How to Name a Stuffed Animal: Ideas and Tips

A new stuffed animal feels even more like a companion once it has a name. You can keep it simple, make it funny, or let a child invent something entirely new. Here are a few ways to get started.

Start with the animal

Try a name inspired by the kind of animal it is: Bonnie for a bunny, Finn for a fox, or Kiki for a koala. It does not have to rhyme. Sometimes the animal's expression or posture suggests a name more naturally than its species.

Look at its color and character

A caramel-colored friend could be Maple or Toffee. A pink plush might be Rosie, and a little ocean creature could be Cove. Ask what the toy would enjoy doing. Is it an explorer, a gardener, a sleepy storyteller, or the leader of a make-believe parade?

Make a short list together

Invite everyone to suggest two or three names, then say each one aloud. Children may choose a name that sounds completely unexpected. That is part of the fun: the best name is the one that feels right to the person who will play with the toy.

More stuffed animal name ideas

• For a bunny: Clover, Poppy, Biscuit, Bonnie or Bluebell.
• For a bear: Honey, Teddy, Mallow, Cedar or Pip.
• For an ocean friend: Reef, Cove, Pearl, Sunny or Splash.
• For a fox or woodland friend: Fern, Rusty, Juniper, Maple or Scout.

Once you have a name, make up a short story about where your plush friend came from and what it likes. You can write it on a gift tag or tell it together at story time. If you are still choosing the character, browse our stuffed animals, bunny plush toys and ocean animal plush toys.

Check the product listing for age guidance and care details when choosing a stuffed animal as a gift.