If you are a dog parent, you know that your furry friend is more than just a pet — they are family. And just like any family member, you want to make sure they are happy, healthy, and well taken care of. But being a dog parent comes with its own set of challenges. From dealing with shedding fur to finding ways to keep your pup entertained, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. We’ve compiled a list of genius hacks, from grooming to training, and even include some fun DIY projects for you and your pooch to enjoy together. you’ll be able to save time and money, while also providing the best possible care for your furry companion. Here are some game-changers to make your life easier and your dog’s life happier. Check them out, right now!
DIY Dog Treats Are Simple
Want to spoil your pup with some homemade goodies? Making simple dog treats at home is easier than you might think! You can use ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin, and oats to whip up tasty and nutritious snacks for your furry friend.
Want other easy, healthy ideas? Try making peanut butter and banana bites by mixing mashed banana, peanut butter, and flour, then baking in the oven. Or make sweet potato chews by slicing sweet potatoes thinly and baking until crispy.
Magic Erasers for Dog Drool Stains
Dog drool stains can be stubborn and difficult to remove, but magic erasers can make the task much easier. These sponges are designed to remove tough stains and grime with minimal effort, making them a go-to tool for pet owners. Simply dampen the magic eraser and gently rub it over the affected area.
Applying moderate pressure as needed. The eraser will lift away the drool stains and leave your surfaces looking clean and fresh. Walls, furniture, and other surfaces can especially benefit.
Make DIY Puzzle Toys
Do you have a bored pup on your hands? Keep them entertained and mentally stimulated with DIY puzzle toys! You don’t need to be a crafting expert — all you need are some basic materials and a bit of creativity. Try hiding treats in a muffin tin covered with tennis balls.
You can also wrap them in a towel and let your pup sniff them out. Your dog will love the challenge and you will love the peace and quiet!
Use Baking Soda for Dog Pee
If your furry friend has an accident and pees on the carpet, baking soda can be a lifesaver. First, blot up as much of the urine as possible with paper towels or a clean cloth. Then, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the affected area and let it sit for 15-20 minutes..
Baking soda is great for neutralizing odors and can help to eliminate any lingering urine smell. After the time has passed, vacuum up the baking soda and dispose of it properly.
Make Dry Food Yummier
Is your dog a picky eater when it comes to dry food? Adding a little bit of liquid to their kibble can make it more enticing and flavorful. You can use low-sodium chicken or beef broth, water, or even a bit of unsweetened applesauce to add some moisture and flavor.
Not only will it make their food more palatable, but it will also help with digestion and hydration. So go ahead and experiment with different liquids. They’ll lick it clean!
Cover Couches, Fight Dog Hair
We all love cuddling with our furry friends on the couch, but let’s be real, it can be a real pain to clean up all that dog hair. Fortunately, there’s an easy hack to keep your couches looking pristine for the long term. Quite simply, you need to cover them up.
Whether it’s a throw blanket or a specialized pet cover, a little bit of extra fabric can go a long way in keeping your furniture hair-free, and protected from any accidents or scratches.
Use Lint Rollers to Pick up Dog Hair
Dog owners know the struggle of dealing with pet hair everywhere, but fear not, the lint roller is here to save the day! Roll away hair from your clothes, furniture, and even car seats with ease. You can also use it to clean up small debris like crumbs and dirt.
Plus, it’s a cheap and efficient hack that saves you time and energy. No more dragging out the vacuum cleaner every time your furry friend sheds their coat. It’s an easy fix. Try it, and see!
Vaseline for Winter Paws
Protect your pup’s paws during the cold winter months by applying Vaseline to the pads of their feet. This will help prevent cracking and dryness caused by exposure to cold and snow. Be sure to wipe off any excess Vaseline after application to prevent your pup from slipping on smooth surfaces.
While Vaseline can help protect your dog’s paws, it’s important to note that it should not be used as a substitute for proper winter gear, such as booties or paw wax.
Sloppy Drinker? Plant a Solution!
Is your furry friend a messy drinker, leaving water all over your floor? Try this clever hack to keep your home clean and your pet hydrated. Place their water bowl in the center of a pot with a pet-friendly plant.
Any spilled water will end up in the soil, nourishing the plant instead of creating a puddle on your floor. Plus, the plant adds a touch of greenery to your pet’s drinking area, making it a stylish and eco-friendly solution.
