If you’ve ever been to a pet store and had a glance at the toy section, you’ve probably noticed the jaw-dropping price tags. Well, we have a few ways you can save up on your bills and still give your dog a fun toy to play around with. Here are a few DIY dog toys you can make right at home.
The flirt pole:
This is the perfect toy to keep your dog on their toes. Just 5 minutes of playtime with the ‘flirt pole’ would give them plenty of physical exercises. So here’s how you make it.
Step 1: Take a PVC pipe to use as a rod, if not even a sturdy stick from your garden could do the job.
Step 2: Find some old rope or cord (keep in mind it shouldn’t be too thin so it doesn’t pose a threat to your dog).
Step 3: Thread your rope or cord through the pipe or simply tie it to its tip. Now all that’s left it the ‘prey’, tie a toy or a chewy to the rope. Once your knots are tight you are all set.
Dogs love chasing about the flailing treat, but be sure not to play this game with smaller puppies as it could be tough on your joints.
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. There aren’t any intricate steps to make it, all you have to do is:
Step 1: Place some treats in the muffin tin
Step 2: Hide them by placing the tennis balls over them. You could leave some tennis balls empty for some added suspense.
Step 3: Now call your dog and let their detective skills go to work.
T-shirt dog toy:
For the times you have old T-shirts just lying around and you don’t know what to do with them, just grab a pair of scissors and get to it.
Step 1: Start by cutting little 2-3” wide slits at the base of your shirts.
Step 2: After you’ve cut your slits, just rip along the slits a little further.
Step 3: Collect these T-shirt strips and tie off one end, and braid the numerous strips together till you have a chew toy perfect for dogs who love rolling around in the laundry to begin with.
You can make a similar chew toy with a piece of your old jeans as well.
Crunchy bottle chew toy:
Don’t all dog’s ears prick up when they hear a plastic bottle gets crushed. This toy is incredibly fun for
them and it goes without say, that it’s a blast to make as well, but don’t just take our word for it try making it and spoiling your pooch with it.
Step 1: Take a medium-sized plastic bottle
Step 2: Cover it with the fabric of an old sweater or a sock.
Step 3: Cut off the excess fabric leaving just enough to tie up the ends. As a decorative touch and to add more appeal, you can cut strips on the edges of the knots.
If your dog loves chewing on things they’ll love this, however, they have an aggressive chewer, be sure to supervise them.