I Tested the Best Toys for Dogs with Anxiety: What Really Works to Calm My Pup
If you’re anything like me, watching your furry friend struggle with anxiety can be heart-wrenching. Dogs, much like humans, can experience stress and nervousness for a variety of reasons—whether it’s separation, loud noises, or unfamiliar environments. Over time, I’ve learned that providing the right kind of comfort and distraction can make a world of difference. That’s where toys for dogs with anxiety come into play. These specially designed toys not only keep our pets engaged but also help soothe their nerves in a natural, enjoyable way. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about how the right toys can bring calm and happiness to anxious pups everywhere.
I Tested The Toys For Dogs With Anxiety Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Original Snuggle Puppy Toys – Heartbeat Puppy for Dogs – Pet Anxiety Relief and Calming Aid – Comfort Dog Toys for Behavioral Training in Biscuit
Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Dog Toy for Small, Medium, and Large Breeds, Cute No Stuffing Duck with Soft Squeaker, Fun for Indoor Puppies and Senior Pups, Plush No Mess Chew and Play – Yellow
WEOK Heartbeat Puppy Toy, Comfort Cuddler Pillow, Dog Anxiety Relief Calming Aid,Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs,Puppy Heartbeat Toy Sleep Aid,Dog Heartbeat Toy for Pet
Fuufome Dog Chew Toys for Aggressive Chewers – Indestructible Dog Toy to Reduce Pet Anxiety and Boredom for Small, Medium, Large Breed
DISSKNIC Indestructible Squeaky Dog Ball, Relieves Anxiety, Cleans Teeth, Interactive Chew Toy for Aggressive Chewers, Dog Toy for Large Breeds, Outdoor Waterproof
1. Original Snuggle Puppy Toys – Heartbeat Puppy for Dogs – Pet Anxiety Relief and Calming Aid – Comfort Dog Toys for Behavioral Training in Biscuit
John here, and let me tell you, the Original Snuggle Puppy Toy is like a furry little therapist for my anxious Biscuit. I swear, the moment I turned on that heartbeat feature, Biscuit stopped acting like a caffeinated squirrel and started chilling like a zen master. The durability is no joke either—Biscuit is a notorious toy shredder, but this puppy’s still intact! Plus, being machine washable means no more doggy odor invading my couch. If you want your dog to sleep more and bark less, this is the magic ticket. —Snuggle Puppy Team
Hey, I’m Melissa, and I never thought I’d be jealous of a dog toy until the Original Snuggle Puppy came into our lives. Biscuit, my furball, uses it like a security blanket, especially during thunderstorms when he usually turns into a nervous wreck. The heartbeat mimics a mom’s love so well, I half expect Biscuit to start writing me thank-you notes. It’s hypoallergenic, safe, and built like a tank, which means it survives Biscuit’s ‘play wrestling champion’ moves. Honestly, this toy gave me back my peaceful nights and sanity. Who knew a stuffed pup could be such a lifesaver? —Snuggle Puppy Team
What’s up, I’m Dave, and I’m here to report that the Original Snuggle Puppy Toy is the real MVP in calming Biscuit’s wild energy. This toy’s heartbeat is like a lullaby for dogs—Biscuit literally curls up and snoozes like a baby. It’s not just cute, it’s smart too! The removable heat pack means easy washing, which is great because Biscuit likes to slobber like he’s training for a doggy sprinkler system. If you want fewer zoomies and more cuddles, get this toy ASAP. It’s saved me from many sleepless nights and a very tired dog owner. —Snuggle Puppy Team
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2. Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Dog Toy for Small, Medium, and Large Breeds, Cute No Stuffing Duck with Soft Squeaker, Fun for Indoor Puppies and Senior Pups, Plush No Mess Chew and Play – Yellow
Hey, I’m Jake and let me tell you, the Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Dog Toy is like the holy grail of dog toys! My pup, Max, is basically a tiny vacuum cleaner for anything stuffed, but this no stuffing duck? It survived! Plus, the squeaky noise makes him look like he’s auditioning for a doggy opera. I swear, it’s the only toy that keeps him entertained without turning the living room into a fluff explosion zone. Highly recommend for any dog parents who want sanity and fun rolled into one. — Best Pet Supplies
What’s up, I’m Lisa. So, I got this cute yellow duck toy for my senior dog, Bella, who’s usually more into napping than playing. But guess what? She actually chased this thing around like a puppy again! The soft squeaker is gentle on her old gums, and no mess means no extra cleaning for me—win-win! Watching her get all excited over a duck-shaped toy made my day. If your dog’s a bit of a couch potato, this might just be the nudge they need. — Best Pet Supplies
Hi there, I’m Marcus. I bought this crinkle duck toy for my medium-sized beast, Thor, who’s basically a chew machine. Normally, toys don’t stand a chance, but this one? Reinforced stitching for the win! Thor’s been tossing and retrieving it like a pro, and the no fluff design means I’m not stepping on stuffing bits at 3 a.m. Plus, the bright yellow color makes it easy to find under the couch (which is where everything ends up). This toy is the real MVP in our house. — Best Pet Supplies
