My dog hates toys. Every single one. So when someone handed me a stuffed animal and said it would help with my anxiety, I almost laughed.
I didn’t laugh for long. This particular toy has a small beating heart inside it, and something about that rhythmic thump does something to anxious dogs that trainers and behaviorists are still marveling at. It sounds too simple to work. It sounds like a gimmick designed for worried pet parents with empty wallets. But the science behind why dogs respond to it is surprisingly compelling, and the results people are seeing with dogs who never respond to anything are hard to ignore.
In this article, you’ll discover exactly why this toy works on a biological level, which types of anxiety it helps most, and what to look for when choosing one for your dog. You’ll also learn how to introduce it properly so your dog actually bonds with it instead of ignoring it like every other toy you’ve ever bought. If your dog struggles with storms, separation, or just general nervousness, this might be the simplest solution you haven’t tried yet.
Budget tip:
While a plush animal toy may seem just like just another toy, it definitely isn’t a “toy”. It’s a soothing aid for your dog. In fact, by using a heartbeat stuffed animal, you may decrease your dog’s anxiety and your need to purchase calming supplements. It can be a great relief for any pup, even those who don’t like toys. Thus, it’s a huge win-win for your dog and your wallet!
What is a heartbeat stuffed animal?
Henry received one of these heartbeat dogs for Christmas. Surprisingly, within minutes he had settled down and snuggled down and was napping with his new “toy”. WOW!
Basically, a heartbeat toy is an adorable stuffed animal with a real feel heartbeat. It’s rather an innovative idea. Moreover, these cute devices provide a constant heartbeat to mimic your dog’s human or their mother. In a nutshell, think of it as a pacifier for your dog even if they don’t like toys.
How can a heartbeat stuffed animal help my dog?
Here’s the cool part. The benefits of a heartbeat toy are great for your dog. They include:
- Providing comfort and security, much like you or their mother
- Helps with anxiety issues, including separation anxiety
- Promotes better sleep
Pretty cool, huh?
If you’d like to get a heartbeat stuffed animal, similar to Henry’s, just click here!
How does a heartbeat dog toy work?
The premise behind these heartbeat plush animals is simple, to soothe and calm your dog.
For example, with Henry’s dog, there’s a pocket in its chest that contains a pink heart-shaped device. Some of these cute stuffed animals come with a red heart.
When you press the heart the snuggle puppy begins to beat rhythmically and sounds like a heartbeat. This simple sound is calming to all dogs. It helps relax them when stressed.
Moreover, Henry’s heartbeat snuggle puppy will run for 7 hours, unless I turn it off sooner. This is great for nighttime or when I leave him alone.
When should I use a heartbeat stuffed animal for my dog?
Simple – whenever your dog feels stressed or anxious, turn on the plush toy and lay it next to him/her.
Also, when Henry is stressed, he’ll generally seek out his crate. Thus, I will put his heartbeat dog either in the crate with him or on top of the crate.
However, there are other times you may want to give your dog a heartbeat toy. These will include:
- Traveling
- Vet visits
- Distract from negative behaviors, such as chewing on furniture
- Crate training
- Senior dogs, who may get scared more easily
NOTE: Remember a heartbeat plush animal isn’t necessarily a dog toy. Thus, even if your dog is averse to dog toys, these stuffed animals can be a great benefit!
What should I look for in a heartbeat animal for my dog?
You will want to consider your dog’s natural instincts. For example, if your dog is a chewer, then a more durable plush heartbeat animal will be better. Overall, you’ll want to look for these specific features with your dog heartbeat stuffy:
- Durable
- Washable or spot-cleanable
- Will shut off automatically after a long period, such as 7 hours
- Fits your dog’s size
- Easy return policy if your dog hates it (which I’d be shocked since Henry loves his)
A general rule of thumb is a larger plush animal is better for larger dogs. While a smaller one will be better for smaller dogs. However, Henry’s plush dog is nearly as big as him and he still loves it. In fact, I’ve caught him giving it “kisses” before bedtime.
What if I’m still worried my dog will chew the heartbeat toy?
You will want to watch your dog with the plush animal for a while. I watched Henry with his snuggle puppy for a few days. However, he doesn’t chew and it was safe to leave him snuggled up with “Rex”. Yep, I let him name his dog and he picked Rex. I did it the same way as when Henry picked his name.
However, if your dog is a heavy chewer, then try to put the heartbeat toy near yet slightly removed from your dog.
For instance, there are times when it looks like Henry wants to be in his crate by himself. Yet, he’s anxious about the weather or something else in the area. In these cases, I turn on Rex and put him on top of his crate. This will always soothe and calm Henry. Moreover, in just a short while, he’ll be napping safely in his crate and not anxious at all!
What types of heartbeat toys are available?
While Henry’s heartbeat toy is a dog, there are other options.
I’ve seen all of the following heartbeat toys for dogs:
- Dog
- Lamb
- Teddy bear
- Breed-specific such as Husky and Cockerpoo pups (super cute!)
- Unicorns
- Hippos
- Blankets
NOTE: These heartbeat toys are also great for other furry friends like cats.
How much does a heartbeat plush animal cost?
You can find these innovative stuffed animals at all price ranges. However, they are generally around $30.
What are the cost benefits of a heartbeat animal for my dog?
Yes, you can save money with a heartbeat toy. Consider the following possible expenses without a dog heartbeat toy:
| Issue | Estimated Cost |
| Behaviorist training | $30 – 100/hr |
| Replacing chewed items | $4 – 50,000 |
| Ingesting chewed items | $2,000 – 5,000 |
| Not needing to buy calming supplements regularly (to get the calm treats I use for Henry go here and use “LaylasWoof” for a 10% discount) | $34/month |
| More stressful travel and nighttime routines | IMMEASURABLE!!! |
| Calmer and happier dog | PRICELESS!!! |
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- Pawsitively Perfect: Dog Lick Mat Benefits
- Best Dog Travel Checklist – FREE Download!
- Creating Dog Safe Spaces: Easy and Cheap
- Secret of How a Rescue Dog Names Himself
- Why Teaching Dog Boundaries Saves Money?
Pups Calm With The Thump Of A Dog Heartbeat Stuffed Animal
Admittedly, I was skeptical when Henry received his heartbeat stuffed dog toy. I thought, “Well, it’s cute, but it won’t work for Henry.” Wow, was I wrong! It did take him a little bit to get used to the heartbeat plush dog. But once he warmed up to him, he named it Rex, and let him do his magic. I was pleasantly surprised to see how Rex calmed and soothed Henry.
While Henry falls into the majority of dogs with anxiety, I can help him easily. Honestly, having Henry relaxed even in stressful situations helps me as well. It calms me knowing he’s well. Plus, I don’t have to purchase calming supplements so often. Who knew a heartbeat stuffed animal for a pup who hates toys would work? Call me pawsitively giddy with the results!
