Are you looking for warm hugs? Whether we are excited, happy, and even more, when we are sad, it is always comforting to receive some hugs. A lot of studies show that holding someone close to you makes you happier and also aids in reducing stress and anxiety. Your good old teddy bear wouldn’t do the trick as a warm, affectionate dog. Read on to get to know your huggable teddy bear dogs. Who knows, they might surprise you with kisses too!
We at the Furry Companion listed various teddy bear dog breeds in three categories depending on their size. We hope that you’ll meet your perfect cuddle buddy (or buddies) on our list.
Table of Contents
Meet Your Small Teddy Bear Dogs
Our teddy bear dogs may come in different shapes and sizes. Small teddy bear dogs are best for those who have limited space at home. Your little furry friends should have enough space for them to play and run around. These cute small teddy bear dogs are also more comfortable to cuddle with! Wrap your entire arms around them and bring them everywhere you go. You will never be without a snuggle buddy.
1) BICHON FRISE
It feels like heaven! Wouldn’t you just want to wrap your arms around this fluffy cloud-like furball? The Bichon was originally called Barbichon Cam, which was from their oldest known ancestor, the Barbet, while “Frise” was a later addition referring to its natural curls. Because of their regal aura, Bichons were favorite pets amongst royalty.
Bichon Frises are known to be cheerful, playful, and, most important of all, affectionate. They are perfect teddy bear dogs, especially for families who have children because they are known to be sensitive and gentle. Bichon Frises can live from 12 -15 years.
Things to look out for:
Bichon Frises may suffer from separation anxiety. Since bichons are very social by nature, they may require a lot of attention from you. To avoid this, you have to make sure to spend ample time bonding with them. Hence, maximize that cuddle time!
2) CHIHUAHUA
Great things come in small packages. Chihuahuas are small dogs with prominent personalities (and eyes too!). Chihuahuas’ known ancestors are the Techichis, which were considered sacred by the ancient Toltecs. The breed is said to originate from Mexico.
Chihuahuas are tiny but confident. Despite their small stature, they are said to be bold and brazen, who can rule your household. This teddy bear dog is also known to be affectionate and loyal as a breed. However, they tend to play favorites with one member of the family. Chihuahuas are known to live for 12 – 20 years.
Things to Remember:
Chihuahuas are also attention seekers. You might want to devote a lot of time bonding with this little teddy bear dog. Although they are affectionate to children, you should consider the chihuahua’s interaction with children, especially during rough play. Because of their size, their bones may break easily. Be gentle, folks! Check this chihuahua bag.
3) YORKIPOO
Two is better than one! A Yorkipoo is a product of crossbreeding between a Poodle and a Yorkshire Terrier. Mixing the two breeds have only been around for about ten years and was initially practiced to develop a toy-sized dog with a hypoallergenic coat. Further breeding was necessary to avoid genetic disorders and the development of more desirable traits.
Like its name, a Yorkipoo has a combination of traits such as intelligence, being affectionate, and gentle. When it is not using its energy playing, Yorkipoos are satisfied by resting on your lap. Unlike many toy dogs, Yorkipoos easy going and may require less attention. It is a perfect teddy bear dog because it is known as a companion dog who always makes himself present. Yorkipoos are said to have a life expectancy of 10- 15 years.
Things To Remember:
A Yorkipoo, like any other toy dog, is susceptible to health problems. A typical example is an atopic dermatitis or skin allergies. To avoid this, observe your Yorkipoo for any skin discoloration or continuous scratching. Make sure to visit a clinic when this happens.
4) SHIH TZU
Hug a royalty! Shih Tzu is also one of the breeds that have been long favored by the royals. It has been on old portraits, which should not come as a surprise because it is one of the fourteen oldest known dog breeds. “Shih Tzu” means “little lion” because of its appearance and because people believe that they used to accompany lions and keep them calm.
Shih Tzu’s primary role was to be a companion, and they are good at it. They are not known to guard nor fetch, but they can always stay right by your side. They find joy in following you around. These teddy bear dogs will fill your cuddles with warmth because of its affectionate nature, and its beautiful long coat. Its life span may vary from 10 to 16 years. Check this set of shih tzu clothes.
A Thing To Remember:
Because of the long coat of a Shih Tzu, you need to brush their hair often to avoid tangles. You may also want to take them to the groomers, or you may also do groom them yourself!
