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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Possibly as a comfort object for an individual dog, but Gerty is not an established treatment or cure for separation anxiety. Its seller recommends dressing the inflatable companion in familiar clothing and introducing it gradually. Expert commentary suggests that familiar scent, size, or novelty may appeal to some dogs, but a doll should not replace a behavior plan, human care, or professional help when distress is persistent or severe.
What is Gerty?
Gerty is a human-shaped inflatable companion for pets. The seller says it has three inflation points so it can sit or stand and is roughly 50 inches tall. Its product page recommends putting the owner’s worn clothing on it and allowing the dog time to get used to the object before leaving the dog alone with it. The seller’s suggested introduction period is 24–48 hours. Those are product instructions, not evidence that the doll treats anxiety. See Gerty’s product information.
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The storefront displayed the standard model for $39.99 USD and a custom-face model for $64.99 USD when accessed; the standard product page was marked “Sold out.” The seller also says it typically does not allow returns. Prices, stock, and store policies can change, so check the official storefront for current details before buying.
Can an inflatable doll help a dog with separation anxiety?
It might provide some comfort to a particular dog, but there is no established evidence here that Gerty resolves separation anxiety. An October 9, 2025 article from Adopt a Pet interviewed people with behavior expertise and described anecdotal cases in which dogs liked mannequins or appeared to take temporary comfort from familiar scent, size, or novelty. The article also reports that dolls are not a typical or established treatment for true separation anxiety. That expert commentary is not a controlled study of Gerty. Read the expert interview and guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- As seen on Shark Tank. The ultimate Pet Separation Anxiety Cure. Note: For the Custom Gerty with your face or a friends face, visit the Gerty website.
- Alleviates Pet Anxiety: Gerty is successful for roughly 80% of Pets. Life changing for pet owners who have an animal with separation anxiety. You can think of Gerty as emotional support doll for your dog or pet. Gerty is designed to be your Pets friend when you're away. Gerty is not just an inflatable friend; she's a scientifically designed companion desigend to reduce stress and anxiety. It's important that you introduce Gerty to your pet slowly and gently. Talk to Gerty and interact with it for 24 hours before leaving your pet alone.
- Three Separate Inflatable Chambers: Gerty is designed with three separate inflatable chambers, allowing you to inflate the torso and legs independently. This flexibility enables Gerty to stand or sit, making it easy to position her in the most comforting way for your dog.
- Comforting Arms: Positioned towards the top of her body, Gerty's arms are designed to create a cozy space where your dog can snuggle underneath. This feature mimics the feeling of being held, providing an extra layer of comfort and security.
- Lifelike Human Face: Gerty boasts a realistic human face with large, happy eyes that offer a comforting and reassuring presence. Your dog will feel like they have a friendly companion, reducing feelings of loneliness and anxiety.
Alexandra Bassett, identified in the article as a separation-anxiety specialist, said: “True canine separation anxiety isn’t about loneliness — it’s about panic. Dogs with this condition become distressed when they can’t see, follow, or access their primary attachment figure,” adding, “While I’ve seen one or two anecdotal stories about dolls helping, that’s not typical.” The useful distinction is that a dog may enjoy lying near an object without the object addressing the panic that occurs when an attachment figure is absent.
Gerty creator Todd Schram’s line from the Shark Tank pitch—“She has the emotional warmth of a human, and the maintenance of a beach ball”—is a product-pitch description, not evidence of efficacy. ABC’s listing confirms Gerty appeared in Season 17, Episode 2 of Shark Tank; a television appearance establishes visibility, not clinical validation. See ABC’s episode listing dated October 1, 2025.
Rank #2
- MULTIPLE SIZES FOR ALL BREEDS: Select from 10", 18", or 22" options to find the perfect fit. Whether for a small pup or a large dog, this giant inflatable herding ball captures their attention, satisfying natural herding instincts in the backyard, park, or open fields.
- [ NOTE ] DESIGNED FOR HERDING, NOT CHEWING: Features a heavy-duty polyester cover and an anti-burst inner bladder for energetic pushing and outdoor chasing. This is an interactive herding toy meant to be rolled with the nose or paws, NOT a chew toy. It is not recommended for aggressive chewers like Cane Corsos, Pitbulls, or Mastiffs. Please supervise playtime.
- CANINE-OPTIMIZED VISUALS & SCENE-READY: The high-contrast blue and yellow color scheme is specifically designed for a dog's visual spectrum, sparking immediate engagement. Sturdy nylon handles make it easy for owners to carry, toss, or interact with their pets during outdoor farm play or lawn activities.
- SIMPLE SETUP & EFFORTLESS CLEANING: Every jolly herding ball kit includes a manual pump and installation tools for quick inflation. After a muddy outdoor session, simply unzip and remove the machine-washable fabric cover for easy cleaning. The foldable design makes it highly portable for travel.
- MENTAL STIMULATION & BOREDOM RELIEF: Active chasing provides the intense physical exercise and mental engagement needed to tire out energetic breeds like Australian Shepherds. It effectively helps reduce separation anxiety and destructive behavior, keeping your dog focused, healthy, and delightfully exhausted.
How to try Gerty cautiously
- Introduce it while you are present. Follow the seller’s suggestion to put familiar, worn clothing on the doll and let your dog investigate at its own pace. Do not force contact.
