Homemade dog toys: 17 DIY dog toys you can make from items in your house

17 DIY dog toys you can make from items in your house

The graveyard of deceased dog toys is vast. If your dog is one of the talented that can rip up a stuffed toy in 20 seconds flat, it may feel like toy funerals are happening far too frequently and money is being thrown out the window.

Toys are a necessity for keeping dogs happy, active and out of trouble, but spending money on them doesn’t have to be part of the equation. In fact, dozens of potential DIY dog toys are just waiting to be made from unused things that have been lying around for ages, such as old T-shirts or jeans, towels or bed sheets.

Check out these genius ideas for DIY dog toys. Choose one and get your craft on!

1. Interactive dog feeder toy

A PVC pipe is the main ingredient in this sturdy feeding toy created by Dog Tipper, which aims to keep your pooch busy by making him work for the treats inside. You’ll need to be somewhat handy to drill holes into the pipe, which you can do best when the pipe is secured in a vise. Sand the rough edges of your holes with sandpaper and when all of them are smooth, put the pipe into the dishwasher for cleaning. Put PVC caps on each end of the pipe.

2. Plastic bottle tug toy

Image via Eigil the Staffy/Instagram

Plastic bottles are so last decade, but if you still bring one home occasionally, why not fashion it into a tug toy before tossing it in the recycle bin? How perfect is this simple plastic bottle toy from Eigil the Staffy?  

3. Ball tug toy

You’ll need an old T-shirt, a tennis ball and a pair of scissors to whip up this totally tuggable dog toy. Simply lay your shirt flat and cut across in three strategic places, according to She Knows, then wrap the ball inside two of the pieces. Use the smallest piece of shirt to cinch the toy together. Cut the remaining pieces of cloth into strips and braid.

4. Rope ball toy

You’re going to need patience (and some pliers!) to tackle the tying involved in this rope toy recipe, courtesy of Instructables. Things you’ll need: rope (3/4-inch diameter), a lacrosse ball and some electrical tape. First, unwind between 10 to 15 feet of the rope and tape the ends. If you’re fluent in “knot,” the next steps will be a synch for you, if not, there are how-to’s provided for each knot. Pliers can be useful pulling through strands of rope.

5. T-shirt rope toy

Image via Permacrafters/Instagram

That stack of T-shirts in the closet that nobody is wearing, they can be turned into a T-shirt rope toy for your dog. Permacrafters has a super-simple tutorial on Instagram for this stylish DIY dog toy. Your dog — and your closet — will thank you!  

6. DIY agility jump

Give your dog extra exercise with this easy-to-make agility jump that can be set up in the backyard, or if you’re feeling brave, the living room. Gone to the Snow Dogs built their own using furniture grade PVC pipe (both white and blue) and different kinds of furniture grade PVC fitting. The important thing here is having a PVC pipe cutter — and knowing how to use one! — and carefully cutting each piece as instructed (the long white pipes, which will be the ground bar, need to measure 47 inches long). Follow the directions provided and you’ll have leftovers for future projects.

7. No-sew denim dog toy

Image via Siva Sobieski Mcmullin/Instagram

No sewing machine? No problem! All you need to make this denim dog toy from Siva Sobieski Mcmullin is some scissors and an old pair of jeans. The finished product is simple, sturdy, and so much fun to chew!

8. Towel tug toy

Tattered towels are given new life when they’re fashioned into (washable!) toys for your pup — and the operative word here is: easy! Per Good Housekeeping, just cut three strips of towel, about 4 inches wide and at least 12 inches long. Tie them off at one end with a small towel strip (1 inch wide and 6 inches long). Braid and use another strip to tie off the end.

9. Apple pie pupsicles

It’s part toy, part treat, with a full serving of cuteness. These three-ingredient frozen yogurt dog treats from Dalmatian DIY require a cute silicone mold, but in all honesty, any shape will do because eating them will be the only thing on your dog’s mind. Mix a half cup of yogurt and a half cup of unsweetened applesauce or pureed apple in a bowl. A sprinkle of Ceylon cinnamon is optional. Freeze thoroughly and serve with a smile!