5) MALTESE
The Maltese exude glamour. Like the ShihTzu, the Maltese have been known to exist since ancient times. People of prominence from Egypt, Greece, and other European countries are said to be fond of the Maltese. People used to believe that these white teddy bear dogs can cure the sick by being placed on their pillows.
A Maltese thinks that everyone he meets is a friend. They are known to be lively, energetic, and obedient. Aside from being a great companion, they are also therapy dogs. This teddy bear dog is known to live between 12 to 15 years. Get your maltese dog these chew toys.
A Thing To Remember:
Malteses are house dogs. They do not tolerate extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold. You may want to make sure that they stay in a room with a stable temperature and with proper ventilation.
Cuddle With Your Medium-Sized Teddy Bear Dog
Medium-sized teddy bear dogs are best for plays and cuddles. You can tag them along with you during your exercise while still comfortably placing them on your laps. Having a medium-sized teddy bear dog might be better to have, especially with kids around. They could handle more vigorous play while staying gentle.
6) GOLDEN RETRIEVER
You are golden! The Golden Retrievers are definite crowd favorites because of their intelligence and friendly nature. Lord Tweedmouth of Scotland was known to breed Golden Retrievers. The Lord wanted a trusty companion during his hunting adventures.
Golden Retrievers are good teddy bear dogs because of their sweet and calm nature. They are also known to be tolerable, which makes them competent babysitters. Aside from warm hugs, you can also play with them by fetch and are even good swimming companions. Golden Retrievers have a life span of 10 – 12 years.
A Thing To Remember:
Golden Retrievers are outdoor dogs. To keep them fit and healthy, let them join you in your daily morning jogs or take them on your next hiking trip.
“Goldens have a well-deserved reputation for being excellent family dogs, which probably explains why they were ranked at number four in the American Kennel Club’s latest ranking of the most popular dogs in the U.S.,” says Jennifer Coates, DVM.
7) OLD ENGLISH SHEEPDOG
Shaggy but handy! Old English Sheepdogs are known to help farmers to drive the sheep and cattle to the market. They were considered drover dogs. By the 1900s, Old English Sheepdogs were bred by five prominent U.S. families only.
Old English Sheepdogs are quick and interested learners. These teddy bear dogs are also playful and are affectionate clowns who enjoy bonding with adults and children alike. Old English Sheepdogs can be one of your best teddy bear dogs because they are very clingy! They would always want to stay near you, ready to be squeezed by your tight hugs. Their lifespan is said to last from 10-12 years.
A Thing To Remember:
Old English Sheepdog is a very active and energetic breed. This dog comes from their sheepherding duties. To keep them away from destroying your furniture, keep them busy through exercise. Having an active lifestyle will also keep them healthy.
8) COLLIE
Collies are said to be from Scotland and northern England. They have several nicknames such as Coaly, Colley, or Collis, which may have originated from “col” or “coll,” Anglo-Saxon words referring to being black. On the other hand, some believe that its name came from Colley, a black-colored sheep that these teddy bear dogs used to guard.
Collies are sweet, friendly, and gentle companions. They would love spending time with you in all of your activities. A Collie would remain devoted to your family watching over you and especially the welfare of the children. Collie is considered an intelligent breed, and you can easily teach them a trick or two.
A Thing To Remember:
Because Collies are herding dogs, they are excessive barkers. Aside from being a warning sign, Collies may bark because of boredom. Keep your collies busy by playing with them, practicing their tricks, and involving them in your family activities.
“Almost all dogs bark, and pet owners know that they must endure a little racket. However, excessive barking that disrupts the household or disturbs the neighbors is a problem. Determine why your dog is barking,” Lynn Buzhardt, DVM points out.
9) DASCHUNDS
Would you care for some hotdogs? Yes, you do! Because of their long bodies, they have several nicknames, including Wiener-Dog, Sausage Dog, and Doxie. Daschunds originated from Germany, where they used to hunt foxes, deers, hares, and rabbits. Their long noses are useful in detecting scent while their legs, though short, are suitable for digging. Because of their loose skin, they can easily traverse through narrow openings.
Daschunds are born cuddlers, which makes them perfect as your teddy bear dogs. Their sweet nature compensates for their occasional rashness and stubbornness. Daschunds are also lively, playful, bright, and courageous. A dachshund’s personality may differ with coat type: wirehaired, longhaired, and smooths. Dachshunds have a lifespan of 12- 15 years.
A Thing To Remember:
Because of their long spines, you should be careful when holding Dachshunds. You should remember to support its rear and chest when carrying them. As a safety precaution, provide ramps or steps for them to go up and down the furniture to avoid injuring their backs from jumping.
