7 Fun and Easy DIY Dog Toys to Make With Your Dog!
Why spend big bucks on dog toys when you can whip up a batch right at home? With just a few household items, you can turn everyday stuff into paw-some playthings for your pup! Get ready to be your dog’s new favorite toy maker with these simple, super-fun DIY dog toys. Your dog will love them, and you’ll love how easy (and cheap!) they are to make!
1. The T-Shirt Tug Toy
Got some old t-shirts you never wear? Give them a new purpose as a tug toy for your pup who LOVES a good game of tug!
What You’ll Need:
A few old t-shirts
Scissors
How to Make It:
Cut the t-shirts into long strips.
Braid the strips together, then tie a knot at each end.
Voilà—a tug toy that’s washable, chewable, and oh-so-satisfying for your dog to grip and shake!
2. Braided Rope Tug for Big Dogs
If your pup’s a heavy-duty tugger, make a braided rope toy that can withstand the fiercest of playtimes.
What You’ll Need:
Old towels or fleece fabric
Scissors
How to Make It:
Cut the fabric into thick strips.
Braid the strips tightly, and tie a knot on each end to keep it secure.
Not only is this toy super sturdy, but you can toss it in the wash when it needs freshening up!
3. Plastic Bottle Crunch Toy
Does your dog love that crackly, crunchy sound? Make a super-simple crunch toy using an empty water bottle!
What You’ll Need:
Empty plastic water bottle
An old sock
How to Make It:
Remove the bottle cap and any labels.
Slide the bottle into a sock, and tie off the open end.
The result? A toy that delivers peak crunch factor, without the risk of plastic pieces everywhere!
4. DIY Snuffle Mat for Foragers
If your dog loves sniffing and snacking, a homemade snuffle mat will be their new obsession.
What You’ll Need:
Rubber sink mat (the kind with holes)
Strips of fleece or felt
How to Make It:
Tie strips of fabric through each hole in the mat, filling it up with cozy hiding spots.
Sprinkle treats throughout the fabric strips, and watch your pup go to town sniffing them out!
This one’s great for slowing down fast eaters, and it’ll keep them busy for ages!
5. Tennis Ball on a Rope
Take fetch to the next level with this tennis ball and rope combo—perfect for the pup who never tires of a good chase!
What You’ll Need:
Tennis ball
Durable rope
Drill or sharp knife
How to Make It:
Carefully make a hole through the tennis ball.
Thread the rope through the ball and tie a big knot at both ends.
This fetch toy is great for throwing, tugging, and supercharging your game of fetch!
6. Frozen Treat Toy for Hot Days
Beat the heat and give your dog a refreshing DIY frozen toy—perfect for summer afternoons!
What You’ll Need:
Small plastic container
Dog-safe treats (carrots, kibble, or peanut butter work great!)
Water or low-sodium broth
How to Make It:
Place a few treats in the bottom of the container, fill it with water or broth, and freeze.
Once frozen, pop it out of the container and let your dog enjoy a cool treat!
It’s an icy, tasty toy that keeps them entertained, hydrated, and happily licking away.
7. Toilet Paper Tube Treat Roll
This one’s great for clever dogs who like a good puzzle.
What You’ll Need:
Toilet paper roll tubes
Dog treats or kibble
How to Make It:
Take a clean toilet paper tube and place a few treats inside.
Fold the ends in to keep the treats secure.
Give it to your dog and watch them paw, nibble, and roll the tube to get the treats out!
Simple yet super satisfying for dogs who love working for their snacks!
Tips for Safe DIY Dog Toys
Supervise Playtime: Keep an eye on your pup while they enjoy these homemade toys, especially if they’re big chewers.
Check for Wear and Tear: Replace any toy that starts to look a bit too “loved” or worn down.
Use Safe Materials: Always go for dog-friendly fabrics, and avoid small parts that could become a choking hazard.
Making DIY toys is not just a great way to save money; it’s also a fun way to bond with your dog! With these easy projects, you’ll keep your pup happily entertained while adding some homemade love to their toy collection. Get crafting, get creative, and let the play begin! 🐾
