Don't waste your money – if you have an old cotton t-shirt at home you can make a simple dog toy.
Old t-shirts are soft and pliable, meaning they're easy to cut into strips and can be made into simple dog toys such as tug toys, braided toys, and more.
These dog toys can be a great idea for those who want to keep their dog entertained indoors on a budget.
Below we'll look at 5 easy ways to make a dog toy from an old t-shirt. We'll also share some top tips to ensure your dog stays safe with their new toy.
What You'll Need
Most of these dog toys will require you to use common household items. You won't need any specialist crafting equipment.
You will need:
- One or two clean cotton t-shirts
- Sharp fabric scissors
- A ruler or measuring tape
- A washable pen (if needed)
- A clean flat surface
Use t-shirts that are in good condition. Avoid any t-shirts that have a strong odour, stains, loose threads or damage.
Ensure you remove any buttons, zippers, embellishments or other attachments. These can become a choking hazard if your dog pulls them off.
Not all dogs will be suitable for making a DIY fabric dog toy. If your dog tends to rip up toys, chew fabric or swallow non-food items then avoid this activity and choose a more suitable toy that your vet recommends.
1. Braided T-Shirt Tug Toy
A braided t-Shirt Tug Toy is one of the easiest DIY dog toys to make. Using multiple strips of fabric you can create a simple rope dog toy.
This could be suitable for dogs who don't chew or swallow fabric and for gentle tug games.
What You'll Need
- One clean cotton t-shirt
- Fabric Scissors
- Flat Surface
How to Make
- Lay your t-shirt flat and smooth out any creases.
- Cut 3 long strips of fabric from the main part of the t-shirt.
- Ensure the strips are wide enough to not be too thin.
- Tie the 3 strips together with a tight knot.
- Braid the strips together. Ensure it's not too loose.
- Tie the other end with a tight knot.
- Trim any loose long ends.
- Ensure there are no loose or weak knots.
How to Play
Allow your dog to investigate the toy. Play a gentle game of tug.
If the braid starts to come apart then remove the toy.
2. Knotted T-Shirt Chew and Play Toy
This toy is created by tying a single piece of fabric together. This will take very little time to create and doesn't require any sewing.
However it's best to treat this as a play toy.
What You'll Need
- One clean cotton t-shirt
- Fabric Scissors
How to Make
- Lay your t-shirt flat.
- Cut one long wide strip of fabric.
- Trim any uneven edges and loose threads.
- Hold both ends of the fabric.
- Tie a tight knot in the middle.
- Ensure the knot is tight and the fabric isn't easily coming undone.
- Trim any little loose pieces.
How to Play
Play a short game of gentle tug with your dog.
Some dogs will love picking up the soft toy and playing with it. Some may start to chew the knot.
Keep a close eye on your dog. If they start to pull at the threads or try to swallow then remove the toy.
3. Loop T-Shirt Tug Toy
Another simple toy to make. This will create a handle for you to hold onto during a gentle interactive game.
What You'll Need
- One clean cotton t-shirt
- Fabric Scissors
How to Make
- Lay your t-shirt flat.
- Cut a wide strip of fabric.
- Check there are no holes or damage.
- Fold the ends together to create a loop.
- Tie the ends together tightly.
- Carefully check the loop to ensure there aren't any loose parts.
- Trim any extra fabric.
How to Play
Hold the loop gently.
Encourage your dog to play with the toy.
You can gently slide it along the floor or play a short game of tug if your dog plays gently.
Avoid swinging your dog or pulling them suddenly. Avoid encouraging them to play aggressively.
4. Braided T-Shirt Ball
If your dog loves chasing and carrying soft toys then why not try making a simple fabric ball.
This will create a compact toy using braided fabric. This is best played with under supervision.
What You'll Need
- One or two clean cotton t-shirts
- Fabric Scissors
- Flat Surface
How to Make
- Cut multiple wide strips of fabric.
- Separate 3 strips and braid them together.
- Repeat to create more braids.
- Arrange the braids in a loose circle.
- Tuck the ends of the braids in tightly.
