Dog toys are often quite expensive. Owning a dog is expensive. Would you part with £19 for a Rubber Gum Bear Dog Toy from Mango and Maud? A shop-bought one will only get ripped to shreds within ten minutes of gifting it to your pooch. Well, if he’s anything like Ramón he will!
If you’re a believer of DIY instead of spending a fortune on dog toys, read on.
Dog toys and chews are excellent distractions during the Autumn and Winter months when dogs are more stressed than any other time of year. Fireworks, trick or treaters and a lack of exercise (we understand it can be hard walking your dog in the cold, wet weather), all lead to anxiety and stress. It can be heart-wrenching to watch your once happy, energetic pooch become scared and inconsolable.
Dog toy puzzles are great when you can’t take your dog for a walk if the fireworks start. They burn energy and stimulate the mind.
These two dog toys are sturdy and made from items you’re bound to have lying around your home. Best of all? They’re free and are unbelievably easy!
DIY Dog Toys #1: Ultimate Tug Toy
Rosie the Border Terrier loves to swing off the Ultimate Tug Toy
You will need:
- Two t-shirts or zip-up tops
- Pair of fabric scissors
Method
1. Lay your top out on a flat surface and, using the scissors, cut vertical strips an inch apart at the bottom.
Expert’s tip: Do this on a wooden worktop wherever possible to minimise the risk of cutting into the carpet!
2. Take each strip one at a time and rip up towards the neck.
3. Trim any strips so all are the same length and keep two strips aside (for the ties).
4. Gathering all strips together, use a strip and tie a tight knot around one end.
5. Divide into three separate sections and plait them.
Expert’s tip: the tighter you plait them, the stronger it’ll be for your dog’s gnashers. Twist the sections as you plait to ensure it’s as tight as tight can be.
6. Holding the end of your plait, use the last remaining strip you set aside to tie around and knot together.
Expert’s tip: hide little treats in the plaits to reward your pooch for his hard work.
DIY Dog Toys #2: Crunchy Sock Chew
DogBuddy regular Rosie prefers the texture and sound of the Crunchy Sock Chew
You will need:
- Two unwashed socks
- An empty water bottle
Method
1. Ensure your plastic water bottle is empty and dry. Remove the lid and crush it with your hands.
2. Slip sock 1 over the water bottle and tie a balloon knot in the end.
3. Spin it around and slip sock 2 over sock 1. Tie a balloon knot in the end.
Expert’s tip: as disgusting as it sounds, using your unwashed socks is comforting to your pooch because they smell like you.