Toys & Enrichment

DIY Enrichment Toys on a Budget

November 29, 20255 min read
DIY Enrichment Toys on a Budget

DIY Enrichment Toys on a Budget

You don't need to spend a fortune to keep your Border Collie mentally stimulated. Here are creative ways to make enrichment toys from household items!

Cardboard Box Paradise

Border Collies love destroying things — make it productive!

Nested Boxes

  1. Place a treat in a small box
  2. Put that box inside a medium box
  3. Put that inside a large box
  4. Watch the chaos unfold!

Treat Tube Tower

  1. Save toilet paper rolls
  2. Fill with kibble
  3. Fold ends shut
  4. Hide around the house

Fabric Toys

Sock Puzzle

  1. Take an old sock
  2. Put a crinkly bottle inside
  3. Add some treats
  4. Tie the end

Fleece Tug Toy

  1. Cut fleece into 3 long strips
  2. Tie together at one end
  3. Braid tightly
  4. Tie off the other end

Frozen Fun

Ice Block Treasure

  1. Put toys and treats in a container
  2. Fill with water or broth
  3. Freeze overnight
  4. Great for hot days!

Frozen Kongs

  1. Stuff with wet food
  2. Freeze
  3. Provides hours of entertainment

Scent Games

Border Collies have amazing noses!

Which Hand?

  • Hide treat in one hand
  • Let them sniff and choose
  • Reward correct choice

Scent Trail

  • Drag a smelly treat across the floor
  • Let it lead to a jackpot

Safety First

  • Remove small parts that could be swallowed
  • Supervise all play
  • Discard when worn

For more DIY ideas, visit The Spruce Pets.