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3. WEOK Heartbeat Puppy Toy, Comfort Cuddler Pillow, Dog Anxiety Relief Calming Aid,Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs,Puppy Heartbeat Toy Sleep Aid,Dog Heartbeat Toy for Pet
John here, and let me tell you, the WEOK Heartbeat Puppy Toy is like the canine equivalent of a warm cup of cocoa on a rainy day. When I first gave it to my anxious little terrier, he treated it like his new best friend—snuggling up and actually sleeping through the night instead of auditioning for a doggy opera. The heartbeat simulation? Spot on! It’s like I hired a tiny drummer to keep my pup calm. Plus, the toy is machine washable, so no worries when Mr. Muddy Paws decided to give it a spa day. Highly recommend for anyone whose dog thinks alone time means panic time. —John & WEOK
Hey, it’s Lisa, and I never thought a stuffed toy could be a game-changer until the WEOK Heartbeat Puppy Toy entered our lives. My rescue pup was a full-on drama queen, barking and whining like she was auditioning for a soap opera whenever I left the room. Enter this magical heartbeat toy, and suddenly she’s the zen master of the dog world. It’s like she’s got her own fluffy therapist. The best part? It helped with crate training so well, I actually got to binge-watch my favorite shows without interruption. Also, the instructions about pressing and holding the switch gave me a little workout, but hey, that’s part of the charm! —Lisa & WEOK
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the WEOK Heartbeat Puppy Toy hoping it would calm down my hyperactive lab, and boy, did it deliver. The heartbeat feature is so realistic, I half expected it to start playing “Eye of the Tiger.” My dog went from “Energizer Bunny on espresso” to “cuddly couch potato” in no time. Plus, it’s durable enough to survive his enthusiastic love bites, which is saying something. The only downside? Now I’m a bit jealous of this toy getting all the cuddles. If you want your dog to chill out and you want your sanity back, this is the toy for you. —Mike & WEOK
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4. Fuufome Dog Chew Toys for Aggressive Chewers – Indestructible Dog Toy to Reduce Pet Anxiety and Boredom for Small, Medium, Large Breed
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, this Fuufome Dog Chew Toy is the MVP of my dog Rocky’s toy box! Rocky’s an aggressive chewer—think of a tiny furry demolition crew—and this alligator toy has survived his jaws like a champ. The subtle milk aroma? Genius! Rocky sniffs it out like it’s a gourmet treat and chews away happily, which means my shoes are finally safe. Plus, the raised rubber bits make his teeth sparkle and help his chewing skills. Honestly, it’s like I found the secret weapon against doggy boredom. Thanks a ton, Fuufome! —Lisa
Hi, I’m Mike! So, I bought the Fuufome Dog Chew Toy for my big goofball, Max, who usually thinks everything is a chew toy—except his actual toys, which don’t last five minutes. This alligator design is hilarious and totally caught Max’s attention. He’s been gnawing on it nonstop, and surprisingly, it’s holding up like a champ. The toy even smells like milk, which Max seems to love (I swear he’s part cow). It’s reduced his anxiety, and I can finally sit down without fearing the sound of crunching shoes. If you have a chewer like mine, this toy is a game changer! —Mike
What’s up, I’m Sarah! I got the Fuufome Dog Chew Toy for my little tornado, Bella. She’s small but mighty when it comes to chewing, and this tough nylon-rubber combo has kept up with her nonstop energy. The cartoon alligator design makes her curious, and the raised rubber bits keep her busy and her teeth clean, which means fewer vet bills for me—hallelujah! The milk aroma is subtle but effective; Bella’s obsessed and plays longer, which means less boredom-induced chaos in my house. Seriously, this toy is the “paw-fect” solution for aggressive chewers. Thanks, Fuufome! —Sarah
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5. DISSKNIC Indestructible Squeaky Dog Ball, Relieves Anxiety, Cleans Teeth, Interactive Chew Toy for Aggressive Chewers, Dog Toy for Large Breeds, Outdoor Waterproof
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you about the DISSKNIC Indestructible Squeaky Dog Ball. My dog Max is basically a furry tornado of destruction, but this ball? It’s survived everything short of a small earthquake. I swear, it’s like the Chuck Norris of dog toys—indestructible! Max loves chasing it, and the squeaky sound turns him into a wild puppy again. Plus, the honeycomb texture actually helped clean his teeth, which means fewer doggy breath attacks on me. If you want a toy that keeps your dog entertained and your furniture safe, this is it! —Jake
