Easy DIY Pet Toys for the Holidays + Pumpkin Pie Treats for Your Pup

The holidays aren’t just for us — our furry family members deserve some festive fun too! Between wrapping gifts and baking cookies, why not make a few easy DIY toys and pet-safe treats? Whether you have a playful pup or a curious kitty, these ideas will help them join the celebrations safely and happily.

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🐾 Easy DIY Pet Toys for Dogs and Cats

1. Sock Snowman Tug Toy (for dogs)

Have an old mismatched sock? Fill it with a few smaller socks or fabric scraps, tie a knot in the middle, and you’ve got a quick tug toy! Add a squeaker inside for bonus excitement.

2. Catnip Holiday Ornaments (for cats)

Cut out felt shapes like stars or trees, sew or glue the edges together (leaving a small opening), fill with catnip, and stitch it closed. They look adorable under the tree — just keep them off your real ornaments!

3. T-Shirt Rope Toy (for dogs)

Cut up an old holiday shirt into strips, braid tightly, and knot both ends. Instant chew-and-tug fun — and it smells like you, which pets love.

4. Jingle Ball Surprise (for cats)

Place a jingle bell inside a small fabric ball or even a scrunched paper ball wrapped in fabric. Toss it across the room for endless pouncing entertainment.

5. Treat Hunt Box (for both)

Take a small cardboard box, cut a few holes, and fill it with paper scraps and treats. Let your pet dig and sniff to find the goodies — great for mental stimulation!

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🥧 Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Pie?

Traditional pumpkin pie might smell irresistible to your dog, but it’s not safe for them. Most recipes contain sugar, nutmeg, and dairy — all of which can upset a pup’s tummy.

But don’t worry — your dog doesn’t have to miss out on the pumpkin fun!

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🎃 Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup plain canned pumpkin (no sugar or spices)

1 egg

¼ cup unsweetened applesauce

¼ cup oat flour (or regular flour if tolerated)

Optional: a pinch of cinnamon (skip nutmeg!)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix all ingredients until smooth.

3. Pour into silicone cupcake molds or mini pie tins.

4. Bake for 20–25 minutes until firm.

5. Cool completely and serve a small portion to your pup.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for later.

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🐶 How to Include Your Pets in the Holidays

Wrap them a gift: even a homemade toy or treat feels special when wrapped.

Let them “help” decorate: supervise while they sniff around the tree or lights — keep fragile ornaments high.

Create a cozy space: with holiday blankets or your scent-filled hoodie to calm anxious pets.

Holiday photoshoot: match in cozy sweaters or bandanas for the cutest memories.

Donate to rescues: gift a toy or blanket to a local shelter (like SPCA or Best Friends Animal Society).

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🎄 Final Thoughts

The best gifts for our pets aren’t from the store — they’re made with love (and maybe a little pumpkin purée). Whether you’re crafting a simple toy or baking a safe treat, these moments remind us what the holidays are really about: comfort, kindness, and wagging tails.