Best Toys For Dogs With Anxiety (2024 Updated)

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As a dog owner, it can be heartbreaking to see your furry friend struggling with anxiety. While there are plenty of medications and therapies that can help alleviate their symptoms, sometimes all your pooch needs is a good toy to distract and soothe them. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

Here are 5 key points to consider when looking for the best toys for dogs with anxiety:

1. Durability: Choose toys that are made from sturdy materials and can withstand heavy chewing and play.

2. Sensory stimulation: Look for toys that engage your dog's senses, such as those with different textures, sounds, or scents.

3. Comfort: Some dogs find comfort in soft, plush toys that they can snuggle up with. Others prefer toys that are interactive and require more physical activity.

4. Size: Make sure the toy is appropriately sized for your dog. A toy that is too small can be a choking hazard, while a toy that is too large may not be as engaging.

5. Safety: Always supervise your dog during playtime and inspect toys regularly for signs of wear and tear.

By keeping these key points in mind, you can find the perfect toy to help ease your dog's anxiety and make playtime more enjoyable for both of you.

10 Best Toys For Dogs With Anxiety

1. Calming Snuggle Puppy Toy With Heartbeat For Dogs – Behavioral Training And Anxiety Relief

The Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs is a pet anxiety relief and calming aid designed to provide comfort to dogs. It has been the original pet anxiety and comfort aid since 1997 and has helped over 1,000,000 dogs.

The Snuggle Puppy is an effective tool to reduce negative behaviors in dogs. It helps with crate and kennel training by reducing barking, whining and anxiety for your dog, which in turn helps you sleep better at night. The toy comes with an industry-leading "Real-Feel" heartbeat with two modes, and it also includes AAA batteries and a simple-to-use heat pack that can be easily activated.

One of the core features of the Snuggle Puppy is its certified safe materials. Every Snuggle Puppy is made from materials that have been certified as safe for human use. It is also machine washable and easy to clean, which makes it easy to maintain and keep clean.

The Snuggle Puppy comes with a satisfaction guarantee, which means that the customer service provided by the US-based manufacturer is second to none. The manufacturer stands behind its product and promises that the Snuggle Puppy will help your family. The company is committed to providing the best possible customer service and promises to address any concerns or issues that customers may have.

In summary, the Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs is a great tool for pet owners who want to provide comfort to their dogs. It is an effective aid for reducing negative behaviors and is easy to use. Its certified safe materials ensure that it is safe for both dogs and humans, and it is also machine washable and easy to clean. The satisfaction guarantee provided by the manufacturer ensures that customers can trust in the product and the level of customer service provided.

2. Starmark Bob-A-Lot Interactive Dog Pet Toy, Large, Yellow/green/purple

The Starmark Bob-A-Lot Interactive Dog Pet Toy is a fun and innovative way to keep your furry friend entertained while also providing them with a healthy meal. This large toy features a unique design that allows your dog to play and eat at the same time, making it a great addition to any pet owner's collection.

The bottom chamber of the Bob-A-Lot can hold up to 3 cups of food, which is enough for a full meal for most dogs. This makes it a great option for busy pet owners who want to ensure their pets are getting the nutrition they need, even when they can't be there to feed them.

One of the standout features of the Bob-A-Lot is its adjustable openings at the top and bottom, which can accommodate most types of dog food and allow you to regulate the difficulty level. This means you can make the toy more challenging for your pet as they get better at using it, keeping them engaged and stimulated.

The weighted anti-slip bottom of the toy also ensures that it wobbles erratically, enticing your dog to play and interact with it. This helps to promote healthy exercise and can help prevent boredom and destructive behavior in your pet.

Overall, the Starmark Bob-A-Lot Interactive Dog Pet Toy is a great investment for any pet owner who wants to keep their dog happy, healthy, and entertained. With its durable construction and adjustable design, it is sure to provide hours of fun for both you and your furry friend.

3. Afp Heartbeat Dog Toy For Anxiety Relief And Training, Plush Sheep Stuffed Pet Toy.

The ALL FOR PAWS Heartbeat Dog Toy is a unique and innovative product designed to provide anxiety relief to dogs. This product is a sheep stuffed dog toy that comes with a heartbeat simulator that replicates the pulsing of a real heart. The simulation creates a calming effect on dogs and helps them feel relaxed and comfortable during stressful situations.