10) BULL TERRIER
Bull Terrier was from the crossbreeding of a Bulldog with the English Terrier. They were gladiators as they used to fight in rings. Today, they no longer practice this, and their sweet nature is appreciated and loved by many.
Bull Terriers will always be at your beck and call. They are extroverts who would still be happy to stay with you. They are also loving, which makes them suitable as teddy bear dogs—the life span of 10 – 15 years.
A Thing To Remember:
Bull Terriers can be very possessive and may potentially be aggressive to other animals. Thus, you should consider training them to avoid developing this personality. Teaching them to control their temper includes obedience lessons to stop them from unwanted chewing and barking.
Great Big Hugs For Your Big Teddy Bear Dogs
The larger, the better! You could comfortably snuggle with your large teddy bear dogs without fear of crushing their bones. If you do not have worries about having enough space in your home or the amount of fur they shed, giant teddy bear dogs could be perfect for you!
11) GREAT DANE
Are you ready for your great big hugs? Great Danes have been around for thousands of years. They were present in both Egypt and Tibet. The German nobles bred the most massive and most attractive Great Danes to pamper and put them on display from being boar hunters. Early breeders were able to tame Great Danes from being ferocious beasts to the gentle giants we know of them. They have a life span ranging from seven to ten years.
You should not be overwhelmed with the size of the Great Danes. Proportional to its size is the amount of love and affection, these giants are capable of showing you. Great Danes are one of the best-natured dogs. Amidst their size, they are gentle and are also lapdogs. You just have to make sure you have enough room for them because they will keep squeezing themselves to stay close to you.
A Thing To Remember
Because of their size, you might want to consider relocating if you live in an apartment. You do not wish to feel cramped with a big dog who can easily bump into your furniture. Moreover, to avoid straining the dog’s growing bones, limit their jogging activities until they are about 18 months old or two years old.
12) BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG
The Bernese Mountain Dog is known to have been serving on Swiss farms for 2,000 years. They helped by pulling, watching after the farmlands, accompanying livestock, and was proved to be loyal companions to their owners. Until today, they have remained good companions, even without their herding duties.
From their training in the farms, the Bernese Mountain Dog is intelligent and alert. They are also gentle, calm, tolerant, and affectionate. These black teddy bear dogs may shy away from strangers, but they are loving and protective of their family. Bernese Mountain Dogs may live for a span of six to ten years.
A Thing To Remember:
The Bernese Mountain Dog has a stunning thick coat. Although their fur makes them suitable for cold weather areas, their coat makes the Bernese Mountain Dog susceptible to heatstroke. You should avoid strenuous exercises for these hair teddy bear dogs during summer when the temperature is exceptionally high.
13) NEWFOUNDLAND
Newfoundland, as it names suggests, originated from Newfoundland. Because of their strength and size, they were helpful as working dogs. The Newfoundland would assist fishers in pulling their nets and hauling wood from the forest. In the 1780s, the Canadian government’s taxes on keeping a dog, endangered the Newfoundland.
You may have found a new found love! The Newfoundland are large dogs that are oozing with a sweet disposition. They are the teddy bear dogs that you will love. Newfoundland is affectionate, and they simply want to please you and the entire family. They are known to live for a span of eight to ten years.
A Thing To Remember:
This large dog may not have a structure for a long-distance run, but they are undeniably talented swimmers. You may want to keep them preoccupied to keep them healthy and help in managing their energy. Because of their massive bone structure, steer away from high impact activities while they are young to avoid bone injuries.
14) AFGHAN HOUND
The Afghan Hound exudes grace and elegance. They are known to be one of the oldest dog breeds that have been in existence for thousands of years. As the name suggests, they originated from Afghanistan. Because of their unique and regal stature, Afghan Hounds are dog supermodels.
The Afghan Hounds usually devote their life to one family or one person. Strangers may find Afghan Hounds indifferent. Moreover, they are also not considered to watchdogs because they rarely bark. But what we can assure you is that Afghan Hounds will be your most loyal companion. The Afghan Hound is to live for a span of 10 to 12 years.
A Thing To Remember:
Afghan Hounds are known for their beautiful hair, but this alone deserves much of your attention. Bond with your Afghan Hound while brushing his silky coat. By doing so, you would be able to keep them more huggable as your teddy bear dogs.
