cuddly puppy

I am interested  in thinking about the pattern design elements that make a soft object a cuddly toy versus a more austere sculptural piece.  Baby-like features are key, I think, to an appealing toy.  Big eyes and a big round head like a toddler.  I designed this cuddly dog as a way to experiment with these ideas.

His head has small darts on either side so that when it is stuffed it is very round. And the head gusset is like a wide pie wedge adding to the fullness.  And his head is sewn separately and then attached to the body so that it can be turned in any direction.  This gives the finished toy a feeling of action, like the dog is frisky and inquisitive.  The base of the tail is gathered and then sewn down and  I think that is a very cute touch. He looks playful.