How to Make Your Own Dog Toys

Owning a dog can be expensive but there are plenty of easy ways to cut costs. For example, many dog owners choose to make their own dog toys rather than purchasing new ones every time their dog wears one out. Some dogs love to chew and, as a result, go through toys very quickly. If you are tired of spending a fortune on toys for your dog consider using some of the objects you already have around the house to make your own dog toys.

Dog toys using fabric

Braided ropes are a favorite toy for many dogs and they are also very easy to make at home. All you need to make a braided rope toy is three old socks or three strips of fabric torn from a ragged t-shirt or dish towel.

Simply braid the three strips of fabric together and secure them on either end of the braid with a rubber band or a piece of string. Once you get the hang of it, the process of making these toys is very easy and you can begin saving up old towels and pieces of fabric so you have them on hand when you need them.

Another simple toy you can make using old socks is a sock-and-ball. All you have to do is pop a tennis ball or some other ball into an old sock and tie a knot just behind the ball. This toy is great for playing tug-of-war and it can also be a great toy to throw for your dog to fetch.

Reused and recycled toy ideas

You might be surprised by what everyday objects can be turned into dog toys. For example, some dogs can spend hours destroying a cardboard box or chewing on an old t-shirt tied into a giant knot. To get ideas for making dog toys out of reused or recycled products, just take a look at the junk pile in your garage and let your imagination do the rest.

Try braiding strips of fabric together then tie them into a ring or attach several fabric ropes at the center to create an octopus toy.

Look for old stuffed animals at garage sales or go through your old baby things to see if there are a few plush animals you can bear to part with. Even after your dog has destroyed the animal you can re-stuff it or simply stitch up the back.

If you are familiar with Kong dog toys you will be delighted to know that you can make a similar toy yourself using recycled plastic bottles or cardboard milk cartons. Simply wash out the bottle or carton and remove the lid then put a few of your dog's favorite treats inside.

Give the toy to your dog and watch him roll it around, trying to get the treats out. It is best to supervise your dog while he enjoys this toy because he may start chewing up the plastic and it is not a good idea to let him swallow any of it. When it comes to creating your own homemade dog toys, the sky is the limit. Do not limit yourself to these ideas - take a look at what items you have to work with and let your imagination run wild.

Your dog toys do not have to be perfect or pretty or cost a fortune for your dog to like them - he or she will be thrilled at having a new toy and at having the opportunity to play with you.