DIY Dog Toys from Household Items
When it comes to keeping our furry friends entertained, pet stores can get expensive fast. But here's the truth: your dog doesn’t care if a toy costs $25 or was made from an old T-shirt — they just want something fun to chew, chase, or cuddle. So why not get creative with items lying around your home?
In this guide, I’ll show you how to make safe, fun, and completely DIY dog toys using common household items. These budget-friendly ideas are perfect for dog owners who want to save money while still pampering their pups.
1. T-Shirt Rope Tug Toy
Got an old T-shirt that’s too worn out to wear ? Don’t throw it — twist it.
What you need:
🔹2-3 old T-shirts
🔹Scissors
How to make it:
1. Cut each T-shirt into long strips.
2. Gather a few strips and knot them together at one end.
3. Braid the strips tightly, then tie a knot at the other end.
That’s it! This soft yet durable toy is great for tug-of-war and fetch. Plus, your scent on the shirt makes it extra comforting for your dog.
2. Tennis Ball Treat Puzzle
Want to give your dog a mental workout? This homemade treat toy doubles as a brain teaser.
You’ll need:
🔹1 old tennis ball
🔹Sharp knife or scissors
🔹Some kibble or small treats
How to do it:
1. Cut a small slit (not too big) into the ball.
2. Insert a few treats inside.
3. Let your dog roll, paw, and bite the ball to get the goodies out.
It’s a simple enrichment tool that turns snack time into a fun challenge.
3. Plastic Bottle Crunch Toy
Dogs love the crunchy sound of plastic bottles. But don’t hand them a bare bottle — let’s make it safe and fun.
You need:
🔹1 empty plastic water bottle (no cap, no label)
🔹1 long sock
Steps:
1. Place the bottle inside the sock.
2. Tie a knot at the open end.
This toy creates that satisfying crunch while the sock softens the texture and keeps your pup from chewing sharp plastic edges.
4. Toilet Paper Roll Treat Dispenser
Toilet paper rolls aren’t trash — they’re opportunities.
Items needed:
🔹1 cardboard roll
🔹A few dog treats
How to create:
1. Fold one end of the roll inward.
2. Put some kibble or small treats inside.
3. Fold the other end shut.
Your dog will smell the food and go crazy trying to open it up. It’s disposable and takes 1 minute to make.
5. Frozen Sock Chew
Perfect for teething puppies or hot summer days.
What you need:
🔹1 old sock
🔹Water
What to do:
1. Wet the sock, wring it out.
2. Twist it into a fun shape.
3. Freeze it.
This cold chew toy soothes gums and entertains your pup at the same time.
6. Knotted Jeans Tug Toy
Have a pair of jeans you’re ready to toss? Not anymore.
You need:
🔹Old denim pants
🔹Scissors
How to do it:
1. Cut the legs into strips.
2. Tie them into a thick, strong knot or braid.
Denim is tough and withstands heavy chewers better than most fabrics. It’s like industrial-strength love.
7. Cereal Box Snuffle Puzzle
Dogs love sniffing out surprises.
Needed:
🔹An empty cereal box
🔹Dog treats
🔹Some scrap paper
Steps:
1. Toss treats inside the cereal box.
2. Crumple up paper and add it in to hide the treats.
3. Close the box (don’t seal it).
Now, watch your dog sniff and dig around to find the hidden treasure. It’s cheap, fun, and mentally engaging.
8. Braided Fleece Chew Toy
Soft on the teeth, strong in structure.
Materials:
🔹Fleece blanket scraps
🔹Scissors
Instructions:
1. Cut long fleece strips.
2. Braid tightly and knot ends.
Great for indoor fetch or as a gentle chew toy for smaller dogs or puppies.
9. Paper Bag Surprise Toy
Crinkly fun with a reward inside.
What you need:
🔹1 clean brown paper lunch bag
🔹Some treats or favorite toy
Steps:
1. Put treats inside the bag.
2. Twist or fold the top shut.
Let your pup tear it open — the sound alone will excite them.
10. Ice Cube Surprise
Great for hot weather and keeping dogs hydrated.
You’ll need:
🔹Ice cube tray
🔹Low-sodium broth or water
🔹Small treats or bits of kibble
How to prepare:
1. Add treats to each cube slot.
2. Fill with broth or water.
3. Freeze and serve.
Dogs lick, crunch, and chase them — and stay cool in the process.
Bonus Idea: Muffin Tin Puzzle Game
Level up your dog’s brain game.
Items:
🔹A muffin tray
🔹6–12 tennis balls
🔹Dog kibble
Instructions:
1. Drop a few treats into the muffin holes.
2. Cover each hole with a tennis ball.
Now your dog has to figure out which balls to lift and how to get to the treats underneath.
Quick Safety Tips
🔹Always supervise your dog with new toys.
🔹Avoid sharp objects or toxic materials.
🔹Discard broken or heavily chewed toys immediately.
FAQs: DIY Dog Toys from Household Items
Q1. Are DIY dog toys safe for all dogs ?
Yes, but always supervise your dog when trying a new toy, especially if they're a heavy chewer.
Q2. What household materials should I avoid ?
Avoid small parts that could be swallowed, sharp edges, and anything toxic (like batteries, rubber bands, or scented dryer sheets).
Q3. Can I wash homemade toys ?
Absolutely! Most fabric-based toys can be machine washed. Just avoid high heat if they’re tied together.
Q4. Are these toys suitable for puppies ?
Yes, many of these are perfect for puppies, especially frozen chew toys and soft braided options.
Q5. What if my dog destroys every toy quickly ?
Try using tougher materials like denim, fleece, or layering multiple fabrics. Also, rotate toys regularly to maintain interest.
