The Ultimate Guide to Dog Beds Made for Humans: Create the Perfect Shared Sleep Space

Have you ever watched your furry friend snoozing peacefully in their cozy dog bed and felt a twinge of envy? Or perhaps you’ve noticed your pet constantly trying to claim space on your mattress? The innovative concept of a dog bed made for humans might be exactly what you’re looking for. This growing trend combines the comfort of human beds with dedicated pet spaces, creating the perfect solution for pet owners who want to bond with their four-legged companions without sacrificing sleep quality.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about human dog beds—from the benefits they offer and how to create your own DIY version to tips for selecting the perfect materials and customizing the design to suit both your needs and your pet’s preferences. Whether you’re a crafty DIY enthusiast or simply looking for ways to enhance the bond with your canine companion, this article will provide you with valuable insights and practical advice.

Understanding the Human Dog Bed Concept

A dog bed made for humans, also known as a human dog bed, is essentially a sleeping arrangement designed to accommodate both human and canine comfort needs. Unlike traditional pet beds that sit separately from human sleeping spaces, these innovative designs integrate the two, allowing for proximity without the disruptions that often come with sharing a conventional bed.

The concept has gained popularity for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, it addresses the natural desire many dogs have to sleep near their owners. Dogs are pack animals by nature, and sleeping close to their human family members provides them with a sense of security and strengthens the human-animal bond. For pet owners, having a dedicated space means no more fighting for blankets or waking up cramped in uncomfortable positions because your dog has claimed the center of the bed.

There are various approaches to creating a human dog bed. Some designs feature a built-in dog bed underneath the human mattress, utilizing the space that would otherwise go unused. Others incorporate an extension to a regular bed with a platform specifically designed for your pet. The most innovative versions blend both sleeping areas on the same level but with clear delineation between human and pet spaces, often with customizable features to accommodate specific needs.

Benefits of a Human Dog Bed

Enhanced Bonding Experience

One of the primary advantages of a human dog bed is the opportunity for strengthened emotional connections. By sleeping in close proximity to each other, you and your pet can develop a deeper bond. This arrangement allows for those precious moments of connection without the disruptions that can come from sharing a traditional bed. Many pet owners report feeling more relaxed knowing their furry friend is nearby, leading to better sleep quality for both parties.

Improved Sleep Quality

Despite the misconception that sleeping with pets always disrupts human sleep, a properly designed human dog bed can actually enhance sleep quality. With a dedicated space for your dog that’s separate yet close, you won’t experience the common issues of pets hogging the blankets, pushing you to the edge of the mattress, or waking you with their movements. At the same time, your pet enjoys the comfort of their own space while maintaining proximity to you, reducing anxiety and restlessness.

Health Benefits

For people with allergies, traditional bed-sharing with pets can trigger symptoms and disrupt sleep. A human dog bed provides a solution by keeping your pet nearby without exposing you directly to dander and fur on your sleeping surface. Additionally, pets with joint issues or mobility challenges benefit from having a properly supportive surface designed specifically for their needs, rather than trying to navigate a human mattress that may be too soft or too tall.

Practical Space Utilization

Many human dog bed designs make clever use of typically unused space, such as the area underneath a bed frame. This is particularly valuable for apartment dwellers or those with limited bedroom space. Instead of having a separate dog bed taking up floor real estate, an integrated design consolidates both sleeping areas while maintaining functionality.

DIY Human Dog Bed: Planning Your Project

Before diving into construction, careful planning will ensure your human dog bed meets both your needs and your pet’s requirements. Consider these factors in your preliminary design phase:

Space Assessment

Begin by measuring your bedroom space to determine the maximum dimensions your human dog bed can occupy. Consider not just the footprint of the bed itself, but also allow for movement around it. If you’re working with a small room, designing a bed with the dog space underneath might be ideal. For larger spaces, you might prefer a side-by-side arrangement or an extended platform.

