teddy bear dog
If you’ve ever looked at a dog and thought, “Wait… is that a stuffed animal?” — you’ve probably met a teddy bear dog. These fluffy little pups look like they just stepped out of a toy store window, and honestly, it’s impossible not to melt a little when you see one. But beyond their adorable faces, there’s actually a lot to know about these furry cuddle bugs — from how long they live to how often you’ll be brushing their hair (spoiler: a lot). Let’s dig in and see if one of these tiny charmers might be your next best friend.
What Are Teddy Bear Dogs?
Okay, so first things first — “teddy bear dog” isn’t an official breed name. It’s more like a nickname for dogs that look like little plush toys. According to Dr. Jo Myers, DVM at Pawp, these dogs are usually small mixes or breeds that were bred to have round, cute faces and super-soft coats. (dailypaws.com)
Over time, people started calling any small, fluffy dog with that button-nose-and-big-eyes combo a “teddy bear dog.” So yeah — it’s more of a vibe than a breed. (thepawsitive.co) But whether purebred or mixed, they’ve got one thing in common: pure, squeal-worthy cuteness.
What Breed Is a Teddy Bear Dog?
teddy bear dog breed
Here’s where it gets interesting — most teddy bear dogs are designer mixes. The most popular combo? A Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise, also known as a Shichon or Zuchon. (premierpups.com) Other adorable blends include the Mal-Shi (Maltese + Shih Tzu), Shih Poo (Shih Tzu + Poodle), and Poochon (Bichon Frise + Toy Poodle). (thepawsitive.co)
And honestly, some purebreds like the Pomeranian, Lhasa Apso, and Bichon Frise totally fit the teddy bear aesthetic, too. (dogster.com) Basically, if it looks like a toy you want to snuggle — it qualifies.
Pros and Cons of Teddy Bear Dogs
Pros
- They’re ridiculously cute. Like, unfairly cute.
- Perfect size for apartment living or lap lounging.
- Many mixes are low-shedding, making them great for allergy-prone humans. (petfinder.com)
- Super affectionate — they’ll happily be your little shadow all day long. (petlandflorida.com)
- Most are pretty smart, especially when trained with patience and treats. (petfinder.com)
Cons
- Their personality and looks can vary — hybrids are a surprise box.
- Grooming is non-negotiable. Skip it, and you’ll have tangles for days.
- Some can be a bit stubborn (thanks, Bichon and Shih Tzu genes). (nutrisourcepetfoods.com)
- They hate being left alone — hello, separation anxiety!
- Small size = extra fragility. Watch your step and keep them safe around little kids.
How Long Can a Teddy Bear Dog Live?
Good news — these little floofs can stick around for quite a while! Most teddy bear dogs live around 12 to 16 years, depending on their breed mix and how well they’re cared for. (petfinder.com) Regular vet checkups, good food, and plenty of love go a long way. (dogster.com)
Teddy Bear Dog Size
Think “tiny but mighty.” Most teddy bear dogs grow to around 9–12 inches tall and weigh between 8–15 pounds. (habibibears.com) But size totally depends on the parents. Some are teeny-tiny, while others are a bit chunkier (in the cutest way).
Teddy Bear Dog Haircut
If you want your pup to keep that plush-toy look, grooming is your best friend. The classic teddy bear cut keeps their coat short and round, especially around the face — giving them that adorable “I just walked out of a cartoon” vibe.
You’ll probably need a professional groomer every 4–6 weeks to keep things neat. In between, daily brushing keeps mats and tangles at bay. Some folks go for the puppy cut, which is shorter all over and easier to manage — perfect if you live somewhere warm. (
The 15 Best Teddy Bear Dogs: Cute, Cuddly, and Loyal
If you’re already googling “where can I get one,” here’s a list of the cutest teddy bear breeds and mixes out there:
- Bichon Frise (Picture)
- Shichon (Zuchon)
- Mal-Shi
- Maltipoo (picture)
- Goldendoodle (picture)
- Cockapoo (picture)
- Pomeranian (picture)
- Schnoodle
- Cavapoo (picture)
- Cavachon
- Lhasa Apso
- Morkie (picture)
- Shorkie
- Coton de Tulear
- Chow Chow
All of them are cute, but they’re not identical in energy or care needs — so make sure to do your homework before falling for those puppy eyes.
Do Teddy Bear Dogs Need Grooming?
In short? Absolutely. These dogs are like living stuffed animals — and that means upkeep. Daily brushing keeps their coat smooth and clean. (petfinder.com)
Plan for a trip to the groomer every month or so to trim their fur and clean up their face. Add in some ear cleaning, nail trimming, and a little doggy spa time — they’ll look fabulous, and you’ll avoid those painful mats.
How Much Does a Teddy Bear Dog Cost and Where Can I Buy It?
Alright, let’s talk money. A teddy bear dog can run you anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the breeder, health guarantees, and location. (premierpups.com) If you see one listed for way less, be cautious — cheap often means corners were cut in breeding or care.
Always ask for health records, meet the puppy’s parents, and avoid sketchy sellers or pet stores. (dailypaws.com) You can also check rescues or shelters — sometimes these little fluffballs need new homes, too.
Do Teddy Bear Dogs Bark a Lot?
Depends on the mix. Some are chatty, others barely make a peep. Breeds like Pomeranians and Yorkies are naturally vocal, while Shih Tzus and Bichons are a bit quieter.
With proper training, you can teach them when to bark and when to chill. A little patience and consistency go a long way.
Do Teddy Bear Dogs Shed?
One of the best perks? They barely shed! While no dog is completely “non-shedding,” most teddy bear dogs lose way less hair than other breeds. Regular brushing helps, too, and keeps allergens under control.
What Are the Health Problems with Teddy Bear Dogs?
Like any dog, they can have a few issues. Some common ones include:
- Dental problems (tiny mouths = crowded teeth)
- Patellar luxation (knee slipping out of place)
- Eye problems and tear stains
- Ear infections
- Allergies or itchy skin
- Low blood sugar in small puppies
- Breathing troubles in short-snouted mixes
A responsible breeder will screen for these and share health certificates. Regular vet visits and good nutrition help your pup stay healthy and happy.
Teddy Bear Puppy
Got a teddy bear puppy? Lucky you! Start with early socialization — let them meet new people and animals while they’re young. Get them used to brushing, nail trimming, and baths early on.
Because they’re so tiny, playtime should be gentle. Feed them a high-quality small-breed puppy food, and don’t skip vet visits or vaccines. Basically, love them like crazy — they’ll give it right back.
FAQ
How Big Will a Teddy Bear Dog Get?
Most stay pretty small, about 9–12 inches tall and 8–15 pounds. They’re the perfect size for snuggling or fitting into your carry-on bag (kidding… mostly).
Are Teddy Bear Dogs Healthy?
Yes! Most live long, healthy lives — especially when they come from a reputable breeder and get regular vet care.
Teddy Bear Puppies for Sale Under $400
Deals like this can be risky. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always double-check health records and living conditions before buying.
Are Teddy Bear Dogs Smart?
Oh, definitely. With genes from clever breeds like the Poodle and Shih Tzu, they’re quick learners. Training with positive vibes and yummy treats works best.
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