Make a DIY Snuffle Mat
Dogs need mental stimulation, and a DIY snuffle mat is an easy and fun way to provide it. Simply take a rubber mat or piece of cardboard and cut small strips of fleece or fabric. Tie the strips onto the mat, creating a textured surface that your dog can sniff and explore.
Sprinkle some treats or kibble into the mat and watch your dog go to work, using their sense of smell to find the hidden goodies. Promote calmness and relaxation in your dog!
Use a Blacklight to Find Pet Urine Stains
Pet accidents happen, but finding and cleaning up urine stains can be a challenge. A simple hack is to use a blacklight to locate those pesky stains on carpets, furniture, and floors. The UV light will make urine stains glow, making them easy to spot.
Once you’ve found the stains, you can use a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner to break down the urine and neutralize the odor. This hack will help keep your home clean and fresh, without the lingering smell of pet accidents.
Bubble Chasing for Play
Who says bubbles are just for kids? Dogs love chasing bubbles too! It’s an easy and inexpensive way to add some fun to playtime. Just grab a bottle of pet—friendly bubbles and blow away. Your pup will love jumping and biting at the bubbles as they float around.
Plus, it’s a great way to get your dog moving and active. Just make sure to supervise your pup and use bubbles made specifically for pets to avoid any harmful ingredients.
Frozen Treats for Summertime
Hot summer days call for cool treats, and that goes for your pup too! Making frozen dog treats at home is a simple and refreshing way to keep your furry friend cool and satisfied. You can blend together ingredients like plain yogurt, fruit, and peanut butter, then pour them into ice cube trays and freeze.
Or make frozen pup-sicles by filling a Kong toy with the mixture and freezing. Your dog will love the icy cold treat, and you’ll love how easy and healthy they are.
Elevate Your Dog’s Dining Experience on a Budget
Elevated dog bowls can be a game-changer for elderly dogs or those with mobility issues, reducing strain on their neck and joints during mealtime. However, store-bought elevated bowl sets can be pricey. Here’s a budget-friendly hack to create your own.
Simply cut the bottom off a plastic pot or trash can from the dollar store and fit your dog’s bowls on top. This DIY solution provides a stable, raised platform for your furry friend to comfortably eat and drink, without breaking the bank.
Change Their Toys Frequently
Dogs love their toys, but just like humans, they can get bored with them pretty quickly. To keep your furry friend engaged and entertained, switch up their toys every few weeks. Not only will it keep them mentally stimulated, but it will also prevent them from destroying their toys out of boredom.
Plus, who doesn’t love seeing the pure joy on their dog’s face when they get a new toy to play with? They’ll thank you with tail wags and slobbery kisses!
Bandanas Mean They’re Easily Seen
Putting a bandana on your dog can not only make them look stylish but can also help keep them safe. Brightly colored bandanas can make your pup more visible, especially in low-light conditions, which can be particularly helpful during evening walks or in areas with heavy traffic.
Additionally, bandanas can be used to display important information such as your dog’s name or your contact information in case they ever get lost. Add a little extra safety and style, today!
Convert the Kiddie Pool
When the weather gets hot, there’s nothing like a refreshing dip in the pool — and that goes for our furry friends, too! But buying a doggie pool can be expensive, so why not create one yourself using a kiddie pool? Simply fill the pool with water, and your pup will have a blast.
You can even throw in some floating toys or freeze some treats in ice cubes for an extra fun time. Plus, when summer’s over, you can easily store the pool until next year.
Fill the Kiddie Pool with Dirt for a Pet Potty
Or, if you’re looking for another clever way to repurpose that kiddie pool, try this unique hack for pet parents living in apartments or homes with limited outdoor space. Fill the kiddie pool with dirt and some grass seeds to create a designated spot for your furry friend to do their business right on your patio or balcony. This innovative solution provides a convenient and sanitary area for your pet to relieve themselves.
Not only does this hack save you from constant walks outside, but it also helps keep your living space clean and odor-free. Plus, the grass will give your pet a natural and familiar surface to use as their bathroom.
Brush Your Dog’s Hair to Keep From Shedding
Shedding can be a nightmare for dog owners, but brushing your furry friend’s hair is an effective hack to keep it under control. Regular grooming not only removes excess hair, but it also helps distribute natural oils, keeping your dog’s coat healthy and shiny. That’s the goal, after all.