Understanding Your Dog’s Sleeping Habits

Observe how your dog currently sleeps: Do they curl up tightly or sprawl out? Do they prefer elevated positions or ground-level comfort? Dogs with arthritis or older pets might benefit from memory foam supports, while dogs that tend to overheat might need cooling materials. Understanding these preferences will guide your material selection and dimensional planning.

Also consider your dog’s size, both current and potential future growth if they’re still young. The space should comfortably accommodate them in their preferred sleeping position with some room to spare. For multiple pets, you’ll need to decide whether to create individual spaces or a shared area large enough for all.

Design Style Considerations

Your human dog bed should complement your bedroom’s aesthetic rather than detract from it. Consider the overall design theme of your room and how your new bed will fit within that context. Materials, colors, and finishes should align with your existing decor for a cohesive look. Many DIY enthusiasts find that incorporating elements from their current furniture creates visual continuity.

Budget Planning

Establish a realistic budget for your project, accounting for all materials, tools you might need to purchase, and any professional assistance you might require. While DIY approaches generally cost less than commercial alternatives, quality materials for a durable, comfortable bed still represent an investment. Creating a detailed materials list with estimated costs will help prevent budget surprises mid-project.

Materials Selection for Your Human Dog Bed

Framework Materials

The foundation of your human dog bed requires sturdy materials capable of supporting both human and canine weight. Here are some popular options:

• Solid Wood: Durable and classic, wood provides excellent structural integrity and can be stained or painted to match your decor. Pine offers an economical option, while hardwoods like oak or maple provide greater durability at a higher cost.
• Plywood or MDF: These engineered wood products offer good strength at lower cost points and can be ideal for the platform portions of your design.
• Upcycled Materials: For eco-conscious builders, repurposed furniture pieces, pallets (ensure they’re heat-treated rather than chemically treated), or salvaged wood can provide character while reducing environmental impact.
• Metal Framework: For a more industrial aesthetic or if you’re concerned about chewing, metal bed frames can be adapted to incorporate pet spaces.

Comfort Materials

The sleeping surfaces for both you and your pet deserve careful consideration:

• Human Mattress: Your existing mattress may work perfectly, or you might choose to purchase one specifically for this project. Consider mattress height when designing the framework.
• Dog Mattress Options: Several excellent options exist for your pet’s comfort:
  • Memory Foam: Excellent for support, particularly beneficial for older dogs or those with joint issues.
  • Orthopedic Foam: Provides firm support while cushioning pressure points.
  • Egg Crate Foam: A budget-friendly option that offers decent comfort and air circulation.
  • Cooling Gel Foam: Ideal for dogs that tend to overheat during sleep.
• Waterproof Layers: Consider incorporating waterproof mattress protectors or waterproof fabric beneath the top layer of your dog’s bed area, particularly for puppies, senior dogs, or during training periods.

Covering Materials

The exterior fabrics should balance aesthetics with practicality:

• Upholstery Fabric: Look for durable options with high “rub counts” (a measure of durability) for longevity.
• Pet-Friendly Fabrics: Consider materials that resist odors, stains, and are easy to clean:
  • Microfiber: Durable, stain-resistant, and comfortable.
  • Canvas: Extremely durable and has a casual, rustic look.
  • Outdoor Fabrics: These typically offer water and stain resistance.
  • Crypton Fabrics: Engineered specifically to resist stains, moisture, and bacteria.
• Washable Covers: Designing removable, machine-washable covers for your dog’s sleeping area simplifies maintenance and hygiene.

Hardware Components

Quality hardware ensures your creation remains sturdy and safe:

• Screws: Use appropriately sized wood screws for most connections rather than nails for superior holding power.
• Brackets: Corner brackets can reinforce joints for added stability.
• Hinges: If your design incorporates storage or convertible features, select heavy-duty hinges appropriate for the weight they’ll support.
• Wheels/Casters: Consider adding locking casters to make cleaning under and around the bed easier.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Human Dog Bed

Design 1: Under-Bed Dog Space

This popular approach utilizes the often-unused space beneath a raised bed platform, creating a cozy den-like environment for your pet while maintaining your elevated sleeping position.

