Some dogs love tennis balls. Others are obsessed with squeaky chickens. But then, there are those special breeds—the ones that treat their toys like treasure and refuse to sleep without them tucked safely under their paws.
If you’ve ever caught your pup dragging their favorite plushie into bed like it’s a beloved bedtime ritual, you know what we’re talking about. These dogs don’t just play with toys—they bond with them. And when the sun goes down, their toy of choice becomes a snuggle buddy, a comfort item, and a must-have for their nightly routine. It’s equal parts adorable and hilarious.
Here, we’re spotlighting the breeds known for this charming habit—whether it’s due to their nurturing natural instincts, emotional intelligence, or just pure love for playtime.
If you’re a fan of dogs with quirky bedtime rituals (or you’ve been wondering why your pup insists on sleeping with a rubber duck), you’re in for a treat. From plushie-protectors to tug-rope cuddlers, these dogs turn bedtime into the cutest part of the day.
Dog Breeds That Carry Toys to Bed Every Night
1. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers don’t just steal hearts—they steal toy boxes, drag them to bed, and snuggle like it’s their emotional support squeaky.
The Labrador Retriever, commonly called the Lab, is a British gundog breed and ranks among the most beloved dog breeds across the globe. Known for their signature floppy ears, soulful eyes, and ever-wagging tails, Labs radiate friendliness, and affection.
These goofy, golden-hearted pups have a sentimental side that’ll melt you faster than butter on toast. While they’re known for their boundless energy, swimming skills, and fetch obsession, when the day winds down, many Labs have a bedtime ritual that’s pure adorable: grabbing their favorite toy—be it a plush duck, a well-chewed tennis ball, or a raggedy rope—and carrying it to bed like a toddler with their blankie.
Snuggle Score: They cuddle their toys and their humans.
Favorite Toy Type: Plushies that squeak louder than their wagging tails.
Bedtime Mood: Half teddy bear, half retriever, all heart.
Fun Fact: Some Labs will “present” their toy before bed like a trophy—you know, just in case you forgot they’re a good dog.
Why? Because Labs are affectionate pack animals with a deep need to feel comforted and connected. That drool-covered plush frog? It smells like home, happiness, and maybe even a bit of peanut butter.
In short: If your Lab isn’t sleeping with a toy, check under your pillow—they probably left it there for safekeeping.
2. Dachshund
Dachshunds may be shaped like sausages, but don’t be fooled—they’re stuffed full of personality, devotion, and a surprisingly intense bond with their favorite toys.
These little burrowers were bred to hunt badgers, which makes them natural diggers and tunnel-lovers. Translation? At night, they love to dig into blankets and snuggle under the covers with their chosen plush prey securely tucked between their tiny paws.
Some Dachshunds treat their stuffed animals like their own little pups—grooming them, carrying them gently, and yes, bringing them to bed every single night like it’s a bedtime ritual. Others? Well… they like to fiercely “defeat” their toy before sleeping beside its crumpled, squeaky remains.
Snuggle Style: Toy tucked under their chest like a security blanket.
Favorite Toy Type: Anything small and squeaky they can “hunt.”
Bedtime Drama: Minor wrestling match, followed by deep snoring.
Fun Fact: They may fall asleep with a toy in their mouth—it’s the ultimate victory nap.
Purina says these quirky little dogs are devoted and deeply bonded to their families. They get along well with other pets—especially fellow Dachshunds—and make perfect companions for indoor living.
So if your Doxie goes to bed dragging a fuzzy toy the size of their torso, just know: it’s not weird—it’s love, Dachshund style.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Elegant? Yes. Gentle? Absolutely. Slightly dramatic when it comes to bedtime rituals? Oh, you bet. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is basically a living plush toy themselves, and they expect the same soft, snuggly vibes from their nighttime companion.
These friendly dogs possess a gentle temperament, making them an ideal choice for first-time dog owners. They are currently ranked as one of the most popular dog breeds by the American Kennel Club.
Whether it’s a miniature teddy bear, a tiny bunny, or even a crinkly toy that’s seen better days, these velvety-eared charmers often bring their “chosen one” to bed every night with the same grace you’d expect from canine royalty.
It’s not just adorable—it’s emotional. Cavaliers are deeply affectionate and sensitive, so their toy is more than just a plaything—it’s a bedtime buddy, a source of comfort, and possibly a silent therapist.
Sleep Setup: Toy, human, blanket—all must be arranged just so.
Favorite Toy Type: Soft, gentle plushies that match their royal aesthetic.
Snuggle Mood: Sweet, quiet, and clingy in the best way.
Fun Fact: Some Cavaliers will whimper if they can’t find their bedtime buddy—true story.
If bedtime at your house includes a Cavalier gently carrying their toy up like it’s the crown jewels, count yourself lucky—you’re living with canine royalty who just wants a plush friend to share their dreams.
4. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are the golden-hearted softies of the dog world—and not just because of their flowing coats and award-winning smiles.
These big, lovable goofballs have a nurturing streak a mile wide. When they’re not busy being everyone’s best friend, they’re lovingly escorting their favorite stuffed duck, moose, or sock-that-used-to-be-yours to bed every night like it’s part of their official evening duties.
