The problem started the minute my hound mix realized that my face was the warmest spot in the entire house. She’s a horrible bed hog, and her favorite move, the one I rarely allow, is planting her back right on my pillow.
After spending so much time helping my sister upgrade her hamster’s habitat, I realized it was time to address the chaos in my own bedroom. This creature was legitimately harming my sleep patterns, and I knew I needed an immediate, cheap solution.
My quest for a proper dog bed wasn’t just about furniture; it was about reclaiming my sanity and my pillow, which were constantly occupied by a furry, 60-pound furnace. I desperately needed a way to keep her close enough to feel loved but far enough away to let me sleep.
I realized the trick wasn’t just buying another plush mat that she would ignore; it was about matching the environment. I spent about $18 and three hours to build a basic, raised platform. The key was making it the exact height as my own bed and positioning it directly against the side, right next to my pillow.
This allowed me to keep an arm on her so she felt like she was getting attention without costing me my entire sleep space. For the mattress, I used a simple, folded blanket as a base, then added her favorite cushion on top. I also learned from the community that the cost of good dog beds is ridiculous and that crib mattresses, thick exercise mats, or even memory foam toppers cut into sections are genius and odor-resistant alternatives.
The results were immediate, and the solution was simple, effective, and brilliant. My hound mix instantly accepted the new setup because it felt like a natural extension of my space. Now, if she occasionally curls up in my spot when I first come home, I can gently scoot her to the “big girl bed,” and she actually stays there all night! It was such a fantastic hack, and I can’t believe I went so many years before doing this.
I finally have my full bed and my sleep back, while she still gets to be my snuggly, bedside companion. I highly recommend this raised dog bed hack to any other frustrated bed hog victim.
17. DIY T-Shirt Dog Bed
A DIY T-Shirt Dog Bed is a perfect way to reuse your old clothes and provide comfort to your furry friend and you can easily braid old T-shirts together and form a soft bed and your dog will love it and this dog bed idea is simple and cost-effective and everyone can try it and your pet will feel special with a bed made from familiar scents.
16. Elevated Wooden Dog Bed
An Elevated Wooden Dog Bed keeps your dog off the cold floor and allows air to circulate underneath and it is perfect for hot weather and this dog bed idea is sturdy and long-lasting and you can customize it to match your home décor and your dog will feel pampered and secure and you can add a soft cushion for extra comfort.
15. Memory Foam Dog Bed
A Memory Foam Dog Bed supports your dog’s joints and muscles and is perfect for older dogs and this dog bed idea molds to your dog’s shape and provides ultimate comfort and your dog will enjoy a peaceful sleep and you can place it anywhere in your home and it helps reduce aches and pains effectively.
14. Round Donut Dog Bed
A Round Donut Dog Bed provides a cozy and enclosed space and is great for dogs that love to curl up and this dog bed idea has raised edges that give a sense of security and your dog will feel snug and relaxed and you can choose soft fabrics for extra warmth and your pet will love it instantly.
13. Recycled Pallet Dog Bed
A Recycled Pallet Dog Bed is eco-friendly and budget-friendly and you can turn old pallets into a functional bed and this dog bed idea allows customization with paint or cushions and your dog will have a unique sleeping area and it is sturdy and perfect for medium to large dogs and everyone will admire your creativity.
12. Cave Style Dog Bed
A Cave Style Dog Bed is ideal for shy or anxious dogs and provides a private space and this dog bed idea mimics a den and your dog will feel safe and calm and you can use soft fabrics to make it extra cozy and your pet will enjoy curling up inside and it is perfect for small and medium dogs.
11. Heated Dog Bed
A Heated Dog Bed is perfect for cold climates and helps your dog stay warm and comfortable and this dog bed idea uses safe heating pads or self-warming materials and your dog will enjoy relaxing during winter and you can find portable versions for travel and your pet’s comfort will be maximized.
10. Outdoor Dog Bed
An Outdoor Dog Bed allows your dog to lounge in the garden or patio and it is weather-resistant and easy to clean and this dog bed idea is elevated to avoid dirt and moisture and your dog will enjoy fresh air and sunshine and you can use waterproof cushions for extra durability and everyone will admire your setup.
9. Foldable Travel Dog Bed
A Foldable Travel Dog Bed is convenient for trips and vacations and allows your dog to sleep comfortably anywhere and this dog bed idea is lightweight and portable and your dog will feel secure and cozy and you can easily store it in your car or luggage and your pet will appreciate a familiar sleeping spot.
8. Plush Sofa Dog Bed
A Plush Sofa Dog Bed mimics a miniature couch and adds style to your living room and this dog bed idea is soft and supportive and your dog will feel like royalty and you can choose colors that match your décor and your pet will love relaxing here while everyone notices its elegance and it is perfect for small to medium dogs.
7. Knitted Dog Bed
A Knitted Dog Bed is warm and handmade and gives a personal touch to your pet’s sleeping area and this dog bed idea is soft and breathable and your dog will enjoy the comfort and texture and you can customize colors and patterns and everyone will admire your creativity and your pet will feel extra loved.
6. Teepee Dog Bed
A Teepee Dog Bed adds a fun and stylish element to your home and your dog will enjoy the small cozy tent and this dog bed idea provides a sense of security and your pet will feel happy and relaxed and you can add cushions and blankets inside and your dog will have a playful yet comfortable resting spot and everyone will love this design.
5. Bolster Dog Bed
A Bolster Dog Bed has raised sides that support your dog’s head and neck and your dog can curl up comfortably and this dog bed idea offers security and relaxation and you can place it anywhere in your home and your pet will feel pampered and cozy and everyone will notice the classic design and your dog will use it often.
4. Wicker Basket Dog Bed
A Wicker Basket Dog Bed is charming and rustic and your dog will love the enclosed feel and this dog bed idea can be lined with soft cushions and your dog will feel comfortable and stylish and you can place it in living rooms or bedrooms and everyone will notice its elegance and your pet will enjoy a unique resting area.
3. Reversible Dog Bed
A Reversible Dog Bed gives you options and can match different room moods and this dog bed idea is practical and your dog will love the versatility and you can switch sides for warmth or coolness and your pet will stay comfortable and your home will stay stylish and everyone will admire the clever design and your dog will enjoy every side.
2. Washable Dog Bed
A Washable Dog Bed keeps your home clean and fresh and your dog will enjoy a hygienic space and this dog bed idea is easy to clean and your pet will feel comfortable and it is perfect for puppies or messy dogs and you can wash it regularly for freshness and everyone will appreciate the convenience and your dog will sleep happily.
1. Personalized Name Dog Bed
A Personalized Name Dog Bed shows love and attention and your dog will feel special and this dog bed idea includes custom embroidery or patches with your dog’s name and your pet will enjoy a unique space and you can match fabrics to your style and everyone will notice the thoughtful design and your dog will be proud of its very own bed.