Materials Needed:

• Wood for bed frame (2x4s, 1x4s, plywood)
• Screws and wood glue
• Measuring tape and level
• Power drill and saw
• Sandpaper
• Foam or dog mattress
• Fabric for covering
• Human mattress

Construction Steps:

1. Create the Bed Frame: Build a robust rectangular frame using 2x4s for the perimeter, ensuring it’s slightly larger than your mattress dimensions.
2. Add Support Slats: Install 1×4 slats across the frame, spaced evenly (about 3-4 inches apart) to support your mattress.
3. Design the Legs: Create tall legs or a raised platform that provides sufficient clearance underneath for your dog’s comfort. A minimum height of 16-18 inches works for most medium-sized dogs.
4. Build the Dog Bed Base: Construct a simple platform that will sit on the floor beneath your bed. This can be a basic frame with plywood top or something more elaborate depending on your skills.
5. Add Sides to the Dog Area: Consider adding partial sides to the dog bed area to create a more den-like feel, which many dogs prefer.
6. Sand and Finish: Sand all wooden components smooth and apply your chosen finish (paint, stain, or sealant).
7. Prepare the Dog Mattress: Cut foam to size or place the pre-made dog bed on the platform.
8. Add Fabric Covering: Create a washable cover for the dog mattress by measuring and sewing fabric with an overlapping closure secured by Velcro or a zipper.
9. Final Assembly: Place your human mattress on the upper platform and position the dog bed underneath.

Design 2: Side-by-Side Extended Platform

This design extends your bed platform to incorporate an adjacent sleeping area for your pet, creating a unified piece of furniture with distinct human and canine zones.

Materials Needed:

• Similar materials to Design 1, plus additional plywood for the extended platform
• Optional cushioned border materials

Construction Steps:

1. Design the Extended Platform: Create a blueprint that includes your bed dimensions plus an additional area (usually 24-36 inches wide, depending on your dog’s size) along one side of the bed.
2. Build the Basic Frame: Construct a frame that encompasses both the human mattress area and the dog platform.
3. Create Distinct Zones: Consider adding a small divider or raised edge between the human and dog areas to prevent mattress movement and clearly delineate spaces.
4. Add Support: Install appropriate supports under both sections, recognizing that the dog area may require different support structures than the human area.
5. Create a Bordered Dog Area: Add low walls around three sides of the dog section to create a secure feeling space and prevent your pet from rolling off during sleep.
6. Install the Sleeping Surfaces: Place your human mattress on its section and add the dog bed to its platform.
7. Finishing Touches: Consider adding cushioned upholstery to the borders around your dog’s area for added comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Design 3: Upcycled and Eco-Friendly Approach

For environmentally conscious pet owners, creating a human dog bed from repurposed materials offers a sustainable alternative with unique character.

Materials Needed:

• Recycled materials (old furniture, pallets, etc.)
• Upcycled fabrics (old clothes, blankets, curtains)
• Non-toxic adhesives and finishes
• Basic tools for cutting and assembly

Construction Approach:

1. Source Materials Responsibly: Look for discarded furniture, clean wooden pallets, or other materials that can be repurposed.
2. Clean and Prep Materials: Thoroughly clean all components and check for safety issues like nails, splinters, or weak spots.
3. Create No-Sew Coverings: Use the braiding technique to create coverings from old t-shirts or other fabric scraps:
   • Cut fabric into long strips
   • Braid them together for strength
   • Use these braids to secure padding to boards
   • Loop strips through pre-cut holes to connect components
4. Build Base Structures: Create base boards by sandwiching cardboard between braided fabric strips.
5. Create Headboards and Side Supports: Use the same technique to build vertical components.
6. Design for Flexibility: Consider making components that can be reconfigured or folded for storage when not in use.
7. Focus on Comfort: Use repurposed cushions, pillows, or natural fillings like buckwheat hulls for the pet area.

