Dog Bed for Humans: The Ultimate Guide to Comfort, DIY Projects, and Where to Buy

Have you ever looked at your dog lounging comfortably in their plush bed and thought, “That looks incredibly cozy”? You’re not alone. The concept of a dog bed for humans—yes, you read that right—has been gaining tremendous popularity among pet lovers and comfort enthusiasts alike. These oversized, cushiony havens offer a unique relaxation experience that combines the best elements of bean bags, floor cushions, and traditional dog beds, but scaled up for human use. Whether you’re looking to create a special bonding experience with your pet, need a comfortable napping spot, or simply want to embrace your inner puppy, a human dog bed might be exactly what you’ve been missing in your life.

What Exactly Is a Dog Bed for Humans?

A dog bed for humans is essentially an oversized version of the plush, padded beds we make for our canine companions, but designed to accommodate human dimensions and weight. These beds typically feature thick memory foam padding, soft outer materials, and often include bolstered edges that create a nest-like environment. The most popular commercial version is the Plufl, which gained fame after appearing on Shark Tank, but many people are also creating DIY versions that match their specific comfort preferences and home décor.

Unlike standard furniture, human dog beds are meant to be placed directly on the floor, allowing you to curl up, stretch out, or assume any comfortable position without the constraints of a traditional bed frame. They’re perfect for reading, napping, meditating, or simply relaxing after a long day. The enclosed design creates a sense of security that many find deeply comforting—it’s like a weighted blanket, but for your entire body.

Why the Growing Popularity of Human Dog Beds?

The Psychology of Comfort

The appeal of human dog beds goes beyond just physical comfort—there’s a psychological component as well. The enclosed, nest-like design taps into our innate desire for security and coziness. Many users report feeling calmer and more relaxed when nestled into these beds, which makes sense from an evolutionary standpoint. Humans, like many mammals, have an instinctual attraction to enclosed spaces that offer protection while resting.

Additionally, there’s something undeniably comforting about the informal nature of these beds. Unlike conventional furniture that often comes with social expectations about “proper” use, human dog beds invite you to lounge, sprawl, and relax however feels best. This freedom can be particularly appealing in our increasingly structured and formal world.

Bonding with Pets

For pet owners, human dog beds create a unique opportunity to bond with their furry friends. Many people report that their pets are more likely to curl up with them in a human dog bed than on a conventional sofa or mattress. The floor-level height and padded boundaries seem to appeal to both species equally, creating a shared space that strengthens the human-animal bond.

Some owners even design their human dog beds with attached or integrated pet spaces, allowing both human and animal to have their own designated areas while still maintaining closeness. This arrangement can be particularly beneficial for pet owners who want to maintain boundaries while still enjoying proximity to their animals.

DIY Human Dog Bed: Building Your Own Comfort Zone

While commercial options like the Plufl have gained popularity, many enthusiasts prefer to create their own custom human dog beds. Building your own allows you to tailor every aspect to your specific preferences, from the size and firmness to the fabric and aesthetic details. Plus, it’s often more cost-effective than purchasing a commercial version, which can run upwards of $400.

Materials You’ll Need

• Memory Foam or High-Density Foam: This forms the base of your bed and provides the majority of the comfort. Many DIYers use 4-6 inches of foam for optimal support.
• Bolster Material: For the raised edges, you’ll need either foam pool noodles, rolled blankets, or specialized bolster foam.
• Fabric: Choose something durable yet soft for the outer covering. Options include minky fabric, faux fur, velvet, or even canvas for a more structured look.
• Inner Lining: A waterproof or water-resistant lining can protect your foam from spills and make cleaning easier.
• Zippers or Velcro: For creating a removable, washable cover.
• Thread: Heavy-duty thread is recommended for durability.
• Fiberfill or Additional Padding: For extra comfort in specific areas.

Tools Required

• Sewing Machine: While hand-sewing is possible, a machine makes the process much faster and typically creates stronger seams.
• Scissors: Heavy-duty scissors for cutting foam and fabric.
• Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are crucial for a well-fitting cover.
• Fabric Markers or Chalk: For marking cutting lines on your fabric.
• Pins or Clips: To hold fabric pieces in place while sewing.
• Electric Knife or Foam Cutter: For cutting foam precisely (a serrated bread knife can work in a pinch).

