Inside: A collection of DIY dog accessories from leads to toys that can be made at home.
If you are a regular reader of Pillarboxblue, thank you first! And second, you’ve probably noticed I have a dog. Toby is a beloved but now rather old (15 years) rescue Foxy Russell. He keeps me company while I craft and often sneaks into the photos.
Who doesn’t love pampering their dogs with lots of love, cuddles, and, yes, even accessories? For many pet owners, dog accessories are not just frivolous frills but fun and functional items that express their pet’s personality.
Dog accessories can be a bit pricey, so I thought I could make some for Toby out of stuff we already have. And upcycle materials like denim from jeans and other old clothes unsuitable for donation.
Denim Dog Accessories
Denim is a popular choice for making dog accessories for several reasons:
- 1. Durability: Denim is a solid, durable fabric that can withstand wear and tear, making it perfect for pet accessories that need a lot of use.
- Easy to Clean: Denim can be easily cleaned; this is a massive plus since pet accessories can get dirty quickly. Most denim materials are machine washable and do not stain easily.
- Comfort: Despite its toughness, denim is also quite comfortable. It’s a breathable material, which is particularly good for pets as it can help prevent overheating.
- Affordability: Old jeans that are no longer wearable can be upcycled into dog accessories, making denim a cost-effective choice for DIY projects.
In conclusion, denim’s strength, comfort, versatility, and affordability make it an excellent material for dog accessories.
However, it’s important to remember that while denim is generally safe, you should always ensure the finished product has no loose threads or small, chewable parts that could be a choking hazard for your pet.
DIY Dog Accessories & Crafts
This is a curated list of excellent DIY dog accessories and crafts; you can make your beloved pooch from leads and leashes to toys and coats.
How To Make The Cutest Handmade Denim Dog Toys
This has to be one of my most popular upcycled denim posts. The toys have the obligatory squeak to drive you mad when your dog plays with them. As they are made with denim, the toys are surprisingly robust, and you can include the jean pockets in the pattern for an extra fun feature, somewhere to hide a treat.
Denim Dog Leash
Every dog loves to go for a walk, and every dog walker needs a leash. So why not make one out of your old jeans? As it is a tough fabric and able to withstand some pulling!
Denim Rope Tug
Another dog toy, this one is no sew and pretty robust. Strips of denim are braided and knotted to make a fun, affordable dog toy.
Denim Dog Coat
Keep your dog cosy with this cute dog coat, complete with a handy pocket on the back for treats or dog bags.
Make a Lined Dog Jacket From Recycled Denim
This dog jacket is for colder months as it is lined with a wool scarf. It's fastened with velcro, so very easy to put on and take off.
Squiddly Denim Dog Toy
It's another dog toy, but it has a tennis ball and crinkly paper. So it's fun to throw and chase.
DIY Octopus Dog Toy Out Of Old Jeans
I'm sure a puppy will have hours of fun with this octopus-shaped dog toy made from jeans pockets.
Free Pattern For A Cute Personalized Dog Christmas Stocking
Ensure you include your beloved pooch in your Christmas celebrations by making them their own stocking for the mantle. And remember to fill it with homemade dog toys and accessories.
How to Make No-Sew Over-the-Collar Bandanas for your Dog
Here's an easy DIY to create a bandana that fits right over your dog's collar. Best of all, it's a no-sew project!
DIY Dog Sign with Treat Jar & Leash Holder
No hunting for lost leashes when you make it a special hanging place complete with a treat jar.
Make A DIY Dog Sweater From A Sweatshirt
This is a DIY dog accessory for those with small dogs; cut up one of your old sweaters into a cosy coat for your pooch.
Pet Fashion: DIY Leather Dog Tag
Use your Cricut to craft your beloved pooch a leather dog tag that won't jingle as he runs.
Dog Collars: custom designs for your furry friends
Customise your dog's collar with an embroidered sleeve. Stitch their name in bright threads and add fun patterns.
DIY Dog Harness : Olivia Jane Handcrafted - Blog
Dog harnesses are more popular nowadays as they don't strain the animal's neck. Learn how to make one in the material of your choice with this step-by-step pattern. I think a denim version would look fantastic.
Wood Dog Bowl Stand� - I SPY DIY
A dog bowl stand that looks stylish and handy. No more spills from knocked-over bowls!
How to Make a Dog Bed for a Crate
All dogs need a bed, and some have more than one. This is an easy-follow tutorial on sewing one for your pet.
Easy DIY Dog Bowl Stand with Hairpin Legs
Another dog bowl stand, but this one has stylish hairpin legs.
Braided Rope Dog Leash with Leather Details
Make your dog a beautifully braided leash with stylish leather trim, including a tassel and collar.
I think the denim dog bone toys are my favourite DIY dog craft on the list. However, Toby has started to lose his hair through old age, so it might be time to make him a denim dog coat.
Another way of showing love for your dog is to paint them some personalised giant wall art or a create map dog portrait.
debbie
Sunday 5th of January 2020
I bought a couple of cat Toys Shape as fish with Catnip put in with Stuffing., my Cats Loved them. Your denim dog toys I thought of your denim toys.
Claire Armstrong
Sunday 5th of January 2020
Thank you, you could easily make cat ones and fill with Catnip.
Donna
Thursday 1st of November 2018
I am so happy to have found you. I was looking for dog things to make for our church Christmas bazaar and these are IT! Thank you for sharing. I lost my cocker spaniel (17-years old) just recently. I read not long ago, "A dog gives you some of the best days of your life, and one of the worst." So true.
Claire Armstrong
Friday 2nd of November 2018
Thank you. Our TOBY is 15 years old and beginning to show his age we know our time with him won’t be for much longer. It’s so sad! Your saying is so true.
Roberta
Sunday 14th of October 2018
Hi Claire, what clever creations! I tried to make a toy for my sister's dog, a Shar Pei, but she break it off after few days .. Ahahaha!!
Hugs, Roberta
Claire Armstrong
Wednesday 17th of October 2018
Thank you ?
Michelle Leslie
Thursday 11th of October 2018
Toby is just the sweetest little fur baby and love all your denim puppy accessories. What fun and I know our fur babies are going to enjoy quite a few of them too
Claire Armstrong
Thursday 11th of October 2018
Thank you, Michelle. TOBY is getting a bit old these days we think he’s 15 but not sure as he was a rescue dog. So I think he’s more interested in the bed than toys.
Cecilia
Saturday 6th of October 2018
I always enjoy seeing your creative uses for denim, Claire. Thanks for sharing at Vintage Charm!
Claire Armstrong
Sunday 7th of October 2018
Thank you, Cecilia. I enjoy thinking of more creative ways to use denim.