Top 10 Homemade Dog Toys

You don’t have to break the bank to keep your dog entertained! Today we discuss the top 10 homemade dog toys, so you and your pooch can have fun with household products. By thinking outside the box, you can make toys for your pup using items you already have around your house. These DIY toys not only help save your bucks but can also give a second lease of life to items you already have. Here are some simple ideas to consider.

By repurposing everyday items, you not only help your dog stay entertained, but you also contribute to sustainability and reducing waste. Each of these toys can be made with little effort and can bring hours of enjoyment to your furry friend. So, next time you’re looking to spoil your pup, check your closet, kitchen, or garage for inspiration—you’ll be amazed at how creative you can get with items you already have on hand!

Use an old t-shirt to make a durable tug toy that your dog will love.

Materials: An old T-shirt (or two); the best material is just some old cotton and a pair of scissors.

Instructions: Pull the strips as you cut from the t-shirt. Gather three or more strips, then tie at one end. Braid the strips tightly and knot at the other end. Trim away excess fabric for a crisp edge.

Benefits: Recommended for adjourned play like tug-of-war, Mild and soft on your dog’s teeth.

Here’s how to create a simple DIY puzzle toy that will help exercise your dog’s brain.

Materials: A clean, empty plastic water bottle (make sure to remove the labels!) Dry treats or kibble

Instructions: Wash the bottle out thoroughly and dry it. Remove the cap and any plastic ring before disposal (to prevent choking hazards). Hide some treats or kibble in the bottle. Show them the best way to roll the bottle to retrieve the treats.

Benefits: Helps promote their problem-solving skills. Keep your furry friend occupied and entertained.

This is a basic toy that’s great for a game of fetch and tug-of-war.

Materials: An old sock and a tennis ball

Instructions: Place the tennis ball inside the sock toe. Tie it off above the ball to secure it. If you are worried that the sock fabric is going to get in the way,
cut that off.

Benefits: Easy to make with things you already have. Perfect for the medium to large chewer or fetcher.

Sew fabric scraps into a snuffle mat to work your dog’s sense of smell.

Materials: A rubber mat with holes (like a sink liner), Fleece fabric scraps

Instructions: The fleece is cut into strips about 1–2 inches and 6–8 inches. Thread each strip through the holes in the mat and pull tight with
a knot. Repeat the above process until the fleece strips fill the mat. Hide treats or kibble in the mat and let your dog go “hunting” for it.

Benefits: Enrichment and mimic natural scavenging behaviors. Suitable for dogs of all ages.

An old cardboard box makes a good home for a messy but fun digging game for your dog.

Materials:A sturdy cardboard box, Treats or small toys, Newspaper or packing paper

Instructions:Place some treats or little toys at the bottom of the box. Scrunch up paper and stuff the box so it covers the treats or toys. Let your dog sift through the paper to discover the buried goodies.

Benefits: Encourages natural digging activity, Enables your dog to have fun and exercise indoors

Make a durable chew or tug toy from an old towel.

Materials:An old towel, Scissors

Instructions:Take the towel and cut it into strips of equal length. Plait the strips tightly together. Then knot both ends so the braid stays in place.

Benefits: Most suitable for big/rich chewers. A form of chewing activity.

If giving your dog a new toy, especially a toy with small parts or loose fabric, supervise your dog with it. Choose non-toxic, pet-safe materials. Replace the toy if it becomes worn out or damaged to prevent choking. We hope this list of the top 10 homemade dog toys helped you and your pooch find alternatives to expensive toys.