- Ensure the fabric doesn't come undone when handled gently.
- Trim any loose ends.
How to Play
Gently roll the fabric ball along the floor.
Encourage your dog to play with it.
You can play a short game of indoor play.
Bear in mind that the ball may not bounce or roll like a proper dog ball.
5. T-Shirt Treat Hunt
Not all DIY dog toys need to be for tugging or chasing. Why not make a simple treat hunt toy.
This will give your dog the chance to use their nose to find little pieces of food.
What You'll Need
- One clean flat cotton t-shirt
- A few pieces of your dogs usual kibble.
How to Make
- Wash and fully dry your t-shirt.
- Lay flat on a clean non slip surface.
- Place a few pieces of kibble on the fabric.
- Fold one side over some of the kibble.
- Make a few small folds.
- Ensure some kibble is showing.
- Encourage your dog to sniff the toy.
How to Play
Encourage your dog to sniff around the folds. Don't push their face into the fabric or Make It too difficult.
Start with an easy set up. Once your dog understands what they need to do you could make the folds a little more challenging.
Only use a small amount of your dogs usual food and ensure it fits within their daily food allowance.
Safety Tips for T-Shirt Dog Toys
Whilst making a dog toy can be a cheap option you should always ensure your dog stays safe.
Fabric toys can become a hazard if your dog rips them apart and swallows any pieces. Even a little bit of fabric can cause stomach issues or blockages.
Top tips:
Use Clean Fabric
Use a clean durable fabric. Avoid any fabric with a strong odour, loose embellishments or damage.
Avoid using t-shirts with any buttons, zippers, beads, sequins or other small attachments.
Supervise
Always supervise your dog whilst they play with the toy.
Don't leave your dog in their crate or sleeping area with a t-shirt toy unless you know it's suitable and they don't chew or swallow fabric.
Check
Before and after each play session check the toy for:
- Loose threads
- Untied knots
- Tears
- Small loose pieces
- Damage or weak parts
If the toy is damaged then throw it away.
Suitable for Your Dog
A gentle dog who likes carrying soft toys may play differently to a dog who is a heavy chewer.
Consider your dogs size, how they play, how they chew and their previous behaviour with fabric.
Play Gently
Avoid any sudden pulling or twisting whilst playing tug. If your dog gets too excited or it's not comfortable for you then stop.
If your dog swallows any fabric then contact your vet. Don't wait for them to show symptoms and don't try to make them be sick unless instructed by a vet professional.
FAQs
Can I make a dog toy from an old t-shirt?
Yes! Simply cut your clean cotton t-shirt into strips and create a simple braided, knotted or looped toy. Always check the construction and supervise your dog.
Are t-Shirt Dog Toys safe?
They can be suitable for some dogs to play with under supervision. However if your dog chews, rips or swallows fabric then they may be at risk. Choose a toy that suits your dog and throw it away if it becomes damaged.
What t-shirt should I use?
A clean cotton t-shirt that doesn't have any buttons, zippers, embellishments or damage would be a good choice. Avoid anything that easily frays.
Can my puppy play with these toys?
Some puppies may enjoy playing with fabric under supervision. However many puppies will investigate objects by chewing. If your puppy starts to rip or swallow fabric then avoid using these toys and choose a suitable toy for their age.
How often should I replace the toy?
There isn't a specific timeframe. Check before and after every play session. If you notice any loose threads, damage, weak knots or loose pieces then replace immediately.
Can I wash my dog toys?
Yes, if the fabric can be safely washed. Wash them using a suitable method, rinse well and allow them to fully dry. Don't give your dog a wet toy that has a bad odour or visible mould.
Final Thoughts
Creating a dog toy from an old t-shirt is a simple way to upcycle some fabric from around your home. You can create a variety of toys including a braided tug toy, knotted toy, loop toy, fabric ball or even a simple treat hunt. Choose a toy that suits your dogs size and play style.
Most importantly supervise your dog, regularly check the fabric and throw away any toys that start to come apart.
With a little creativity you can create a fun activity using an old t-shirt you wouldn't otherwise use.
Happy Paws, Happier Homes!