10. Sweet potato rope toy

Here’s a good way to add some fiber (and fun!) to your pup’s daily routine. Clean one large sweet potato and cut into 1 inch round pieces. Use a cookie cutter or apple corer to cut a hole in the middle of each piece, as demonstrated in this video from Elmo’s Kitchen. Dehydrate by baking for 5 hours in the oven. Tie a knot at the end of your rope (about a foot long) and string the potato rings onto it.  

11. Simple sock toy

The mystical force that takes one sock from every load of laundry would want you to do something good with the one remaining, and here it is! Simply cut a hole in the toe-side of a full length sock and stuff a water bottle inside of it. Tie each end with twine. The Barkington Post recommends hemming each side to make it last longer.

12. Homemade squeaky toy

Image via Luna and Two Boys/Instagram

Got a pup with a penchant for squeakers? Try throwing together this simple DIY squeaky toy from Luna and Two Boys. All you need is a few socks, the squeakers from old toys and voila! Entertainment for hours. 

13. Soda bottle treat dispenser

This interactive toy — creatively made out of a chicken nesting box by Daily Dog Tag — is a brain teaser for your pooch. A Chicken Ware nesting box, PVC pipe and two 2-liter soda bottles are some of the important supplies you’ll need to make it. Drill holes in the box and hang the treat-filled bottles from the pipe. Spray paint it to match your home decor.

14. Pull-apart dog toy

Here’s one for the dog who enjoys sending stuffed toys to the graveyard by pulling them apart, piece by piece. Stuff precut pieces of fleece fabric, along with yummy treats, into a 5-inch Hol-ee Roller Dog Toy. Toss and watch the destruction begin. Leopold’s Crate doesn’t recommend these for dogs who eat fabric.  

15. Fleece stuffed toy

Image via Christy Hikes With Jake the Dog/Instagram

Want to whip something soft up for your pooch, but don’t want the squeaky sound? Try a no-sew fleece toy like this bone-shaped one from Christy Hikes With Jake the Dog! Some knowledge of sewing is a must, but look at the look of happiness on this good boy’s face! 

16. Super-simple frozen sock toy

There is nothing easier than this idea from Instructables. com. Tie a long sock into a knot, soak it in water, and freeze. Boom! Your dog has a cool new chew toy.

17. Flirt stick

Image via The Amazing Obi/Instagram

This tantalizing flirt stick by The Amazing Obi is a guaranteed fun time for any active dog. You can make them as simple or colorful as you — or your pup — likes!  

10 Easy to Make DIY Dog Toys

Last updated on May 3, 2019 By Puppy Leaks 15 Comments

Have you been to the pet store lately? If so you probably noticed that dog toys aren’t cheap. Luckily there are lots of simple DIY dog toys you can make at home.

10 Easy to Make DIY Dog Toys

Confession time: I’m not a crafty person, no matter how much I wish I were. I’ve created so many Pinterest fails I could put you to shame. “Easy weekend project?” Yeah, right.

But not all do it yourself projects are complicated, and these simple DIY dog toys are some good examples of projects anyone can handle. Here’s a list of 10 easy to make DIY dog toys.

1. Make Your Own DIY Flirt Pole

Most dogs love to chase, which is why flirt poles are a great choice — especially for high drive dogs. A quick 5 minute game with a flirt pole will provide your dog with plenty of physical exercise.

If you have some PVC pipe lying around use that as the rod.  If not you can be like me and make a one with a long stick you find in the yard.  You’re also going to need some bungee cord or rope, sold at hardwood stores.  You could use rope but be very careful – you don’t want to jerk your dogs neck when they catch the toy. The ‘prey’ can be anything from a stuffed toy to an empty water bottle, as long as you can tie it to the rope you should be fine.

Thread your bungee or rope material through the PVC or if you’re cheap like me tie it to the end of the stick.  You want the rod to be a decent distance away from you, 3-5 feet should be fine.  If you’re using the PVC knot it at one end so it won’t come lose when it’s being flailed about.

