Action Camera Dog Mount DIY A Fun and Easy Guide

Turn your pup into an adventure videographer with a simple, budget-friendly action camera dog mount DIY project. Using everyday materials like a harness, zip ties, and a waterproof case, you can securely attach an action camera to capture your dog’s thrilling point-of-view. This fun, easy guide ensures stable, hands-free footage perfect for hiking, beach days, or backyard antics—no expensive gear required.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a lightweight camera: Ensures your dog’s comfort and mobility during adventures.
• Use adjustable straps: Secure fit prevents wobbling and keeps the mount steady.
• Test the setup: Always trial-run before long trips to ensure stability and safety.
• Prioritize padding: Protects your dog’s skin and reduces irritation from the mount.
• Angle matters: Position the camera for optimal, distortion-free footage.
• Clean after use: Prevents dirt buildup and maintains mount durability.

Why You Should Consider an Action Camera Dog Mount DIY

Let’s be real—there’s something magical about capturing your dog’s world from their perspective. Maybe it’s the way they zoom through the park, nose to the ground, tail wagging like a metronome set to “joy.” Or maybe it’s their hilarious reaction to a squirrel that’s clearly not impressed. Whatever the moment, an action camera mounted on your pup can turn everyday adventures into cinematic gold. But buying a commercial dog mount? It’s often pricey, bulky, or just doesn’t fit your dog’s unique shape. That’s where the action camera dog mount DIY comes in. It’s not just a budget-friendly alternative—it’s a chance to get creative, bond with your pet, and solve a real-world problem with your own two hands.

I remember the first time I tried to film my border collie, Luna, during a trail run. I borrowed a friend’s expensive dog harness mount, but it was too big, kept slipping, and left her with red marks on her shoulders. Frustrated, I spent a weekend tinkering with old straps, foam, and my trusty action camera. The result? A custom-fit, comfy mount that stayed put—and didn’t cost me a dime. Since then, I’ve helped dozens of dog owners build their own versions, and the feedback is always the same: “Why didn’t I try this sooner?” Whether you’re a DIY newbie or a seasoned maker, this guide will walk you through the process step by step, with practical tips, safety checks, and a few laughs along the way.

Understanding the Basics of Dog Mounts

Before we dive into building, let’s cover the essentials. Not all action cameras or dogs are the same, so understanding the action camera dog mount DIY landscape helps you make smart choices from the start.

Types of Dog Mounts (And Why DIY Works Better)

Commercial dog mounts fall into a few categories:

• Harness-based mounts: Strap to a dog’s chest or back. Pros: stable, secure. Cons: expensive ($40–$100), limited sizing, often over-engineered.
• Collar mounts: Attach to a collar or leash. Pros: cheap, lightweight. Cons: shaky footage, risks choking if not secured properly.
• Head mounts: Fit over a dog’s snout (like a muzzle). Pros: unique POV. Cons: uncomfortable, not suitable for all breeds or temperaments.

The DIY approach lets you mix and match these ideas. For example, you can create a chest harness with a collar backup strap for extra security—something most commercial options don’t offer. Plus, you’re not stuck with one-size-fits-all designs that might chafe or slip.

Key Features to Prioritize

When designing your mount, focus on three non-negotiables:

• Comfort: Your dog should forget it’s there. Use soft, non-abrasive materials (think neoprene, fleece, or foam).
• Stability: The camera shouldn’t wobble or shift during movement. A low center of gravity (e.g., chest mount) works best.
• Safety: No sharp edges, loose straps, or pressure points. Always test fit before filming.

Pro tip: Observe your dog’s natural movement. Does Luna tuck her elbows when she runs? Does Max roll on his back at every opportunity? Design around their quirks, not against them.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

Good news: You probably already own most of these items. The action camera dog mount DIY is all about repurposing everyday objects—no fancy gear required.

Essential Materials

• Base material: Old backpack straps, a pet harness, or a yoga mat (for padding).
• Fasteners: Buckles, Velcro, or paracord. Avoid metal clips that could pinch.
• Padding: Foam pipe insulation, neoprene, or fleece. Thickness: 1/4″ to 1/2″.
• Camera housing: A waterproof case or a 3D-printed mount (if you have access to a printer).
• Straps: Nylon webbing (1″ width works best) or repurposed backpack straps.

Example: I once used a broken hiking backpack’s chest strap as the base for Luna’s mount. The padding was already there, and the buckle system was perfect for quick adjustments.

Tools Checklist

• Scissors or utility knife
• Measuring tape
• Hot glue gun (or fabric glue for a no-heat option)
• Sewing kit (optional but handy for durability)
• Marker or chalk

Safety note: If using a hot glue gun, work in a ventilated area and keep glue away from your dog. For sensitive dogs, opt for sewn seams instead.

