Being able to spend quality time with your furry friend isn’t just fun. It is also a great way to strengthen your bond and enjoy each other’s company. One of the best ways to spend time with your pet nowadays is to engage in creative DIY projects that will stimulate your pet's mind and create a healthy, engaging environment.
In this blog post, we will share four amazing DIY craft projects you can do with your dog or for your dog.
Homemade Dog Toys
Creating some DIY dog toys is fun while making the toy and while playing with your dog. There are many different ways for you to craft cool toys that your dog can enjoy to stimulate them mentally. Funnily enough, you can make many of these toys using items you have around the house!
Some of these items include clothing items, old toys, and snacks! If this sounds like something you and your canine companion will enjoy, keep reading below!
T-Shirt Tug Toy
For the first toy, all you need is a shirt and some spare time! Here’s what to do:
1. Find an old, clean t-shirt.
2. Cut the t-shirt into strips.
3. Braid the strips together and leave some at the end for handles.
4. Knot the ends to secure the braid.
Now your dog will have a fun, durable toy that will last through hours of play! This is also a great way to meet their exercise requirements.
Tennis Ball Treat Dispenser
For the next toy, just grab a new or old tennis ball, your pups’ favorite treats, and let your dog use their problem-solving skills. Here’s what to do:
1. Find a tennis ball or buy a new one.
2. Cut a small slit in the tennis ball.
3. Fill the ball with your canine companions’ favorite treats.
Now, just give the ball to your dog, and let them figure out how to get their favorite treats out. Just be sure to supervise your dog during play. You don’t want them to mistake their new chew toy for dinner!
Sock Squeaky Toy
For the next toy, all you need is a plastic squeaker and an old sock! You could:
1. Find an old sock.
2. Find a squeaker from an old toy or purchase a new one.
3. Insert the toy into the sock.
4. Tie a knot at the opening of the sock to secure the squeaker.
5. Cut off any excess sock material.
Now, throw the sock to your dog, and let them enjoy hours of fun!
Make Beautiful Art Together
Creating paw print art with your dog not only produces a gorgeous, cherished keepsake, but it also gives you a cool way to bond. You can choose from many different methods, such as using non-toxic paint or making a clay impression.
Painted Paw Print Art
For this DIY project, you will need your dog, some non-toxic paint, a canvas, and some plastic bags to lay down in case your dog tracks paint through the house. Then:
1. Prepare the non-toxic paint in a container.
2. Dip your dog’s paw into the paint.
3. Gently press your dog’s paw onto the canvas or piece of paper.
4. Wipe the paint off your dog’s paw using soap and warm water.
5. Allow the paint to dry and write the name of your dog and the date of creation down the bottom or on the back.
6. Frame the artwork to be proudly displayed in your home.
Clay Paw Print
If you’re worried about your dog getting over-excited and tracking paint throughout the house, you could opt for making a clay mold instead. Here, you:
1. Buy pet-safe air-dry clay.
2. Roll the clay into a flat, smooth surface.
3. Press your dog’s paw into the clay gently, then remove it.
4. Create a hole at the top for hanging with a straw or small cutter.
5. Let the clay dry.
6. Paint or decorate it as desired.
7. Loop a string through the hole for hanging.
DIY Dog Treats
Making homemade treats for your dog is so rewarding––not to mention cost-effective! This way, you know exactly what your dog is eating. There are many recipes to choose from packed with ingredients that are healthy for dogs.
There are simple no-bake options as well as more complex treats.
Peanut Butter and Banana Treats
These peanut butter and banana treats are great for trick training your dog, as they are healthy, delicious, and nutritious! Just make sure you use peanut butter that doesn’t contain xylitol, as it is toxic to dogs. Here’s the recipe!
1. Mash a ripe banana, and mix it with peanut butter.
2. Add whole wheat flour until the mixture becomes a dough.
3. Roll out the dough, and pick out some cute cookie cutters to cut shapes.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
5. Allow the treats to cool and store them in a container.
Pumpkin and Oat Biscuits
These pumpkin and oat biscuits are not only super good for your pet’s coat and digestive health, but humans can also have a little snack, too! This recipe requires you to:
1. Mix oats, canned pumpkin, and water together to make a thick dough.
2. Roll out the dough and cut it into biscuit shapes.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Once the biscuits are cool, let your dog enjoy them!
Custom Dog Tag
Creating a custom dog tag for your pup is not only a stylish project but essential for the safety of your canine companion. It is a very fun and creative way to ensure that your dog can be identified, and you can be found if they are ever lost.
You can:
1. Purchase a blank pet tag or use an old one.
2. Design the tag to include your dog’s name, contact information, and any other crucial
details. Be sure to use hardy material and keep your handwriting legible.
3. Ensure that you secure the tag on your dog’s collar to ensure it doesn’t fall off.
Now your dog is safe, secure, and insured just in case they ever escape and need to find their way back home.
