7 DIY Dog Necklace Designs (Fun Craft Under $10)

When you’re as in love with your pets as I am, there’s nothing more fun than finding new ways to spoil them. From my dogs to my cats and even my rabbits, I love making them feel special, and that often means crafting little accessories that show off their personality.

One of the simplest and most delightful projects I’ve done recently is creating DIY dog necklaces. These are decorative, stylish, and so easy to make that I wanted to share the process with you! Whether you’re looking for a fun craft project, a special gift for your dog, or just a new way to bond with your furry friend, these DIY dog necklaces are a perfect solution.

DIY Dog Necklace: Step by Step

Making your own dog necklace is surprisingly easy and budget-friendly. You don’t need any special tools, just a bit of creativity and a few basic materials that are likely already lying around the house.

Materials Needed

• Soft ribbon or leather cord: $3–$5
• Beads or charms: $3–$8
• Scissors: Already have this!
• Measuring tape: Already have this!
• Optional: Clasps or adjustable closures: $2–$5

Total cost: Around $8–$15, depending on what materials you already have.

Phase 1: Measuring the Necklace

Start by measuring your dog’s neck using a soft measuring tape. Make sure to add a couple of extra inches for comfort so that the necklace isn’t too tight. You want the necklace to sit loosely on their neck, almost like a decorative collar, without being constrictive.

Phase 2: Cutting the Ribbon or Cord

Once you’ve measured, cut the soft ribbon or leather cord to the appropriate length. If you’re using ribbon, it’s a good idea to seal the ends with a bit of clear nail polish or glue to prevent fraying. For leather, simply trim the ends neatly. If you plan on adding a clasp or closure, be sure to leave enough extra length for that as well.

Phase 3: Adding the Beads and Charms

Now comes the fun part decorating! Slide beads, charms, or even small bells onto the ribbon or cord. You can mix and match colors, shapes, and sizes to create something unique to your dog’s personality. I like using wooden beads or small metal charms, but you can really get creative here. Once you’re happy with the design, tie off the ends or add a clasp if you want the necklace to be removable.

Easy DIY Dog Necklace Ideas

Let’s take a look at some fun and creative ideas for making dog necklaces. Each one is simple to make and can be tailored to your dog’s unique style.

1. Boho Beaded Necklace

For a laid-back, bohemian vibe, try using a combination of wooden beads and natural materials like hemp cord. This type of necklace looks great on all breeds and gives off a casual, earthy feel. Simply string the beads onto a hemp or leather cord and tie it around your dog’s neck with a simple knot. You can even add a feather charm for that extra boho touch.

This project costs around $5 and is perfect for dogs who love the outdoors.

2. Fancy Charm Necklace

If you’re looking for something a bit more glamorous, try creating a charm necklace. Use a soft satin ribbon and string on a few delicate metal charms think stars, hearts, or even little bones. You can buy these charms at any craft store, and they add a touch of elegance to your dog’s look. Tie the ribbon into a bow, and you have a chic, decorative necklace that’s perfect for special occasions.

This costs about $8 and is ideal for those fancy pups who love a little extra bling.

3. Friendship Necklace

Why not match with your pup? Create a friendship necklace set where both you and your dog can wear matching pieces. Use the same cord and beads for both necklaces but add a small, personal charm to each. This could be an initial, a tiny dog bone charm, or anything that holds special meaning for you and your dog.

This set costs around $10 and is a fun, sentimental project you can both enjoy.

4. Rainbow Necklace

For a pop of color, go for a rainbow-themed necklace! Use colorful plastic beads or glass beads in a variety of colors to create a bright and cheerful design. This is especially fun for smaller dogs, as the vibrant colors stand out and make them look extra cute. You can use elastic cord for a stretchy, easy-to-wear necklace that doesn’t require any clasps.

This colorful project costs about $6 and is perfect for dogs who love to stand out.

5. Braided Leather Cord Necklace

For a more rugged look, try braiding leather cord to create a durable, stylish dog necklace. You can braid three pieces of leather together and add a few metal beads or charms for decoration. This type of necklace is ideal for active dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors, as it’s sturdy and weather-resistant.

This project costs around $10 and is perfect for dogs with an adventurous spirit.

6. Holiday-Themed Necklace

Get festive with a holiday-themed necklace! Whether it’s for Christmas, Halloween, or Valentine’s Day, you can make a fun, seasonal necklace using themed beads and charms. For Christmas, try red and green beads with a small jingle bell. For Valentine’s Day, use pink and red beads with heart charms. This is a great way to celebrate the season with your pup.

This holiday project costs about $7 and is perfect for dogs who love to celebrate special occasions.

Dos & Don’ts in DIY Dog Necklaces

• Do: Always use soft, comfortable materials that won’t irritate your dog’s skin or fur.
• Do: Make sure the necklace is loose enough to fit comfortably but not so loose that it could slip off or become a choking hazard.
• Don’t: Use beads or charms that are small enough to be a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs.
• Do: Remove the necklace during playtime, walks, or any other active time to avoid tangling or accidents.
• Don’t: Leave the necklace on unsupervised if your dog is prone to chewing or pulling at things on their neck.

FAQs

1. Can my dog wear the necklace all the time?

While these necklaces are cute and fun, they’re meant to be decorative rather than practical. It’s best to remove them during walks, playtime, or when your dog is unsupervised.

2. Are there any materials I should avoid?

Yes, avoid materials that could easily break or be ingested. Make sure all beads and charms are securely attached and large enough that they don’t pose a choking hazard.

3. Can I make a necklace for my cat or rabbit too?

Absolutely! These same ideas work well for cats and rabbits, just make sure to adjust the size and materials to fit their smaller frames. Cats might prefer lighter materials like ribbon, while rabbits may enjoy softer, fleece-based necklaces.

4. What if my dog doesn’t like wearing a necklace?

If your dog isn’t a fan of wearing accessories, try introducing the necklace gradually. Let them sniff and inspect it first, then reward them with treats when they wear it for a short time. Always ensure that they’re comfortable and never force them to wear something that makes them anxious.

Making a DIY dog necklace is a fun and creative way to show your dog some extra love and add a little style to their look. Whether you go for a boho design, a fancy charm necklace, or a holiday-themed creation, these DIY projects are simple, budget-friendly, and totally customizable. So, grab your supplies and get crafting—you’ll have a stylish pup in no time!