Where to Source Materials

• Thrift stores: Old backpacks, dog harnesses, or sports gear.
• Repurpose: Broken pet gear, unused yoga mats, or even a child’s life jacket (the straps are dog-sized).
• Online: Amazon, Etsy, or craft stores for buckles and Velcro. Search for “pet DIY supplies” or “camera mount parts.”

Cost comparison: A commercial harness mount costs ~$60. My DIY version? About $12 (mostly for buckles and foam).

Step-by-Step DIY Dog Mount Build

Ready to build? This section walks you through a **universal chest-mount design**—adjustable for dogs from 10 lbs (like a Jack Russell) to 90 lbs (like a Labrador). The process takes 1–2 hours, but your dog’s comfort is worth the time.

Step 1: Measure Your Dog

Grab your measuring tape and record:

• Girth: Around the chest, just behind the front legs (where a harness sits).
• Length: From the base of the neck to the top of the tail.
• Shoulder height: From the ground to the shoulder joint.

Pro tip: Have a friend help. Dogs move—especially when they sense you’re doing something suspicious with a tape measure.

Step 2: Design the Frame

Sketch a simple harness shape on paper or fabric. Key components:

• Chest strap: Wraps around the chest (use your girth measurement + 2″ for adjustment).
• Neck strap: Connects from the chest strap to the back (length = shoulder height + 3″).
• Back strap: Horizontal strap across the back (length = 60–70% of your dog’s length).

Example: For a 30″ girth dog, cut the chest strap to 32″. For a 12″ shoulder height, cut the neck strap to 15″.

Step 3: Cut and Pad Materials

1. Cut straps to size using scissors. Round the edges to prevent fraying.
2. Cut padding (foam/fleece) to match each strap’s length. Width: 1.5″–2″.
3. Attach padding with hot glue or sew it in place. Let dry completely.

Safety check: Run your hand over the straps. No rough edges? Good. Can you pinch the padding without feeling the strap? Even better.

Step 4: Add Fasteners and Camera Mount

1. Buckles: Attach to the ends of the chest and neck straps. Use the “female” buckle on one end, “male” on the other.
2. Velcro: Add a 2″ strip to the back strap for quick adjustments.
3. Camera housing: Glue or sew a flat platform (e.g., a small plastic plate) to the chest strap. Ensure it’s centered and low (to avoid wobbling).

Pro tip: Use a GoPro-style mount (available cheap online) or 3D-print one. If you lack tools, a sturdy plastic container with drilled holes works in a pinch.

Step 5: Test Fit and Adjust

1. Put the harness on your dog. Adjust straps so it’s snug but not tight (you should fit two fingers under each strap).
2. Attach the camera. Let your dog walk, run, and play for 5 minutes.
3. Watch for red marks, rubbing, or hesitation. Adjust padding or strap tightness as needed.

Real-world example: My neighbor’s pug, Max, kept shaking his head when I first fit his mount. Turns out, the neck strap was too close to his ears. A 1″ adjustment fixed it instantly.

Tips for Comfort, Safety, and Great Footage

A well-built mount is only half the battle. These pro tips ensure your action camera dog mount DIY delivers smooth, safe, and share-worthy results.

Comfort Hacks

• Break-in period: Let your dog wear the mount (without the camera) for 10–15 minutes daily, increasing time over a week.
• Padding placement: Focus on pressure points—chest, shoulders, and under the neck strap.
• Weight distribution: Keep the camera as close to your dog’s body as possible. A top-mounted camera creates a pendulum effect, making footage shaky.

Anecdote: Luna hated the first version of her mount because the camera stuck out too far. I moved it lower and added a foam “bumper” to protect her chest. Now she trots around like she’s wearing a medal, not a camera.

Safety Checks

• No dangling straps: Tuck or glue loose ends. A 6″ strap can catch on branches or furniture.
• Escape-proof: Ensure your dog can’t back out of the harness. Test by gently pulling on the back strap.
• Weatherproofing: For outdoor use, cover the camera housing with a plastic bag or waterproof sleeve.
• Emergency release: Use quick-release buckles so you can remove the mount fast if your dog panics.

Critical: Never leave your dog unattended with the mount on. Even the sturdiest design can fail in extreme conditions.

Footage Optimization

• Camera angle: Tilt the camera slightly upward (5–10 degrees) to avoid filming only the ground.
• Stabilization: Use software like Adobe Premiere or free tools (e.g., GoPro Quik) to smooth shaky clips.
• Lighting: Film in bright, even light. Avoid backlit scenes (e.g., facing the sun).
• Battery life: Carry spare batteries or use a power bank (if your camera supports external power).

