How to Build a Puppy Bed

Nothing is more exciting than adding a new puppy to the family. However, bringing the puppy home requires some responsibility and preparation. Start with a basket as the bed base. Using the basket as a frame allows for inexpensive adjustments to the bed base as the puppy grows. A puppy's bed should be his own - a place where he can curl up, nap and have some privacy. Building a puppy bed from a comfortably sized basket and soft, cuddly cushion creates a special place for your pet.

Things You'll Need

  • Basket
  • Paper
  • Pencil
  • Scissors
  • Fabric
  • Foam padding
  • Thread
  • Sewing machine
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase the basket bed frame.

      Measure the puppy's length, head to tail, fully stretched out. Measure the puppy's width at the widest point when it is curled up. Add three inches to the length and three inches to the width to determine the basket bed measurements. This is the minimum size to be used. Make sure the puppy can get in and out of the bed easily and that it can be cleaned easily .

    • 2

      Make a cushion pattern.

      Draw a cushion pattern by tracing the bottom of the pet bed basket on paper. Extend the pattern out by one inch to accommodate for seams and cushion filling. Cut the pattern from the paper.

    • 3

      Complete the cushion.

      Cut two pieces of soft, washable fabric, using the pattern as a guide. Place the printed sides, or right sides, of the fabric together. Sew a 1/2-inch seam around the fabric, 1/4-inch in from the fabric edge. Leave a 10-inch opening in the seam to push the foam padding or washable filling through. Turn the fabric right side out. Stuff with the foam padding and stitch the seam opening together. For ease of cleaning, you could put a zipper or velcro fastening in the seam that allows you to pull out the filling and wash the cushion cover separately.

    • 4

      Place the bed in an area free from drafts and constant noise.

      Puppies can handle some cold, but should not be exposed to drafts. Typically, the puppy has been with its mother and litter-mates up until the time you bring him or her home. It has been used to familiar surroundings. The security of the puppy needs to be considered in order to get off to a good start.