When you think about adding a new member to your family, you can think about bringing home a dog. Among the different breeds of the dog, you can think about a teddy bear dog. While such breeds a quite cute, they are the cuddliest canines.
So, in this article, we cover more about such teddy bear dog breeds name, their appearance, some types and their characteristics. In the end, you will also come across some tips that can help you groom your pet. Besides, we will also cover what you need to consider before adopting a teddy bear dog breed.
What Does A Full-Grown Teddy Bear Dog Breed Look Like?
The animal always appears small when you come across a teddy bear dog. Even as the dogs grow up gradually, you will not perceive the difference in their size. Furthermore, such kinds of pets are light in weight and are as much as 12 to 14 pounds. Due to the soft and fluffy coat, the breed doesn’t shed at any instance.
While you look at the dog closely, you will observe a round face and large eyes that make them cute. Apart from these features, the dog has droopy ears and a fluffy tail. But, as the coat looks great in different colour shades, every dog appears unique. Now, if you’re wondering whether the dog is a mixed breed, some are pure breeds. However, the overall size and appearance can differ from one dog to the other.
What is the History Behind Teddy Bear Dogs?
According to many resources, we could not find the origin of teddy bear dog breeds. But, if you go through the past years, the hybrid breed depicts the Shih Tzu dog, which you will observe in the Chinese art prevalent in the 6th Century. On the other hand, you will observe the representation of the Maltese when you view paintings or skim through the literature of the past centuries.
The Bichon Frise breed was also quite popular with royal families in the past centuries. Apart from this fact, many sailors of the 16th Century took the Bichon Frise while heading toward Europe. As soon as they arrived in the country, the puppies won the attention of the court ladies because of their nature and different looks.
Today, teddy bear dogs have acquired many traits from their parent breeds, and these little animals are always the favourite ones of all time. When you compare such dogs with others, they are smaller and healthier.
What Are the Dog Breeds That Look Like Teddy Bears?
While you’re planning to bring home a new adorable pet, you will come across many types. So, let’s check out the characteristics of the teddy bear dog types.
Top 16 Teddy Bear Dog Breeds Are Listed Below
1. Cavapoo
A Cavapoo always looks like a Paddington bear. But, once you start training or playing with the dog, they can get along pretty well with diverse individuals. You will also not have to bother when your children are playing with the pet. Beyond everything else, such breeds also adapt to the apartment’s environment. They can also stay active during the winter season. This type of dog is also easy to train because they are intelligent.
2. Morkie
Morkies are nothing but dogs with the characteristics of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. But, as per some sources, you and your family must not think about leaving the dog alone. These small animals will also start liking everyone in your family. Hence, when you decide to train such dog breeds, you should do it as soon as you bring them home. Once they start mingling with the entire family, they will also be unable to set aside some time for themselves.
3. Pomchi
Known to be a mix of Chihuahua and Pomeranian, a Pomchi is always some kind of pet you will love forever. However, when the dog stays with you, it doesn’t matter whether you’re with a group of individuals. The breed can also suffer due to some health issues like dental diseases, hypothyroidism, cataracts and more. So, when taking care of the dog, you must consider regular health check-ups so that the vet can diagnose the health issues early.
4. Cockapoo
Way back in the 1950s, the Cocker Spaniels and the Poodles were always popular among Americans. But, when you bring these two types together, it presents the Cockapoo. While such dogs are always affectionate, they get along with other breeds and the family easily. As adults, the overall weight is not more than 22 pounds. So, when you wish to play with such dogs, you can keep them on your lap and start patting them gently on its head. Beyond this, you must keep the dog’s ears clean without making the animal unhappy.
5. Chow Chow
If you’re looking for a cute puppy, consider a Chow Chow. As the dog’s weight lies between 55 and 70 pounds, you can lift it and keep it close to you. But, as per the findings of the AKC, such dogs can prefer to stay alone and be on their own. Besides, the Chow Chows also look synonymous with a cat because of their personalities. They also have a strong will, and that is why you need to teach them how they can socialize with people in your family.
6. Pomeranian
When you observe Pomeranians closely, they actually look like baby foxes. As the body’s overall size is small, you can carry them in a small bag or keep them on your lap. But, it’s always necessary to feed such dogs often because they can face health issues due to hypoglycaemia. Moreover, such dogs like to move outdoors and observe others with their little faces.
7. Lhasa Apsos
A Lhasa Apsos appears quite innocent and fluffy at the same time. While such dogs have silky coats, the short haircut makes the dog’s face seem round. Unlike other kinds of dogs, the Lhasa Apsos are known to be watchdogs inside a house. This means that if the dog senses danger, it will start barking in a few instances. However, such dogs don’t welcome strangers if they have encountered someone for the first time.
8. Schnoodle
A Schnoodle is nothing but a breed that boasts the characteristics of a schnauzer and a poodle. But, the best part of keeping a Schnoodle is that you will never get affected due to any allergies. In addition, such dogs can live up to 15 years, just like Cocker Spaniels. Once the dog undergoes some training, it will always stay happy and never be aggressive. Subsequently, you will have to groom the dog often to retain the lustre and texture of its beautiful coat.