And don’t expect a chaotic chewing session either—nope. Goldens are famously gentle-mouthed retrievers, which means they often carry their bedtime buddies with the care of a doting parent. Some even try to “share” their toy with you before curling up—because in their golden minds, love is meant to be shared (especially with fluff and squeakers).
Preferred Sleep Style: Curled around a plushie like it’s their pup.
Favorite Toy Type: Soft, floppy, and big enough to nuzzle.
Bedtime Behavior: Presents toy, sighs happily, sleeps like an angel.
Fun Fact: Goldens are known to “rotate” their toys nightly like they’re managing a bedtime roster.
If you’ve ever caught your Golden Retriever cradling a stuffed giraffe at 10 PM, don’t interrupt. You’re witnessing the bedtime ritual of one of the world’s most loving, toy-cuddling champions.
5. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise doesn’t just sleep—they make an entrance to bed, usually trailing a favorite plush toy like a VIP entering a private suite.
With their cloudlike curls, cheerful bounce, and “I woke up like this” fabulousness, these little charmers treat bedtime like a spa retreat. And no spa session is complete without their go-to snuggle buddy—a soft toy that’s been loved, fluffed, and occasionally bossed around like a loyal servant.
These toy-loving fluffballs are affectionate to the core and often become emotionally attached to their plushies. Whether it’s a squeaky starfish or a velvety lamb, a Bichon will drag it to bed, tuck it under their chin, and drift off like royalty in a satin robe.
Bedtime Mood: Soft lighting, ambient snoring, toy secured in paws.
Favorite Toy Type: Small, stylish, and matches the aesthetic.
Snuggle Level: High—will spoon their plush like it’s a soulmate.
Fun Fact: Bichons sometimes hoard toys under blankets like mini curators of bedtime bliss.
Petplan noted Bichon Frises are prone to separation anxiety and may show unwanted behaviors like barking, whining, scratching, and chewing if left alone for extended periods. They thrive on plenty of human interaction to stay happy and calm.
If your Bichon insists on a toy at bedtime, just go with it. You’re not just witnessing cuteness—you’re watching a nightly ritual of a toy-cuddling aristocrat in action.
6. Maltese
Maltese are charming members of the toy group, bred thousands of years ago to be treasured and elegant companions. Friendly and adaptable, these little dogs also turn heads wherever they go.
The Maltese may be small in size, but don’t let that fool you—these luxurious lapdogs live large when it comes to bedtime routines. Fluffy, fabulous, and just the right amount of extra, Maltese pups are known to carry their favorite toys to bed with the flair of a celebrity bringing their own pillow to a five-star hotel.
Whether it’s a mini plush bunny, a squeaky heart, or a little stuffed bone that’s seen better days, Maltese dogs treat their bedtime toys like prized possessions. They often carry them delicately in their petite mouths, prance to their bed (or yours), and snuggle in like they’re settling into a velvet throne.
Nighttime Ritual: A little twirl, a gentle flop, and toy cuddles commence.
Favorite Toy Type: Petite plushies that fit their royal paws and match their style.
Sleep Vibe: Soft, serene, with a side of dramatic sighing.
Fun Fact: Some Maltese won’t sleep unless their chosen toy is right beside them—true divas need their accessories.
So if your Maltese insists on tucking in their toy every night, don’t interrupt. It’s not just a habit—it’s a lifestyle. One toy at a time, they’re redefining bedtime glam.
7. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas may be small enough to fit in a purse, but their personalities? Pure firecracker. And when it comes to bedtime, these pint-sized dynamos often carry their favorite toy to bed like it’s their prized possession… and then dare you to touch it.
Whether it’s a miniature squeaky taco, a plush squirrel half their size, or a rubber ducky with bite marks, the Chihuahua’s bedtime buddy is sacred.
Don’t let their fierce little attitudes fool you—under all that sass is a deeply affectionate pup who finds serious comfort in their toys. Many Chihuahuas get attached to a specific plush and bring it to bed nightly, tucking it under their chin or curling around it like a protective little dragon with a hoarded treasure.
Favorite Toy Type: Tiny, squeaky, and probably hidden under the covers.
Sleep Personality: Warm, snuggly, but on guard.
Cuddle Technique: Spoon it, protect it, maybe growl at intruders.
Fun Fact: Chihuahuas often choose one particular toy and treat it like royalty… or their baby.
So, if your Chihuahua struts to bed with their favorite stuffed toy in tow, know this: you’re watching a nightly ritual that’s equal parts adorable, possessive, and completely Chihuahua.
Conclusion
No matter the dog breed, when a pup carries a stuffed toy to bed every night, it says a lot about comfort, attachment, and that heart-melting desire for safety and rest. Most dogs treat their favorite dog toy like a child or boy might treat a beloved plush—bringing it to the couch, to bed, even across the household. For many dogs, it provides mental stimulation, a sense of calm, or reminds them of their mother in a new home.
It might look funny in pictures, but to a pet owner, it’s a sign of love. Whether it’s after a long day, during training, or just sitting quietly in their room, these toys act as more than playthings—they provide comfort, safety, and can even help a puppy during long periods alone.
A veterinarian might guess it helps reduce anxiety. So next time your dog is putting their plush to bed, don’t worry—they’re not going wild, they’re just living their best life. And honestly, isn’t that the perfect gift?