The only thing that’s left is tying the ‘prey’ to the other end of the line.  Now you’ve got a fun DIY toy to play with.  Caution – don’t play this game with growing puppies, it’s very tough on the joints.

Check out The Darling Dog’s great video on making a DIY flirt pole.

If you’re looking for something smaller than a traditional flirt pole check out this $2 option.

2. Create a DIY Plastic Bottle Dog Toy

Dogs just love crunchy stuff — and plastic bottles make some pretty satisfying crunches. If your dog is a tough chewer remember to to supervise them well with this toy. To make your own DIY plastic bottle toy just take a plastic bottle and wrap it in a sock or fabric of your choosing.

Check out this great DIY Plastic Bottle Toy from Ammo the Dachshund.

3. Make Your Own Rope and Tennis Ball Toy

I love playing tug with my dog. Minute for minute it’s one of the most physically & mentally exhausting games there is. And the good news is if you don’t have a tug toy at home you can easily make your own with a piece of rope and tennis ball.

For this easy to make DIY dog toy you’ll need a piece of rope and a tennis ball. To make the toy just cut or drill a hole on each side of the ball; just large enough to thread the rope through. Fit the ball onto the center of the rope, tie some knots to keep it in place.

If you want to make it into a great tug toy tie some knots at the end as well. If your dog is a tough chewer you can use old braided fabric for the rope to toughen it up a little.

Simple Rope & Tennis Ball Toy via withmycamera

4. Make a Tennis Ball Muffin Tin Puzzle

Looking for a really simple way to entertain your dog? Make him a simple tennis ball muffin tin puzzle. Dog puzzles (and food dispensing toys in general) are a great way to give your dog some extra mental stimulation. And the best part is this muffin tin puzzle is really easy to make.

All you need to do is place some treats in the muffin tin and hide them by placing the tennis balls over them. And there you have it — you’ve got your very own homemade dog puzzle.

You can make your own doggie puzzle with a muffin tin & tennis balls via sheknows

5. Create a DIY Braided T-Shirt Dog Toy

This toy is great for playing fetch or tug and it’s really simple to make. You’ll just need a couple of t-shirts and a pair of scissors. You can check out the full instructions on BarkPost.

You can make this simple toy with a couple of t-shirts and a pair of scissors via BarkPost

6. Interactive Tennis Ball Dog Toy

Looking for a super simple DIY dog food puzzle? Just cut open a tennis ball and fill it with treats and you’re good to go.

Make your own interactive tennis ball dog toy via romprescue

7. Make Your Own Rope Ball Dog Toy

Does your dog destroy most toys within minutes? If so you’re not alone. If your dog is a tough chewer check out this easy to make rope ball. Just remember to supervise your dog with this toy — if they start to tear up the rope itself it poses a potential choking hazard.

Check out the full tutorial on how to make your own rope ball toy by handsoccupied

8. Make Your Own Interactive Feeder Toy

Food toys are a great way to keep your dogs mind occupied, and using one at dinner time is a good way to keep your dog mentally stimulated.

Want to make your own interactive dog food toy? Check out the full tutorial on Dog Tipper.

9. Make a Simple Denim DIY Dog Toy

Got some old jeans lying around? Instead of making another pair of cutoffs make your dog a simple no-sew denim toy.

Who needs more cutoffs? Take an old pair jeans and make your dog their own denim dog toy.

10. Make a Doggie Tug Toy From an Old T-Shirt

Most dogs love a good game of tug, and contrary to old myth it will not make your dog aggressive. Just be sure to set a few rules and boundaries such as “the game stops if I feel teeth on my hands” before you begin.

Does your dog like to play tug? Make them a simple DIY tug toy from old t-shirts.

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Looking For Some More Ways to Keep Your Dog Busy?

Looking for more ways to keep your dog busy & entertained? Be sure to check out the following articles.

• 26 Quick Ways to Relieve Dog Boredom
• 33 Ways to Keep Your Dog Busy Indoors
• 33 DIY Dog Toys You Can Make With Things Around the House
• 10 Fun Games to Play With Your Dog

Recommended Reading:

How to make a toy for a dog with your own hands

Dogs sleep a lot, but when they are awake, they certainly need to be occupied and entertained with something. Offer them homemade dog toys. They will remind you when you are at work or out on business. About their benefits and do-it-yourself intellectual toys for dogs – later in the article.