9. Bichon Frise
While you try to include a Bichon Frise in your family, such breeds are gentle and playful. They also mix with children when they want to play with it for a long period. But, when you’re stepping out of your house, you can rely on them to guard the house. This is always true because you rarely see Bichons barking throughout the day.
10. Shichon
Even when your family members or parents have grown old, Shichons can be their best companion. But, as such, dogs always want to be beside someone, you don’t have to bother about their exercise needs. Besides, such dogs are healthy and move around with extra strength. When it’s for some playtime, they are also very active, and they like running across the house.
11. Sheepadoodle
These kinds of dogs are adorable and can serve as companions for those living alone. But, as these dogs can understand human emotions, they can offer support when you’re going through a lean phase. So, if you want a pet that can protect you and be energetic, you can consider a Sheepadoodle.
12. Maltipoo
Maltipoos are one of the teddy bear breed dogs you can own, especially when bringing home a pet for the first time. However, these are quite sensitive to the environment and don’t like to stay alone for a long duration. While you don’t give attention to them, they can also become anxious and try to seek company.
13. Cavachon
Recognized as a cross-breed between Bichon Frise and the Spaniel, Cavachons are the best for those living in urban regions. These dogs can also adapt to any kind of environment. Hence, if you’re still seeking a playful friend, you can adopt a Cavachon. But, as the dogs grow up, they can gain weight and then you will not be able to carry them to a certain location.
14. Miniature Golden Doodle
When you consider the Golden Doodle as a part of your family, you can expect great companionship for your entire life. But, as these dogs are likely to fall ill, you must check them for serious health problems. Apart from this, such dogs are easier to groom and have moderate energy when they stroll across the house.
15. Shorkie
While you think about owning a Shorkie, such a dog can adapt pretty well only when the family is big. But, even when they are silently moving around the house, they can alert you about unexpected incidents and even strangers. Shorkies also bear inclement weather conditions, but in those instances, you have to cover the body with a thick jacket.
16. Coton de Tulear
Synonymous with a small clown, the Coton de Tulear is a dog that can get along with everybody living in a large house. The puppies can also live with someone who has never considered keeping a pet. But, when kids are around the dog, they will not cause any harm. The dogs will always be in a playful mood and be friendly to others.
Is It Difficult To Train A Teddy Bear Dog?
While you consider training the teddy bear dog after bringing it home, they can follow your commands easily. Additionally, they will make your family members happy when you don’t have anything to keep the dog busy. However, some of these dogs are quite stubborn compared to others. Having said that, the animal should undergo some training as early as possible. You will then have to spend some weeks or a few months till the time dog doesn’t meet with any accidents.
Like any other dog breed, such dogs try to develop their own behaviour. The dogs love the company of human beings and are quite intelligent most of the time. Moreover, such breeds will alert you when an anonymous individual is at the doorstep. But, they will not bark loudly and create a nuisance at any moment. You will also have to put in some more effort whenever you think about potty training. Ultimately, you must wait patiently to notice a change in the pet’s behaviour when you’re consistent with training.
How Can You Take Great Care Of Such Breeds?
Due to genetic diversity, teddy bear dogs are always healthier than other breeds. But, as these dogs have a small muzzle, they will have to cope with breathing problems. Issues will also arise as teddy bear dogs are sensitive to high temperatures.
To keep such dogs clean, you must always think about cleaning their ears regularly. This can later help to prevent the accumulation of grime and dust. Brushing the dog’s coat during the week can also help to remove the dust and dirt on the entire body. But, when you want to maintain the condition of the dog’s coat, you have to trim it occasionally.
If you neglect to maintain the coat, it can eventually lead to painful areas across the body. In some instances, you will also become tired when you continue brushing the coat time and again. So, it’s always better to approach a professional groomer so that he can trim the coat and present the dog with a different hairstyle.
What Tips Should You Consider While Grooming The Dog By Yourself?
- When you wish to keep the teddy bear dog clean, you should avoid bathing it quite often. Apply shampoo more than the usual quantity can also dry the fur and cause skin irritation. However, you must never forget to wipe the dog’s eyes every day because water droplets from the eyes can ruin the fur.
- Apart from regular grooming sessions, it’s also important to maintain oral hygiene. At those moments, you will have to brush the dog’s teeth several times during the week. As you start brushing the dog’s teeth thoroughly and carefully, it can help to get rid of plaque and prevent tooth decay.
- As you set a schedule to groom a full-grown teddy bear dog breed, you should also keep the coat clean. To prevent the occurrence of tangles, you can use a piece of cloth that is made from soft fabric. But, whenever you proceed with the grooming sessions, use skin-friendly substances.
What Does a Teddy Bear Dog Like When They Feel Hungry?
As you determine the diet for the teddy bear dog breed, it will entirely depend on its age, health and body size. So, when you step out shopping, you must seek dry food items rich in proteins. But, when you start feeding the animal, you must never overfeed the pet. In many cases, you must not go beyond 1.5 cups of food every day. Once you fill the cups, you can think about treats or snacks.