The small animal toy with a heartbeat is an excellent way to help puppies adapt to their new environment. The simulation enables puppies to feel the heartbeat, reducing their anxiety and helping them get used to their new home or tough situations. This product is also perfect for dogs that suffer from separation anxiety. The stimulation of the heartbeat creates an environment in which the dog does not feel alone and can adapt to the kennel as soon as possible, leading to a better sleep.

The anxiety relief for dogs can be used in various situations, including during thunderstorms, lightning, and other anxiety-inducing events. This product reduces anxiety and fear in dogs and provides a natural solution to anxiety problems. The ALL FOR PAWS Heartbeat Dog Toy is made with high-quality materials, making it comfortable and safe for pets to use.

The package includes a plush dog toy and a heartbeat simulator. The plush toy is made of soft, cuddly material that dogs love. The heartbeat simulator is easy to use and comes with a battery that lasts for a long time. The ALL FOR PAWS Heartbeat Dog Toy is an excellent training and behavior aid that can be used in various situations.

In summary, the ALL FOR PAWS Heartbeat Dog Toy is a fantastic product that provides anxiety relief to dogs. It is a natural solution that is safe and comfortable for pets to use. This product is perfect for puppies and dogs that suffer from separation anxiety, fear, and stress. It is an excellent way to help dogs adapt to new environments and provide them with a calming and relaxing experience.

4. Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy For Aggressive Chewers, Real Bacon, Made In Usa, Large

The Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy is a must-have for aggressive chewers. Made in the USA with real bacon flavor, this chew toy is designed to withstand even the toughest of chewers. With its durable construction, the Benebone Wishbone can last for weeks, making it a great investment for pet owners.

The real bacon flavor of the Benebone Wishbone is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Made with 100% real bacon, this chew toy is guaranteed to be a hit with your furry friend. Unlike other chew toys that are made with artificial flavorings, the Benebone Wishbone uses only natural, high-quality ingredients.

Designed to be paw-friendly, the Benebone Wishbone is easy for your dog to pick up and chew. The unique shape of the toy allows your dog to get a good grip on it, making it easy for them to enjoy a good chew. This is particularly important for dogs that don't have thumbs, as they need toys that are easy for them to hold and manipulate.

Made in the USA, the Benebone Wishbone is a product that you can feel good about purchasing. We source all of our materials from within the country, ensuring that our products meet the high standards that pet owners expect. By supporting American-made products, you can help to keep jobs and money within the country.

At Benebone, we believe that happy pets mean happy owners. That's why we offer a satisfaction guarantee with all of our products. If you have any issues or concerns, our customer service team is available to help you resolve them. We are committed to making sure that you and your pet are happy with your purchase.

In conclusion, the Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy is a high-quality product that is perfect for aggressive chewers. Made with real bacon flavor and designed to be paw-friendly, this chew toy is built to last. With our satisfaction guarantee and commitment to American-made products, you can feel good about making this purchase for your furry friend.

5. Kong – Classic Dog Toy, Durable Natural Rubber- Fun To Chew, Chase And Fetch – For Large Dogs

The KONG Classic Dog Toy is an innovative and durable natural rubber toy that is designed to fulfill dogs' instinctual needs while providing mental stimulation. This toy is perfect for large dogs and it is fun to chew, chase, and fetch, making it an excellent addition to any dog's toy collection.

The KONG Classic helps satisfy dogs' instinctual needs by encouraging healthy play and providing mental stimulation. Dogs have an innate desire to chew and play, which is why this toy is perfect for them. Healthy play is important for a dog's physical and mental development, behavior, and emotions. By encouraging healthy play and satisfying instinctual needs, the KONG Classic helps solve common problems such as chewing, separation anxiety, teething, boredom, weight management, crate training, digging, and barking.

This toy is also an excellent fetch toy. Its unpredictable bounce makes it exciting to play with, and it is perfect for interactive play with your pet. This is a fun way for average chewers to get the exercise they need.

The KONG Classic is also great for stuffing. The stuffable KONG Classic is even more enticing when treat-filled with bits of kibble, peanut butter, KONG Easy Treat, Snacks, or Ziggies. It is also dishwasher safe for easy clean up. For an added challenge, freeze stuffed KONG for 4-6 hours before giving it to your dog. This will make it more challenging and enjoyable for your pet.

