How to Make Your Own Dog Hammock

If you're expecting a crowd, make the hammock large and strong.

On days you find yourself liking your dog more than friends and family, a box of dog bones or new chew toy won't do for the pet who never asks for cash, comes when called and thinks you're a genius. You could purchase a new leash or spruce up Rex's house, but why not make an indoor dog hammock that offers your pet a respite from your lap? If your dog suffers from arthritis, you could be helping your pooch big time by creating a hammock that relieves his aches and pains.

Things You'll Need

• 3/4″ and/or 1/2″ PVC pipe
• 4 PVC corners
• 4 PVC caps
• Threaded to nonthreaded PVC adapters
• Strong fabric or old pillowcases
• Hacksaw
• Sewing machine
• Heavy-duty thread
• Decorative trim (optional)

Instructions

1. Measure your dog to determine how much "resting" area he requires. Buy enough PVC pipe to cover the construction of a frame replicating your measurement, plus additional pipe to create four legs. Use a hacksaw to cut down the piping.

2. Calculate the amount of fabric you'll require for your dog hammock by doubling the width and length of the frame area so there's extra material for hems and future "sagging."

3. Frame up the rectangular body of the hammock using four corner pieces and predetermined lengths of PVC piping. Fit the frame together and make necessary adjustments. Use plastic glue to reinforce the pipe and joint frame once you're certain everything fits together.

4. Use the hacksaw to cut four uniform leg pieces from the PVC pipe, erring on the side of caution by making them a little longer than your measurement--you can always cut them down if you're not happy with the length.

5. Thread the sewing machine. Pin up hems on four sides of the fabric and sew them into place. Spread the hemmed sling over the long sides of the rectangle, folding them over to create pockets that will secure the cloth to the frame. Stitch the pockets down securely, as these will bear the weight of the dog when the hammock is occupied. If you have a small dog, recycle an old pillowcase by putting a sheet of batting inside the pillow slip before sewing the end pockets.

6. Fasten the four legs to the PVC rectangle. Attach the caps.

7. Ask your pooch to try it out so you can make certain it's tall enough to clear the floor once your animal has settled in. Pull out the sleeve hem and re-stitch the sling if you need to minimize the slack.

8. Decorate your dog's hammock with any trim you prefer, as long as your pup isn't a chewer.

Tips & Warnings

• This hammock works best when relegated to carpeted floors.

References

• Critter Geek
• UK Campsite
• Ultra Kawaii