Dogs are not only our pets but also our loyal companions who can help us in many ways, such as providing emotional support, serving as a guide dog, and protecting our home. Playing with our dogs is not only fun but also an essential way to strengthen our bond with them. Tug of war is a classic game that can provide a great opportunity for bonding and playtime with your furry friend. In this article, we’ll explore how to make DIY tug toys that are safe and fun for your dog to play with.
Expert Interviews: Dog Trainers and Behaviorists Share Their Favorite DIY Dog Toy Ideas
We reached out to several dog trainers and behaviorists to get their favorite DIY tug toy ideas. Here’s what they had to say:
1. Elise Gouge, Certified Dog Trainer and Owner of Sit Happens Dog Training
“My favorite DIY tug toy is a braided fleece tug. It’s easy to make, durable, and dogs love it. To make one, you’ll need three strips of fleece fabric, each about one inch wide and 24 inches long. Tie a knot at one end, then braid the three strips together. Tie another knot at the other end, and you’re done! You can also add a tennis ball or knot in the middle for extra interest.”
2. Melissa Tedrowe, Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Owner of Behave Atlanta
“I love using a bungee tug toy for interactive play with my dogs. It provides resistance for them to pull against, which can be great for building strength and engagement. To make one, you’ll need a bungee cord, a tennis ball, and some fleece fabric. Tie a knot in the bungee cord, then thread the tennis ball onto the cord. Tie a knot on the other end of the cord, then braid the fleece around the cord to create a handle.”
3. Dr. Susan Konecny, Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist and Owner of Pet Behavior Help
“An easy DIY tug toy is a knotted rope. You can use a thick, sturdy rope, such as a climbing rope, or make your own by braiding together several strands of cotton or nylon rope. Tie a knot at each end, and you’re ready to play! You can also make it more interesting by adding knots throughout the length of the rope.”
Conclusion
Playing tug of war with your dog can be a fun and engaging way to spend quality time together while also providing physical and mental stimulation. With these DIY tug toy ideas, you can create safe and durable toys that your dog will love to play with. Remember to always supervise your dog during play and use designated tug toys to ensure everyone stays safe and happy.