The KONG Classic is a veterinarian-recommended toy for dogs. Veterinarians and trainers worldwide recommend the KONG Classic as one of the best durable dog toys available. This is because it is made of natural rubber that is safe and non-toxic for your pet. It is also made in the USA from globally sourced materials.

In conclusion, the KONG Classic Dog Toy is an excellent toy for large dogs that is fun to chew, chase, and fetch. It helps satisfy dogs' instinctual needs while providing mental stimulation. This toy is perfect for average chewers and is great for stuffing with treats. It is also recommended by veterinarians and trainers worldwide as one of the best durable dog toys available.

6. Moropaky Puppy Heartbeat Toy: Anxiety Relief & Behavioral Aid For Puppies, Separation Anxiety Soother, Sleep Aid, And Cuddle Toy (Brown)

The Moropaky Puppy Heartbeat Toy is a revolutionary product designed to alleviate anxiety and provide comfort to puppies in their new homes or during tough times. The toy simulates the pulsing heartbeat of a mother, enabling puppies to feel the presence of another companion and reducing their separation anxiety.

The heartbeat toy is not only a separation anxiety relief tool but also a crate and sleep training aid. It creates a familiar environment and helps puppies to adapt to their kennel and surroundings faster while also promoting better sleep. The product is perfect for pet owners who are crate training their puppies or have a furry friend who suffers from separation anxiety.

The Moropaky Puppy Heartbeat Toy is also an excellent companion for your furry baby during thunderstorms or lightning, car journeys, or at night. It provides a sense of security and comfort to your pet, reducing their anxiety and fear. The heartbeat toy is a natural solution that provides safe and gentle comfort to your four-legged friend.

The product contains a plush dog toy made of soft, skin-friendly fabric and a true heartbeat simulator that requires 2 AAA batteries (not included). The plush toy is machine washable, and the heartbeat can be removed. The heartbeat will automatically shut down after running for 8 hours, making it an energy-efficient and safe product for your pet.

The Moropaky Puppy Heartbeat Toy is easy to use and a perfect gift for any pet owner with a furry friend. It is an affordable and natural solution to help your pet feel safe and secure during tough times. The product is also suitable for pet owners who are traveling with their pets or leaving them at home for longer periods.

In conclusion, the Moropaky Puppy Heartbeat Toy is an innovative product that provides separation anxiety relief, crate and sleep training, and comfort to your furry friend. It is a natural and safe solution that promotes better mental health for your pet while also providing them with a sense of security and companionship.

7. Iheartdogs Heartbeat Puppy Toy – Comfort Cuddler Pillow – Dog Anxiety Toy

Introducing the iHeartDogs Heartbeat Puppy Toy – Comfort Cuddler Pillow – Dog Anxiety Toy, a cuddly and interactive plush toy designed to provide comfort and security to your furry friend. This toy is perfect for new puppies who are still adjusting to their new environment, as well as older dogs who may suffer from anxiety triggered by various factors such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or separation anxiety.

The Comfort Cuddler Puppy Heartbeat Pillow is specifically designed to recreate maternal intimacy with a realistic heartbeat pulse, which helps to ease your dog's stress and anxiety. The toy is perfect for crate training, as it helps to reduce negative behaviors such as whining and barking, allowing you to sleep soundly at night.

This plush toy is not only ideal for puppies but also for older rescue dogs who may have experienced trauma or anxiety in the past. The toy helps to soothe and calm your dog, allowing them to find peace and relaxation.

Dogs and puppies are pack animals who are naturally attracted to their mother and others in their pack. This cuddly pillow pup recreates that intimacy and physical warmth while pulsing away with a realistic heartbeat, appealing to your dog's natural instincts.

The Comfort Cuddler Puppy Heartbeat Pillow is easy to care for. When your dog has covered the plush toy with their love and slobber, simply toss it in the wash! The adorable toy is machine washable on the gentle cycle, but don't forget to remove the heartbeat unit and heating pack before washing.

When you purchase this cute plush toy, you'll also receive the battery-operated heartbeat unit with an on/off switch and one non-toxic disposable warmer pack that lasts 24 hours for an additional source of comfort. The heartbeat is operated by 2 AAA batteries (NOT INCLUDED).

The warmer pack is non-toxic and safe for people and pets, ensuring that your dog is not exposed to any harmful chemicals or materials while playing with their Comfort Cuddler Puppy Heartbeat Pillow.

