While puppy separation anxiety toys may not completely soothe your dog’s stress, they can make it more bearable.
If you’re not sure where to start your search for them, no worries; we’ve got you covered!
Below are some of our picks for the best dog calming aids and toys.
Take a look!
Top Pick
FYI, this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.
Want to skip ahead and just grab our top pick? Check out the SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Behavioral Aid Toy
- THE ORIGINAL PET ANXIETY AND COMFORT AID. Designed in the USA, since 1997 Snuggle Puppy has successfully reduced stress and anxiety for over 1,000,000 pets.
- DOG TRAINING TOY. Get more sleep! Helps with crate & kennel training by reducing barking, whining and anxiety for your dog, helping both YOU and your Dog sleep at night
- HEARTBEAT! The Snuggle Puppy toy with heartbeat has a 'real-feel' pulse that calms, appealing to natural instincts by naturally mimicking a mother and litter mates.
- EASES ANXIETY! Helps pets transition to their new home and reduces stress caused by fireworks and thunderstorms
- EASY TO USE AND CERTIFIED SAFE MATERIALS. Our industry leading Snuggle Puppy toy with real-feel heartbeat is made from durable fabric that is also machine washable, once the heartbeat and heat pad are removed.
How can the right toys help puppies with separation anxiety?
Puppy separation anxiety toys may not be able to completely prevent or stop your furry friend from feeling stressed when you leave, but they can help!
First, they’re entertaining, giving your pup something else to focus on aside from your absence.
Plus, many of them include neat features that you just don’t find in your average everyday plush or chew toy.
Let’s get started, I think it’s easier for you to see what I mean as we go along.
Best Puppy Separation Anxiety Toys
Take a peek at our top 6 favorite puppy separation anxiety toys, then read on for the entire list.
We’ve included Chewy links, too, when applicable.
1. SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Behavioral Aid Toy
This toy is absolutely perfect if you can’t hold your puppy non-stop, but will still be fairly close-by to supervise.
He will have the cutest companion, and won’t feel your absence so quite strongly.
Features
It was created to reduce any anxiety-generated behaviors in your dog, by being a fluffy companion.
Because of the “real feel” pulsing heartbeat, along with the heat source, it will make your dog feel like he’s close to his mama.
It only needs two AAA batteries that will assure the functioning of the toy for two, non-stop weeks, and you can wash it in the washing machine on a delicate cycle.
Pros & Cons
- Pros– Calms your puppy, Reduces the effects of separation anxiety,
- Cons-you need to pay attention to the batteries, shouldn’t leave dogs alone with it.
As long as you remember to change the toy’s batteries, your dog will stay happy and content.
Recommendation
It’s very important to still spend as much time as you can with your puppy, as this toy will never be able to replace you.
Also, since it does have batteries and a heat source (albeit a small one), you shouldn’t leave a puppy alone with it.
- THE ORIGINAL PET ANXIETY AND COMFORT AID. Designed in the USA, since 1997 Snuggle Puppy has successfully reduced stress and anxiety for over 1,000,000 pets.
- DOG TRAINING TOY. Get more sleep! Helps with crate & kennel training by reducing barking, whining and anxiety for your dog, helping both YOU and your Dog sleep at night
- HEARTBEAT! The Snuggle Puppy toy with heartbeat has a 'real-feel' pulse that calms, appealing to natural instincts by naturally mimicking a mother and litter mates.
- EASES ANXIETY! Helps pets transition to their new home and reduces stress caused by fireworks and thunderstorms
- EASY TO USE AND CERTIFIED SAFE MATERIALS. Our industry leading Snuggle Puppy toy with real-feel heartbeat is made from durable fabric that is also machine washable, once the heartbeat and heat pad are removed.
2. All for Paws Puppy Heart Beat Behavioral Aid Plush Toy
This sweet lamb is another great heartbeat toy for any pup dealing with anxiety.
