20 Teddy Bear Dog Breeds: Pictures, Facts, & History

What Are Teddy Bear Dog Breeds?

Teddy bear dog breeds are small, fluffy dogs that resemble the cuddly appearance of a teddy bear. These dogs typically have round faces, large eyes, and soft, dense fur that makes them look adorable and huggable. Known for their affectionate and friendly nature, these breeds are popular as companion pets.

Why They’re Popular as Pets

Teddy bear dogs are cherished for their charming looks and loving personalities. They are often hypoallergenic, making them a suitable choice for people with allergies. Their manageable size and adaptable nature make them ideal for various living environments, including apartments and houses with small yards.

Top 20 Teddy Bear Dog Breeds 2024

1. Bichon Frise dog Breed

History and Origin

The Bichon Frise, originating from the Mediterranean region, was initially popular among Spanish sailors before gaining favor in European royal courts. Its name means “curly lap dog” in French.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (7-12 lbs)
• Coat: Soft, curly, and fluffy; white or white with cream
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Bichon Frises are cheerful, playful, and affectionate. They get along well with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs.

Care and Grooming

Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat, including brushing a few times a week and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. They also require regular dental care and ear cleaning.

Fun Facts

• The Bichon Frise was a favorite of French nobility and often featured in paintings by renowned artists like Francisco de Goya.

2. Morkie Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Morkie is a designer breed, a cross between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier, developed in the United States.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Tiny (4-8 lbs)
• Coat: Long, silky, and prone to tangling; colors include black, brown, white, or a mix
• Lifespan: 10-14 years

Temperament and Personality

Morkies are lively, affectionate, and loyal. They love attention and can be quite vocal, making them good watchdogs.

Care and Grooming

Their coat needs daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Regular vet check-ups, dental care, and ear cleaning are essential.

Fun Facts

• Morkies are known for their energetic nature and can sometimes be seen participating in agility competitions.

3. Maltipoo Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Maltipoo is a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle, designed to be a low-shedding, hypoallergenic pet.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (5-15 lbs)
• Coat: Curly or wavy; colors include white, cream, apricot, or a mix
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Maltipoos are friendly, affectionate, and intelligent. They are great with children and other pets, making them ideal family dogs.

Care and Grooming

Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat, including brushing and occasional trimming. They also need regular dental care.

Fun Facts

• Maltipoos are known for their high energy and love for playing fetch and other interactive games.

4. Goldendoodle Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Goldendoodle is a hybrid breed, a mix of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, first developed in the 1990s.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Medium to large (15-90 lbs depending on the parents)
• Coat: Curly or wavy; colors include cream, gold, red, or apricot
• Lifespan: 10-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Goldendoodles are friendly, intelligent, and energetic. They are known for their gentle nature and make excellent therapy dogs.

Care and Grooming

Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. They also need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

Fun Facts

• Goldendoodles are often used as service dogs due to their trainability and gentle temperament.

5. Cockapoo Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Cockapoo is one of the oldest designer dog breeds, a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, originating in the United States in the 1960s.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small to medium (12-24 lbs)
• Coat: Curly or wavy; colors vary widely
• Lifespan: 13-16 years

Temperament and Personality

Cockapoos are affectionate, intelligent, and easygoing. They get along well with children and other pets and are known for their happy disposition.

Care and Grooming

Regular grooming is needed to maintain their coat. They also require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

Fun Facts

• Cockapoos are known for their versatility in various canine sports, including agility and obedience competitions.

6. Pomeranian Dog Breed

History and Origin

Pomeranians originate from the Pomerania region in Germany and Poland. They were bred down from large sled-pulling dogs.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (3-7 lbs)
• Coat: Fluffy, double coat; colors include orange, black, white, blue, red, and more
• Lifespan: 12-16 years

Temperament and Personality

Pomeranians are lively, curious, and bold. They are loyal to their owners and can be good watchdogs.

Care and Grooming

Their thick coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They also need regular dental care and ear cleaning.

Fun Facts

• Pomeranians are known for their “big dog” personalities in a small package and have been owned by many historical figures, including Queen Victoria.

7. Schnoodle Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Schnoodle is a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle, bred to be a low-shedding, hypoallergenic pet.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small to medium (10-70 lbs, depending on the parents)
• Coat: Wavy or curly; colors include black, white, brown, gray, and more
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Schnoodles are intelligent, affectionate, and energetic. They make excellent family pets and are good with children.

Care and Grooming

Their coat needs regular grooming to prevent mats. They also require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

Fun Facts

• Schnoodles are known for their playful nature and often excel in obedience and agility training.