Step-by-Step Building Guide

Creating your own human dog bed involves careful planning, precise measurements, and attention to detail. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:

1. Design Planning: Begin by determining the size of your bed. Consider who will be using it and how much space you have available. Standard sizes range from twin bed dimensions to larger custom sizes. Sketch out your design, including measurements for the base and bolsters.
2. Prepare the Base: Cut your memory foam or high-density foam to the desired size for the base of your bed. If you’re using multiple layers of foam, consider adhesive spray designed for foam to keep the layers from shifting.
3. Create the Bolsters: Measure and cut your bolster material. For a traditional human dog bed, you’ll want bolsters on at least three sides, though some prefer a full perimeter. Pool noodles can be curved around corners, or you can create custom corner pieces for a more professional finish.
4. Create a Pattern: Using large paper or by carefully measuring and marking directly on your fabric, create a pattern for your cover. You’ll need pieces for the top, bottom, sides, and bolster covers.
5. Cut the Fabric: Following your pattern, cut out all fabric pieces, adding seam allowances (typically 1/2 inch) as needed. If using a waterproof lining, cut those pieces as well.
6. Sew the Bolster Covers: Create tube-shaped covers for your bolsters, leaving one end open for insertion. Turn right-side out and insert your bolster material.
7. Assemble the Base Cover: Sew the top and bottom pieces to the side pieces, creating a box-shaped cover for your foam base. Remember to leave an opening for inserting the foam and installing a zipper or velcro closure.
8. Attach the Bolsters: Sew the bolsters to the base cover, ensuring they’re securely attached while maintaining their shape. This step requires careful planning and execution to create clean, professional-looking seams.
9. Install Closure: Add your zipper or velcro closure to allow for future washing of the cover.
10. Insert Foam and Bolsters: Carefully place your foam base into the cover, followed by the bolsters (if they weren’t already attached).
11. Final Touches: Add any decorative elements, additional padding, or custom features you desire.

Tips for a Professional Finish

To create a human dog bed that looks store-bought rather than homemade, consider these professional tips:

• Pre-wash Fabric: Always pre-wash your fabric to account for any shrinkage before cutting and sewing.
• Reinforced Stitching: Use double stitching at stress points and seams that will bear weight.
• Piping: Adding piping at seams creates a polished, professional look.
• Non-Slip Bottom: Consider adding a non-slip fabric or rubber dots to the bottom of your bed to prevent sliding on hard floors.
• Professional Foam Cutting: If precision cutting is challenging, many upholstery or foam supply stores will cut foam to your specifications for a small fee.

Human Dog Beds with Integrated Pet Space

For the ultimate pet-human bonding experience, consider designing your human dog bed with an attached or integrated space specifically for your furry friend. This arrangement allows you to enjoy proximity to your pet while still maintaining separate spaces, which can be particularly beneficial for light sleepers or those with pets that tend to take over the entire bed.

Design Options

• Side-by-Side Design: Create a human-sized bed with a smaller pet bed attached to one side, both sharing a common bolster wall.
• Nesting Design: Build a larger human bed with a small, removable pet bed that fits neatly inside when not in use.
• Bunk-Style: For those who prefer more separation, create a human dog bed with a platform underneath that holds a traditional dog bed.
• Hammock Attachment: Some designs incorporate a cat hammock that attaches to the side of the human bed, perfect for feline friends who like to perch above ground level.

Material Considerations for Pet Sections

When designing the pet portion of your human dog bed, consider these special considerations:

• Durability: Pet sections may need more durable, scratch-resistant fabrics.
• Waterproofing: A waterproof liner is especially important for pet sections to protect against accidents.
• Removable Covers: Separate, easily removable covers for the pet section allow for more frequent washing.
• Pet-Safe Materials: Ensure all materials, especially any adhesives or treatments, are non-toxic and safe for pets.

Commercial Options: Where to Buy Human Dog Beds

If DIY isn’t your thing, there are several commercial options available for purchasing ready-made human dog beds:

Plufl: The Original Human Dog Bed

The Plufl is widely considered the original human dog bed and gained significant popularity after appearing on Shark Tank. These beds feature:

• Premium orthopedic and memory foam for optimal comfort
• Ultra-soft, faux fur covers that are machine washable
• Handles for easy transport and repositioning
• Sizes that accommodate most adults comfortably

Plufl beds typically retail for around $399, though you can often find discount codes online that offer 10-15% off. Many reviewers note that while the price is high, the quality and comfort justify the investment.

