Dog-friendly bedroom ideas for you and your furry friends

Sit. Lie down. Drift off to snoozeville… This one is for the pet parents who can’t bear to be away from their fur babies, even for a night.

Before we’re hit with any “who would actually share a bedroom with their dog?!” comments, let’s set the record straight: a lot of people do.

In fact, around half of UK dog owners share their bed with their dog, according to The Dogs’ Trust. And in our very own Sleep Survey 2024, we uncovered that 18% of people would prefer having a pet in bed over a partner!

But designing a bedroom space that accommodates both you and your pup without compromising comfort or style is a different matter. That’s where we come in.

In this guide, we’ll share our best dog bedroom ideas, covering furniture, pet beds, hygiene, and décor. We’ll look at how to select appropriate pet beds, integrating them seamlessly with your bedroom décor, as well as how to maintain cleanliness (stray hairs be gone!), and adding thoughtful accessories that benefit both pets and humans.

Warning: designs may cause excessive tail wagging…

So, now you’re sold on the idea, it’s time to find the perfect sleep spot for your doggo, based on their sleeping style and needs:

• Bolster beds: Great for curlers who like a pillow. The raised edges provide extra comfort and support for the head and neck as they snooze.
• Orthopaedic or memory foam: Perfect for older or larger dogs needing special joint support, the dense foam helps to relieve pressure points and keeps them comfy all night long.
• Elevated beds: Since these are raised from the ground, air can circulate underneath, keeping your pup cool and lifted away from dusty floors.
• Covered beds: For comfort that’s paws-itively cosy, a covered bed is a snug option for anxious or small breeds, so they can hide away in their own little den.
• No bed at all: In other words, in your bed! For those who like to snuggle up with their pups, you can always just roll over and make room. Although we’d highly recommend investing in a super king size, so there’s plenty of space for the both of you…

How to blend a pet bed with your bedroom style

Who says you have to compromise on style to accommodate your pets? There are actually so many ways to integrate your pet’s bed and accessories into your bedroom design, without ruining your aesthetic.

1.Matching fabrics for coordinated comfort

Everybody loves a ‘mini me’. So, if you can, look for a dog bed that matches your human-size one. This instantly creates a coordinated, cohesive look, and your pet’s bed won’t look as jarring.

Another option is to use bedding to create some colour coordination. By switching up the colours or prints of your bed sheets to match your dog’s bed, you can easily blend everything together.

2. Stylish crates as furniture pieces

Gone are the days of eye-sore dog crates that stick out. Now, you can opt for a stylish wooden dog crate that doubles as an aesthetic piece of furniture, such as a side table or even your bedside table – like the one above. Style with your favourite ornaments, book stacks, and voilà! The perfect two-in-one solution. This is particularly effective if you’re working with a smaller bedroom and are tight on space.

3. Built-in bedroom nooks for small pups

If you’re someone who likes to have a place for everything and everything in its place, consider building a dedicated nook for your pet. This is a great way to make use of any redundant space that’s not big enough for you – but the perfect size for your pooch! Now, they have their own special area of your bedroom where they can curl up and get cosy.

4. Ottoman hideaways for daytime disguise

To keep all of your dog’s bedtime accessories tidy and out of sight, you might want to get creative with your storage – and we think the best place to start is with a clever ottoman bed. These nifty creations lift up to reveal a spacious storage space inside, the entire size of your mattress, meaning there’s plenty of room for stashing your spare blankets – as well as your pet’s toys and accessories.

Alternatively, you could place a stylish blanket box at the foot of your bed to double as a beautiful toy box for your pooch. Practical and aesthetically pleasing.

Pet-proofing without sacrificing style

Now, for some handy pet-proofing. Here, we explore some smart strategies for a fresh, fur-manageable space that you can both enjoy.

5. Boundaries that actually stick

If you like to have your pet near, but not too close, it’s time to set some boundaries. Make sure to train your dog so they know which areas of the bedroom they can sniff and which are out of bounds. We’re no dog trainers, but we know that treats always help…

6. Washable everything!

When dealing with messy pups, it’s essential to look for durable, machine-washable fabrics and supportive fillings that stand the test of time. Bonus points if you choose a dog bed that comes with a removable cover that you can stick in the washing machine anytime you need.

7. Rugs that can handle paws and claws

Bedroom rugs can transform a space, adding a lovely layer of comfort and texture. But nobody wants to be cleaning up muddy paw prints every day! The trick is to source a rug that can handle rough paws and spontaneous zoomies. We’d recommend opting for a low-pile rug with tightly woven fibres, which are less likely to snag on excitable claws. Plus, they’re easier to clean, which just makes life so much easier.

Accessories for your shared sanctuary

Now, for the finishing touches that celebrate your cohabitation – because no bedroom is complete without some thoughtful accessories. Here are some ideas that you and your four-legged friend are sure to love…

8. Pet portraits with personality

Nothing says you love them more than a personalised pet portrait! Brands like Purr & Mutt can take your most cherished snap and transform it into a stylised portrait that you can frame and hang above your bed forever. Choose from a regal Renaissance design or a scene from your fave film (hello Captain Jack Spaniel!) – the options are endless, and we are truly obsessed.

9. Subtle nods to your love for dogs

For something a little more understated, try dotting around a few canine-related touches. Perhaps an artistic line-drawing piece, a throw in a fur-friendly shade, or a beautifully crafted treats jar which sits on your bookshelf. There are plenty of ways to weave in some extra love for your pup, without house guests thinking you’re barking mad!

Creating their calm zone

Finally, let’s explore some clever environmental tweaks to help achieve better pet sleep – and yours.

10. Lighting that soothes

Soft, low lighting can help to encourage your pup to wind down for bedtime. Remember, they’re just like us, after all! Use bedside lamps, wall scones, or even dimmable switches to create a calm, safe and cosy environment. It’s also a good idea to use warm yellow bulbs, as opposed to bright white, to maintain a nice, warm glow across your bedroom.

11. White noise and calming sounds

Just like humans, dogs can benefit from white noise. Particularly if they’re a little on the anxious side, or you tend to hear random creaks or sudden sounds in the night, a white noise machine or playlist can drown out the background noises. Essentially, white noise produces a steady, soothing backdrop for your slumber, which can help you and your pooch settle into a deeper sleep.

Interested in learning more about coloured sounds? Check out our guide to find out how white, pink and even brown noise can help you sleep better.

12. Fresh air that flows

Good air ventilation at night can be beneficial for everyone, even our doggos. You can circulate the air simply by keeping a window open, running a fan on a low setting, or investing in an air purifier which releases gentle steam. Not only does fresh air flow help to regulate your bedroom temperature, but it also reduces any of that clingy ‘stuffiness’, making your room feel fresher and cleaner.

Creating a dog-friendly bedroom doesn’t mean compromising. With a few thoughtful tweaks, some careful colour and fabric choices, and smart storage solutions, you can design a beautifully blended space that works for both you and man’s best friend.

Want more dog content? We don’t blame you! Check out our expert guide to sleeping alongside your dog for the full scoop on co-sleeping success.