DIY Dog Toy from Recycled Reusable Bags: The Braided Tug-of-War

Updated at: 12/05/2025

Tired of expensive dog toys that get shredded in minutes? Do you have a stash of reusable shopping bags piling up? Then get ready to unleash your inner crafting genius and transform those seemingly useless bags into a durable and fun toy for your furry friend! This project combines eco-consciousness with canine entertainment, creating a braided tug-of-war toy that will keep your dog happily occupied for hours. Not only is this a cost-effective alternative to store-bought toys, but it also provides a satisfying upcycling experience. Plus, the sturdy braided construction ensures longevity, even with the most enthusiastic chewers.

This satisfyingly simple project requires minimal materials and surprisingly little effort, allowing you to create a personalized toy tailored to your dog's size and preferences. We'll guide you through each step of the process, from preparing the reusable bags to creating the final, sturdy tug-of-war toy. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Reusable bag edges (from about 5 bags)
  • Scissors
  • Clamps
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise your dog while playing with the toy. Remove the toy if any fraying or damage occurs.
  • Ensure all plastic bag edges are securely sealed and tucked in to prevent ingestion. Avoid using bags with sharp edges or metallic components.
  • Choose strong, durable reusable bags. Avoid thin or easily torn bags. Do not use bags that have contained hazardous materials.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Material

    • Trim the edges of your reusable bags and sort into strands of equal length (about 30 inches). You'll need nine strands in total.
    • Divide the strands into three sets of three. Trim the corners to make them straight. If a strand is too short, add more length using a square knot.
    Divide the strands into three sets of three. Trim the corners to make them straight. If a strand is too short, add more length using a square knot.Divide the strands into three sets of three. Trim the corners to make them straight. If a strand is too short, add more length using a square knot.
    Prepare the Material

  2. Braid Individual Strands

    • Tie a loose knot on each set of three strands. Clamp them to something stationary.
    • Braid each set of three strands tightly. Clamp or tie the end of each braid to prevent unraveling.
    Braid each set of three strands tightly. Clamp or tie the end of each braid to prevent unraveling.Braid each set of three strands tightly. Clamp or tie the end of each braid to prevent unraveling.
    Braid Individual Strands

  3. Combine and Braid

    • Loosen the top ends of the three braids. Twirl them together and tie a tight knot.
    • Braid the three braids together tightly. Tie another tight knot at the end. Trim any loose ends.
    Braid the three braids together tightly. Tie another tight knot at the end. Trim any loose ends.Braid the three braids together tightly. Tie another tight knot at the end. Trim any loose ends.
    Combine and Braid

Read more: How to Make a Tiny Loom Band Animal Toy (Rainbow Dog Tutorial)

Tips

  • Keep the braids tight to make it harder for your dog to pull the toy apart.
  • If your dog pulls the toy apart, take it away to prevent them from eating the pieces.
  • A cord of three strands is not quickly broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12). While this toy is durable, eventually it will be destroyed by your dog.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Braiding

Reason: Inconsistent tension while braiding leads to a lopsided and potentially weak toy.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension throughout the braiding process, periodically checking for evenness.

2. Loose Knots

Reason: Poorly tied knots can unravel easily during playtime, creating a choking hazard or losing parts of the toy.
Solution: Use secure knotting techniques, such as a square knot or surgeon's knot, and double-knot for extra security.

3. Using Too Short or Too Long Straps

Reason: Too short straps make the toy difficult to grasp; too long straps can be unwieldy and easily tangled.
Solution: Measure and cut the straps to an appropriate length before braiding, ensuring they are long enough for a comfortable tug-of-war but not overly long.

FAQs

My dog is a powerful chewer. Will this toy hold up?
While this toy is quite durable thanks to the braided construction, no toy is indestructible. Super strong chewers may still manage to damage it eventually. Always supervise your dog with any toy and replace it if it becomes damaged or frayed to prevent ingestion of small pieces.