I don't know about you, but when I go to the pet store, I experience a little sticker shock when I look at the dog toy section. Those stuffed toys are expensive! Especially when I know the fate that lies in store for them at my house. My two dogs are brutal on toys (see exhibit A). So, I have been looking around online for patterns to make dog toys and thought I would share them with you in case you wish to try your hand at making some too. If you do decide to make some dog toys, consider making two and give one to your dog and donate the other to a shelter pet. If you don't know where to donate, contact your local shelter or check out the organizations listed in my article on charity sewing for animals.
 | Exhibit A - Poor flamingo. And, look who was trying to steal it back! |
All you need to make your own stuffed pet toys is some fabric and fiberfill. They are also great beginner projects to hone your sewing skills. After all, your dog won't be checking if your seams are straight!
You can also save money when making your own dog toys by recycling fabric, either your own garments or those you have picked up at the thrift store. Fleece and heavier-weight cotton fabrics work well for most dog toys. If you are making cat toys, you can use lighter weight fabrics. If you would like to add squeakers
inside your toys, they are fairly inexpensive and readily available online. Be sure to always supervise your pet when playing with toys to make sure they don't ingest anything that could be harmful to them.
Doy Toys for Heavy Chewers
This project from instructables.com shows you how to plait rope to make a durable rope toy. Don't be intimidated by all the photos, this is the same technique used for making lanyards.
How to Make Sweater Dog Toys
Recycle your old sweaters into bone shaped dog toys with this easy sewing tutorial.
How to Weave a Fleece Rope Dog Toy
If you know how to braid, these no-sew, fleece toys will be a piece of cake. If not, now is a great time to learn! This would be a great project for kids!
Puppy's Dumbell Toy
If you are a knitter, you may enjoy making these dumbbell shaped toys for your pooch or one in need!
Dog-gone Dog Bone
Here's a free pattern for a crocheted dog bone in worsted weight yarn.
Knit a Toy Fido Will Love
Better Homes and Gardens provides this free knitted pattern for a dog toy.
How to Embroider a Chew Toy for Man's (My) Best Friend
On this site, there are two free sewing patterns for dog toys, one is a standard bone and the other is a funny face with three arms. The main focus of the tutorial is showing how to do the embroidery, but you can skip that step.
How to Embroider a Chew Toy for Man's (My) Best Friend
On this site, there are two free sewing patterns for dog toys, one is a standard bone and the other is a funny face with three arms. The main focus of the tutorial is showing how to do the embroidery, but you can skip that step.
Catalog of all Free Crochet Patterns for Pets
You can see a list of free crochet patterns for toys and other pet items at Lion Brand. To see the individual patterns, you will have to register with Lion Brand.
Tinybirds Organics
This site sells dog toys made from organic materials. If you scroll down to the bottom, there are links to patterns for bunny, bear and turtle stuffed toys.
Flying Saucer Pattern
This free pattern makes a flying saucer style dog toy.
I hope you are inspired to make your own pet toys from one or more of the patterns I linked above!
