Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but they can also suffer from separation anxiety when their owners are away. Separation anxiety in dogs can manifest in various ways, including excessive barking, destructive chewing, and even self-harm. To help alleviate this anxiety, many pet owners turn to dog toys.
Dog toys designed for separation anxiety can provide comfort and distraction for dogs when their owners are away. These toys are typically durable and interactive, allowing dogs to play and engage with them for extended periods. Some toys even dispense treats, which can help keep dogs occupied and mentally stimulated.
When selecting the best dog toys for separation anxiety, it’s essential to consider the type of toy and its features carefully. The toy should be made of high-quality, non-toxic materials and be appropriately sized for the dog. Additionally, it should be durable enough to withstand aggressive chewing and play.
In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various dog toys to identify the best ones for separation anxiety. Our goal is to provide pet owners with a comprehensive guide to help them find the perfect toy to keep their furry friends happy and calm when they’re away.
Top 3 Best Dog Toys for Separation Anxiety
1. PetSafe Frosty Cone Dog Toys
2. Wigglo Tough Durable Dog Ball Toy
3. SmartPetLove Original Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs
As dog owners, we understand how difficult it can be to leave our furry friends alone at home. Separation anxiety is a common issue among dogs, and it can lead to destructive behavior, excessive barking, and other problems. Fortunately, there are many dog toys on the market that can help alleviate separation anxiety and keep your pup entertained while you’re away.
In this article, we’ve rounded up the best dog toys for separation anxiety based on expert reviews, customer feedback, and our own experiences. Whether your dog loves to chew, fetch, or snuggle, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best dog toys for separation anxiety.
PetSafe Frosty Cone Dog Toys
If you’re looking for a toy that can help your pup with separation anxiety, boredom, and dental hygiene, the PetSafe Frosty Cone Dog Toy is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The Frosty Cone cures boredom and relieves anxiety by keeping your dog busy and engaged.
- It provides long-lasting entertainment by filling it with frozen snacks, keeping your dog busy for 20-30 minutes of play.
- The toy cleans teeth and gums while chewing on grooves and crevices, promoting good dental hygiene.
Cons
- The toy is not easy to clean, according to some users.
- It may not be suitable for aggressive chewers.
- The Frosty Cone may not be a good fit for dogs over 80 lbs.
We’ve tried freezing dog-safe foods like nut butter, broth, meats, and veggies, and our dog loves it. The French vanilla scent adds an extra touch of excitement for our furry friend. The Frosty Cone is also safe to use, as it’s made of BPA-free rubber.
While it’s not the easiest toy to clean, we find that the Frosty Cone is durable enough to last a long time. We also appreciate that it can help with our dog’s separation anxiety by keeping him busy and engaged.
Overall, we highly recommend the PetSafe Frosty Cone Dog Toy for any pet owner looking for a fun and engaging toy that can help with separation anxiety and dental hygiene.
Wigglo Tough Durable Dog Ball Toy
If you’re looking for a durable dog toy that can stand up to aggressive chewers and help with separation anxiety, the Wigglo Tough Durable Dog Ball Toy might be just what you need.
Pros
- This dog toy is virtually indestructible, making it perfect for aggressive chewers.
- The unique keyboard 5mm V-groove design helps dogs grind their teeth, promoting good oral health.
- The tantalizing beef flavor and built-in squeaker make this toy more fun for your fur-babies.
Cons
- Some reviewers have reported that the squeaker plug can come out, which could be a choking hazard.
- The toy is only suitable for dogs over 20 lbs, so it may not be the best choice for smaller breeds.
- While the toy is dishwasher safe, it may be difficult to clean thoroughly due to its textured surface.
We recently tried out the Wigglo Tough Durable Dog Ball Toy with our own aggressive chewer, and we were impressed with its durability. Our dog loves to chew and destroy toys, but this one has held up remarkably well. The beef flavor and squeaker also seem to be big hits with our pup, and we appreciate that the toy is designed to promote good oral health.
That being said, we did notice that the squeaker plug can come out with excessive chewing, which could be a concern for some pet owners. Additionally, the toy is only suitable for larger dogs, so it may not be the best choice for those with smaller breeds. Finally, while the toy is dishwasher safe, we found that it can be difficult to clean thoroughly due to its textured surface.
Overall, we think the Wigglo Tough Durable Dog Ball Toy is a great choice for pet owners looking for a durable toy that can stand up to aggressive chewers. However, it may not be the best choice for those with smaller dogs or those who are concerned about potential choking hazards.
SmartPetLove Original Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs
If you’re looking for a toy that can help your furry friend cope with separation anxiety, then the SmartPetLove Original Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs might be just what you need.
Pros
- Designed to reduce stress and anxiety in pets
- Helps with crate and kennel training
- Mimics a mother’s heartbeat to soothe pets
Cons
- Batteries are required
- Some dogs may not be interested in the toy
- The price may be a bit high for some pet owners
We recently tried out the SmartPetLove Original Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs with our furry friend who has separation anxiety, and we were pleasantly surprised by the results. The toy is designed to reduce stress and anxiety in pets, and it did just that for our furry friend.