It will help him stay calm and content, and also make him feel loved even when you can’t cuddle him.
Features
Every calming system this toy has is completely safe for your pup.
The batteries will work for about 300 hours, and it’s suitable for both cats and dogs.
Thanks to the heartbeat simulator, your pup will be able to stay calm during thunderstorms and fireworks shows.
Pros & Cons
- Pros – long-lasting batteries, calming effect, reduces the symptoms of noise anxiety.
- Cons – you need to make sure your pup won’t chew on it.
This toy had a powerful calming effect for any pup, but you still need to make sure that he doesn’t chew on it.
Recommendation
Again, even with all the safety features, it’s best not to leave your pup alone with anything that has batteries.
- Adorable puppy companion toy reduces negative behaviors resulting from anxiety or loneliness through natural instinct, not through medication.
- Mimic dog mother's heartbeat, recreates intimacy with a simulated heartbeat which eases crying, loneliness and separation anxiety in new born pups.
- Pulsing heartbeat lasts up to 6 hours of use on just 3pcs of button batteries. It can be activated again by re-press.
- Sticker design makes the toy more safer for puppy to snuggle and cuddle. Easy to clean, the puppy comforting toy is machine washable with the heart removed.
- MONEY BACK GUARANTEE: Your satisfaction is our priority. All our products are backed by 1-year warranty, please feel free to contact us if you have any questions!
3. Charming Pet Calming Lavender Ice Agerz
Lavender is great for calming both humans, and dogs.
This toy managed to combine two very important calming elements, making a cute lavender-scented elephant.
Features
It doesn’t require any batteries, and it’s made out of durable materials, so your dog won’t destroy it quite so easily.
It makes a lot of cute sounds in order to keep your pup engaged, while the lavender scent will keep him calm during hard times.
Pros & Cons
- Pros – calming effect, made out of durable materials, makes rattle and squeaky noises.
- Cons – may lose its scent if you wash it.
This is an amazing toy that’s going to calm your pup, but if you wash it, the scent may go away.
Recommendation
A fantastic toy overall, and your dog will be more than happy to spend a couple of hours with it.
- DURABLE PLUSH CUDDLE & PLAY PAL: Cute and cuddly, Ice Agerz from Charming Pet are great for fetching, chomping, snoozing, and more. Durable on the inside and soft on the outside, they're sure to become a favorite of your furry friend in no time!
- LAVENDER SCENTED TO RELIEVE STRESS: Whether your pup's acclimating to their new home or needs extra support when they get scared, these soft dog toys are the ideal solution. When shaken, the toy's inner rattle also releases a soothing lavender scent.
- THREE IRRESISTIBLE SOUNDS: Each Ice Agerz dog toy features crinkle material, a squeaker, and a rattler that get activated when shaken and squeezed during playtime to keep your dog engaged.
- K9 TUFF GUARD TECHNOLOGY: Made with K9 Tuff Guard technology that feature our signature denier canvas lining, nylon-fused backing, and double stitched seams for added durability and longevity.
- PLAY IT SAFE: No toy is indestructible. Do not leave toys with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace toy if damaged.
4. Z-vine Dog Toy Heartbeat Plush Toys for Dogs
This one is a little different than the other heartbeat puppy separation anxiety toys above.
It was made considering a dog’s needs for companionship. It’s very cute and mimics having a companion very well.
The heartbeat simulator combined with the blanket-style design will really make the dog feel like he is not alone. Plus, it’s made out of non-toxic materials for his safety.
Features
Being very easy to operate, this toy can be turned on and off in just a second.
Its realistic heartbeat simulator will feel your puppy feel loved, and you can throw it in the washing machine whenever you need to.
Pros & Cons
- Pros – heartbeat simulator, easy to operate, machine washable.
- Cons – the heart may break, and your dog may turn it on and off by accident.
This is an overall great toy and it will calm your pup when he needs it the most.
You should pay attention and see if your dog is learning to turn it on and off.