Brushing also stimulates blood flow and helps prevent mats and tangles. Plus, it’s a great bonding activity that your dog will enjoy. So grab your brush and get to work!
Keep Kibble Fresh with Coffee Containers
Want to keep your dog’s kibble fresh and tasty for longer? Instead of leaving the bag open or using a flimsy clip, try storing the food in empty coffee containers. The airtight seal will help maintain the kibble’s freshness and prevent it from going stale.
Plus, coffee containers are durable and easy to stack, making them a practical and space-saving solution for pet food storage. Your furry friend will thank you for the consistently delicious meals!
Use Old T-Shirts to Craft Tug Toys
With a bit of creativity, you can turn old t-shirts into fun and durable tug toys for your pup. Simply cut the t-shirt into long strips and braid them together tightly, tying knots at each end. You can even add in some tennis balls for extra interest and texture.
These DIY toys are a great way to bond with your dog and give them a fun and interactive playtime. Plus, they’re eco-friendly and cost-effective. Get ready for some tug-of-war fun!
Let Them Sniff to Relieve Stress
Here’s a simple hack to help your furry friend relax and unwind: let them sniff! Sniffing is a natural behavior that allows dogs to gather information about their surroundings, but did you know it also helps relieve stress and anxiety?
When dogs sniff, they release endorphins that promote relaxation and calmness. So, the next time you take your pup for a walk, let them stop and sniff to their heart’s content – it’s a vital part of their mental and physical well-being.
DIY Dog Waste Bag Dispenser in a Snap
Tired of fumbling with dog waste bags on your walks? Here’s a quick and easy hack to create your own bag dispenser. Cut a water bottle in half and mount it to the wall or your pet’s leash station using command strips.
This simple solution provides a convenient way to store and dispense bags, ensuring you always have one on hand when you need it. Plus, it’s a cost-effective alternative to store-bought dispensers, and you can upcycle those old water bottles!
Ensure Your Pet’s Safety with an Emergency Key Tag
As a responsible pet parent, it’s essential to have a plan in place for your furry friend’s care in case of an emergency. One simple hack is to keep a tag on your keys that says, “My pet is home alone,” along with an emergency contact number.
In the event that something happens to you while you’re away from home, this tag will alert others that your pet needs assistance. By providing an emergency contact, you can ensure that someone will be able to check on your pet and provide necessary care until you return.
Tennis Ball Treat Puzzle for Hours of Fun
Looking for a simple way to keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated? Try this easy DIY trick using a tennis ball and some treats. Cut a small slit in the tennis ball and hide a few treats inside.
As your dog tries to retrieve the treats, they’ll be challenged and engaged, keeping them occupied for longer periods. This interactive toy encourages problem-solving skills and provides a rewarding experience for your furry friend.
Portable Treats in a Tic-Tac Box
Looking for a convenient way to carry treats for your furry friend when you’re on the go? Try repurposing an empty Tic-Tac box! The compact size and secure lid make it perfect for storing small treats and rewards.
Simply fill the empty box with your pet’s favorite tiny treats, and you’ll have a portable, mess-free treat dispenser ready for your next walk or adventure. This clever hack ensures you can always reward your pet’s good behavior, no matter where you are.
DIY Dog Paw Protection: Sock Hack
Is your furry friend constantly licking a paw injury or irritation? Here’s a clever hack to keep them from aggravating the wound. Take a long sock and cut it halfway toward the toes, creating two long strips.
Place the injured paw in the sock and tie the strips together above your dog’s shoulders. This creates a comfortable, secure barrier that prevents your dog from licking or chewing on their paw, allowing the injury to heal properly.
Upcycle Your Old Sweater into a Cozy Dog Coat
Want to keep your furry friend warm and stylish without spending a fortune on a new dog sweater? Try this creative DIY hack using an old sweater you no longer wear. Simply cut off one of the sleeves and make two small holes for your dog’s front paws.
Slip the sleeve over your dog’s head, with their head coming out of the arm hole. The result is an adorable, snug-fitting sweater that will keep your pup cozy during chilly walks or at home. Plus, you’ll be giving new life to an old piece of clothing!
