Best Bernese Mountain Dog Toy: Top Choices Reviewed
Ok, here we go!
Right, so the other day I was thinking, "My Bernese Mountain Dog, Gus, needs a new toy. And not just any toy, a good toy." You know how it is, they chew through everything. So, I decided, why not try making one myself?
First thing I did was rummage through my old fabric scraps. Found some tough-looking canvas I had left over from a previous project – perfect! I also dug out some old rope, the kind used for sailing, super strong.
Then, I sketched out a rough design. Just a simple bone shape, but bigger and thicker than anything you'd buy in a store. Figured bigger is better, less likely for him to swallow chunks if he does manage to tear it.
Next up, cutting the fabric. I cut out two bone shapes, making sure to leave some extra room for sewing. Honestly, the cutting was the easy part.
Sewing the two pieces together was a bit of a pain. My sewing machine isn't exactly industrial-strength, and that canvas is thick! I went slow, reinforcing the seams multiple times. This part took a couple of hours, I swear. I almost gave up and just glued it, but I knew that wouldn't last five minutes with Gus.
Once the main shape was sewn, I needed to stuff it. I used more fabric scraps, packed in tight. I also threw in a few empty plastic water bottles for some crinkly noise. Dogs love that, right?
After stuffing, I sewed up the last opening. Again, reinforcing the seams like crazy. Then came the rope. I wanted to add some rope "tails" to the bone, for Gus to tug on. I cut three pieces of rope, each about a foot long.
Attaching the rope was tricky. I folded the ends of the rope and sewed them into the ends of the bone. Again, multiple passes with the sewing machine. I was really hoping this thing would hold up!
Finally, the toy was done! It looked a bit rough around the edges, but hey, it was handmade. I was pretty proud of myself.
Took it out to Gus, and he went nuts! He loves it! He's been chewing on it, tugging on it, shaking it… it's been a hit. It's only been a few days, but so far, it's holding up surprisingly well. I even saw him sleeping with it!
If you're thinking of making a toy for your dog, I say go for it! It's a fun project, and it's way cheaper than buying those "indestructible" toys that they destroy in minutes. Just make sure you use tough materials and reinforce those seams!
Maybe I'll try a different shape next time… or maybe I'll just stick with the bone. Gus seems happy with it!
