All About Teddy Bear Dogs: The Adorable and Fluffy Companions

by David Greenberg Dog Groomer

Teddy bear dogs are a group of dogs that are often characterized by their fluffy, cuddly appearance, and friendly personality. These dogs are often bred from a mix of breeds or as a purebred, and they make great companions for those looking for a furry, snuggly friend. Here are 15 teddy bear dog breeds that are perfect for people looking for a new pet.

1. Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle is a smaller version of the Standard Poodle and is known for being intelligent, easy to train, and friendly with other dogs and people. They are tiny companions, usually no bigger than 10 inches tall and weighing 6-9 pounds. These pups are hypoallergenic, making them ideal for people with allergies.

2. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are one of the most affectionate purebred teddy-bear dogs. These tiny dogs average around 8 inches tall and ideally weigh no more than 7 pounds. Proper training and socialization as puppies are vital, and with such, they can be great family dogs.

3. Pomeranian

Pomeranians are a dog of royal stature and have a history of being loyal, hard-working pets. They can be between 8-14 inches tall and weigh 4-7 pounds. Pomeranians are very easy to train and loyal to a fault. Socialization at a young age is critical to ensure these dogs don’t get wound up around strangers later in life.

4. Maltese

Maltese dogs make it into a sub-category of teddy bear dogs; polar bears! Their pure white coats are hypoallergenic and non-shedding. Show dogs often keep their coats long, but most owners find it easier to maintain a short haircut. These little snowballs only grow to be 7-9 inches tall and 2-7 pounds.

5. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is famous for its fantastic personality and is often mistaken for the Maltese since their appearance is similar. They can sit at 9-11 inches tall and weigh 11-22 pounds. Their coats are also different, being wavy or curly compared to the straight hair of a Maltese.

6. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is medium-sized and lightweight, great with kids, and a good guard dog. They stand at 16-20 inches tall and weigh 30-40 pounds. Their light brown low-shed coat can be trimmed to give you that charming teddy bear look or left long for a more regal appearance.

7. Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is a loyal yet stubborn dog that is better trained with positive reinforcement than harsh methods. These compact pups weigh 45-70 pounds and stand 17-21 inches tall. Their thick coats require regular grooming.

8. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate dog that loves attention and affection. They can be between 9-10.5 inches tall and weigh between 9-16 pounds. Shih Tzus are intelligent and easy to train, and their fluffy coat requires daily grooming.

9. Havanese

The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog that is easy to train and loves to be around people. They can grow to be 8.5-11.5 inches tall and weigh between 7-13 pounds. These dogs have a silky, wavy coat that requires regular grooming.

Coton de Tulear: This small, fluffy dog breed originated in Madagascar and was bred as a companion dog. The Coton de Tulear has a cotton-like coat that is soft and hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for people with allergies. They are friendly, affectionate, and loyal, and make great family pets.

10. Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog also known as the Sheltie, this dog breed was originally bred as a herding dog in the Shetland Islands of Scotland. They are intelligent, loyal, and energetic, and make great family pets. Shelties are known for their long, thick coats and their distinctive "mane" of fur around their necks.

11. Bulldog

The Bulldog is a medium-sized dog breed that was originally bred for bull-baiting in England. Despite their tough appearance, they are friendly, affectionate, and loyal dogs that make great family pets. Bulldogs are known for their wrinkled faces and muscular build.

12. Great Dane

The Great Dane is a giant dog breed that originated in Germany. They are known for their massive size and strength, but are also friendly, gentle, and affectionate dogs. Great Danes are often called "gentle giants" because of their friendly nature despite their size.

13. Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in Siberia. They were originally bred for sled pulling and are known for their strength and endurance. Siberian Huskies have thick coats and are very active and intelligent dogs. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to be happy and healthy.

14. Australian Shepherd

Despite their name, the Australian Shepherd was actually developed in the United States. They were originally bred as herding dogs and are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and athleticism. Australian Shepherds are often used as working dogs on farms and ranches, but also make great family pets. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions.

These are just a few examples of the many different dog breeds that exist. Each breed has its own unique characteristics and personality traits, so it's important to do your research and find a breed that matches your lifestyle and personality.