How to Make Toys for a Dog

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Non-synthetic rope
Stick with no sharp points
Ball
Sock
Stuffed animal

Step 1:
Pay attention to what your dog likes to play. Notice if his favorite part of playing catch is running after the ball, or if he thinks the game really begins when you try to tug the ball out of his mouth.
Step 2:
Make a rope toy if your dog loves tug-of-war. Use a non-synthetic rope to prevent the material from cutting your dog's gums. Tie a knot in both ends or tie a plastic handle on your end and a secure loop on your dog's end to give you both a good place to grab hold.
Step 3:
Play fetch with a stick. No need to buy fancy throw sticks, just grab an old stick in the yard. Make sure the stick has no sharp points or thorns and you're all set.
Step 4:
Choose a ball suitable for the size of your dog. A ball that is too small can choke your pet and a ball that's too large for your pet to carry in its mouth is no fun at all. Make sure the ball is made from a material that won't fall apart when your dog chews on it.
Step 5:
Take a trip through your child's toy box looking for old toys your dog might enjoy. A well made stuffed animal makes a great friend for your dog. Some dogs become so attached to their favorite toy they won't even go to bed without it.
Step 6:
Give your dog something of his own to chew on and he'll be more likely to leave your shoes alone. A carrot or an apple in his water dish will keep him amused for hours. An old tennis ball tied up in a dirty old sock also makes a great chew toy for your pet.

Tips & Warnings

Some dogs love to play fetch with a ball while others think the fun is all in the chase.
As a special treat, stuff a sterilized bone with peanut butter and he'll lick it up.
Always supervise your dog when he plays with a new toy to make sure he can't chew off and swallow some small piece that could choke him.
Never give your dog old shoes or clothes as chew toys. He might think your new shoes were left on the floor just for him.

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