At iHeartDogs, we believe in giving back to the community. For every plush toy purchased, we will donate one toy to shelter dogs in need, helping to spread comfort and love to those who need it most.

In conclusion, the iHeartDogs Heartbeat Puppy Toy – Comfort Cuddler Pillow – Dog Anxiety Toy is an essential accessory for any dog owner who wants to provide their furry friend with comfort, security, and love. With its realistic heartbeat pulse and easy care, this plush toy is bound to become your dog's favorite companion, helping to ease their stress and anxiety and providing them with the warmth and comfort they need.

8. Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy, Intermediate

The Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy is an intermediate level 2 design that is perfect for keeping your furry friend mentally stimulated and focused. This boredom buster interactive dog toy includes additional obstacles and combinations of steps that will challenge your dog's skills as they search and sniff out the tasty treats!

The Nina Ottosson Dog Brick comes with three types of treat hiding compartments that will test your dog's abilities. The flip lid compartments open and slide to reveal two separate treat hiding spots, while removable brick bones conceal the third hidden compartment in this puzzle dog toy.

This fun and rewarding puzzle is great for reducing anxious dog behavior and redirecting destructive behavior. It encourages positive play habits and is designed with your pet's health in mind. The Outward Hound interactive treat dog puzzles are BPA, PVC, and phthalate-free, which means that you can trust the food-safe materials used in their construction.

The Nina Ottosson Dog Brick is easy to clean with warm water and soap between uses. However, it is essential to remember that no toy is indestructible. You should never leave toys with unsupervised pets and should remove and replace the toy if damaged.

Overall, the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy is a great investment for pet owners who want to keep their furry friends mentally stimulated and focused. It encourages positive play habits, reduces anxious behavior, and is made from safe, food-grade materials that you can trust.

9. Moropaky Hearbeat Toy For Dog Anxiety Relief Behavioral Training Aid Toy, Grey

The Moropaky Hearbeat Toy for Dog Anxiety Relief Behavioral Training Aid Toy is a perfect solution for pet owners who are struggling with their furry friend's separation anxiety. This product is designed to provide comfort and companionship to dogs during tough times, such as when they are adapting to a new home or experiencing thunder and lightning.

The heartbeat toy simulates the pulsing heartbeat of a dog's companion, which helps reduce anxiety and create a sense of security. This toy can also be used as a training tool to help dogs adapt to their kennel or crate. With the company of the Heartbeat Stuffed Animal Toy, the dog can adapt to the kennel as soon as possible and can have a better sleep.

The plush dog toy is made from comfortable and skin-friendly fabrics, which makes it a perfect companion for your pet during the night or while traveling. The heartbeat simulator requires two AAA batteries, which are not included in the package. The heartbeat will shut down automatically after running for eight hours.

The Moropaky Heartbeat Toy is a natural and safe solution for anxiety relief. It provides the best companionship and comfort to the dog during tough times, and it is a perfect tool for pet owners who want to train their dogs to be more comfortable in their crate or kennel. The product is also machine washable, which makes it easy to clean and maintain.

In summary, the Moropaky Heartbeat Toy for Dog Anxiety Relief Behavioral Training Aid Toy is an excellent product for pet owners who want to provide comfort and companionship to their furry friends. It is a natural and safe solution for anxiety relief and can be used as a training tool to help dogs adapt to their crate or kennel. The product is made from high-quality materials, and it is easy to clean and maintain.

10. Snuggle Puppy Starter Kit: Heartbeat Toy For Dogs – Anxiety Relief And Calming Aid.

The Snuggle Puppy New Puppy Starter Kit is a must-have for new puppy owners. This kit contains all the essentials to help your new furry friend feel comforted and less anxious during their transition to a new home.

The kit includes an Original Snuggle Puppy, which is a stuffed toy that includes a "Real-Feel" heartbeat that mimics the comfort of a mother's heartbeat. This feature helps to reduce negative behaviors such as barking, whining, and anxiety, making crate and kennel training easier for both you and your puppy.

The Snuggle Puppy New Puppy Starter Kit also includes three heat packs that can be inserted into the Snuggle Puppy to provide warmth and comfort to your pup. The kit also includes a snuggle blanket that offers extra warmth and comfort while holding any shed hair.

