5 Great Do-It-Yourself Dog Toys

If you’re anything like us, you spend somewhere around 75% of your take-home pay on dog toys. (That might be a slight exaggeration, but not by much…) While we’re all about the Latest and Greatest tug-a-rope or chewy bone, there’s got to be a better way. Sometimes the simplest toys are the best. Just think of how much fun your dog has with an old shoe! Here are five awesome, easy ideas for DIY dog toys your furry friend will love.

1. Crinkle Sock

Does your dog love crinkling sounds? All you need for the Crinkle Sock is an old, knee-length sock and an empty disposable water bottle. Stuff the bottle into the sock, tie up the end, and let your dog at it! Just be sure to remove the cap from the bottle beforehand to prevent choking.

2. Tennis Treat

Do you have a treat hound on your hands? Tantalize your pooch with an old tennis ball and a handful of dry dog food pellets. Simply use a sharp knife (and a lot of caution!) to cut a 2-3” slit in the ball along the rubber curve, then stuff it full of food. Your dog will have hours of fun working out every last kernel.

3. T-Shirt Tug

Dogs who love to tug can go through a lot of toys. For a super durable tug toy, cut up an old T-shirt into 1”-wide strips. Knot three strips together on one end then braid them. Fold that braid in half then knot the loose ends one final time. You’ll end up with a sturdy pull-toy that smells like you, too!

4. Scrap Ball

Digging dogs might love the scrap ball. All you need is a piece of old clothing you can cut into strips and a hollow rubber ball with large holes. Stuff the holes full of fabric strips – not too long! – and leave them poking out of the holes. Be sure to supervise your dog to ensure she doesn’t eat any scraps.

5. Frozen Treasure

Does your dog love ice? Then she’ll love hunting for frozen treasure. It’s as easy as filling a bucket with water then dropping in a few of her favorite small toys; try to pick some that float and some that sink. Freeze the bucket then let her have it in the backyard on a hot day. Dog ecstasy!