DIY Father's Day Gift for Pet Dads: Paw Print Keepsake

Shopping for dad is hard enough, but add on the fact that you are a dog (or other valued member of the animal kingdom) and shopping is nearly impossible! No thumbs, no cash, and legs too short to reach the gas pedal.  There's no need to panic!  I have come up with an awesome, creative salt-dough project that you can make for your dad, with a little help from your human.

First, gather your ingredients to make the salt dough:

1 c. flour
1/2 c. water
1/2 c. table salt
A few drops of food coloring (optional)

You should also have these materials handy:

Oven preheated to 250 degrees
Cookie sheet

Next, combine all of your ingredients in a large bowl.   I usually borrow my human for this step; her fingers are way better for mixing than my paws. 

I always wear my smock - have to keep my fur looking good!

Once your ingredients are combined and a smooth (albeit slightly tacky) dough has formed, pull off a small chunk and roll it into a ball and then press it down to flatten it.  (Again, a human's hands will make this step a little easier).

Firmly (but gently!) press your paw (or your dog's paw, whichever) into the center of the flattened ball of salt dough.  Make sure to wash your dog's paw thoroughly when you are finished with this step! 

[Note:  at this point, you can use a straw to poke a hole at the top of the circle if you would like this to be a hanging keepsake or ornament.  Just string some pretty ribbon through the hole when the keepsake is completely dry.]

Place the paw print onto the cookie sheet and place the cookie sheet into the oven.  Bake for 2 hours.  You may need to let it air dry a little longer depending on how thick your keepsake is. 

I promise, your pet dad (or pet grandpa, or pet uncle, or pet neighbor) will love it!!  I'd love to see pictures of your finished keepsakes - don't hesitate to contact me!


[Disclaimer:  even though all of the ingredients in the salt dough recipe are technically edible, please do not let your dog eat it.  Besides tasting bad, it is not good for them.]