Store-Bought vs Handmade Dog Toys: Pros & Cons

The DIY movement has inspired pet parents to make their own dog toys. But how do braided t-shirt ropes and stuffed sock toys stack up against store-bought options?

The Case for Handmade

Pros: Cost-effective, customizable, eco-friendly repurposing, satisfying to make. Cons: No safety testing, unpredictable durability, limited features, hidden hazards (buttons, zippers, elastic, dyes), and inconsistent quality.

The Case for Store-Bought

Pros: Safety tested (reputable brands like PAWTY test our Birthday Bone and Red Envelope rigorously), engineered durability with GentlePlush 3-layer fabric, advanced features like SuperSqueak and SnackStash, consistent quality. Cons: Higher upfront cost, quality varies by brand.

Safety: The Critical Difference

Homemade toys are a leading cause of preventable toy-related vet visits. Braided fabric unravels into ingestible strings. Water bottle sock toys crack into sharp shards. Clothing dyes and detergents can harm dogs. Store-bought toys from brands like PAWTY address all these by design — our Pawfume toy uses non-toxic dyes and securely encased components.

The Smart Approach

Build your collection around quality store-bought toys like the 3-in-1 Cupcake and Chewnel Bag. Supplement with simple, supervised DIY activities for variety. Your dog's safety is worth the investment.

Explore safely engineered toys at pawty.com.