While you're making your final preparations this Christmas Eve, don't forget to make a little something for the dog!Here are 5 great DIY dog treats for pet parents looking for simple to complex, all-hands-on-deck to easy-clean-up!
1. The "Earth-Conscious Pet"
These organic "Cheese Please" dog treats are sure to please green pet parents and their pooches. Check out
for the recipe.
2. The "I'm Hungry, Too"
That's right, treats that both dogs and people can eat! Just hold the salt and pepper for your dog's portion. Get the recipe for Rachel Ray's
.
3. The "Let the Kids Have Some Fun"
Animal Planet's
are designed to get your kids in on the action -- put them to work kneading the dough and teach them a bit of math at the same time.
4. The "I Already Have All the Ingredients"
Cesar Millan's
will clean out your fridge of the holiday excess and delight your pet at the same time!
5. The "Festive Use of Appliances"
Two paws up to Sugar the Golden Retriever for these lovely (and simple!)
!
Have a great recipe of your own?
Enter our
Holiday Dog Treat Recipe Contest
for a chance to win $100!*
*Official rules
DIY Pet Projects: How to Make Pet Supplies, Treats, and More From Scratch
Owning a pet can get expensive. Toys, treats, food—it adds up! But it doesn’t necessarily have to. With a little creativity and some elbow grease, you can fashion a lot of what your pet needs, and for next to nothing.
RELATED STORY: 7 Money-Saving Steps to Having a 'Green' Pet
Take a look at all these DIY pet projects you can undertake to save a small fortune on pet paraphernalia!
DIY Pet FOOD
One way to ensure that your pet is receiving all their essential nutrients is by making pet food yourself. Here are a few recipes and tips to get you started—just remember to collaborate with a vet or a board certified veterinary nutritionist before starting your pet on a homemade diet.
- Raw Food Dog Diet
- Homemade Dog Food For Your Pet
- Homemade Food for Earth Friendly Dogs
- How to Make Your Own Cat Food
- How to Make Homemade Dog Food for Labradors
- Making Homemade Puppy Food
- Homemade Baked Dry Dog Food for a Lhasa Apso
- Dog Treat Recipes
DIY Pet Remedies
Did you know that there are a bunch of remedies for mild conditions that can be fashioned out of things you probably already have around the house? Rather than shelling out the big bucks for pharmaceutical treatments, why not try a simple, safe, and inexpensive home remedy? Again, be sure to check with your vet before giving your pet a treamtent.
- DIY Dog Dry Skin Treatment (and Handy Medications)
- Chemical Free Steps to Zapping a Tick Infestation
- 5 Home Remedies for Dog Allergies
- Safe and Simple Home Remedies for Dogs
- Recipe to Help Dog Digestive Distress
- Natural and Homemade Shampoo for Dogs
DIY TOYS, SUPPLIES, & More
Toys, clothes, bedding—these types of pet essentials can end up costing you a pretty penny. However, with a little ingenuity you can craft some entertaining toys and adorable outfits for your furry friend. And, since you are making the gear yourself, you can tailor the design to your pet’s specifications. Win-win!
- Three Ideas for Festive Holiday Dog Collars
- Make Halloween Mascot Costumes for Your Pets
- Homemade and Fun Pet Halloween Costumes
- DIY Dog Grooming Tips by Breed
- How to Use a Do It Yourself Dog Wash
- How to Make a Dog Bed at Home
- Creative and Homemade Cat Toys
More on Taking Care of Your Pet
Using Flea and Tick Treatments
Safely
Pet Stain and Odor Removal
Products
How to Change Dog Food
Treat Your Cat to a Catnip Surprise