When you’re thinking about buying high-quality treats, you must opt for cooked salmon or boiled chicken. Conversely, the dog likes to nibble on small chunks of fruits and vegetables. While you prefer feeding small pieces of an apple, it will also nourish the dog’s body with essential nutrients.
Do You Have To Think About Any Exercises For The Teddy Bear Dog?
There are many instances when your pet can become hyperactive. But, when you want to keep the dog happy, you should think about taking it out for a stroll. You can also think about play sessions during the 30 minutes of walking. Now, if you’re about what the breed can do outside, you can pep up the exercise routine with jogging.
Alternatively, you can think about immersing Pomapoos in a small pool so they can swim freely. Once the outdoor temperature crosses a certain limit, you will also have to take measures to help maintain the dog’s overall health. Then, you have to protect your feet against extreme temperatures and try to reduce the duration of outdoor activities.
Do Teddy Bear Dogs Face Any Health Problems?
Most of the time, such hybrids are quite healthy among different kinds of dogs. While you can expect them to live for a period of 12 to 16 years, some can live for a period of as much as 18 years. But, while staying with your family, they inherit the medical conditions from parents who have taken care of them.
Now, concerning health issues, you can observe a higher cancer risk with Golden mini doodles. Addison’s disease is yet another health problem you will encounter with Poodle mixes. Epilepsy, arthritis and some joint conditions can also affect certain types of such dogs to an extent.
After a while, the teddy bear dogs will have to cope with progressive retinal atrophy. This condition affects the eyes considerably and can ultimately make the dogs blind. But, if you take the animal to a vet, you can figure out the condition early. With time, the dog will also scratch its body quite often. These situations can mean that the animal has minor issues like skin and food allergies.
How Much Do Teddy Bear Dogs Cost?
As you can observe a big difference in teddy bear dogs, you will also find that the price varies drastically. While you come across a teddy bear dog breed for sale, you can get it for $500, and the larger ones can also be for $3000. But, regardless of the price, it’s always better to seek assistance from a popular breeder so that there are fewer health risks.
When you’re wondering whether there’s any way to save money, you can consider choosing a dog from a rescue group in your city. Once you decide to adopt the dog, you will support the organization and lend some help. But, as soon as you bring home the pet, you will have to bear some additional expenses. These expenses will range from $700 to $1000 every year. Consequently, the expenses can be high if the dog falls ill due to a disease or a health problem.
What Are Some Facts Regarding Teddy Bear Dogs?
If you have been looking for a perfect companion for your family, you can buy a teddy bear dog. Such a breed is adorable and loving, and it is also hypoallergenic. So, let’s check out some facts regarding such types of dogs.
- A teddy bear dog breed is always recognized as a ‘designer dog’, and they have the characteristics of two or more varieties. As far as their parentage is concerned, these are a mix of the Shih Tzus and Bichon Frise. But, as breeders continue to experiment with dogs, they are trying to include a different breed known as schnauzers. Regardless of where they are staying currently, such dogs can be ideal pets for the family. Apart from being friendly in nature, the dogs are cute and sweet.
- Teddy bear breed dogs have always been prominent in the world since 2000. Moreover, such dogs are considered for therapy when children are handicapped or suffering from a disability. Most dogs are hyperactive and are known for their simple temperament. But, there are a few reasons why such dogs are perfect companions. These are adorable, and you will always think about cuddling them as time passes.
- Teddy bear breed dogs are always soft and don’t shed a lot in several instances. Hence, if your family members are likely to sneeze due to allergies, these dogs are the perfect pets. They don’t produce dander which you will observe with specific kinds of dogs. This means that they are unlikely to cause a reaction owing to allergies.
- Until the dogs survive, the breed doesn’t grow as big as you had thought. But, the type gets its name due to the fluffy coat, big eyes and small nose. Undoubtedly, these are affectionate and easy to train. Once you have trained them properly, they mingle well with kids and other animals.
- When you observe the coat of the teddy bear dog, it has an undercoat and an outer coat. While running your fingers across the outer coat, it is soft to the touch and very fluffy. Besides, the best part of the outer coat is that it looks great in different colour shades. But, as the dog grows steadily, you must consider regular grooming sessions. You can spend 20 minutes several times during the week whenever you have free time. These sessions will later help to maintain the overall condition of the dog.
- Because these dogs are quite active throughout the day, you will have to harness them occasionally. But, if a collar is tight, then the weak trachea can become flat after some time. This can lead to suffocation, and the dog will die soon. Hence, when you love the dog unconditionally, ensure that you use a loose collar that is enough to encircle its neck.
Summary
The teddy bear dogs are one of the cutest dogs in the world. But, just like other breeds, such dogs need maintenance and some regular grooming sessions. The best part of owning such dogs is that they don’t affect the family members and cause allergies. The dogs are also easy to train, and they like human beings all around them.
But, this fact entirely depends on the type of teddy bear dogs available in and around the city. You will also have to go through weekly grooming sessions to keep the dog clean. A regular health check-up can also help because such dogs can suffer from health issues.
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