What are educational toys for dogs

Dogs need physical activity to stay fit and healthy. But no less important for her is mental activity, so as not to get bored and not lose the sharpness of cognitive skills. According to Puppy Leaks, puzzles and games help dogs release nervous energy and help prevent bullying out of boredom. And while play with educational toys is good for all pets, it can be especially important for older dogs, who are at greater risk of mental decline and dementia. We will tell you further how to make an easy toy for a dog.

DIY educational toys for dogs: 3 ideas

When it comes to educational toys, people immediately tend to think that they are something expensive. In fact, it is easy to make DIY dog toys from improvised materials. Here are some ideas for simple yet effective puzzles and toys to keep a bored dog entertained and energized.

1. Cake Pan Puzzle

This quick and easy puzzle game is not only a great way to get an animal to use logic, but also a great way to slow down a dog that eats too fast.

What you need: cake mold, and for small dogs mini cake pan. As well as dry food or treats for dogs.

Instructions:

1. Turn the mold over and place it upside down.
2. Place pieces of dry food or some healthy dog ​​treats on the mold so that they are between the cupcake holes.
3. The dog will have to make an effort to fish out every treat or piece of food.

Alternatively: Instead of flipping the pan, place it face up, pour food into the muffin pits and cover each pit with a tennis ball.

2. Soft toy with surprise

Does your dog have a favorite soft toy that is a little worn out? Give the toy a new life by turning it into an interactive puzzle.

What you need: an old soft pet toy and dry dog ​​food or treats.

Instructions:

1. If your dog hasn’t ripped the toy yet, cut a hole large enough to fit a treat through.
2. Remove all stuffing from the toy.
3. Fill it with dry dog ​​food.
4. Give your dog a toy and have fun watching it try to get food.

Another fabric DIY dog toy: Sew on a piece of fabric to create a hidden treat pocket.

3. T-shirt rope

This DIY toy will not only provide hours of interactive dog play, but is also a great way to recycle old T-shirts.

What you will need: old T-shirt and scissors

Instructions:

1. Lay the T-shirt out on a flat surface.
2. Cut the T-shirt right under the sleeves. Throw away the top.
3. Cut the remaining fabric into strips. For a small dog, make strips 2-3 cm wide, and for a large dog, make them wider.
4. Knot the three strips together at one end.
5. Braid them and tie a knot at the other end.
6. Enjoy an endless game of tug of war with your pet.

Alternatively: for extra large dogs, double the number of strips to make the rope thicker and stronger. You can also tie a knot in the middle of the rope to make it easier for your dog to grab and hold.

As you can see, the development of a dog does not necessarily require a lot of time and money. By using everyday items and being creative, you will give your dog the opportunity to expend extra energy and satisfy natural curiosity.

Contributor Bio

Jean-Marie Bauhaus

Jean-Marie Bauhaus is a pet lover, blogger, and novelist based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, who writes about the life of pets under the watchful eye of a group of furry friends.

25 fun DIY dog toys to pamper your dog

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love my dogs; really all dogs. Dogs are the most loyal and most loving creatures in the world, and those of us who have them in families love to treat them like the special creatures they are. To that end, I’ve put together 25 different DIY dog toys that I think you and your furry friend will love.

Dogs tend to like to pull toys and chew on things. So, I found a great collection of dog chew and pull toys that will keep your little furry family member from ruining your furniture.

You can buy dog ​​toys all day long at any pet store, but honestly, where’s the fun in that? These do-it-yourself toys are cheaper and very easy to make, and you can be sure that they do not contain anything that could harm your pet, such as chemicals or small objects that they can choke on. These are safe, easy-to-make DIY toys and dog toys that will keep your dog happy and safe at the same time.

