Teddy Bear Dog Breed Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Teddy Bear dogs are one of the most popular small dog breeds, adored for their fluffy coats, adorable faces, and sweet temperaments. While not an official breed, the term usually refers to hybrids like Shichons (Shih Tzu + Bichon Frise) and Maltipoos (Maltese + Poodle). This complete breed guide covers personality, size, care needs, health, and grooming so you can decide if a Teddy Bear dog is the right companion for your family.

Teddy Bear Dog Appearance & Size

Teddy Bear dogs are small, compact, and fluffy — designed to look like a cuddly stuffed animal.

• Size: Typically 8–15 pounds
• Height: 9–12 inches at the shoulder
• Coat: Soft, wavy, or curly; low to moderate shedding
• Colors: Cream, brown, black, white, or combinations

Their signature “teddy bear” face with large eyes and round snout makes them irresistible to dog lovers.

Personality & Temperament

Teddy Bear dogs are known for being:

• Affectionate: They love cuddles and spending time with their owners.
• Friendly: Get along well with children, seniors, and other pets.
• Playful: Enjoy games, walks, and interactive toys.
• Intelligent: Easy to train with positive reinforcement methods.
• Early socialization helps prevent shyness and promotes a well-adjusted adult dog.

Care & Exercise

Even small dogs need daily attention to stay healthy:

• Exercise: 20–30 minutes per day; indoor play and short walks suffice.
• Diet: High-quality small-breed dog food, balanced protein and fat.
• Training: Short, consistent sessions; reward-based training works best.

Grooming Tips

Maintaining their fluffy coat is essential:

• Brushing: 3–4 times per week to prevent mats and tangles.
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks with a gentle shampoo.
• Haircuts: Every 6–8 weeks to maintain the “teddy bear” look.
• Ears & Teeth: Wipe eyes and ears weekly, brush teeth regularly.

Health & Lifespan

Teddy Bear dogs are generally healthy, but watch for:

• Dental issues
• Allergies and sensitive skin
• Knee or joint problems (patellar luxation)
• Eye infections

Average lifespan: 12–16 years with proper care.

Is a Teddy Bear Dog Right for You?

Teddy Bear dogs are ideal for:

• Apartment or small-home living
• Families with children or other pets
• People looking for a loving, low-maintenance companion

They require time for grooming and social interaction but reward owners with unwavering affection and charm.

FAQ

Q: Are Teddy Bear dogs hypoallergenic?

A: Many are low-shedding, but no dog is completely hypoallergenic.

Q: How often should I groom a Teddy Bear dog?

A: Brushing 3–4 times per week, haircuts every 6–8 weeks.

Q: How much exercise does a Teddy Bear dog need?

A: About 20–30 minutes of daily play or walks.