DIY Super Durable Dog Toys from Old Jeans: The Ultimate Chew Toy!

Updated at: 19/03/2025

Tired of constantly replacing chewed-up dog toys that cost a fortune? Your dog deserves the best, and your wallet deserves a break! This guide reveals the secret to crafting incredibly durable, and surprisingly affordable, dog toys using a material you likely already have: old jeans! We'll transform those discarded denim scraps into the ultimate chew toy, designed to withstand even the most enthusiastic chewer. Forget flimsy store-bought toys that disintegrate after a single play session; these DIY masterpieces are built to last. The strong, tightly woven fabric of denim provides exceptional resilience, satisfying your dog's gnawing instincts without the constant worry of dangerous pieces breaking off.

Forget pricey replacements and expensive vet bills from swallowed toy fragments! This simple project uses readily available materials and requires minimal sewing skills, making it perfect for anyone, regardless of crafting experience. Ready to unleash your creativity and give your furry friend the gift of endless playtime? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own DIY super durable dog toys from old jeans!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Old jeans
  • Scissors
  • Rubber bands
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise your dog with any new toy, especially homemade ones. Remove the toy if it shows significant wear and tear to prevent ingestion of fabric pieces.
  • Avoid using jeans with metal rivets, buttons, or zippers that could detach and become choking hazards. Remove all hardware before construction.
  • Choose sturdy, thick denim. Thin or damaged denim will not hold up to aggressive chewers and could easily be torn apart and ingested.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the First Pant Leg

    • Cut off one pant leg, above the knee.
    • Cut down the side seam and cut 9 strips from the fabric.
    • Set aside the strips. Bunch, twist, and knot the remaining larger piece of fabric to create a strong, durable core for the toy.
    Set aside the strips. Bunch, twist, and knot the remaining larger piece of fabric to create a strong, durable core for the toy.Set aside the strips. Bunch, twist, and knot the remaining larger piece of fabric to create a strong, durable core for the toy.Set aside the strips. Bunch, twist, and knot the remaining larger piece of fabric to create a strong, durable core for the toy.
    Prepare the First Pant Leg

  2. Braid the First Set of Strips

    • Tie the nine strips together with a rubber band.
    • Braid the nine strips.
    • Remove the rubber band. Tie two strands at one end, wrap them around the core, and tie a knot. Repeat at the other end.
    Remove the rubber band. Tie two strands at one end, wrap them around the core, and tie a knot. Repeat at the other end.Remove the rubber band. Tie two strands at one end, wrap them around the core, and tie a knot. Repeat at the other end.Remove the rubber band. Tie two strands at one end, wrap them around the core, and tie a knot. Repeat at the other end.
    Braid the First Set of Strips

  3. Prepare the Second Pant Leg

    • Cut off the other pant leg and cut it down the seam. Cut out four strands.
    • Tie the four strands together with a rubber band. Flip it over and separate the strands.
    Tie the four strands together with a rubber band. Flip it over and separate the strands.Tie the four strands together with a rubber band. Flip it over and separate the strands.Tie the four strands together with a rubber band. Flip it over and separate the strands.Tie the four strands together with a rubber band. Flip it over and separate the strands.
    Prepare the Second Pant Leg

  4. Braid the Second Set of Strips

    • Create a simple braid using an overhand knot technique.
    • Remove the rubber band and tie off the end. Repeat until you have a desired length of braided fabric.
    Remove the rubber band and tie off the end. Repeat until you have a desired length of braided fabric.Remove the rubber band and tie off the end. Repeat until you have a desired length of braided fabric.Remove the rubber band and tie off the end. Repeat until you have a desired length of braided fabric.Remove the rubber band and tie off the end. Repeat until you have a desired length of braided fabric.
    Braid the Second Set of Strips

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

Tips

  • Use denim for extra durability, but other fabrics like old t-shirts work too.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using too thin or worn-out denim

Reason: The toy will easily rip and become unsafe for your dog, defeating the purpose of durability.
Solution: Select sturdy, thick denim with minimal wear and tear for optimal strength.

2. Leaving loose threads or sharp edges

Reason: These can be swallowed by your dog, causing choking hazards or internal injuries.
Solution: Carefully trim all loose threads and ensure all seams are securely stitched and edges are smooth.

3. Insufficient stuffing or uneven stuffing distribution

Reason: This can result in a toy that's too flimsy or has weak spots that tear easily, making the toy less durable and fun for your dog.
Solution: Use a generous amount of stuffing and ensure it's evenly distributed throughout the toy to maintain shape and durability.

FAQs

What types of jeans are best for making dog toys?
Sturdy, thick denim works best. Avoid jeans with excessive embellishments (like metal rivets or buttons) that could pose a choking hazard. Darker washes tend to be more durable than lighter ones.
How do I ensure the toy is safe for my dog?
Always supervise your dog while they play with the toy. Check it regularly for wear and tear. Remove any loose threads or frayed edges immediately. Avoid using strong chemicals or dyes when cleaning.
My dog is an aggressive chewer. Will these toys still hold up?
While these toys are very durable, even the toughest denim will eventually succumb to an extremely aggressive chewer. Double stitching seams and using thicker denim will increase the toy's lifespan, but regular inspection is crucial.