This design emphasizes creative reuse of materials that might otherwise end up in landfills. The Instructables guide to upcycled human dog beds provides detailed visual instructions for this approach.

Customization and Safety Considerations

Personalizing Your Human Dog Bed

Adding personalized touches makes your human dog bed more functional and aesthetically pleasing:

• Built-in Storage: Incorporate drawers or storage compartments for pet supplies, toys, or bedding to maximize functionality.
• Adjustable Features: Consider elements that can be modified as needs change:
  • Removable dividers that can be adjusted as your pet grows
  • Height-adjustable platforms for aging dogs with changing mobility needs
  • Convertible designs that can adapt to different seasons
• Lighting Accents: Gentle LED strip lighting around the dog area can provide visibility during nighttime bathroom breaks without disrupting sleep.
• Temperature Control: For dogs that run hot or cold, consider incorporating:
  • Cooling pads or gel-infused foam for heat-sensitive breeds
  • Self-warming materials or space for heated pet beds for cold-sensitive dogs
  • Ventilation features for proper air circulation

Safety Considerations

When creating your human dog bed, safety should be a primary consideration:

• Structural Integrity: Ensure all components can safely support the combined weight of human occupants plus the dynamic movement of your dog.
• Non-Toxic Materials: Select pet-safe finishes, avoiding:
  • High-VOC paints or stains
  • Treated woods with harmful chemicals
  • Adhesives that emit strong fumes
• Accessibility Features: For senior dogs or pets with mobility issues:
  • Include ramps or steps for easier access
  • Ensure adequate grip surfaces to prevent slipping
  • Design with lower height requirements
• Entrapment Prevention: Avoid designs with gaps or spaces where your pet could become trapped, particularly important for small dogs.
• Chew-Proofing: For dogs that tend to chew, reinforce vulnerable areas with chew-resistant materials or bitter apple spray.

Maintenance Considerations

A well-designed human dog bed should be easy to maintain:

• Washable Components: Design with removable, machine-washable covers for all fabric elements.
• Accessibility for Cleaning: Ensure you can easily access all areas for regular cleaning, including underneath and between components.
• Odor Management: Consider incorporating washable charcoal inserts or other odor-absorbing materials, particularly important for senior pets.
• Waterproofing: Use waterproof materials for the base layer of the dog bed area, especially for puppies, senior dogs, or pets with incontinence issues.

Adapting Commercial Beds vs. Complete DIY

Not everyone has the time, tools, or inclination for elaborate woodworking projects. Fortunately, there are options for creating human dog beds with varying degrees of DIY involvement.

Modifying Existing Bed Frames

For those who prefer minimal construction, adapting your current bed frame offers a straightforward approach:

• Platform Bed Adaptation: If you have a platform bed, consider creating a rolling trundle-style dog bed that slides underneath when not in use.
• Side Attachment: Secure a commercially available dog bed to the side of your bed frame using brackets or custom supports.
• Headboard Integration: Some creative pet owners have modified headboards to include built-in pet nooks at pillow level.
• Bed Risers: Use commercial bed risers to elevate your existing frame, then place a dog bed underneath in the newly created space.

Semi-DIY Approaches

These methods blend pre-made elements with custom modifications:

• Murphy Bed Concept: Install wall-mounted brackets that allow a dog bed to fold down when needed and tuck away when not in use.
• Repurposed Furniture: Transform bedside tables, ottomans, or low dressers into custom pet sleeping areas positioned adjacent to your bed.
• Modular Systems: Purchase modular furniture pieces that can be configured to create adjacent human and pet sleeping zones.
• Custom Mattress Toppers: Design a split mattress topper that includes a lowered or differently cushioned section for your pet at the foot of the bed.

