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7 Dog Breeds That Are Living Teddy Bears

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| August 29, 2024

When choosing a dog, many people are drawn to breeds resembling living teddy bears. These dogs are not only adorable with their plush-like fur and cuddly appearance but also possess a sweet and affectionate temperament that makes them perfect companions. Whether you’re looking for a dog that is small enough to snuggle in your lap or one that has a larger, huggable presence, these breeds offer a unique combination of cuteness and charm. Each of these breeds has its own special qualities that make it the ideal “living teddy bear,” perfect for those who want a dog that’s as lovable as it is adorable.

7. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small, ancient breed that is often described as a living teddy bear due to its soft, fluffy coat and endearing personality. Weighing between 9 and 16 pounds, Shih Tzus are known for their luxurious double coats, which require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Their large, dark eyes and sweet expression make them irresistible to those who love cuddly dogs. Shih Tzus are also known for their friendly and affectionate nature, often forming strong bonds with their owners and enjoying being close to them. They are great lap dogs and thrive on companionship, making them perfect for those who want a small, cuddly pet full of love.

6. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is another small breed that perfectly fits the “living teddy bear” description. With its fluffy white coat and round, black eyes, the Bichon Frise looks like a plush toy come to life. Weighing between 12 and 18 pounds, these dogs have a cheerful and playful personality that makes them great companions for families and singles alike. Bichons are known for their gentle and affectionate nature and love being around people. They are also highly trainable and enjoy learning new tricks, which adds to their charm. The Bichon Frise’s soft, curly coat requires regular grooming, but many owners find this to be a rewarding part of their relationship with their dog. Their cuddly appearance and loving disposition make the Bichon Frise an excellent choice for those looking for a small, affectionate companion.

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5. Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a small but mighty breed that is often compared to a teddy bear due to its fluffy coat and lively personality. Weighing between 3 and 7 pounds, Pomeranians are one of the smallest breeds, but they have a big presence. Their thick, double coat gives them a plush, teddy bear-like appearance, especially when it’s well-groomed. Pomeranians are known for their outgoing and confident nature, often believing they are much larger than they actually are. They are very affectionate with their owners and enjoy being the center of attention. Pomeranians are also highly intelligent and love learning, making them entertaining and endearing companions. Despite their small size, Pomeranians are full of personality, and their fluffy, cuddly appearance makes them a favorite among those who want a dog that looks like a living teddy bear.

4. Cavapoo

The Cavapoo is a designer breed that combines the best traits of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, resulting in a dog that looks just like a teddy bear. Cavapoos typically weigh between 12 and 25 pounds and have a soft, curly, or wavy coat that is often hypoallergenic. Their round faces, large eyes, and expressive ears make them incredibly cute and cuddly. Cavapoos are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, and they thrive on human interaction. They are great with children and other pets, making them an excellent choice for families. Cavapoos are also intelligent and easy to train, which adds to their appeal. Their teddy bear-like appearance and loving personality make the Cavapoo a popular choice for those who want a dog that’s as adorable as it is affectionate.

3. Keeshond

The Keeshond is a medium-sized breed that is often described as a “big teddy bear” due to its plush coat and friendly demeanor. Weighing between 35 and 45 pounds, the Keeshond has a thick, double coat that gives it a soft, fluffy appearance. Their expressive eyes, pointed ears, and curled tails add to their teddy bear-like charm. Keeshonds are known for their affectionate and outgoing personality, and they are especially good with children. They are also highly intelligent and enjoy being part of family activities. Keeshonds are known for their loyalty and love to be around their people, often following them from room to room. Despite their thick coat, Keeshonds are relatively easy to groom, requiring regular brushing to keep their fur in good condition. Their plush appearance and loving nature make the Keeshond a perfect choice for those who want a dog that looks and acts like a big, cuddly teddy bear.

2. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a small breed with a luxurious coat and personality, making it a true living teddy bear. Weighing between 12 and 18 pounds, the Lhasa Apso has a long, flowing coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its softness and shine. This breed was originally bred as a guard dog for Tibetan monasteries, which gives it a unique combination of independence and affection. Lhasa Apsos are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners, often forming strong bonds and enjoying close companionship. Despite their small size, they have a confident and sometimes playful demeanor, making them both cuddly and entertaining. The Lhasa Apso’s plush coat and endearing personality make it a wonderful choice for those looking for a dog that combines the qualities of a protective companion with the cuddly appearance of a teddy bear.

1. Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is perhaps the ultimate living teddy bear, with its thick, fluffy coat and distinctive appearance. Weighing between 45 and 70 pounds, the Chow Chow is a large breed that is known for its lion-like mane and teddy bear-like face. Their deep-set eyes, small ears, and broad head give them a unique and adorable look, making them popular with dog lovers worldwide. Chow Chows are known for their independent and reserved nature, but they are also very loyal and protective of their families. Despite their somewhat aloof demeanor, Chow Chows are very affectionate with their loved ones and enjoy being close to them. Their thick double coat requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best, but many owners find this to be a rewarding part of their relationship with their dog. The Chow Chow’s combination of a plush, teddy bear-like appearance, and loyal personality makes it the perfect choice for those who want a big, fluffy companion that looks like a living teddy bear.

Cuddly Companions That Steal Hearts

Choosing a dog that resembles a living teddy bear can bring endless joy and comfort into your life. The breeds listed above, from the small and fluffy Pomeranian to the big and huggable Chow Chow, offer a unique combination of cuteness, personality, and affection. Whether you’re looking for a small lap dog or a larger, protective companion, these teddy bear-like breeds will surely steal your heart with their adorable looks and loving nature. Each breed embodies the qualities that make them perfect for those who want a cuddly and loyal dog, offering years of companionship and love.