Recommendation
This is an amazing toy, and it will work perfectly with puppies and small breeds, as they may see it as a littermate.
Again, since it has batteries, be sure to supervise him while he plays with it.
5. Lickimat Soother & Buddy
Even though this is a slow-feeder, it’s also an amazing toy that will keep your pup calm.
The act of licking helps release endorphins that make your dog feel happy and relaxed.
Features
Being a slow feeder, this toy promotes licking.
The dog will spend quite some time eating their meals, and this is incredibly important.
Besides releasing a lot of endorphins, this toy also reduces the risk of gastric torsion (aka “twisted gut”).
It’s also great to protect your dog’s teeth health, as the saliva generated will protect his teeth and gums.
Pros & Cons
- Pros – relieves stress, slow feeding, and protects your dog’s teeth.
- Cons – some dogs may not be interested in it.
This is an amazing toy and will really help your dog cope with stress and anxiety, but some dogs may not be interested in it.
Recommendation
This shouldn’t be used at all times.
You can leave his food in it when you are away, but he may lose interest if it’s used too often.
- REDUCES ANXIETY, BOREDOM AND DESTRUCTIVE BEHAVIOR – LickiMat helps calm and soothe your pet by helping release endorphins through the promotion of licking. This Licking Mat is a safe Alternative for your dog to lick. Great for stressful times such vet visits, bath time, nail clipping, injury recovery as well as thunderstorms and fireworks.
- RECOMMENDED BY VETS AND TRAINERS - redirect all licking habits and perfect aid to reduce crate training time. Works with all manner of treats and foods, ranging from yogurt, peanut butter and spreadable treats, raw, wet, dry and liquid foods, allowing your pet to enjoy just a small amount of food. LickiMats are a perfect delivery system for supplements, medications and treats. Reinforce good behavior and replace anxiety with a long-lasting treat. Perfect for crate training. Slow Feeder For Dogs.
- DENTAL HEALTH - LickiMat's Lick Mat textured surfaces promote pleasurable licking action, which generates saliva helping protect your pet’s teeth and gums. Scrapes food pieces and odor-causing pieces off your pet’s tongue, promoting healthier teeth, gums and fresher breath. The Original Licking Mat.
- SERVE HEALTHY TREATS – Serve yogurt, peanut butter, purées, spreads and all manner of organic and healthy treats. Food settles in the mat’s surface which slows the feeding dramatically and prolongs enjoyment. Less calories, healthier treats and longer duration. THREE SURFACE PATTERNS: LickiMat Playdate (Squares) is perfect for small kibble, raw meat or fish. LickiMat Soother (Dots) for runny foods, and Buddy (Crosses) for chunky spreadable treats.
- ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY AND SAFE: NO SILICONE. PLEASE SUPERVISE YOUR PET. THIS SLOW FEED LICKING MAT IS NOT A DOG CHEW TOY. Please supervise your pet. If you have a puppy or known chewer, please order a LickiMat Tuff. It is very strong and 100% dishwasher safe. The original Lick Mat for Dogs!
6. Kong KP32 Puppy Activity Ball
The KONG KP32 is an amazing toy you can use in order to reduce any destructive behaviors caused by separation anxiety.
The inside can be stuffed with treats, so the dog will definitely choose it over anything else.
Features
This one is good for helping puppies deal with the itchy gums during teething, as well as giving him a proper alternative to chewing because of the separation anxiety.
The inside can be stuffed with delicious treats, so the dog becomes a lot more interested in it.
Pros & Cons
- Pros – promotes natural chewing, good for teething.
- Cons – it’s only suitable for puppies.
This is a great toy for any puppy who wants to chew on something when their owners are away.
It’s an amazing toy to help your pup deal with itchy gums.
Recommendation
This is an amazing toy and a good option for every puppy who needs to nibble on something from time to time.
Make sure though, that the treats you use are proper for your dog’s age.
