DIY NATURAL DOG PRODUCTS
According to a study from the American Pet Products Association, consumers in the United States spend nearly $60 billion per year on their pets. This averages out to about $1,641 per dog – that’s a lot of kibble! Fortunately, there are many different pet-related DIY projects that can be made with common household goods. For a little inspiration, check out our list of paw-some DIY natural dog products.
Peanut Butter Banana Biscuits
This super simple dog treat recipe will have your pup grinning from ear to ear – and it only needs three ingredients! Combine ½ cup peanut butter with one large, ripe banana in a large bowl, mashing up the mixture into a chunky batter. Grind 1 ½ cups uncooked oatmeal and stir into the batter, reserving about one tablespoon to dust onto the counter. Roll the dough out to ¼” thickness, using your favorite cookie cutters to create shapes. Place cookies onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for around 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remember to cool completely before offering to your four-legged friend!
Lemon Spot Treatment
Despite our best efforts as pet parents, accidents can and will happen. Many conventional stain and odor removers contain toxic ingredients – and often cost a pretty penny. Make your own natural spot treatment using one cup white vinegar, one cup distilled water, one tablespoon salt, and lemon essential oil. Combine the first two ingredients in a spray bottle, shaking lately to mix. Add ten drops of the oil to a tablespoon of salt, and then add to the bottle. Tighten the cap and spray when needed, allowing the treatment to sit for around ten minutes before dabbing up with a clean cloth.
Lavender and Citrus Flea Repellent
Fleas are an unwelcome nuisance in any household, but the chemicals on some flea collars can be harmful – especially for young children. Create a natural repellent for both dogs and cats using only four ingredients. Place two cups of water in a small saucepan, adding one lemon sliced and one tablespoon dried lavender. Simmer on low for around 30 minutes and then allow to cool completely. Strain the liquid into a squirt bottle, adding two tablespoons of alcohol-free witch hazel. Store leftovers in the refrigerator to keep the solution fresh.
Water Bottle Dog Toy
Since the majority of dogs rip stuffed animals and ropes to shreds within mere minutes of receiving them, there’s really no point in buying them. Upcycle a discarded water bottle and a lonely sock into a great DIY toy instead! Cut the foot off of the sock, leaving a tube of material – make sure to take the size of the bottle into account. Place the bottle inside of the sock and tie the ends with twine, removing the excess. Make sure to supervise pets when playing with chew toys to ensure they don’t eat the components.
Credits: Rachelle Gordon