If you have been spending a lot more time at home lately, your dog has likely noticed. Chances are they have not only noticed, but are absolutely ecstatic about it. You can show them that the feeling is mutual by making one of these five easy DIY dog toys, all using items you already have laying around the house.
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1. Tennis ball treat dispenser
For this one, all you need is a tennis ball, a pair of scissors, and of course your dog’s favourite bite sized snacks. Simply cut a 3-centimetre opening into the tennis ball and insert small treats into it. Your dog will love chasing and chomping the day away. Just be sure not to overdo it on the treats!
Note: The fuzz on the outside of tennis balls can be harmful to your pet if swallowed. Running the ball through the wash during a couple laundry cycles can help remove some of it.
2. Braided t-shirt tug toy
All that is needed for this dog-pleasing favourite is two old T-shirts and a pair of scissors. Take each shirt and create little slits with scissors about 8 centimetres apart. Then rip along those slits to create lots of strips. Tie off one end. Then gather the strips into thirds and braid. Finally, tie the other end off as well. This is great for playing Tug of War as well as fetch with your pooch!
3. Denim “candy” toy
This one is similar to the t-shirt toy, but doesn’t have to be braided since the denim is already so thick. Cut off the leg of an old pair of jeans. Stuff the inside with cut up scraps from the same pair of jeans, or other old fabric scraps, and then tie the ends tightly, making it resemble a piece of candy in a wrapper. You can also stuff a plastic bottle in the centre.
4. Plastic bottle in a tube sock
Empty out a plastic water bottle and stuff it into an old sock, tying off the opening. This is a great DIY option for dogs who love the crinkly, crunchy sound from some chew toys. Just keep an eye out to make sure they don’t tear the bottle apart and attempt to eat parts of it, and recycle when they are done playing with it.
5. Toy “pupsicles”
A perfect option for dogs to play with in the yard on warmer days. Fill a bowl with water and drop in some of your pup’s favourite toys—works best with the brightest, most colourful toys they have. Freeze it. Once frozen, dump out the solid ice chunk into the yard and watch them have fun for hours trying to get to the toys inside.
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By freelance writer Riley Herder