If your little pet happens to chew on furniture, before you try your hand at DIY chew toys, be sure to check out these quick and easy ways to finish wood furniture. That being said, let’s get started making great chew toys and dog toys for your dogs that they will love. Enjoy this collection of simple homemade toys for your dogs that are so cheap you can make one for every dog ​​on the block.

1. Dog toy in toilet paper rolls

So, what could be cheaper than an empty toilet paper roll? You’ve already bought toilet paper and will most likely throw away those rolls when they’re empty, right? This wonderful DIY dog toy is made from an empty toilet paper roll. It’s full to throw it and your little dog will bring even more fun, and best of all, it’s free.

Tutorial: Koster

2. DIY toy for dogs from an old glove

You know that you have at least one unsuitable glove in your house. You know, those gloves that are left when you lose them or when they’re in one hole. Well, now you can turn this glove into a great DIY dog toy. Again, if you already own a glove, this project is free and you know this little pooch would just love to chew on an old glove.

Tutorial: creativeconnectionsforkids

3. DIY Christmas dog chew toys

The holidays are definitely approaching, and what better gift for your beloved pet than this wonderful Christmas toy for dogs? This is really easy to make with green felt and pillow stuffing. Add embellishments if you like with embroidery thread and customize as you wish. Your little dog will definitely love seeing this in his stocking.

Tutorial: runningwithagluegun

4. DIY Feeder Toy

Quench his thirst for adventure and his appetite with this wonderful DIY dog feeder that can also be used as a toy. You can stuff dog food or treats inside a pipe, which is inexpensive PVC from your local hardware store. Your dog will love that he can chew on the tube and get treats through the strategically placed holes. You’ll love that it’s easy and inexpensive to make.

Tutorial: dogtipper

5. Patchwork dog pillow

This small patchwork dog pillow is the perfect companion for your dog. It’s delicious and dogs will love chewing on the softness. Plus, it’s a dog, so it will look like her very own Barbie doll. I found this on Etsy but it looks like it’s very easy to recreate.

Tutorial: etsy

6. Puppy toy

Puppies chew on everything. If you have a new puppy, you just need to teach him to understand that he cannot just chew on furniture and other valuables. A DIY puppy toy is the perfect way to do this. All you need is some cushion padding and some reasonably durable material. The heavy-duty material ensures that your little pup gets a good bite before breaking through the material.

Tutorial: realhousewivesofmn

7. DIY ball toy

Dogs love to play with balls, and this DIY ball toy makes them even more fun. You can throw a long-handled ball for them, and he can even chew on the handle without tearing the whole toy apart. All you need is a tennis ball and a piece of cloth. The best part is that no sewing is required.

Manual: ammothedachshund

8. Self stuffed toy for dogs.

One of my dogs always gnawed on her toys until the filling came out. When this happens, she just doesn’t know what to do with the toy. I mean, without toppings, it’s not fun, right? Well, this small DIY dog toy can be stuffed over and over again, making it virtually indestructible. This means that no matter how many times she pulls out that stuffing, she can still enjoy her favorite toy.

Textbook: kolchakpuggle

9. No sewing denim dog toy

Forget throwing away your old jeans. Use them instead to create this great no-sew toy for your puppy. Just tie the strips of denim over and over again until you get a ball. Leave the strips hanging down so they can be tossed and chewed, or do it however you like. Dogs will love chasing and chewing on the toy, and since it’s denim, it’s quite heavy so it will last quite a while.

Tutorial: Instructions

10. Interactive DIY tennis ball.

Take an old tennis ball, cut a slot in it, then fill it with dog treats and you’ve created Rover’s all-time favorite toy. The treats will make a sound when the ball is thrown or shaken, and of course they are treats, so he will enjoy chewing on the ball for treats. This is a good toy for teaching puppies focus and strategy.

Tutorial: romprescue

11. Homemade puppies.

Dogs love to chew their food and they will love these puppies even more. You make all the ingredients completely from scratch, so you know they only contain what’s good for your little dogs. When they are frozen, you can store them in a freezer bag and simply toss one to the dogs when they are ready to play. They make a good chew toy and an even better snack.

