You do not need expensive toys to keep your dog mentally stimulated. Simply make your very own easy dog puzzle toy using an empty plastic bottle and some items you may have at home.
The DIY nature of this toy means that your dog can use their nose and paws to work for some small food rewards. This can be a fun indoor enrichment game for dogs who live in an apartment, especially if they cannot go outside due to the weather.
However, not all dogs will be able to use a plastic bottle. It is best to only use this toy with close supervision and remove it from your dog as soon as they begin to chew or damage the toy.
Below shows how to make a simple plastic bottle puzzle toy for your dog.
Materials Needed
You will need the following simple items to make your dog's toy:
- Empty plastic bottle (clean)
- Dog kibble or small training treats
- Scissors / Craft knife (for adults)
- File or suitable item to smooth any edges
- Warm water & mild washing up liquid
Choose a strong plastic bottle that is not cracked, squashed or damaged. Small and medium sized bottles may be easier for your dog to manipulate. However this depends on how big your dog is and how they like to play.
Only use this activity with dogs that can interact with the bottle gently. If your dog likes to destroy plastic items then choose a specific dog puzzle toy.
How To Make A Dog Puzzle Toy From A Plastic Bottle
This simple puzzle will allow your dog to gently roll the bottle to let out a few pieces of kibble.
Step 1: Clean
Begin by taking an empty plastic bottle. Remove the lid, plastic ring and label.
Thoroughly wash the bottle with warm water and washing up liquid. Ensure you rinse well and fully dry the bottle.
Check the bottle is:
- No cracks or weak spots
- No sharp edges
- No damage or squashing
- No small pieces of plastic
Never use a damaged bottle.
Step 2: Create Small Holes
Have an adult create a few small holes in the side of the bottle. The holes should be large enough for individual pieces of your dog's kibble to fall through when rolled. However, they should not be too large so all the food falls through.
Carefully create the holes using your chosen cutting tool. Ensure all edges are smoothed and there are no sharp edges, loose pieces or rough areas.
Do not let your dog watch you cut the bottle. Ensure all tools and plastic pieces are kept away from pets.
Carefully run your fingers around the hole to ensure there are no rough edges. If you cannot make sure the holes are smooth and secure then do not use the bottle.
Step 3: Fill With Kibble
Once the bottle is clean, dry and safe to use, add a small amount of your dog's usual dry kibble.
Only add a few pieces of kibble. We do not want to fill the bottle as we want this to be a quick enrichment activity.
Using your dog's usual food makes it simple.
Do not use any sticky, wet or large food.
Step 4: Double Check
Before using the puzzle double check:
- There is no lid or loose plastic ring
- All edges are smooth
- No loose plastic pieces
- No cracks or damage
- The food can fall through the holes without getting stuck.
Gently roll the bottle to see if the kibble can fall through.
If there is anything that appears unsafe then discard the bottle and use a suitable store bought puzzle.
Step 5: Introduce To Your Dog
Place the bottle on a clean, flat surface in front of your dog.
Let your dog sniff and investigate the bottle. Gently roll the bottle to show the kibble comes out.
Let your dog enjoy finding the food.
Keep this activity short and simple. If your dog appears confused then you can gently demonstrate how to move the bottle.
Some dogs will understand this game quickly whilst others may need a bit of encouragement.
How To Play The Plastic Bottle Dog Puzzle Game
Once your dog understands the basics of the game you can use it as an indoor enrichment activity.
Below are a few simple ways to play:
1. Use Nose
Place the bottle on the floor and encourage your dog to sniff around.
Let your dog gently move the bottle with their nose to find the kibble.
2. Use Paws
Some dogs will prefer to use their paws.
If your dog can interact with the bottle gently let them gently tap it. Never encourage them to scratch, bite or chew hard.
3. Use A Little Of Their Food
Use a little of your dog's usual kibble.
This can be a good way to include this into their supervised indoor activity. Just remember to take into account the food used in the puzzle.
4. Keep Short
Stop the game whilst your dog is still interested.
It is best to keep this short and positive. Always put the bottle away straight away.
Safety Tips For DIY Plastic Bottle Dog Toys
Whilst this can be a cheap and fun way to create a dog puzzle toy, it is important to keep your dog safe. Plastic bottles are not designed to be dog toys so need to be prepared carefully and used with close supervision.
- Supervision whilst playing. Be close by so you can stop the game if your dog begins to chew, bite or damage the bottle.
- Remove the lid and ring. Small pieces can be a choking hazard or be swallowed.
- All holes are smooth. Ensure there are no sharp edges or loose pieces.
- Watch your dog. If they try to squash or chew the bottle take it away.
- Keep short. Do not leave the bottle with your dog.
- Check before each use. If the bottle is cracked, bent, torn or damaged then discard it.
- Use small pieces of your dog's usual dry kibble.
This game is not suitable for dogs that like to chew aggressively, tear or swallow non food items. Puppies and dogs that are still learning how to play with enrichment toys will need to be closely supervised.
If your dog swallows any plastic contact your vet asap. Only induce vomiting if your vet specifically ask you to.
My Dog Doesn't Understand The Puzzle
Not all dogs will know what to do with a new enrichment toy. If your dog just sniffs and walks away then this is fine.
Try:
- Gently rolling the bottle to show the food comes out.
- Only adding a few pieces of kibble.
- Ensuring the holes are large enough for the food to come through.
- Keeping it relaxed and positive when introducing.
- Letting your dog investigate.
If your dog gets frustrated, loses interest or begins to chew then stop the game. You can try a different type of enrichment.
When Should I Replace The Bottle?
Never use a plastic bottle puzzle as a permanent toy.
Before each use check the bottle. If it has:
- Cracks or deep dents
- Rough or sharp holes
- Loose pieces of plastic
- Chewing or punctures
- Any signs of coming apart
Do not wait until it becomes badly damaged. If you are unsure then stop using it.
If your dog likes to chew then a specifically made food puzzle would be a better option.
FAQs
Can I Use Any Plastic Bottle?
Only use a clean, strong plastic bottle. Remove the lid, ring and label. However even if you use the correct bottle it is not safe for dogs that like to chew or destroy plastic items.
Are Plastic Bottle Puzzles Safe For Dogs?
These can have some risks such as sharp edges, broken pieces and choking hazards. The bottle needs to be carefully prepared, checked and used with supervision. Not all dogs will be suitable for this.
What Should I Put In The Bottle?
Use small pieces of your dog's usual dry kibble. Avoid using sticky foods, large pieces or anything that can get stuck.
Can Puppies Play With This?
Puppies can often be curious about moving items however they often investigate with their mouths. This may not be suitable. Choose a suitable puppy toy. If unsure ask your vet.
How Long Should My Dog Play?
Keep this short. Supervise whilst your dog plays. If they get frustrated, start chewing or lose interest then stop the game. Put the bottle away once finished.
Can I Use Anything Else?
A specifically made dog food puzzle, suitable snuffle mat or durable treat dispenser can provide similar enrichment. Choose something suitable for your dog's size, chewing and playing habits.
Final Thoughts
Creating a dog puzzle toy from a plastic bottle is a simple DIY idea. This can help you use a few pieces of kibble to create an indoor enrichment activity.
With careful preparation your dog can use their nose and paws to move the bottle and find some small food rewards. This can be a helpful activity for dogs who live in an apartment.
However remember that plastic bottles are not designed to be dog toys. Ensure you supervise your dog closely, check the bottle each time and stop using if there are any signs of damage or chewing.
Always put your dog's safety first and choose a specifically made puzzle toy if your dog is likely to chew or break the bottle.
Happy Paws, Happier Homes!