DIY Pill Pockets: Hot Dog Hack
Giving pills to your dog can be a struggle, but this clever hack makes it a breeze! Instead of buying expensive pill pockets, try using hot dog pieces. Simply poke a hole in a small piece of hot dog using a straw.
The hole will be the perfect size to fit the pill, and the tasty hot dog will disguise the medicine. Your furry friend will happily gobble up the treat, making medication time stress-free for both you and your pet.
Repurpose a Kitchen Mat for Mealtime Fun
Got a furry friend who gobbles up their food too quickly or needs some extra mental stimulation? A rubber industrial kitchen mat with large holes can be the perfect solution! Place the mat on the floor and spread your dog’s kibble or treats across it, letting some fall into the holes.
Your pup will have to use their nose and paws to dig out the food, slowing down their eating pace and providing an engaging, puzzle-like activity. This simple hack not only promotes healthier eating habits but also keeps your dog entertained and mentally stimulated during mealtimes.
The Ultimate Pet Hair Removal Hack: Use a Squeegee
Pet hair on your furniture, carpet, and car seats can be a never-ending battle, but this simple hack will change the game. Forget lint rollers or vacuum attachments – a squeegee is the ultimate tool for removing stubborn pet fur from various surfaces.
The rubber blade of the squeegee easily grabs and pulls up embedded hair, making it a quick and efficient solution. Simply run the squeegee over the surface, and watch as the fur clumps together, ready to be disposed of. This hack will save you time and effort in keeping your home and car pet hair-free.
Amp Up Fetch with Hill Sprints
Want to help your high-energy dog burn off steam more efficiently during playtime? Take your fetch game to the next level by playing on a hill. Toss the ball or toy uphill, making your pup sprint to retrieve it.
As they climb the incline to bring the ball back, they’ll be working harder and expending more energy than on flat ground. This simple change in terrain can make a big difference in tiring out your furry friend faster, leading to a more satisfied and relaxed pup.
Calm Your Dog During Storms with a Dryer Sheet
Is your furry friend anxious or restless during thunderstorms? It might not be the loud noises or flashing lights that are bothering them, but rather the static electricity built up in their fur. Luckily, there’s a simple hack to help ease their discomfort.
Gently run a dryer sheet over your dog’s coat to neutralize the static charge. This can help alleviate their unease and promote a sense of calm. Keep a few dryer sheets handy during storm season to quickly soothe your pet’s frazzled nerves.
Easy Tick Removal with a Soapy Cotton Ball
Finding a tick on your furry friend can be stressful, but removing it doesn’t have to be a struggle. Skip the tweezers and try this simple hack for easy tick removal. Apply a generous amount of liquid soap to a cotton ball.
Gently swab the tick with the soapy cotton ball for a few seconds. The soap will help loosen the tick’s grip, making it easier to remove without leaving the head embedded in your pet’s skin. This method is quick, painless, and effective.
Elevate Your Dog’s Chewing Experience with Stuffed Bones
Want to make your dog’s chewing sessions even more enjoyable and long-lasting? Try stuffing raw shank bones with wet food or other tasty treats before giving them to your furry friend. This simple hack adds an extra layer of flavor and excitement to their chewing experience.
As your dog works to lick out the delicious stuffing, they’ll be more engaged and entertained. Once they’ve finished the filling, they can continue to chew on the bone itself, promoting healthy teeth and gums while keeping them occupied.
Create a Stimulating Treat Hunt with a DIY Crate Pocket Wall
Keep your furry friend mentally stimulated and engaged with this creative DIY project. Use fabric to create a wall of multiple pockets that you can hang on your dog’s crate. Hide treats in some of the pockets, leaving others empty to add to the challenge.
Your dog will have to use their keen sense of smell and problem-solving skills to locate all the hidden treats. This interactive game not only provides mental enrichment but also helps to alleviate boredom and anxiety when your pet is crated.
Freshen Your Dog’s Breath with a Sprinkle of Parsley
Is your furry friend’s bad breath putting a damper on cuddle time? Try this simple and natural solution: add a pinch of parsley to your dog’s food. Parsley is a safe and healthy herb that can help freshen your pup’s breath.
The chlorophyll in parsley acts as a natural deodorizer, helping to neutralize unpleasant odors in your dog’s mouth. Simply chop up some fresh parsley and sprinkle it over your pet’s meal. They’ll enjoy the added flavor, and you’ll appreciate their fresher breath during snuggles and playtime.