Textbook: lifeinmomma-tone

12. Water bottle toy

This is definitely one of the easiest DIY dog toys in this collection. To do this, you simply place an empty water bottle in your sock. Dogs will love the sound the water bottle makes when they chew it, and the sock gives them grip. Just tie a string around the opening of the sock to prevent the bottle from getting in and let them play with it.

Tutorial: Momasaurus

13. Tennis ball on a rope

This looks like one of those rope toys you’d buy at the pet store for about $15 or more, but it’s a rope ball toy that you can easily make at home. Save some money and spend half an hour building this DIY dog toy. Just make a slit in the tennis ball to keep the rope in place and you’re done and about $15 richer.

Tutorial: withmycamera

14.

DIY jump toy

Okay, so the toy is not jumping. This DIY dog toy is great for teaching dogs how to jump or expend energy so they can calm down better at night. You can make this for about $15 and it’s a great outdoor toy to knock dogs down. If you’re exercising, this is a great addition to your dog’s arsenal, or just let him jump on it for fun.

Tutorial: softpuppywarmhouse

15. T-shirt string.

Take a couple of old worn T-shirts and turn them into this great dog rope. I love these recycling projects not only because they save money but also help you deal with old shirts and other items. This is such a great project that your dog will love.

Tutorial: barkpost

16. Fleece Dog Chew

Here is another great dog chew toy made from fleece. If you don’t have leftover fleece from other projects, you can pick it up at any craft store or Wal-Mart, and it’s really inexpensive. This toy is great because it’s easy to make and your little furry friend loves to kick and chew on your homemade toy.

Manual: craftedniche

17. Sweet potato chew toy

Sweet potatoes are good for dogs and they like the taste of them. That’s what makes this sweet potato chew toy so great. They not only chew it, but also acquire an excellent taste. You will need to dry the sweet potato and then just feed it with strong string. It is virtually invulnerable, so it is great even for puppies that may be teething.

Tutorial Instructions

18. Chicken Flavored Chew Toy

This do-it-yourself toy is so cool. You just need a chew toy that you can make from any other project in this collection. Soak a chew toy in chicken broth and toss a little into the freezer. Once it’s frozen, give it to your dog and he’ll have hours of chewing and delicious fun. It’s even recommended by the ASPCA.

19. Another do-it-yourself fleece toy

This fleece toy is a little different. To do this, you will need strips of fleece material that you will tie together to form a ball. The strips that hang down will really excite the dogs as they will be able to chew on the ball and grab onto it. This project does not require sewing, takes very little time and makes the little puppy very happy.

Textbook: dalmatiandiy

20. Doggie Boredom Buster.

I love interactive toys that entertain dogs and teach them at the same time. This DIY dog toy is so easy and free. You simply place empty toilet paper rolls or cut empty paper towel rolls in half into a bowl or pan. Add some treats to the bottom and watch your dog have fun trying to get to the treats.

Tutorial: dogue

21. Interactive tractor toy

Did I say I love interactive learning toys? This is a great option that any dog ​​will love. You will need a plastic ball. The Dollar Store has some great plastic balls that are perfect for this. Stuff old socks or cloth into the holes and let your dog learn to strategize while he figures out how to get the socks out.

Tutorial: dogue

22.

Three-sided pull toy

If you have several dogs, this fleece tractor toy is for you. Each of them can grab one side, that is, up to three, and move away. Fleece is such an inexpensive fabric and this toy is really easy to make. You can also use old t-shirts if you like, denim, or whatever fabric you have on hand.

Tutorial: funnyfleece

23. DIY tennis ball game

Here’s another great interactive game your dogs will love. Take an old cupcake pan that you can buy at any flea market, or even a new one at the Dollar Tree, very cheaply, and fill the holes with tennis balls. Dogs love to pick the ball, and you can even teach them to put the balls back into the holes. This one will keep them busy for hours.

24. DIY Fox Tail Toy

Dogs love tennis balls and your furry friend will love this fox tail toy with a tennis ball at the end. You just take an old piece of fabric and sew on a “tail” and then sew on a tennis ball at one end. You can roll him up and throw him far, teaching him how to fish like a master and he’ll love nibbling on the ball.