Originally Posted by Neesie

I make dog beds (did one for a friend and now am making more, for other friends) and made my own pattern (from brown kraft paper), which consists of a large circle. How big it needs to be, depends upon the size of your dog(s). If you're going to piece the top, I recommend backing it and top stitching to that backing. IF the dogs scratch loose a seam, the backing will hold it together.

I just made a large quilt block, then added fabric around it, to accommodate a large circle. I also made a fleece-lined "pocket" on the bed, since most dachshunds like to burrow.

If your dogs are on the small side, you can also make sturdy pillow cases (fasten at open end, with velcro) and use old pillows, instead of stuffing.