Amazon Alternatives

Several manufacturers have created their own versions of human dog beds that are available on Amazon, often at lower price points than the Plufl. These alternatives vary in quality and features, but popular options include:

• Oversized floor cushions with bolstered edges
• Bean bag/dog bed hybrids
• Memory foam floor mattresses with raised borders

When shopping for alternatives, pay close attention to the dimensions, materials, and weight capacity to ensure you’re getting a product that will comfortably accommodate adult humans rather than just being an oversized pet bed.

Etsy and Custom Craftspeople

For those seeking something truly unique, many crafters on platforms like Etsy offer custom-made human dog beds. Working with a custom craftsperson allows you to specify exact dimensions, materials, and design elements, creating a human dog bed that perfectly suits your preferences and home décor.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Human Dog Beds

As with any consumer product, sustainability is an important consideration when creating or purchasing a human dog bed. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to make your human dog bed more environmentally friendly:

Sustainable Materials

• Organic Fabrics: Consider organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo fabrics for your cover.
• Natural Latex Foam: Instead of traditional memory foam, natural latex offers similar comfort with a smaller environmental footprint.
• Recycled Fill: Some manufacturers now offer cushion filling made from recycled plastic bottles or other reclaimed materials.
• Certified Sustainable Wood: If your design includes any wooden elements, look for FSC-certified sources.

Upcycling Projects

One of the most environmentally friendly approaches is to create your human dog bed using upcycled materials:

• Repurposed Mattresses: An old twin mattress can be cut down and reshaped to form the base of a human dog bed.
• Old Pillows and Cushions: Stuffing from old pillows can be used to fill bolsters and provide additional padding.
• Fabric Remnants: Fabric stores often sell remnants at discounted prices, which can be perfect for smaller projects like bolster covers.
• Secondhand Bedding: Thrift store blankets and comforters can be repurposed as filling or covering material.

Making Your Human Dog Bed Portable and Travel-Friendly

One limitation of many human dog beds is their bulky nature, which can make them difficult to move or transport. However, with some clever design modifications, you can create a version that’s more portable:

Modular Design

Consider creating a modular human dog bed that can be broken down into smaller components for easier transport. This might include:

• Separate, attachable bolsters that can be removed for flat packing
• A base that folds or rolls up when not in use
• Removable fill that can be compressed for travel and refilled at your destination

Inflatable Options

For maximum portability, consider an inflatable design:

• High-quality air mattress material can provide surprising comfort
• Inflatable bolsters can create the classic human dog bed shape without the bulk
• Electric air pumps make inflation and deflation quick and easy

An inflatable human dog bed might not offer quite the same level of plush comfort as a foam version, but it can be a practical option for those who want to take their cozy space on the road or have limited storage when the bed isn’t in use.

Maintaining and Cleaning Your Human Dog Bed

To ensure your human dog bed remains a clean and inviting space for years to come, proper maintenance is essential. Here are some tips for keeping your bed fresh and in good condition:

Regular Cleaning Routine

• Weekly Refresh: Vacuum the surface of your bed weekly to remove hair, dust, and debris.
• Spot Cleaning: Address spills and stains immediately using appropriate fabric cleaners.
• Cover Washing: Wash removable covers every 2-4 weeks, following the care instructions for your specific fabric.
• Deep Cleaning: Every few months, remove all components that can be washed and give them a thorough cleaning.

Dealing with Odors

Human dog beds, especially those shared with pets, can develop odors over time. Combat this with:

• Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda over the bed, let it sit for several hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
• Fabric Refresher: Use pet-safe fabric refresher sprays between deeper cleanings.
• Sunning: When possible, place your bed (or its components) in direct sunlight for a few hours, as UV rays naturally kill bacteria and eliminate odors.
• Essential Oils: Add a few drops of pet-safe essential oils like lavender to your washing routine for a pleasant scent.

Extending Lifespan

To ensure your human dog bed lasts as long as possible:

• Rotate Components: Periodically rotate or flip foam components to ensure even wear.
• Reinforce Seams: Check for and repair any weakening seams before they become tears.
• Protect from Moisture: Ensure the bed is completely dry before reassembling after cleaning to prevent mold or mildew.
• Keep Away from Heat Sources: Position your bed away from heaters, fireplaces, and direct sunlight, which can degrade materials over time.