Pro tip: Record a “test run” before the main event. Review the footage to check framing, focus, and stability.

Real-World Examples and Data

To prove this works, here’s a breakdown of DIY mounts I’ve built (or helped friends build) for different breeds and activities. The table highlights key stats and lessons learned.

Dog Breed	Weight	Activity	Mount Type	Material Used	Success Rate (1–5)	Notes
Border Collie	45 lbs	Trail running	Chest harness	Backpack straps + foam	5	No chafing after 3-mile run. Camera stayed stable.
Pug	18 lbs	City walks	Collar + chest strap	Fleece + paracord	4	Lightweight but required frequent adjustment.
Golden Retriever	70 lbs	Swimming	Waterproof chest mount	Neoprene + plastic housing	5	Camera stayed dry. Dog loved splashing.
Chihuahua	6 lbs	Park play	Collar mount	Elastic band + foam	3	Too shaky for smooth footage. Better for short clips.
German Shepherd	85 lbs	Hiking	Chest harness + back strap	Nylon webbing + padding	5	No issues on 5-mile hike. Harness stayed secure.

Takeaways:

• Chest mounts are most stable for medium/large dogs.
• Collar mounts work for short, light activities but lack stability.
• Padding is non-negotiable—even for short sessions.
• Test, test, test: Every dog is different. What works for a border collie might fail for a pug.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here’s how to avoid (or fix) the most frequent action camera dog mount DIY pitfalls.

Mistake 1: The Mount Slips or Shifts

• Cause: Loose straps, wrong placement, or poor weight distribution.
• Fix: Add a backup strap (e.g., a collar loop). Use wider straps (1.5″–2″) for larger dogs. Position the camera lower.

Mistake 2: Your Dog Hates the Mount

• Cause: Poor fit, uncomfortable materials, or lack of acclimation.
• Fix: Let your dog sniff and explore the mount first. Use treats to create positive associations. Start with short wear times.

Mistake 3: Shaky or Blurry Footage

• Cause: Camera too high, poor stabilization, or low-quality video settings.
• Fix: Lower the camera. Use software stabilization. Set your camera to 1080p/60fps (or higher) for smoother motion.

Mistake 4: Safety Hazards

• Cause: Sharp edges, choking risks, or overheating (e.g., black materials in summer).
• Fix: Sand down rough edges. Use quick-release buckles. Choose light-colored materials and avoid filming in extreme heat.

Real talk: My first DIY mount failed because I used a metal carabiner to attach the camera. It clanged against Luna’s collar and scared her. Lesson learned: soft, quiet materials only.

Final Thoughts: Why DIY Is Worth It

Building an action camera dog mount DIY isn’t just about saving money—it’s about creating a tool that truly fits your dog, your adventures, and your creativity. You’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all design. You can tweak the padding, adjust the straps, or even add fun touches (like reflective strips for night walks). And the best part? Your dog gets to be the star of their own action movie.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s progress. Maybe your first mount wobbles a little, or the camera angle is off. That’s okay. Every adjustment you make brings you closer to the perfect setup. And along the way, you’ll bond with your dog, learn new skills, and capture memories that a store-bought mount could never deliver. So grab those straps, fire up the glue gun, and let your pup lead the way. Their world is waiting to be filmed—and you’re the perfect person to do it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an action camera dog mount DIY?

An action camera dog mount DIY is a homemade setup that lets you attach an action camera (like a GoPro) to your dog for hands-free, pet-perspective filming. These mounts are often made from affordable, lightweight materials and customized for your dog’s size and comfort.

Can I safely use a DIY dog mount for my action camera?

Yes, as long as the DIY action camera dog mount is secure, well-balanced, and padded to prevent chafing or discomfort. Always test short sessions first and ensure your dog shows no signs of stress or irritation during use.

What materials do I need for an action camera dog mount DIY?

Common materials include a sturdy dog harness, waterproof camera housing, adjustable straps, foam padding, and 3D-printed or repurposed mounts. Prioritize lightweight, weather-resistant components to keep your dog comfortable and the camera stable.

How do I ensure the camera stays stable with a DIY dog mount?

Use a snug-fitting harness and position the camera close to your dog’s center of gravity (e.g., chest or back). Test different angles and tighten all straps to minimize shake, especially during high-energy activities.

What are the best activities to film with a DIY action camera dog mount?

Great options include hiking, fetch, swimming, or agility training—anywhere your dog’s movement creates engaging, immersive footage. Just ensure the camera is securely mounted and your dog is safe in the environment.

Can I use any action camera with a DIY dog mount?

Most action cameras (GoPro, DJI Osmo, etc.) work with a DIY dog mount, but you’ll need compatible mounting hardware. Check the camera’s dimensions and attachment style to ensure it fits securely in your custom setup.