The Snuggle Puppy toy helped with crate and kennel training by reducing barking, whining, and anxiety for our dog, which in turn helped us get more sleep at night. The heartbeat feature is a nice touch, as it mimics a mother and litter mates, which naturally appeals to a pet’s instincts and helps to ease anxiety.
One thing to note is that the toy requires two AAA batteries, which are included, but will need to be replaced eventually. Additionally, some dogs may not be interested in the toy, so it may not work for every pet. Lastly, the price may be a bit high for some pet owners, but we found it to be worth the investment for the peace of mind it provided.
Overall, we highly recommend the SmartPetLove Original Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs for anyone looking for a way to help their furry friend cope with separation anxiety.
PetSafe Busy Buddy Cravin’ Corncob Dog Toys
If you’re looking for a toy to keep your furry friend entertained while you’re away, the PetSafe Busy Buddy Cravin’ Corncob Dog Toys might be worth considering.
Pros
- This toy is perfect for dogs with separation anxiety, as it helps keep them engaged and distracted for a while.
- The toy is designed to clean your dog’s teeth and gums while they chew on it, promoting dental hygiene.
- The butter-scented rubber material is BPA-free and safe for your dog to play with.
Cons
- The toy can be a bit heavy for smaller dogs to carry around.
- Some dogs might lose interest in the toy after a while, especially if they’ve already gotten all the treats.
- The toy may not be as durable as advertised, especially for aggressive chewers.
We tried this toy with our dog, and it kept her busy for a good 20-30 minutes, which was enough time for us to get some work done. The fact that it promotes dental hygiene is a plus, and we love that the rubber material is safe for our dog to play with. However, we did notice that our dog lost interest in the toy after a while, especially after she had already gotten all the treats. Also, the toy can be a bit heavy for smaller dogs to carry around, and it may not be as durable as advertised, especially for aggressive chewers. Overall, we recommend this toy for dogs with separation anxiety who need something to keep them engaged and distracted.
HonourHope Dog Heartbeat Toy for Anxiety Relief
If you’re looking for a product to help ease your pup’s separation anxiety, HonourHope’s Dog Heartbeat Toy for Anxiety Relief is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The heartbeat toy provides the best companionship and comfort to the dog during the night, during the journey, during thunder and lightning, and effectively reduces the anxiety and fear of the dog.
- The heartbeat toy simulates the heartbeat, combined with a reusable volcanic stone heating pack that can be heated for 4 hours a time, so that your puppy can feel the “warm” companionship instead of the “cold” crate.
- Adorable toy reduces negative behaviors resulting from anxiety or loneliness through natural instinct, not through medication.
Cons
- The 3 AAA batteries(not included) will last 3 weeks straight with continuous use, and can be easily replaced as needed. Please note: Remove the heartbeat box and heating pack during machine washing.
- The soft plush toy is made of super soft, non-toxic, safe and skin-friendly fabrics, but some dogs may chew through it easily.
- The heartbeat sound may be too loud for some dogs.
We recently tried this product with our anxious pup and were pleasantly surprised by how well it worked. The heartbeat and warmth from the heating pack helped calm her down and reduce her whining and barking when we left the house. The toy is also machine washable, which is a huge plus.
One thing to note is that the heartbeat sound may be too loud for some dogs, so it’s best to test it out before leaving your pup alone with it. Additionally, the 3 AAA batteries (not included) will last for about 3 weeks with continuous use, but they can be easily replaced as needed.
Overall, we highly recommend HonourHope’s Dog Heartbeat Toy for Anxiety Relief as a natural and effective way to help ease your pup’s separation anxiety.
WEOK Puppy Heartbeat Toy
If you’re looking for a comforting and calming toy for your furry friend, the WEOK Puppy Heartbeat Toy is worth considering.
Pros
- The heartbeat simulator provides a soothing environment for your pet, helping to relieve separation anxiety and loneliness.
- This toy is a great behavioral training aid, helping your pet sleep better and adapt to new environments.
- The plush toy is made of high-quality, durable materials and is machine washable for easy cleaning.
Cons
- The heartbeat simulator requires 3 AAA batteries, which are not included in the package.
- Some pets may not be interested in the heartbeat feature and may prefer a different type of toy.
- The toy may not be suitable for aggressive chewers.
We were impressed with the WEOK Puppy Heartbeat Toy’s ability to provide a calming environment for our pet. The heartbeat simulator is realistic and not too loud, and our pet seemed to enjoy cuddling with the plush toy. The toy is also well-made and held up to our pet’s chewing and playing.
One thing to keep in mind is that some pets may not be interested in the heartbeat feature, so it may not be the best choice for every pet. Additionally, the toy may not be suitable for aggressive chewers, as it may not hold up to heavy chewing.
Overall, we recommend the WEOK Puppy Heartbeat Toy for pet owners looking for a calming and comforting toy for their furry friend.
Moropaky Puppy Heartbeat Toy
If you’re looking for a natural way to soothe your furry friend’s separation anxiety, the Moropaky Puppy Heartbeat Toy is a great option.
Pros
- The heartbeat simulator is a natural way to reduce anxiety and provide comfort to your pet.