Temporary or Rental-Friendly Solutions

For those in temporary housing or who prefer non-permanent options:

• Clip-On Dog Beds: Several commercial products attach temporarily to your mattress, creating an extension for your pet.
• Free-Standing Platforms: Create or purchase a small platform that matches your bed height and position it adjacent to your mattress.
• Convertible Options: Design dog beds that function as standalone units during the day but can be positioned against your bed at night.
• Bedside Steps with Platform: Multi-functional steps that help smaller dogs access the bed while providing their own resting platform.

Introducing Your Pet to Their New Bed

After investing time and effort into creating the perfect human dog bed, you’ll want to ensure your pet actually uses it. Many dog owners report initial reluctance from their pets to adopt new sleeping arrangements. Here are strategies to help your furry friend transition successfully:

Gradual Introduction

Rather than expecting immediate adoption, introduce the new bed gradually:

• Familiar Scents: Place items with your scent and your dog’s scent (like a blanket they already use) on the new bed area.
• Positive Associations: Initially use the bed area for enjoyable activities like treat time, gentle grooming sessions, or quiet play.
• Reward-Based Encouragement: Offer praise and treats when your dog shows interest in the new space.
• Consistent Location: Position the bed in an area where your dog already likes to sleep if possible, gradually moving it to its permanent location.

Troubleshooting Common Challenges

If your dog resists using their new bed, consider these potential solutions:

• Temperature Issues: Some dogs avoid beds that are too warm or too cool. Observe whether your dog seeks cooler floor surfaces or warmer, more insulated spots.
• Comfort Preferences: Dogs, like humans, have comfort preferences. Some prefer firm support while others enjoy plush softness. You may need to adjust the cushioning.
• Security Concerns: Dogs that avoid the bed may feel exposed. Adding partial sides or positioning the bed against a wall can help.
• Noise or Movement: If the bed creaks or shifts when your dog gets on it, they may avoid it out of uncertainty. Ensure the structure is solid and stable.

Maintaining Sleep Boundaries

Once your dog begins using their designated space, reinforce the habit:

• Consistent Expectations: If your goal is for your dog to sleep exclusively in their area rather than on your mattress, be consistent about redirecting them to their space.
• Nighttime Routine: Establish a bedtime ritual that includes guiding your dog to their sleeping area with a specific command like “go to bed.”
• Patience During Adjustment: Expect some testing of boundaries, particularly if your dog previously slept on your bed. Remain patient but consistent.
• Positive Reinforcement: Continue to praise and occasionally reward your dog for using their designated space until the habit is firmly established.

Maintenance and Longevity of Your Human Dog Bed

Proper maintenance ensures your human dog bed remains comfortable, hygienic, and durable for years to come. Implementing a regular care routine protects your investment and keeps the sleeping environment healthy for both you and your pet.

Regular Cleaning Routine

Establish a consistent cleaning schedule based on your pet’s habits and your household needs:

• Weekly Maintenance:
  • Remove and wash all removable covers according to fabric care instructions
  • Vacuum all surfaces, including crevices where pet hair accumulates
  • Wipe down framework with pet-safe cleaner
• Monthly Deep Clean:
  • Remove and air out foam components when possible
  • Treat any spots or stains that have developed
  • Check for and address any odors with enzymatic pet odor eliminators
  • Inspect the structure for any needed repairs
• Seasonal Maintenance:
  • Rotate or flip cushioning materials to ensure even wear
  • Deep clean foam components according to manufacturer recommendations
  • Refresh waterproof barriers if applicable
  • Check and tighten any loose hardware

Addressing Wear and Tear

Even well-built beds will experience wear over time. Address these common issues promptly:

• Fabric Wear: Keep extra fabric on hand for patching or replacing worn sections of covers.
• Foam Compression: Most foam will compress over time. Plan to replace foam components every 2-3 years depending on quality and use.
• Structural Weakening: Address any creaking, wobbling, or sagging promptly by reinforcing joints or replacing weakened components.
• Odor Management: For persistent odors that regular cleaning doesn’t address, consider specialized treatments:
  • Baking soda treatments for fabric components
  • Sunning foam components when possible (UV light naturally kills bacteria)
  • Professional cleaning for stubborn issues