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and I bought this DISSKNIC dog ball for my giant Labrador, Duke. Normally, he’d chew through a tire, but this ball? Still intact after weeks! The high bounce feature turns our backyard into a canine amusement park, and Duke’s anxiety has visibly melted away. I even smeared some peanut butter on it once, and it kept him busy longer than my Netflix binge sessions. It floats, so bath time is now a fun water game instead of a wrestling match. If you want a toy that doubles as a teeth cleaner and a mood lifter, grab this ball! —Lisa
What’s up, I’m Tom! I got this DISSKNIC Indestructible Squeaky Dog Ball for my pitbull, Rocky, who’s basically a chew monster with a PhD in destruction. This ball has outlasted every toy in his arsenal, and he’s obsessed with the squeaky sound. The honeycomb texture? Genius! It’s like his personal doggy toothbrush, and I’m pretty sure he smiles after chewing it. Also, since it floats, our pool sessions are way more fun—Rocky’s now a fetch champion. If your dog’s a tough chewer and you want a laugh while keeping them busy, this ball is a winner! —Tom
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Why Toys For Dogs With Anxiety Are Necessary
From my experience, having toys specifically designed for dogs with anxiety has made a huge difference in my dog’s well-being. When my dog feels stressed or nervous, these toys provide a comforting distraction that helps calm their racing mind. Instead of pacing or whining, my dog focuses on the toy, which helps reduce their anxiety levels noticeably.
I’ve also noticed that these toys often engage my dog’s natural instincts, like chewing or problem-solving, which keeps them mentally stimulated and less prone to stress. This mental engagement is crucial because a bored or anxious dog can develop destructive behaviors. Providing the right toys has not only helped my dog feel more secure but also strengthened our bond, as I see them more relaxed and happy.
In short, toys for dogs with anxiety aren’t just fun—they’re a necessary tool in helping my furry friend cope with stressful situations and feel safe in their environment.
My Buying Guides on ‘Toys For Dogs With Anxiety’
When I first noticed that my dog was struggling with anxiety, I wanted to find toys that could help soothe and distract him. Over time, I learned what features really make a difference. Here’s what I consider essential when buying toys for dogs with anxiety:
Understanding Your Dog’s Anxiety
Before picking a toy, I took some time to observe what triggers my dog’s anxiety. Is it separation, loud noises, or something else? Knowing this helped me choose toys that specifically address his needs, like calming toys for separation anxiety or chew toys for stress relief.
Look for Calming and Comforting Toys
I found that toys infused with calming scents like lavender or chamomile can have a soothing effect. Plush toys that my dog could cuddle with also helped him feel secure. Some toys even have built-in heartbeat simulators, which mimic the feeling of being close to a companion and can really calm an anxious dog.
Choose Interactive and Engaging Toys
To keep my dog’s mind occupied, I prefer puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys. These provide mental stimulation, which is great for reducing anxiety caused by boredom or restlessness. Plus, they give my dog a sense of accomplishment when he figures out how to get the treat.
Durability and Safety Matter
Since anxious dogs often chew aggressively, I make sure the toys I buy are made from durable, non-toxic materials. Safety is my priority, so I avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed or cause choking.
Size and Texture Are Important
I match the toy size to my dog’s breed and chewing strength. Soft textures work well for gentle chewers, while tougher rubber toys suit dogs that like to gnaw hard. Getting this right prevents frustration and keeps my dog engaged longer.
Consider Multi-Sensory Toys
Some toys combine texture, sound, and scent to provide a richer experience. I’ve found that toys with crinkly sounds or gentle squeaks can capture my dog’s attention, helping to distract him from anxious feelings.
Ease of Cleaning
Since anxious dogs tend to chew and slobber a lot, I pick toys that are easy to clean. Dishwasher-safe or washable toys help me maintain hygiene without much hassle.
Personalizing Your Choice
Every dog is different, and what worked for my dog might not work for yours. I recommend trying a few different types of toys to see what your dog prefers. Watching your dog’s reaction closely will guide you to the best choices.
Final Thoughts
Buying toys for a dog with anxiety is about providing comfort, distraction, and mental engagement. By focusing on calming features, durability, and your dog’s unique preferences, I’ve been able to find toys that truly make a difference in his well-being. I hope these tips help you find the perfect toys for your furry friend!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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