- Watch your dog’s response. Notice whether the dog approaches and settles, or instead avoids, barks at, or becomes agitated by the object. Stop using it if it causes fear or frustration.
- Check for chewing or damage. The seller says pets tend not to chew the doll after learning it is a friend, but the available product information does not establish independent durability or safety for unsupervised chewing. If your dog damages or mouths objects, do not leave the doll with the dog unattended.
- Do not use it to extend time alone. A doll is not a reason to leave a dog alone longer or to assume the dog is coping. Keep absences within what the dog can currently manage.
What to do if your dog is distressed when left alone
Adopt a Pet’s guidance describes maintaining a routine and practicing gradual absences, beginning with durations the dog can tolerate. If distress is severe or persistent, consult a veterinarian or a qualified trainer or behavior professional for individualized help. A veterinarian can help assess the problem, while a qualified behavior professional can help shape a plan suited to the dog. The expert article discusses gradual practice and seeking help.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteThe sources reviewed do not establish a population success rate for inflatable dolls or controlled efficacy results for Gerty. Individual anecdotes—including favorable or critical customer reports—cannot predict whether a particular dog will respond. Treat the doll, at most, as an optional comfort object alongside appropriate care, not as a diagnosis or solution.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Separation Anxiety Relief: The heartbeat toys with heartbeat which is a simulation of the true pulsing heartbeat enables the puppy to feel the heartbeat, thereby reducing their anxiety and get used to the new home or tough time as soon as possible.
- Create Training Tool & Sleep Training Toy : Heartbeat dog toy simulates an environment that the puppy are not alone and one of their 'mates' are there with them. With the company of the Heartbeat Stuffed Animal Toy , the dog can adapt to the kennel as soon as possible, and can have a better sleep.
- Comfort Your Fur Baby: The heartbeat toy provides the best companionship and comfort to the dog during the night, during the journey, during thunder and lightning, and effectively reduces the anxiety and fear of the dog.
- Plush Toy + Heartbeat Simulator: The product contain a plush dog toy and a real heartbeat simulator that need 2 AAA batteries but not included. The plush dog toys is made from comfortable, skin-friendly fabrics, and it can be machine washable with the heart removed. The heartbeat will shut down automatically after running for 8 HOURS.
- A Natural Solution for anxiety: We adopt a natural way to accompany and comfort your pet, it is the most safe for your four-legged baby.
Rank #4
- Designed to Be Hugged and Wrapped Around: The Warm Hug Pal shape is engineered for dogs who like to curl their bodies around something soft - replicating the feel of snuggling with mama and littermates. A go-to comfort companion for sensitive sleepers and anxious dogs.
- Microwavable Warming Pouch: A natural flaxseed pouch tucked inside warms in the microwave in seconds and slips back into the pal, delivering gentle, body-temperature warmth. Ideal for crate training, post-surgery recovery, and chilly nights.
- Pet-Safe Lavender Aromatherapy: A hidden scent pouch is filled with artificial lavender fragrance beads - safer than essential oils - soothing for separation anxiety, thunder, fireworks, vet visits, and travel.
- Safe: Flaxseeds, sometimes called linseeds, pack a lot of fiber and protein into a small serving. Fiber is important to a dog’s digestive health, while protein provides energy and keeps the immune system strong.Removable Squeaker: The built-in squeaker adds playful sound, and pops out easily when it's time for a quieter snuggle session at bedtime or during recovery.
- Instructions: The squeaker and warming pouch are both in a zippered compartment. The squeaker should be removed when the warming pouch is in use so the plastic squeaker doesn’t melt. Both are in a zippered compartment.
Rank #3
- Engagement & Calming Comfort: The Calming Jumbo Ball for Dogs is designed to alleviate boredom and anxiety in your pets. Its impressive size captures attention, providing hours of stimulating play that tires out even the most energetic pups. This isn't just any dog jumbo ball; it's the ultimate solution to promote mental well-being and reduce loneliness through interactive play
- Unleash Instinctive Active Play & Essential Exercise: Struggling to keep your active dog engaged? Our herding ball encourages vigorous pushing, nose-poking, and playful chasing, making it a perfect choice for larger breeds. Transform daily exercise into an enriching game with this dynamic tool that promotes physical fitness and aids in weight management, ensuring your puppy gets the essential exercise they need
- Engineered For Extreme Durability & Long-Lasting Fun: Say goodbye to flimsy pet toys! This durable tear-resistant inflatable big ball features a robust anti-burst inner core encased in heavy-duty polyester cover, ensuring it withstands enthusiastic play. Whether your dog loves tug-of-war or vigorous chewing, this jolly ball is built to last, providing continuous enjoyment
- Thoughtfully Designed for Every Dog's Grip & Joy: Unlike traditional smooth balls, our calming jumbo ball features innovative dog-friendly handles. This design allows dogs of all sizes to easily grip and carry the ball, fostering engaging interactions. It's not just a jolly ball for dogs; it's a game-changer for active play that ensures every pup can participate and enjoy thoroughly
- Optimized Visibility & Breed-Specific Appeal: Crafted in vibrant blue and yellow, this giant tennis ball for dogs enhances visibility, engaging your dog's natural instincts. Specifically tailored as a herding ball for Australian Shepherds and similar breeds, this dog jumbo ball provides unparalleled visual stimulation, ensuring maximum enjoyment and interaction during playtime with a toy they can truly perceive and love
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
