Top Plush Pals: Discover the Best Stuffed Animal Brands

Stuffed animals have long been a beloved staple in the world of toys, offering comfort and joy to children and adults alike. With their soft, cuddly nature and endless variety, they make the perfect companions and gifts for any occasion. In the world of stuffed animals, certain brands stand out for their quality, creativity, and commitment to providing delightful and durable products. Are you curious to discover which brands have made a name for themselves in the hearts of stuffed animal enthusiasts? Check out the list below for a rundown of the best brands renowned for their charming plush creations.

Illustration of stuffed animal

Best brands of stuffed animal in 2025

Gund

Established in 1898, Gund has been a leading plush toy manufacturer for over 125 years, known for high-quality craftsmanship and safety; consistently holding a significant market share in the plush toy industry, with over 20% of the industry's sales. Their products range from classic teddy bears to contemporary designs appealing to all age groups, and Gund is renowned for creating beloved characters, many of which are still sold as part of their current collection. Their dedication to quality and innovation continues to make them a trusted brand for plush companions today.

Jellycat

Jellycat, established in London in 1999, has become a premier global brand, renowned for its creative and irresistibly soft stuffed animals, holding a significant portion of the luxury plush toy market with approximately 40% of sales attributed to their unique designs; with over 300 different designs released every year, they maintain a high level of innovation and quality; and a recent survey from 2023 showed a 95% customer satisfaction rate, solidifying their position as a leader in the plush toy industry.

Build-A-Bear Workshop

Build-A-Bear Workshop, established in 1997, has become a leading global brand, letting customers create personalized stuffed animals with over 30 million bears created every year; the company boasts a high customer satisfaction rate, with 90% of customers likely to recommend their products, furthermore, Build-A-Bear continues to innovate, offering a wide array of furry friends and accessories, and a unique in-store experience. Check out their selection.

TY

With a history dating back to 1986, TY has established itself as a leading manufacturer of plush toys, captivating the hearts of children and collectors alike; the introduction of Beanie Babies in 1993 revolutionized the market, reaching an estimated 100 million sales by 1996, and becoming a highly sought-after collectible item; known for their distinctive heart-shaped tags and wide variety of characters, TY continues to innovate in the toy industry; today, the company maintains a significant market share in the plush toy sector, solidifying their reputation for quality and creativity; TY’s diverse product line ensures that there is a perfect soft companion for everyone. For a closer look at their offerings, visit their official online store.

Aurora World

Aurora World, established in 1981, is a global leader in producing high-quality plush toys, known for its diverse range including animals, fantasy creatures, and characters, with over 40 years of experience in the industry and products sold in over 25,000 retail outlets worldwide. They are also recognized for their commitment to quality, safety, and competitive pricing, owning their manufacturing facilities and ensuring each toy is designed and produced with care. This dedication has made them a favored brand among children and collectors for their durable and aesthetically pleasing designs.

Steiff

Established in 1880, Steiff, a German company, is renowned for producing high-quality, handmade stuffed animals, using premium materials and time-honored techniques; the company created the first teddy bear in 1902, and by 1907, they were manufacturing nearly a million bears annually, solidifying their place as a premier toy maker; each Steiff creation features the iconic "button in ear," a symbol of authenticity and quality, and the company has expanded its line to include various animals and collaborations with beloved characters; today, Steiff continues to be a leader in the industry, offering both classic and collectible pieces, with some vintage bears fetching prices in the tens of thousands of dollars at auction. You can explore their products on the Steiff official website.

Squishmallows

Launched in 2017 by Kelly Toys and now owned by Jazwares, Squishmallows has become a leading brand in the stuffed animal market, boasting over 3,000 unique designs with a market share of approximately 10-15%, and selling over 100 million units worldwide in 2022 alone. Known for their soft spandex and polyester fiber construction, these huggable plush toys come in 12 sizes, ranging from 3.5-inch clip-ons to 24-inch large sizes, and have expanded into multiple product lines like HugMees and Flip-A-Mallows, appealing to a broad audience including adults who represent 25% of toy sales in 2022. Their distinctive look with "Kawaii" faces has led to a legal battle over trade dress rights, further highlighting the brand's uniqueness. You can explore their products on the official website: Squishmallows.

Wild Republic

Wild Republic, founded in 1979, has been a leading producer of nature-related toys for over four decades, offering a wide array of realistic stuffed animals that foster curiosity about wildlife and educate children about the wonders of nature. They distribute to zoos, museums, and retailers worldwide, with a strong commitment to safety standards, ensuring a fun and educational experience for young explorers everywhere. You can explore their products at Wild Republic's official website.

FAO Schwarz

FAO Schwarz, established in 1862, has been a leading producer of high-quality stuffed animals for over 160 years, with their plush toys consistently ranking among the most sought-after, representing approximately 15% of the premium toy market in 2023; their dedication to craftsmanship and design is evident in each piece, and they offer a wide array of unique, huggable creatures beloved by children and collectors alike. You can explore their selection and find your next favorite plush friend at FAO Schwarz's plush collection.

Douglas Cuddle Toys

Douglas Cuddle Toys, established in 1956, is a family-owned company renowned for its high-quality, lifelike stuffed animals, crafted with unique designs and attention to detail, resulting in products that have been cherished for over 60 years and are known for their endearing expressions. Their plush toys are designed in the USA and manufactured in Asia with strict adherence to toy safety standards. Douglas offers a diverse range of animals from common pets to exotic wildlife, with many designs remaining unchanged for decades, and they have expanded to include fashion accessories and a baby collection, reflecting their commitment to imaginative play and emotional connection. You can explore their products on their website.