Common Home Items That Make Great Dog Toys
While a new toy delivery can be the highlight of your dog’s day, if you’re looking to upgrade your crafting skills or go a little more green by reusing old household items, DIYing your pet a toy every once in a while can be fun for you both.
These ideas are easy to implement, and none of them require more than a few steps. Start by rounding up some basic supplies such as old socks, towels, T-shirts and tennis balls. Make it a rainy-day project for the family. Creating your own dog toys is a great way to teach kids to be practical, thrifty and artistic while repurposing unused clothing and items from around the house. However, it’s always best to provide your pet DIY toys when they’re supervised so you can ensure they don’t tear it up too fast or ingest any pieces.
Braid a tug toy
Playing tug-of-war is a perfect way to satisfy your dog’s natural urge to use their mouth to grab and pull. Instead of going to the store to buy a tug toy, make one at home in just a few minutes. All you need are some old T-shirts or fleece blankets. Cut into three strips about 2 feet long and 2 to three 3 thick and tie one end into a knot. Tightly braid the strips, then knot the other end. Voila! Instant tug toy! To tantalize your dog's senses, try soaking the braid in flavorful broth and letting it dry. Your dog will go crazy and appreciate the extra effort.
To make another easy DIY tug toy, stick a tennis ball into the toe end of a sock and tie a knot to secure it in place. Your dog can tug or chew or chase.
Avoid games of tug-o-war with still-teething puppies. Their primary (baby) teeth tend to be pretty fragile and can break easy, so wait until at least 8 months of age to play with these toys.
Treat puzzles
Exercise your dog's brain as well as their body with a simple food-dispensing toy made from an empty plastic container. Cut some holes in the container—large enough for treats to fall out when your dog plays—then pop a few treats inside. Shake the toy to attract your dog's attention, then let the fun begin. When the game is over, trade the toy for another treat. Getting a yummy reward will encourage your dog to play nicely.
Chew and crinkle
Dogs love to chew, and it helps keep their teeth healthy and strong, too. Puppies instinctively chew when they're teething, and it helps adult dogs, relieve boredom and stress. Instead of the furniture or your leather shoes, give your dog a new chew toy to chomp on. Empty water bottles work well and make a crinkling noise that many dogs find appealing. Even better, wrap the bottle in an old T-shirt or stuff it in a sock to make the toy softer, more durable and easier to grasp.
Box boredom busters
Before recycling an empty egg carton or cereal box, turn it into a single-use toy by putting a few treats inside then sealing it shut with masking tape. Toss it to your dog and watch them burn energy and have a blast as they rip the box to pieces to find the treats. It makes a big mess, but just sweep up the ripped paper and recycle.
Puppy playhouse
Small dogs often love to play hide-and-seek in cardboard boxes just as much as cats do. Take a large box and cut a couple of flaps for doorways. Cut some windows to let light through. You can toss a toy or treat in the box and engage your pet in a fun activity. Create a cozy space for a nap by placing an old towel or blanket in the box.
Supervise playtime, and always consider your dog’s safety when making toys. Avoid strings and small parts that might fall off and become a choking hazard. And if a toy falls apart or rips beyond repair, just toss it. With a little creativity and love, there are endless ways to make new and exciting toys with items you already have at home.
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