Raised Dog Bed DIY

My husband complained our dog Zach was sneaking into bed and not letting him sleep. To solve the problem, I decided to design and build a raised platform for his Kirkland Signature bed so he could see us while he laid down to sleep. For the first couple of nights he used it full time but because he insists on being in contact with one of us while he slumbers (me mostly), he has half his body in his bed and half in my side while he snoozes. Cutest thing ever and it only cost $40!

Here’s what you need to make the 42″ x 32″ version (it can double as a coffee table too):

Common Board Wood:
2 1×4 cut to 42″ (frame)
2 1×4 cut to 32″ (frame)
8 1×6 cut to 32″ (platform)
4 2×3 cut to 18″ (for the legs)

Fasteners:
16 10 wood screws (2″)
32 8 wood screws (1 1/2)

Tools:
Safety glasses and gloves
Drill and 3/16″ bit
Circular saw or router (portable)

Paint: Stain/Varnish

I started by drilling pilot holes into the wooden legs (2 screws per side) and frame parts. I attached the 42″ pieces to the legs (along the 3″ length with the 2″ screws) first and then attached the 32″ pieces with the 2″ screws. After the frame was secured, I drilled pilot holes through the platform planks, one at a time, and screwed the parts together with the 1 1/2″ fasteners, two per side of the plank. Make sure you align the planks and cut off any excess. I measured a line a half inch from each fastener location and used a handheld circular saw to even the edges.

After the platform is put together you can stain it to match the furniture in your room or varnish it if you like the natural color.

Voilà!  Enjoy!

My original design was for a 44″ x 30″ raised bed but I realized many sites substituted dog beds for crib mattresses. To get a more versatile design, I changed the measurement for 42″ x 32″. My dog is about 75 lbs and over 24 inches long so he fits perfectly. For heavier dogs, add a 40″ long 1×4, two 2″ screws per plank to the frame, and two 1 1/2″ screws per plank to the reinforcement beam.

For a smaller or longer bed add or subtract in increments of 6″ to the length to achieve this look. 4x4s can be used for the legs but it will make the bed heavier.