8. Lhasa Apso Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Lhasa Apso originates from Tibet, where they were bred as sentinel dogs for monasteries and palaces.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (12-18 lbs)
• Coat: Long, dense, and straight; colors include gold, cream, and honey
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Lhasa Apsos are independent, loyal, and alert. They are known for their keen sense of hearing and make good watchdogs.

Care and Grooming

Their long coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles. Regular grooming and occasional trims are also needed.

Fun Facts

• Lhasa Apsos were considered sacred in Tibet and were often given as gifts to dignitaries.

9. Malshi Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Malshi is a designer breed, a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu, developed for their hypoallergenic qualities and friendly nature.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (6-12 lbs)
• Coat: Soft, wavy, or curly; colors include white, black, brown, and combinations
• Lifespan: 12-14 years

Temperament and Personality

Malshis are affectionate, playful, and friendly. They are great with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs.

Care and Grooming

Regular grooming is needed to keep their coat healthy, including brushing and occasional trims. Dental care and regular vet check-ups are essential.

Fun Facts

• Malshis are known for their charming nature, making them popular therapy dogs.

10. Shih Tzu dog breed

History and Origin

The Shih Tzu has a long history, originating in China, where they were favored by royalty. Their name means “lion dog” in Mandarin.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (9-16 lbs)
• Coat: Long, flowing, and silky; colors include gold, white, brown, and black
• Lifespan: 10-16 years

Temperament and Personality

Shih Tzus is affectionate, friendly, and outgoing. They are good with children and other pets and enjoy being the center of attention.

Care and Grooming

Their long coat requires daily brushing and regular grooming. They also need regular dental care and eye cleaning.

Fun Facts

• Shih Tzus were bred to be companions and were often kept by Chinese emperors and their families.

11. Cavachon Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Cavachon is a hybrid breed, a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise, developed in the United States.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (12-20 lbs)
• Coat: Wavy or curly; colors include white, cream, and combinations of white with tan or apricot
• Lifespan: 10-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Cavachons are friendly, affectionate, and playful. They are good with children and other pets and make great family dogs.

Care and Grooming

Their coat needs regular brushing to prevent tangles. Regular dental care and vet check-ups are also important.

Fun Facts

• Cavachons are known for their gentle nature and are often used as therapy dogs.

12. Chow Chow Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Chow Chow is an ancient breed from China, known for its distinctive lion-like mane and blue-black tongue.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Medium to large (45-70 lbs)
• Coat: Thick, dense, and rough; colors include red, black, blue, cinnamon, and cream
• Lifespan: 8-12 years

Temperament and Personality

Chow Chows are independent, aloof, and loyal. They are known for their reserved nature and make excellent guard dogs.

Care and Grooming

Their thick coat requires regular brushing to prevent mats. They also need regular dental care and exercise.

Fun Facts

• Chow Chows have a unique blue-black tongue, which is rare among dog breeds and adds to their distinctive appearance.

13. Shorkie dog Breed

History and Origin

The Shorkie is a designer breed, a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier, developed for their friendly and affectionate nature.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (5-12 lbs)
• Coat: Long, silky, and prone to tangling; colors include black, brown, white, and combinations
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Shorkies are energetic, affectionate, and loyal. They are good with children and other pets and enjoy being part of the family.

Care and Grooming

Their coat needs regular brushing to prevent tangles. Regular dental care and vet check-ups are essential.

Fun Facts

• Shorkies are known for their lively and playful nature, making them great companions for active families.

14. Sheepadoodle Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Sheepadoodle is a hybrid breed, a cross between an Old English Sheepdog and a Poodle, bred for their hypoallergenic coat and friendly nature.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Medium to large (60-80 lbs)
• Coat: Curly or wavy; colors include black, white, gray, and combinations
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Sheepadoodles are intelligent, affectionate, and playful. They are good with children and other pets and make excellent family dogs.

Care and Grooming

Their coat needs regular grooming to prevent mats. They also require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

Fun Facts

• Sheepadoodles are known for their high energy and love for outdoor activities, making them ideal pets for active families.

15. Shichon Dog Breed

History and Origin

The Shichon is a designer breed, a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Bichon Frise, developed for its hypoallergenic qualities and friendly nature.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (10-15 lbs)
• Coat: Soft, wavy, or curly; colors include white, cream, and combinations of white with tan or apricot
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Shichons are affectionate, playful, and friendly. They are good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs.

Care and Grooming

Their coat needs regular grooming to prevent tangles. Regular dental care and vet check-ups are essential.

Fun Facts

• Shichons are known for their gentle nature and are often used as therapy dogs.

