Zoonies

Zoonies is a registered trademark for a specific brand of plush toy manufactured by the company Russ Berrie and Company, Inc. (now known as Applause). Introduced in the early 1990s, Zoonies are characterized by their soft, squeezable bodies, oversized heads, and expressive, often humorous, facial features. They were marketed primarily towards children and young adults.

Zoonies were produced in a wide variety of animal characters, ranging from common animals like bears and dogs to more exotic creatures. What set them apart from other plush toys of the time was their unique design and the perceived "personality" attributed to each character through its distinct expression.

The popularity of Zoonies peaked in the mid-1990s. While no longer in widespread production, vintage Zoonies are often sought after by collectors and can be found for sale in online marketplaces and antique shops. The toys represent a nostalgic item for many who grew up during that era. The brand's licensing has shifted over time, with similar plush toy designs potentially appearing under different trademarks or product lines in later years.