Upcycle an Old Sweater into a Cozy DIY Dog Bed
Give your furry friend a comfortable place to rest while repurposing an old sweater and pillow with this easy DIY project. Start by placing the pillow inside the torso of the sweater, creating a soft base for your dog to lay on.
Next, stuff the arms and neck area of the sweater with additional filling material to provide extra cushioning. Sew the hole in the neck closed, and then sew together the arm holes in the sleeves to create a snug, enclosed space. Your pet will love snuggling up in their new, one-of-a-kind bed that’s both eco-friendly and budget-friendly.
Create a Lap-Like Dog Bed with Old Jeans
Does your furry friend love nothing more than curling up on your lap? Give them a cozy spot that mimics the feeling of sitting with you by repurposing an old pair of jeans. Start by stuffing the legs of the jeans with soft filling material, like polyester fiberfill or old clothes.
Arrange the stuffed jeans in a cross-legged position, as if you were sitting on the floor. Sew the legs together to maintain the shape, and add a small pillow or cushion in the “lap” area for extra comfort. Your pet will adore snuggling up in this unique, lap-like bed that smells just like you.
Keep Your Pup Warm with a DIY Heated Dog Bed
During the chilly winter months, your furry friend will appreciate a warm and cozy place to sleep. Create a simple heated dog bed using a small, pet-safe heating pad. Place the heating pad inside your dog’s existing bed or a DIY bed made from a soft blanket or cushion.
Make sure the heating pad has a removable cover for easy cleaning and a low, adjustable temperature setting to avoid overheating. Your pup will love snuggling up in their warm, toasty bed, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing they’re comfortable and protected from the cold.
DIY Pool Noodle Collar: A Comfortable Alternative to the Cone
When your furry friend is recovering from an injury or surgery, keeping them from licking or chewing the affected area is crucial. Instead of using the traditional plastic cone, try making a comfortable and practical alternative using a pool noodle.
Cut a pool noodle to the appropriate length to fit around your dog’s neck, and then slice it lengthwise to create an opening. Place the pool noodle around your dog’s collar, securing it with tape or a few stitches. This soft, lightweight collar will prevent your pup from reaching their wound while allowing them to eat, drink, and rest comfortably during the healing process.
Protect Your Dog’s Eyes During Bath Time with a Shower Cap
Bath time can be stressful for dogs, especially when soap and suds get into their sensitive eyes and ears. To keep your furry friend comfortable and relaxed during their bath, try using a clear shower cap to shield their face from the water and shampoo.
Gently place the shower cap over your dog’s head, making sure it covers their eyes and ears while still allowing them to breathe comfortably. The clear material will allow your pup to see through the cap, reducing anxiety and making the bathing process more pleasant for both you and your pet.
DIY Felt and Velcro Dog Boots for All-Weather Paw Protection
Protect your furry friend’s sensitive paws from extreme temperatures and rough terrain with these easy-to-make DIY dog boots. Using felt and velcro, you can create custom-fit boots that will keep your pup’s paws safe and comfortable in both hot and cold weather.
Cut the felt into appropriately sized pieces for your dog’s paws, and then secure them with velcro straps for a snug, adjustable fit. These lightweight boots will shield your dog’s paws from hot pavement, icy sidewalks, and salt or chemicals used during winter months, allowing them to enjoy outdoor adventures year-round.
Outsmart Your Trash-Raiding Dog with a Crate Hack
Is your clever canine constantly breaking into the trash can, making a mess and getting into potentially harmful items? Outsmart your furry Houdini with this simple hack using a dog crate. Place your trash can inside a dog crate turned on its side.
The crate will act as a protective barrier, preventing your dog from accessing the trash, while still allowing you to easily toss items in and remove the trash bag through the crate doors. This hack keeps your home clean and your pet safe from ingesting dangerous objects.
Hide Their Meds in Peanut Butter
Does your pup turn their nose up at their medicine? We’ve got a trick to help them take it like a champ! Hide their medicine in a spoonful of peanut butter or other dog-safe spread. The strong smell and taste of the peanut butter will mask the flavor.
Your pup will eagerly gobble it up. Just be sure to check with your vet to make sure it’s safe to give the medicine with food, and to make sure you’re giving the correct dosage.