Incorporating Your Human Dog Bed into Home Décor

A human dog bed doesn’t have to be an eyesore or clash with your carefully curated interior design. With thoughtful planning, it can become a stylish and integrated part of your home:

Choosing Complementary Fabrics and Colors

Select materials and colors that coordinate with your existing décor:

• For modern, minimalist spaces, consider neutral tones and clean lines
• In bohemian or eclectic rooms, vibrant patterns and textures can make your human dog bed a statement piece
• For traditional décor, classic patterns and rich, solid colors can help the bed blend seamlessly

Strategic Placement

Consider carefully where to position your human dog bed for both function and aesthetics:

• Reading Nooks: Place your bed in a corner with good lighting to create a cozy reading retreat
• Media Rooms: Position it for optimal TV viewing without neck strain
• Home Office: A human dog bed can provide a comfortable spot for creative thinking or quick breaks
• Bedroom Corner: Create a relaxation zone separate from your main bed

Accessorizing Your Human Dog Bed

The right accessories can elevate both the comfort and appearance of your human dog bed:

• Throw Pillows: Additional pillows can provide extra support while adding color and texture
• Blankets: Drape a coordinating throw blanket over one corner for added warmth and style
• Side Tables: A small, low side table provides a convenient spot for books, devices, or beverages
• Lighting: Consider a floor lamp that arches over the bed for perfect reading light

Real Experiences: What Users Say About Human Dog Beds

The true test of any product is how it performs in real-world use. Here’s what actual human dog bed users have to say about their experiences:

Comfort and Sleep Quality

Many users report significant benefits for relaxation and sleep:

“I struggle with anxiety and have always found it difficult to fully relax. Something about the enclosed feeling of my human dog bed creates a sense of security I’ve never experienced with regular furniture. I fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more rested.” – Jamie K.

“As someone with chronic back pain, I was skeptical about essentially sleeping on the floor. But the combination of support from the memory foam base and the ability to position myself however feels best has actually reduced my pain significantly.” – Michael T.

Family and Pet Dynamics

Human dog beds have transformed how some families and their pets interact:

“Our human dog bed has become the central gathering spot for our family. The kids naturally gravitate toward it for reading, tablet time, or just lounging. Our dog, who used to be somewhat aloof, now joins us regularly for family cuddle time.” – Sarah M.

“My cat used to sleep at the foot of my bed, maintaining her independence. Since getting our human dog bed, she curls up right next to me in the bolster curve. It’s like the design naturally creates the perfect cat-sized nook.” – Alex P.

Practical Considerations

Users also offer insights into the practical aspects of owning a human dog bed:

“The biggest challenge has been keeping it clean with two dogs and a toddler. I definitely recommend making or buying one with easily removable, machine-washable covers.” – Taylor B.

“It takes up more floor space than I initially anticipated. Make sure to measure your available area carefully before building or purchasing.” – Jordan L.

The Future of Human Comfort: Where Dog Beds for Humans Are Heading

As the popularity of human dog beds continues to grow, we’re seeing interesting innovations and trends emerging in this unique furniture category:

Technological Integration

Just as traditional mattresses have embraced technology, human dog beds are beginning to incorporate tech features:

• Heating Elements: Built-in heating options for cozy winter use
• Cooling Technologies: Gel-infused foams and breathable fabrics to prevent overheating
• Massage Features: Vibration or massage capabilities integrated into the base
• Smart Connectivity: Some conceptual designs include charging ports, Bluetooth speakers, or even sleep tracking capabilities

Commercial Expansion

The market for human dog beds is expanding beyond just home use:

• Office Spaces: Forward-thinking companies are adding human dog beds to relaxation areas
• Therapy Settings: Mental health professionals are exploring their use for anxiety and sensory processing therapy
• Hospitality: Boutique hotels and vacation rentals are beginning to offer them as unique amenities

Design Evolution

As this furniture category matures, we’re seeing more sophisticated design approaches:

• Modular Systems: Components that can be reconfigured for different uses and spaces
• Multi-Functional Pieces: Human dog beds that transform into other furniture when needed
• Luxury Materials: High-end versions using premium textiles and sustainable components
• Artistic Collaborations: Limited edition beds created with notable designers or artists

FAQ Section About Dog Bed for Humans

In conclusion, whether you choose to build your own custom creation or purchase a ready-made version, a dog bed for humans offers a unique combination of comfort, coziness, and casual relaxation that traditional furniture simply can’t match. As this trend continues to grow, we’re likely to see even more innovations in design, materials, and functionality, making these oversized nests an increasingly common sight in homes around the world. There’s something undeniably appealing about embracing our desire for comfort without pretense—perhaps we could all learn something from our canine companions about the simple pleasure of a perfect lounging spot.

References:

• Cactus Lands: How to Make Human Dog Bed
• The Owner Builder Network: Build Your Human Dog Bed