- The plush dog toy is made from comfortable, skin-friendly fabrics and is machine washable with the heart removed.
- The heartbeat will shut down automatically after running for 8 hours.
Cons
- The Velcro could be better.
- Some customers have reported issues with the heart stopping working after a few weeks.
- The vibration may be too strong for some dogs and may scare them away.
We’ve found that this toy can help calm dogs during thunderstorms, fireworks, and other stressful situations. The heartbeat simulator is a great way to provide companionship and comfort to your pet while you’re away.
The Moropaky Puppy Heartbeat Toy is also great for crate training and sleep training. The heartbeat simulates an environment where the puppy is not alone, which can help them adapt to the kennel and sleep better.
Overall, we think the Moropaky Puppy Heartbeat Toy is a great option for pet owners looking for a natural solution to separation anxiety. It’s affordable, effective, and easy to use.
Calmeroos Puppy Heartbeat Toys
If you’re looking for a way to help your furry friend with separation anxiety, the Calmeroos Puppy Heartbeat Toys might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The heart simulator creates a realistic sound and feeling of a heartbeat, which gives dogs the companionship they need to sleep through the night with no whining, barking, or accidents.
- The soft plush makes the perfect pillow buddy for your dogs and is safe for them to cuddle up with all day.
- The Calmeroos make perfect gifts for pet owners.
Cons
- Some dogs might not be interested in the toy and might not find it helpful.
- The heartbeat simulator takes 2 AAA batteries, which might need to be replaced frequently.
- The Calmeroos might not be as durable as other dog toys on the market.
We’ve tried the Calmeroos Puppy Heartbeat Toys with our own furry friend and found that it helped him feel more calm and relaxed when we were away from home. The heartbeat simulator creates a soothing environment that helps dogs feel less anxious and stay more calm, reducing problem destructive behavior. The soft plush is also a great feature, as it makes the perfect pillow buddy for your dogs and is safe for them to cuddle up with all day.
However, we did notice that some dogs might not be interested in the toy and might not find it helpful. Additionally, the heartbeat simulator takes 2 AAA batteries, which might need to be replaced frequently. Finally, the Calmeroos might not be as durable as other dog toys on the market, and might not hold up to heavy chewing or rough play.
Overall, we recommend the Calmeroos Puppy Heartbeat Toys to pet owners who are looking for a way to help their furry friend with separation anxiety. It’s a simple and effective solution that can help your dog feel more calm and relaxed, and it’s also a great gift idea for other pet owners in your life.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best dog toys for separation anxiety, it’s important to consider a few key factors. Here are some features to look for:
Durability
Dogs with separation anxiety may become destructive when left alone, so it’s important to choose toys that can withstand their chewing and biting. Look for toys made from durable materials such as rubber or nylon, and avoid toys that are easily torn apart.
Interactive Features
Toys that provide mental stimulation can help distract dogs from their anxiety and keep them occupied. Consider toys that can be filled with treats or toys that require problem-solving skills to access the reward.
Comfort
Some dogs may find comfort in toys that remind them of their owners, such as toys with their owner’s scent or toys that resemble their owner’s clothing. Look for toys that can be easily personalized with your scent or that have a soft, plush texture.
Safety
Always choose toys that are appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing habits. Avoid toys that are too small or too large, as well as toys with small parts that could be swallowed or cause choking hazards.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the best dog toys for separation anxiety that will provide comfort and distraction for your furry friend while you’re away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of interactive toys can help alleviate a dog’s separation anxiety?
Interactive toys that require mental stimulation can be helpful in reducing a dog’s separation anxiety. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, and toys that make noise or move can provide distraction and entertainment for a dog while their owner is away.
How does a Snuggle Puppy toy benefit dogs with separation anxiety?
A Snuggle Puppy toy is designed to mimic the warmth and comfort of a mother dog, which can help soothe and calm a dog with separation anxiety. The toy contains a heat pack and a simulated heartbeat, which can provide a sense of security and comfort for a dog.
Are KONG toys effective in managing separation anxiety in dogs?
KONG toys can be effective in managing separation anxiety in dogs. These toys can be filled with treats or peanut butter, which can provide a distraction and mental stimulation for a dog. Additionally, the act of chewing on a KONG toy can be calming for a dog.
What role do busy buddy calming toys play in helping dogs cope with being alone?
Busy buddy calming toys are designed to provide a calming effect for dogs. These toys can be filled with treats or peanut butter, and they often have a chew-resistant exterior to withstand heavy chewing. The act of chewing on a busy buddy calming toy can be soothing for a dog and can help alleviate anxiety.
Can desensitization techniques be used in conjunction with toys to address a dog’s separation anxiety?
Yes, desensitization techniques can be used in conjunction with toys to address a dog’s separation anxiety. Gradually increasing the amount of time a dog spends alone, combined with the use of interactive toys, can help a dog become more comfortable with being alone.
Is it beneficial to use a teddy bear or similar plush toy to comfort a dog with separation anxiety?
Yes, using a teddy bear or similar plush toy can be beneficial in comforting a dog with separation anxiety. These toys can provide a sense of comfort and security for a dog, and they can also be a useful tool in desensitization training.