16. Maltese Shih Tzu dog

History and Origin

The Maltese Shih Tzu is a designer breed, a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu, developed for their hypoallergenic qualities and friendly nature.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (6-12 lbs)
• Coat: Soft, wavy, or curly; colors include white, black, brown, and combinations
• Lifespan: 12-14 years

Temperament and Personality

Maltese Shih Tzus are affectionate, playful, and friendly. They are great with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs.

Care and Grooming

Regular grooming is needed to keep their coat healthy, including brushing and occasional trims. Dental care and regular vet check-ups are essential.

Fun Facts

• Maltese Shih Tzus are known for their charming nature, making them popular therapy dogs.

17. Poodle

History and Origin

Poodles have a rich history that dates back to at least the 15th century. Although often associated with France, Poodles actually originated in Germany, where they were used as water retrievers. Their name comes from the German word “Pudel,” meaning “to splash in water.”

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Varies (Standard: 40-70 lbs, Miniature: 10-15 lbs, Toy: 4-6 kg)
• Coat: Curly and dense, which is often clipped into various styles; colors include white, black, apricot, gray, and more.
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Poodles are known for their intelligence, making them one of the most trainable dog breeds. They are energetic, alert, and thrive on attention and mental stimulation. Poodles are loyal and form strong bonds with their families, making them excellent companion animals.

Care and Grooming

Poodles require regular grooming to maintain their curly coats, which are prone to matting if not properly cared for. This includes frequent brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial to keep Poodles happy and healthy.

Fun Facts

• Poodles excel in dog sports such as agility, obedience, and tracking, thanks to their intelligence and athleticism.
• They are often seen in circuses due to their ability to learn complex tricks quickly.

18. Yorkshire Terrier

History and Origin

The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, was developed in the 19th century in Yorkshire, England. Originally bred to catch rats in mills and mines, Yorkies quickly became fashionable pets among Victorian high society.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (4-7 lbs)
• Coat: Long, silky, and straight; typically blue and tan.
• Lifespan: 13-16 years

Temperament and Personality

Yorkies are known for their bold, aggressive, and energetic nature. Despite their small size, they have a big personality and are very protective of their owners. Yorkies are affectionate and enjoy being the center of attention.

Care and Grooming

Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats. Regular dental care is important to avoid dental issues common in small breeds. Yorkies also benefit from regular vet check-ups and vaccinations.

Fun Facts

• Yorkshire Terriers are known for their courageous and adventurous spirit, often thinking of themselves as much larger than they are.
• They were one of the first breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

19. Shih-Poo

History and Origin

The Shih-Poo is a designer breed, a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, created to combine the best traits of both parent breeds. This hybrid is relatively new, gaining popularity over the past few decades.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (8-18 lbs)
• Coat: Curly or wavy, soft and dense; colors include black, white, brown, and combinations.
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament and Personality

Shih-Poos are affectionate, playful, and friendly. They enjoy the company of their families and are known for their friendly nature. Shih-Poos are adaptable and do well in various living environments, from apartments to larger homes.

Care and Grooming

Their coat requires regular grooming, including brushing several times a week and occasional trims. Shih-Poos also need regular dental care, ear cleaning, and vet check-ups to maintain their overall health.

Fun Facts

• Shih-Poos are known for their playful and loving nature, making them excellent therapy dogs.
• They are often less likely to shed, making them a good choice for people with allergies.

20. Bolognese Dog

History and Origin

The Bolognese dog, part of the Bichon family, originated in Bologna, Italy. They have been treasured by Italian nobility for centuries and were often given as royal gifts throughout Europe.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small (5.5-9 lbs)
• Coat: Long, fluffy, and white, resembling cotton balls.
• Lifespan: 12-14 years

Temperament and Personality

Bolognese dogs are known for their calm, affectionate, and loyal nature. They form strong bonds with their families and prefer to be with their owners as much as possible. Bolognese dogs are gentle and get along well with children and other pets.

Care and Grooming

Their fluffy white coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangling and matting. Bolognese dogs also need regular dental care and occasional baths to keep their coat clean and healthy.

Fun Facts

• Bolognese dogs have been depicted in many famous artworks, including paintings by Titian and Goya.
• They are known for their “shaggy dog” appearance and gentle demeanor.

Conclusion

Choosing the Right Teddy Bear Dog for You

When selecting a teddy bear dog, consider your lifestyle, living space, and any specific needs such as hypoallergenic qualities. Each breed offers unique traits and care requirements, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every potential dog owner.

Summary of Key Points

Teddy bear dog breeds are beloved for their adorable, cuddly appearance and loving, affectionate personalities. With the proper care and attention, these breeds can make wonderful companions, bringing joy and companionship to any household. From the energetic and playful Maltipoo to the calm and loyal Bolognese, there is a teddy bear dog for everyone.