- Teething Puppies: The natural KONG Puppy soft rubber formula is customized to soothe your puppy's sore teeth and gums
- Appropriate Chewing: This toy promotes positive chewing behavior by satisfying your puppy's natural instinct to chew. This is intended for dogs up to nine months of age
- Great For Stuffing: The KONG Puppy Activity Ball is even more enticing and can extend play time when the center and patented Denta-Ridges are stuffed with KONG Puppy Easy Treat, Puppy Snacks or peanut butter
- Small Puppy: For puppies up to 35 lbs / 16 kg. This toy is intended for dogs up to nine months of age
- Made In The USA. Globally Sourced Materials. Assorted Colors: This toy comes in either pink or blue
7. Outward Hound Interactive Puzzle Game
Dogs do like to play, and this game is absolutely perfect for that.
Your dog will learn how to open and push the elements on the boards and find some delicious treats in there, all this while staying busy for a long time.
It’s one of the best toys to help your dog with separation anxiety.
Features
The toy contains three types of movable and unlockable elements, so your dog will have a blast learning how to open them and retrieve the treats.
Your dog needs to flip, remove, and slide the treat boxes in order to find them all. It’s easy to clean, and it comes in four different levels of difficulty.
Pros & Cons
- Pros – easy to clean, relieves stress, and keeps your dog entertained.
- Cons – some dogs may not be interested in it.
This is an overall amazing toy that will keep your pup busy for a long time, but after a while, he may start to lose interest in it.
Recommendation
This is a great game, and your dog will try to get his treats as soon as possible.
Just remember that nothing can replace your presence!
- INTERMEDIATE DOG PUZZLE: Exercise your dog’s mind with the interactive level 2 Dog Tornado puzzle toy. This engaging dog treat dispenser provides a fun physical & mental challenge. Your pup will need to learn how to combine multiple steps to retrieve the hidden treat.
- BOREDOM BUSTER: With 12 hidden compartments and 3 dog bone covers you can vary the difficulty level of this stimulating dog puzzle to keep your furry friend excited and satisfied!
- EASY TO CLEAN: The Dog Tornado puzzle toy is easy to wash by hand with mild soap and warm water. Make sure all compartments are dry before using.
- BPA, PVC & PHTHALATE FREE: Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound interactive treat dog puzzles are designed with your pet's health in mind from food safe materials that you can trust. Easy to clean with warm water and soap between uses.
- PLAY IT SAFE: No toy is indestructible. Do not leave toys with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace toy if damaged.
8. Petstages Dog Chew Toys Dogwood Puppy Pack
Do you know how dogs just love to chew on tree branches? Well, the manufacturers of this toy seem to have it all figured out.
Your dog will be able to endlessly chew on a piece of wood, without injuring himself.
Features
The dogwood contains the natural wood flavors dogs are so thrilled about, but you won’t have to worry about any splinters hurting him.
It comes in four sizes, suitable for dogs of any age and size.
Pros & Cons
- Pros – keeps your pup calm, wood flavor.
- Cons – some dogs don’t like it.
While some dogs will be completely crazy about this toy and will find it soothing, others won’t be very interested in it.
Recommendation
Just as with any other toy, make sure your dog doesn’t chew too hard on it, because the little pieces may choke him.
- TWICE THE FUN: Our Dogwood Puppy 2-pack comes with two small sized sticks perfect for growing and teething puppies who need to chew. Great for households with multiple pups as well!
- SAFE MATERIALS: This Dogwood puppy alternative chew toy has materials that are lead-free and phthalate-free. The 2-pack comes with an original small dogwood stick as well as a blue stick that's made from a softer TPE material, great for young, puppy teeth.
- SAFE FROM SPLINTERING: Real tree branches can splinter and cause oral and intestinal damage in dogs who love to chew. That's why our Dogwood chew sticks are a safe, tasty alternative to the traditional stick your puppies will adore!
