Dogs don’t need a basket full of expensive toys to stay entertained—sometimes the best enrichment comes from everyday items found around the house. DIY dog toys are a fun, budget-friendly way to challenge your pup’s mind and keep boredom at bay.
In this blog, we’ll share easy-to-make dog toys that provide hours of mental and physical stimulation, using safe materials you probably already have!
Supplies Needed:
1 empty water bottle (label and cap removed)
1 old sock
Instructions:
Insert the bottle into the sock and tie a knot at the end. Let your dog chew and crunch away!
Why It Works:
Dogs love the sound of crunching plastic, and the sock adds an extra layer of texture.
Supplies Needed:
3 old t-shirts
Scissors
Instructions:
Cut the shirts into long strips and braid them tightly. Knot both ends and you’ve got a durable tug toy.
Why It Works:
It’s soft on teeth but strong enough for some serious tug-of-war fun.
Supplies Needed:
Empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls
Treats or kibble
Instructions:
Fold one end of the roll closed, drop a few treats in, then fold the other end shut. Your pup will have to work to break it open.
Why It Works:
It encourages problem-solving and foraging.
Supplies Needed:
A muffin tin
Tennis balls
Treats
Instructions:
Place treats in the cups of the muffin tin and cover each one with a tennis ball. Let your dog sniff, nudge, and remove the balls to get the reward.
Why It Works:
This DIY puzzle toy stimulates your dog’s brain and satisfies their curiosity.
Supplies Needed:
A Kong or similar stuffable toy
Dog-safe peanut butter, kibble, yogurt, or wet food
Instructions:
Stuff the toy, freeze it for a few hours, and hand it over to your dog. It takes longer to lick frozen fillings!
Why It Works:
A perfect boredom buster for crate time, hot days, or when guests arrive.
Supplies Needed:
Small cardboard box
Newspaper or packing paper
Treats
Instructions:
Hide treats within layers of crumpled paper inside the box. Tape the box closed lightly and let your dog tear it open (under supervision).
Why It Works:
Mimics natural foraging and digging instincts while keeping dogs focused and entertained.
Supplies Needed:
1 tennis ball
1 long sock
Instructions:
Insert the tennis ball into the sock and tie a knot above the ball. Your dog can chew, tug, or toss it.
Why It Works:
Combines textures and movement to stimulate play instincts.
Supplies Needed:
Rubber sink mat with holes
Fleece strips
Instructions:
Tie fleece strips through the holes until the mat is covered in fabric “grass.” Hide kibble among the strips and let your dog sniff it out.
Why It Works:
Encourages slow eating and mental enrichment through nose work.
Supplies Needed:
Empty plastic milk jug
Strong string or rope
Treats (optional)
Instructions:
Cut small holes in the jug and fill with treats or kibble. Hang it with string so your dog has to knock or bat it to release the goodies.
Why It Works:
Builds coordination and keeps your dog moving and thinking.
Supplies Needed:
A bath towel
Treats
Instructions:
Sprinkle treats on the towel and roll it up. Your dog will unroll the towel to get to the tasty surprises.
Why It Works:
A simple way to turn mealtime into a mentally stimulating game.
Always supervise your dog with new toys.
Avoid small parts that could be swallowed.
Replace worn or damaged toys to prevent choking hazards.
Use only non-toxic materials.
DIY toys are more than a cost-effective solution—they’re a hands-on way to enrich your dog’s daily life and bond with them through creativity. Rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh and exciting!