15) ALASKAN MALAMUTE
Alaskan Malamutes are known to be one of the oldest Arctic dogs. They allowed travel from Siberia to Alaska through land bridges. Their sturdy and robust stature has been helpful in hunting seals, pulling sleds, and driving polar bears away.
The cold will never bother you anymore! Alaskan Malamutes, even with their intimidating features, are very outgoing and playful. They are not ideal as watchdogs because they can quickly get along with anyone, even strangers. Since they are used to being in a pack, Alakaskan Malamutes love being close to their humans. They are incredibly loyal, which makes them perfect for your cuddles. These furry gentle giants can live up from 12 – 15 years.
A Thing To Remember
Alaskan Malamutes love to dig. However, you should not attempt to stop this behavior. You can simply adjust to the situation and support your Alaskan Malamute’s joy in their hobby. Designate an area in your yard to allow your furry friends to have the time of their lives! It is also a good exercise for them.
16) IRISH WOLFHOUNDS
Men also used Irish Wolfhounds because of their size and strength. Years ago, during times of war, these canines dragged men off their chariots and horses. They were also helpful in hunting large animals like deers, wolves, and boars. Kings and nobles adored Their bravery and ferocity.
All is fair in love and war. Irish Wolfhounds are no longer used in warfare today. They are now known to be kind and gentle dogs who have a strong desire for human companionship. They are also known to be sensitive, calm, and responsive. During a bad day, or frankly just any other day, this teddy bear dog would make you feel loved. Irish Wolfhounds are known to live for a span of six to eight years.
A Thing To Remember:
Unlike other large dogs, the Irish Wolfhounds are considered house dogs. They love staying indoors and bonding with the family. To avoid damage in this teddy bear dog’s joints, they should refrain from going up and down the stairs.
Teddy bear dogs, no matter what size, are ready to give you some loving and snuggling! You will never regret getting or adopting these bundles of joy because they will never get tired of giving you the warmest hugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are teddy bear dogs like?
Teddy bear dogs are much like you expect, cuddly and loving. This mix breed is named teddy bear dogs because the same as teddy bears, they have fluffy fur, cute eyes, and button noses. Teddy bear dogs are initially to serve as therapy dogs. But over the years, they gained more popularity because of their loyalty and friendliness.
Are teddy bear dogs good pets?
Yes, because they are very friendly and affectionate towards humans. They also come in different sizes, which gives pet lovers more breed options to choose from. This breed is also sometimes called designer dogs since it is a hybrid of more than one breed. They are perfect pets for those who are undergoing therapy and for people with allergy.
What are teddy bear pups?
Teddy bear pups are a mix of two dog breeds. Usually, this type is small in height and barely grows in size until they reach adulthood. They commonly have a fluffy coat, which makes them very huggable. The faces of teddy bear pups are typically round with charming eyes.
Are teddy bear dogs easy to potty train?
Unfortunately, this breed is challenging to potty train. So if you are planning to get this designer breed, be prepared in doing extra work during potty training. Take extra patience because the process can be frustrating and time-consuming. But rest assured that with proper training and consistency, you will achieve the best results.
Can Teddy Bear dogs be left alone?
Teddy bear dogs may feel anxious when left alone in the house. Be sure to never leave them on their own for an extended period. Also, make sure always to leave them food and water to ensure that they won’t go thirsty nor hungry. It will also help to leave them a fun toy to play with to keep them entertained.
Are teddy bear dogs aggressive?
No, teddy bear dogs are not aggressive. In fact, they are very friendly and are safe with children. This breed is very cuddly, affectionate, and loving to humans. They have lovely personalities, and it’s infrequent for them to lose their temper or be aggressive.
At what age are teddy bear puppies full grown?
Usually, small breeds stop growing at around 6 to 8 months. At the same time, medium-sized breeds stop at about 12 months or one year. Since teddy bear puppies are usually a mix between small and medium breeds, they are likely to stop growing between 6 months to 1 year.
What is a teacup teddy bear puppy?
As the name suggests, they are almost like the size of teacups. They are typically under 5 pounds in weight. Pet owners are very fond of them because of their small stature, which makes them very cute. However, if you are considering getting teacup dogs, you have to know that they are at risk of numerous health issues.
Do teddy bear dogs like to cuddle?
Every dog is different: some may like to cuddle and some might appreciate other forms of affection. You can check if your teddy bear dog likes to cuddy, and if this is their form of showing affection, then cuddle with them as much as you can! Otherwise, try patting or holding them, and see if they respond better to this.
How big does a teddy bear dog get?