How to Make Cotton Rope Dog Toys

Rope toys help dogs in a variety of ways. The toys help the dog bond with people as it plays tug of war and fetch. The toys give the dog a safe outlet for its chewing instinct. Play provides exercise for the dog and the pet owners.

Things You'll Need

  • 1-inch-diameter rope, 2 feet long
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • ¾-inch-diameter rope, 7 feet long
  • Scissors
  • 1 foot of cotton twine
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Instructions

  1. Simple Knot Toy

    • 1

      Fold the 1-inch rope in the center.

    • 2

      Place one side of the rope over the other to create a loop. Wrap the first side of the rope around the second side; then push the end of the rope through the loop, and pull both ends tight.

    • 3

      Place the second side of the rope over the first to create a loop. Wrap the second side of the rope around the first; then push the end of the rope through the loop, and pull both ends tight.

    • 4

      Continue tying knots in this way for the length of the rope.

    • 5

      Wash the finished rope toy with a load of laundry in hot water. Dry the toy completely. The dryer will fray the loose ends of the rope, making it more fun for the dog.

    Tug of War

    • 6

      Cut 2 feet off the 7 feet of rope with the scissors.

    • 7

      Fold the remaining 5 feet of rope in half. Place the 2-foot piece 6 inches from the center fold.

    • 8

      Twist the center fold around the body of the rope, creating a loop. Push the folded end through the loop and pull the knot tight, so that it catches the 2-foot section in the knot.

    • 9

      Spread the three tails of rope out beneath the knot. Pick up the right-hand tail and place it between the left hand and center tail. Pick up the left-hand tail and place it between the two remaining tails. Repeat this braiding for the length of the rope.

    • 10

      Wrap the cotton twine around the end of the braid.