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Why is my dog terrified of stuffed animals and how can I help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed | 2 years old | 60 lbs

My dog Xena seems scared of stuffed animals. She turned two years old today, and we’ve had her since she was 8 weeks old (adopted from local shelter). She’s well trained and gets along well with dogs and cats, but she is terrified of stuffed animals. No matter what kind or size, she tucks her tail, jerks away, barks and growls. She will approach if the stuffed animal’s back is facing her, but as soon as she sees the face she freaks out. We just want to know why she has this problem?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 3rd, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! She probably had a bad experience with a stuffed animal. You would be surprised to know that I have actually seen this before and in that case it improved with time. I do think that this will eventually get better. I would just have her exposed to stuffed animals every once in a while but without pushing her too much. Eventually she will likely get more and more comfortable around them. Good luck and have a great day!

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I’m sure she thinks it’s looking directly at her in a threatening way. If you lay them down usually they are less threatening and dogs will go up and sniff them. Once they figure out that they aren’t alive they usually lose interest. You can do this if you want to desensitize her. Be patient, it may take some time. Also covering the eyes may help. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Xena.

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