Seasonal Adaptations

Consider modifying your human dog bed throughout the year to accommodate changing needs:

• Summer Adjustments:
  • Replace heavy fabrics with lightweight, breathable options
  • Add cooling mats or gel pads for heat-sensitive dogs
  • Ensure good air circulation around the bed
• Winter Modifications:
  • Add thermal or self-warming layers for cold weather
  • Incorporate machine-washable heated pet pads for especially cold environments
  • Position the bed away from drafts

When to Consider Replacement or Redesign

Sometimes, a complete refresh is warranted:

• Aging Pet Considerations: As dogs enter their senior years, they may need different support. Consider redesigning with:
  • Higher-quality orthopedic foam
  • Lower entry points
  • Waterproof components for potential incontinence
• Growing Dogs: If you built your bed for a puppy, you may need to redesign as they reach their adult size.
• Multiple Pets: Adding another pet to your household might necessitate expanding or reconfiguring your human dog bed design.
• Moving Considerations: If relocating, consider whether to transport your current bed or design a new one better suited to your new space.

Real-Life Experiences: Success Stories and Lessons Learned

Learning from others’ experiences can provide valuable insights when creating your own human dog bed. Here are some consolidated experiences from pet owners who have successfully implemented these designs:

Design Evolution Through Trial and Error

Many pet owners report that their final designs evolved substantially from their initial concepts. Common refinements included:

• Height Adjustments: Several owners found their initial height estimates for under-bed designs were insufficient, particularly for larger dogs. Adding 2-3 inches of clearance beyond what seemed necessary proved beneficial.
• Access Improvements: Initially overlooked, many added ramps or steps after observing their pets struggling to navigate height differences, especially beneficial for smaller breeds and aging dogs.
• Border Modifications: Dogs that initially seemed to prefer open beds often showed increased comfort and security after owners added partial borders, creating a more den-like environment.

Material Insights From Long-Term Use

Extended use revealed important material considerations:

• Fabric Durability: Cotton covers, while comfortable and breathable, often wore out quickly. Many owners eventually switched to canvas, microfiber, or specifically designed pet fabrics after multiple replacements.
• Foam Quality Matters: Bargain foam options frequently compressed within months, while higher-density materials maintained their shape for years. The investment in quality materials ultimately saved money and effort.
• Waterproofing Essentials: Even with well-trained pets, accidents and spills happen. Owners who initially skipped waterproofing often retrofitted their designs later after experiencing moisture issues.

Unexpected Benefits Discovered

Beyond the anticipated advantages, pet owners discovered additional benefits:

• Reduced Anxiety: Many reported significant decreases in separation anxiety behaviors after implementing human dog beds, theorizing that having a shared sleep space created greater security.
• Improved Health Monitoring: Proximity during sleep allowed owners to notice subtle health changes more quickly, including breathing irregularities or mobility issues.
• Guest Accommodation: Designs with removable or convertible pet sections unexpectedly served as convenient guest beds when needed.
• Enhanced Training Results: The clear delineation of sleeping spaces helped reinforce other boundary training throughout the home.

Professional Perspectives

Veterinarians and animal behaviorists offer these insights on human dog beds:

• Sleep Quality Impacts: Research suggests that both humans and dogs experience better REM sleep when in proximity but not sharing the exact same surface.
• Behavioral Benefits: Clear boundaries within shared spaces help dogs understand household hierarchies, potentially reducing dominance-related behavioral issues.
• Health Considerations: Properly designed pet sleeping surfaces can significantly reduce joint strain and improve circulation, particularly beneficial for breeds prone to orthopedic issues.

These real-world experiences underscore the value of thoughtful design, quality materials, and willingness to adapt based on observation. The most successful human dog beds evolve to meet both human and canine needs, creating truly synergistic sleeping environments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Beds Made for Humans