If you’re the kind of dog parent who loves to get a little crafty, you’re not alone. Making your own DIY dog toys at home is a fun, affordable way to bond with your pup—and a great solution when store-bought toys don’t quite hit the mark.
But here’s the thing: not all toys work for all dogs. Some pups want to shred. Others want to tug, fetch, or solve puzzles. That’s why we’ve rounded up our favorite homemade dog toys—organized by play style—plus our own handmade Knot Yours upgrades when you’re ready to level up.
Let’s get knotty.
Why DIY Dog Toys?
Making toys for your dog at home has a ton of benefits:
- Budget-friendly – Save money using things you already have.
- Eco-conscious – Repurpose old clothes, towels, or socks instead of tossing them.
- Bonding time – Making toys with your dog in mind builds connection.
- Custom play – You know your pup best. DIY lets you tailor it to their preferences.
Whether you’ve got a power chewer, a gentle cuddler, or a clever puzzle-solver, there’s a DIY option—and a Knot Yours toy—to match.
Start Here: What’s Your Dog’s Play Style?
Before you dive into making toys, it helps to know how your dog likes to play. Here are the five most common styles—and how to spot them:
- Chewers – Love gnawing and destroying (RIP, your slippers).
- Tuggers – Thrive on interactive games and teamwork.
- Fetchers – Born to chase, carry, and repeat.
- Problem-Solvers – Enjoy mentally stimulating challenges.
- Cuddlers – Prefer soft, cozy toys they can carry around or snuggle with.
Got it? Great. Let’s get to the fun part.
DIY Dog Toys for Chewers
DIY Idea: Frozen T-Shirt Braid
Cut an old t-shirt into three long strips, braid them tightly, knot the ends, then soak in low-sodium broth and freeze. It’s soothing, tasty, and a great way to offer gentle chewing relief—especially on hot days or for teething pups.
Looking for something sturdier for supervised play?
Knot Yours toys aren’t meant for solo chewing, but they are built for dogs who love to tug, shake, and carry their toys around.
Knot Yours Picks:
- Rope-in-Bone Rope Toy – Our most durable option for heavier chewers. Features a hard nylon bone center with hand-tied rope ends—perfect for supervised gnawing, tugging, and tossing.
* Always supervise rope toy play, especially with strong chewers—no toy is indestructible, but ours are made to hold up better than the average DIY!
DIY Dog Toys for Tuggers
DIY Idea: Braided Fleece Tug Toy
Use old fleece blankets or sweaters. Cut into strips, braid tightly, and knot both ends. Great stretch, soft on the gums, and tug-ready.
Looking for a tug toy that holds up better than DIY?
Knot Yours toys are made for dogs who live for that full-body shake and tug-of-war moment.
Knot Yours Upgrade:
- Little Gigantic Rope Toy – A sturdy, hand-tied rope toy that’s just the right size for small-to-medium tuggers. Built for grip, not chewing.
- Monkey Knot Rope Toy – A compact knot that's perfect for toss-and-tug games with pups who love interactive play.
DIY Dog Toys for Fetchers
DIY Idea: Sock-Wrapped Tennis Ball
Slide a tennis ball into a long sock and tie a knot at the open end. It’s lightweight, easy to throw, and soft enough for indoor fetch.
Want a cuter, more durable upgrade?
Knot Yours fetch-friendly toys are small, lightweight, and handmade to turn toss time into a real event.
Knot Yours Upgrade:
- Tiny Rope Toys – Designed for smaller pups and gentle fetch games. Easy to toss, carry, and show off.
- Rainbow Pride Phallus Rope Toy – A statement fetch toy that's just as playful as it looks. Great for outdoor play or gifting with a wink.
DIY Toys for Problem-Solvers
DIY Idea: Muffin Tin Puzzle
Drop treats into each cup of a muffin tin and cover each one with a tennis ball or crumpled fabric. Your dog has to sniff and move the covers to find the snacks.
DIY Idea: Cardboard Tube Puzzle
Stuff a toilet paper roll with treats and fold the ends in. It’s quick, low-waste, and surprisingly fun to watch.
Knot Yours Upgrade:
While Knot Yours doesn’t currently offer enrichment toys, these DIY ideas are a great way to stimulate your dog’s brain using what you already have at home. For tug, fetch, or gentle play options, check out our handcrafted rope toys.
DIY Toys for Cuddlers & Soft-Mouth Dogs
DIY Idea: Stuffed Sock Plush
Stuff one sock with scraps of fabric or another sock, tie it shut, and let your pup carry it like their own plush buddy. Soft, comforting, and easy to replace if it gets too slobbery.
Looking for something handmade and gentle on the gums?
Knot Yours has toys that are soft, lightweight, and fun to carry—ideal for small dogs, puppies, or those who play a little more delicately.
Knot Yours Upgrade:
- Baby G Rope Toy – Petite, lightweight, and perfect for tiny paws and soft mouths. Easy to toss, snuggle, or proudly parade around.
- Little Dicky (Canvas Ball Edition) – A fun, cheeky toy made with canvas balls that are soft and durable enough for light play. Perfect for pups with personality.
When to Upgrade from DIY to Durable
DIY dog toys are awesome—but they do have limits. If your dog is a heavy chewer, gets bored easily, or tends to destroy things in minutes, it might be time to invest in something built to last.
Why choose Knot Yours?
- Handmade in Tulsa with safety and durability in mind
- Customizable by chew level, size, and rope color
- Tested by real dogs (and approved by their humans)
- Cute enough to gift, tough enough to play
Whether you’re looking for something that lasts longer, looks better, or just feels more special—our toys are designed with real dogs (and their humans) in mind.
DIY Safety Tips
Whichever route you take—DIY or handcrafted—make sure to play safe:
- Always supervise your dog with new toys
- Inspect for loose parts or frayed edges
- Replace anything that starts to fall apart
- Choose the right size for your dog’s mouth
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