until the dog flops onto it like it was made just for them. Because it was.
5. A DIY Dog Bed Under the Staircase Nook
If you’ve got one of those awkward nooks under the stairs (or a half-empty corner under a shelf), that’s prime real estate for a dog bed. Build a shallow wood-framed bed that fits the space exactly. Keep the lines clean and the paint tone subtle—think taupe, off-white, or even a soft sage green.
You can hang a tiny wall light or frame a photo above if you’re feeling extra, or just let it live as a quiet little den. Dogs love cosy corners, and this one keeps things tucked out of the way. Ideal if you’re constantly tripping over toys and trailing fluff into the living room.
6. A Dog Bed Built Into a Bookshelf Bottom Row
You know that lower shelf that never quite fits your books properly? Turn it into a comfy dog nook instead. If you’ve got a wide shelf unit or console, just clear out the bottom section and add a cut-to-size cushion or foam pad. You can even line the inside with peel-and-stick wallpaper or paint it a soft tone to make it feel more intentional.
This works beautifully in living rooms or home offices where your dog likes to snooze nearby but you’re trying to keep the chaos minimal. Bonus points if you add a small storage basket beside it for toys or treats — it’ll look like it was always meant to be there.
7. A Neutral Fabric Dog Mattress That Blends into Bedroom Corners
Sometimes simple is best — especially if you’re going for a softer, minimal look. A thick, low dog mattress in neutral fabric (think beige, slate, or warm grey) can slide into a quiet bedroom corner without drawing attention. Choose a cover that’s removable and textured — maybe a chunky cotton weave or soft twill.
You can add a folded throw blanket and a small toy to make it look extra cosy, but the key here is just fitting it into the room’s colour palette. Match your bedding or rug tones, and it’ll feel like a calm little extension of your style — not an afterthought on the floor.
8. A Small Outdoor Dog Lounge with a Slatted Wood Base
If your backyard or sideyard has a spot that’s dry and shady, you can build a little outdoor dog bed using a simple slatted wood base — almost like a mini deck. Use pressure-treated lumber or leftover fencing wood and build a low platform with short legs to keep it off the ground.
Top it with a weatherproof cushion or even an old garden pillow, and tuck it near a wall, shrub, or pergola. This is great for dogs who love being outside but want their own spot that’s not just… grass. It looks smart, stays breathable, and gives them the outdoor nap zone they’ve always deserved.
9. A DIY Dog Daybed with Bolsters for Extra Comfort
This one’s for the spoiled pups (so, all of them?). Build a small rectangular wooden frame and add DIY bolsters to the sides — you can use rolled-up towels inside sewn fabric tubes, or stuff old cushions into a C-shape. Paint the wood to match your trim or floors and choose a neutral linen or canvas fabric that wears well.
Set it in the sunroom, by the fire, or near your favourite reading chair so they can lounge while you pretend to get things done. It’s like a mini sofa — but for your dog. Honestly, they’ll probably use it more than you use yours.
10. A Painted Crate Dog Bed on a Quiet Porch
Repurpose an old wooden crate or build one with slatted sides, paint it in a soft green or cream tone, and add a sturdy cushion inside. This style works so well on porches, patios, or even inside a back door where your dog likes to keep watch on the garden.
Add their name stencilled on the side if you’re feeling crafty, or just keep it simple and rustic. It gives a little structure to their resting space without taking over the view — and it’s surprisingly chic for something made out of what’s basically a fruit box.
11. A Corner Dog Bed Bench That Doubles as Seating
If you’re working with a smaller space — or just trying to keep your home from turning into one giant pet zone — this idea’s a bit of a lifesaver. Build a simple L-shaped bench for that awkward corner in your kitchen, hallway, or covered patio, and design one end to include a built-in dog bed underneath. Just leave that portion open with enough clearance for your pup to hop in and out comfortably.
Top the whole bench with a few cushions or folded throws so it doubles as extra seating (for humans), and slide in a soft, removable dog mat in the open section. You can even add a shelf underneath for storage baskets if you’re feeling ambitious. Keep the finish in a natural wood tone or match it to your trim so it blends with the rest of the house. It’s clean, practical, and makes your dog feel included — especially when they can snooze at your feet while you sip tea or wrestle with the grocery list.
Honestly, ours is now the most-used seat in the house. Not by the kids, of course — they all want to sit in the dog’s spot. Naturally.
Final Thoughts
The best dog beds are the ones that don’t just sit there — they fit in. They make your dog feel safe and comfy, and they make you feel like your house still looks how you want it to. Whether you’re tucking a bed under a bench, reworking a shelf, or building something from scratch in the backyard, these DIY designs are all about balance. Stylish but simple. Cosy but clean.
And the best part? You don’t need to be a carpenter or interior designer. Just a bit of imagination, a couple of screws, and maybe a dog who’s willing to let you measure them while they’re napping.