To make things easy for new puppy owners, the Snuggle Puppy New Puppy Starter Kit comes with a simple-to-use design that includes AAA batteries and easy-to-use heat packs. The kit also includes a puppy's first toy and a puppy teething aid, which can help to reduce destructive chewing behavior.

The Snuggle Puppy New Puppy Starter Kit is made with high-quality materials and is designed to provide long-lasting comfort and anxiety relief for your furry friend. In addition, the kit is backed by a satisfaction guarantee, ensuring that you and your puppy will be happy with your purchase.

In summary, the Snuggle Puppy New Puppy Starter Kit is an excellent investment for new puppy owners. It contains all the essentials to help your puppy feel comforted and less anxious during their transition to a new home. With its industry-leading "Real-Feel" heartbeat and easy-to-use design, the Snuggle Puppy New Puppy Starter Kit is a must-have for any new puppy owner looking to provide their furry friend with the best possible start in life.

Best Toys For Dogs With Anxiety FAQs

Are there any toys that can worsen anxiety in dogs?

Yes, there are some toys that can worsen anxiety in dogs. Toys that make loud noises or sudden movements, such as squeaky toys or toys that move unpredictably, can trigger anxiety and stress in dogs. Similarly, toys that require excessive physical or mental effort can also be stressful for dogs, particularly if they are not accustomed to those types of toys. It is important to choose toys that are safe and appropriate for your dog's age, size, and personality. Also, it is recommended to supervise your dog while playing with toys to ensure they do not ingest any parts or materials that can cause harm. If you notice that a particular toy is causing your dog stress or anxiety, it is best to remove it from their playtime routine and consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for advice.

Are there specific brands that create toys for anxious dogs?

Yes, there are specific brands that create toys for anxious dogs. Some of these brands include KONG, Outward Hound, Chuckit!, and Nylabone. These toys are designed to provide mental stimulation, comfort, and stress relief for dogs who experience anxiety. They may include features such as calming scents, textures that promote chewing, and interactive puzzles that encourage problem-solving. It is important to note that while these toys can be helpful for dogs with anxiety, they should not be relied upon as the sole solution. It is also important to consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist if your dog experiences severe anxiety or if their behavior changes suddenly.

How can toys help to alleviate anxiety in dogs?

Toys can help alleviate anxiety in dogs by keeping them occupied and engaged, which can distract them from their anxious thoughts and behaviors. Interactive toys, such as puzzle toys, can provide mental stimulation and help dogs feel more relaxed and focused. Chew toys can also be helpful as they offer an outlet for dogs to release stress and anxiety through chewing. Scented toys, such as those infused with calming scents like lavender, can also help soothe dogs and create a calming environment. Additionally, toys that are associated with positive experiences, such as playing with their owners or receiving treats, can help create positive associations and reduce anxiety in dogs. Overall, toys can be a useful tool in managing anxiety in dogs, but it's important to choose the right type of toy for your individual dog's needs and preferences.

What are the best types of toys for dogs with anxiety?

Dogs with anxiety can benefit from toys that provide mental and physical stimulation, promote calmness and relaxation, and distract them from their worries. Puzzle toys, such as treat-dispensing toys and interactive games, can keep dogs engaged and mentally stimulated, helping to reduce anxiety levels. Chew toys, such as KONGs, can also be helpful as they provide a safe and enjoyable outlet for dogs to chew and release tension. Soft and comforting toys, such as plush toys, can provide a sense of security and comfort for dogs experiencing anxiety. It is important to choose toys that are durable, safe, and appropriate for your dog's size and breed. Additionally, toys should be introduced gradually and supervised to ensure they do not cause any harm or exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Consulting with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist can also provide valuable guidance on selecting the best toys for dogs with anxiety.

What should I look for in a toy for my anxious dog?

When selecting a toy for an anxious dog, there are several factors to consider. First, the toy should be durable and able to withstand chewing and play. Look for toys made of tough materials such as rubber or nylon. It's also important to choose a toy that can be easily cleaned and disinfected.

Next, consider the type of play that will help soothe your dog's anxiety. Puzzle toys that require problem-solving can be great for mental stimulation and calming anxious dogs. Toys that can be filled with treats can also provide a distraction and help relieve stress.

Finally, choose a toy that is appropriate for your dog's size and play style. A toy that is too small can be a choking hazard, while a toy that is too large can be difficult to handle. Consider your dog's preferences and personality when selecting a toy that will help ease their anxiety.

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