- INDOOR AND OUTDOOR FUN: The Dogwood alternative chew toy is ideal for indoor or outdoor chewing and can even float in water! Available in multiple sizes to suit all dogs.
- PLAY IT SAFE: No toy is indestructible. Do not leave toys with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace toy if damaged.
9. PAW5: Wooly Snuffle Mat
How about a slow feeder that will keep your pup entertained and calm for hours?
Well, this is what this Wooly Snuffle Mat is all about!
Features
This is a very interesting slow feeder, and it will keep your pup calm for hours at a time.
It’s super easy to fill, and he will have a blast finding all the delicious treats in it.
Even better, it’s suitable for dogs of all ages.
Pros & Cons
- Pros – easy to fill, calming effect, fun for dogs.
- Cons – needs frequent washing.
This is a great toy, and your dog will have a lot of time playing with it.
The downside is that the fabric will require very frequent washes.
Recommendation
This toy is suitable for any dog, regardless of size and age, but you shouldn’t make a habit out of feeding him this way.
- Happy Dog Promise: Our premium snuffle mat for dogs will keep your puppy calm & occupied, fulfilling your dog's natural desire to sniff. It can be used with your dog's normal dry food instead of a dog bowl, or as a small dog bed
- Improves Metal Health: Ideal for all-sized dogs, Paw 5 dog enrichment toys make mealtimes fun & stimulating. Promoting slower eating, reducing bloating & gulping. Improving your dog’s health & mood. A boredom buster dog feeding mat your dog will love
- 100% Pet Safe - 7 years of R&D: Whether you’re using it as a dog snuffle mat or dog beds for small dogs, Paw 5 pet supplies are quality assured & durable. Handmade from soft organic cotton fibers, the sniff mat for dogs is machine washable
- Stops Destructive Behavior: Keep your dog occupied & entertained for hours when left alone, by reinforcing good behavior & replacing anxiety with a long-lasting treat. Paw 5 snuffle mat for dogs small doubles up as a dogs bed & a dog food puzzle
- Ethically Sourced in Ghana: Paw 5 dog supplies are manufactured in West Africa via Ethical Apparel Africa, supporting African factories to grow & equality for women. We're passionate about giving back to the community & ensuring a sustainable future
10. BarkBox Monthly Subscription Box
The BarkBox Subscription comes with a few different toys each month, so you’ll always have something new on hand to give puppy before a particularly stressful day.
Features
You will get new toys and treats every month, so your dog won’t get bored with the ones he already has.
Pros & Cons
- Pros – new toys every months, interesting treats, dental toys included.
- Cons – you may end up having too many toys.
This is a great option to keep your pup busy for months to come, but you may end up with too many toys!
Recommendation
Since you don’t know what dogs and treats you will receive, you should make sure that they are appropriate for your pup before giving them to him.
- What is BarkBox? A monthly dog box delivery of pure canine bliss with unique monthly themes featuring 2 dog toys, 2 bags of dog treats, and a drool-worthy chew.
- What makes us special? To ensure every pup’s perfect playtime, our dog-obsessed team uses high-quality materials and textures to create toys that’ll keep your dog engaged and entertained, no matter their size or play style.
- Toy Variety: Whether your dog loves to thrash, tug or tear—we’ve got them covered. Our box features interactive dog toys, chew toys, toys with spiky balls, squeakers, and rope, plus toys for puppies and aggressive chewers.
- Better for you Treats: Our all-natural treats and chews are made with quality ingredients, never contain wheat, corn, or soy, and are so yummy your dog won’t notice they’re healthy. We even have allergy-friendly options!
- Value: Our dog subscription box comes stuffed with 2 quirky toys, 2 tasty treats, and a yummy chew. All that, plus a whole lot of dog joy, delivered right to your door.
Final Recommendation
Even though we told you what our favorite pick is, we also believe that this BarkBox Monthly Subscription Box is incredibly amazing!
What are some of your favorite puppy separation anxiety toys? Share below!
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Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API