15 Fun and Functional DIY Dog Toys

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Playing is vital for dogs, as it enhances their social communication skills. However, engaging and entertaining them can be challenging, especially when they are in the habit of ripping those store-bought toys into pieces. We suggest making these toys at home, as it is a cost-effective way to engage your pet while adding a personal touch. 

Interactive Feeder

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If you’re handy with tools and have some extra PVC pipe lying around the house, you can create a durable and engaging treat puzzle for them. After cutting the pipes to a desired length, drill several holes. Then cap one end, fill it with treats or dry kibble, and cap the other.

T-shirt Rope Toy

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Transform an old t-shirt into a fun and durable rope toy. Cut the t-shirt into long strips, braid them tightly, and knot the ends. This plaything is perfect for tug-of-war battles and would withstand extreme pulling and chewing. However, ensure there are no loose threads that your pet could swallow.

Tennis Ball Treat Dispenser

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Create an engaging treat dispenser using a tennis ball. Make a small slit in the ball and fill it with their favorite treats. Not only will they enjoy the challenge of getting the treats out, but it will also keep them occupied for hours.

Plastic Bottle Crunch Toy

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Pet parents would have noticed their dogs finding playing with plastic bottles incredibly fun. Remove the cap and plastic ring from the bottle to make this activity safe. Wrap a cloth around the bottle and tie it securely on both ends, maybe with an old sock for this. Watch as your dog enjoys the crinkly, crackling sound the bottle makes when chewed.

Sock Ball

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Sock balls are one of the most common and most accessible DIY playthings for dogs. Turn mismatched socks into a fun ball toy by stuffing one sock with other socks or soft fabric and tying the end securely. This toy is great for fetching, especially indoors.

Fleece Tug Toy

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A tug toy is a fantastic way to keep them occupied! This durable toy, made from fleece or fabric scraps, is easy to make and perfect for energetic dogs who love a good pull. Braid strips cut out of old blankets together, and you have a fleece toy ready.

Foxtails With Tennis Ball

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Start by cutting sturdy fabric into a 24-inch by 6-inch rectangle and sewing it into a tube, leaving one end open. Place a tennis ball on the open end and sew it with fabric. With your sewing skills, you can create this foxtail toy at a fraction of the cost of a store-bought one, providing your dog with a fun and affordable plaything.

Apple Pie Popsicles

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These frozen yogurt treats are a delightful blend of toy and treat, guaranteed to charm your canine. Add half a cup of yogurt to half a cup of unsweetened applesauce or pureed apple. Pour the mixture into a silicon mold and freeze it completely.

Play House

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Transform a large wooden or cardboard box into a versatile playhouse for your dog. You can cater to different dog breeds and activities by creating two doorways. This DIY project is delightful for small breeds, providing them a cozy spot and a fun space to play hide-and-seek and run in and out.

Flirt Pole

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Begin by attaching a sturdy string or rope to the end of a lightweight pole or stick. Securely tie a favorite toy or fabric lure to the opposite end of the string. Use the pole to maneuver the toy around, enticing them to chase and catch it.

Muffin Tin Treat Teaser

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Try this simple brain teaser: Place a small treat in one or several muffin cups and cover each cup with a tennis ball. It will help them stimulate their minds as they figure out how to uncover the tennis balls to reach the treats.

No Stuff Cuddle Buddy

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Instead of purchasing an expensive toy resembling a Build-a-Bear, opt for a budget-friendly option by repurposing an old stuffed toy. Choose one your child no longer uses. Remove all the stuffing, then sew it back together.

Sweet Potato Rope Toy

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Boost their daily routine with fiber and fun using this simple method. Clean a large sweet potato and cut it into 1-inch round slices. Using a cookie cutter, create a hole in the center of each slice. Bake in the oven for 5 hours to dehydrate them. Next, tie a knot at one end of a foot-long rope and thread the sweet potato rings onto it.

Agility Tunnels

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Help your dog get extra exercise with a homemade agility jump that’s easy to set up in your backyard or, for the daring, even in your living room using just a few chairs, side tables, or dining tables, along with some sheets or tablecloths. Secure the furniture together with screws to customize the tunnel’s length and shape as desired. Complete the project by covering the tunnel with old sheets or fabric for comfort.

Pull Apart Toy

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It is an interactive idea that requires a dog chew toy with open spaces. Wrap a treat in a small sock or fabric cut from an old t-shirt, then insert it into the chew toy’s opening. Continue filling and stuffing until most of the toy’s openings are filled. This engaging activity will keep them occupied for at least as long as it took you to create it.

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