Are you a fan of dogs and bears? What about a combination of the two? Few can resist a fluffy puppy with a thick coat of fur and a bulky build that by all accounts make the animal look like the perfect collection to a set of teddy bears, except this cuddly creature is alive and willing to show your love back. You don’t get that from even the cutest, cuddliest teddy bear. Keep reading to discover our list of the TOP 10 Dog Breeds That Look Like Bears or Teddy Bears.
Luckily for those looking for a cuddle buddy that resembles a small or moderate-sized bear, there are multiple dog breeds that fit the bill. Some of the breeds are quite large in size, while others look like little bears but are quite small in size. While their teddy bear-fluffy appearance may be a common trait, these dogs are all over the spectrum of both appearance (coloring, markings, etc.), energy levels, and personality.
Most of the dogs on the following list of 10 dog breeds that look like bears will require the nearly daily brushing of their thick, shaggy coats. Not doing so will result in them getting tangled and knotting up, which will result in the animal losing its fur. Some owners actually use specialized detangling shampoo to assure they look their best. With all that said, let’s get to the list.
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TOP 10 Dog Breeds That Look Like Bears or Teddy Bears
1. Akita dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | spitz-type dog |
| Height: | 24 to 28 inches |
| Weight: | 70 to 130 pounds |
| Life Span: | 10 to 14 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Triangular head; curled tail; thick double coat in colors including black, fawn, and red |
| Price: | $1500 to $4,500 |
The Akita is a quiet dog but is quite independent and temperamental. Sometimes known as the “silent killer”, the Japanese spitz breed is a tough one to train. Its rounded ears and thick coat certainly give it a bear-like appearance. The Akita is a breed that has a lot of energy and needs to move and rigorous exercise to stay out of trouble. However, the breed is also extremely loyal to their people, making them not only great hunting partners and tremendous guard hounds.
2. Great Pyrenees dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Working Group |
| Height: | 25 to 32 inches |
| Weight: | 85 to 100+ pounds |
| Life Span: | 10 to 12 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Large and strong physique; lush weatherproof coat that’s either all white or white with markings of gray, tan, reddish-brown, or badger |
| Price: | $1,000 to $2,500 |
The Great Pyrenees’ large size and lush white coat could have some mistaking it for a young polar bear. The breed gets its namesake from the Pyrenees Mountains located between Spain and France. They are a very intelligent breed and are very gentle with their people, making them a great choice for families with kids. Their loyalty makes them fantastic guardians and their herding instincts, which these dogs were originally bred for staving off large predators from herding flocks, including those the size of wolves and bears.
3. Chow Chow dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Non-Sporting Group |
| Height: | 17 to 20 inches |
| Weight: | 45 to 70 pounds |
| Life Span: | 9 to 15 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Ruff around the head and shoulders; deep-set almond eyes; blue-black tongue; stiff-legged gait; coats can be rough or smooth in colors including red, black, blue, cinnamon, or cream |
| Price: | $500 to $8000 |
China’s contribution to this list is the Chow Chow, a breed that has been around since ancient times. Their overall furry coat and thick mane certainly give them a bear-like appearance, making them cuddly and cute looking, Underneath the adorable fluff, the Chow Chow is deep-chested and muscular. The breed is quite dignified, keeping themselves surprisingly cleansed, while their personality can range from aloof to serious.
4. Samoyed dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Working Group |
| Height: | 19 to 24 inches |
| Weight: | 35 to 65 pounds |
| Life Span: | 12 to 14 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Alert expression; thick double coat; colors include white, cream, and biscuit |
| Price: | $600 and $1500 |
Hailing from the Siberian region of Russia, the Samoyed is a spitz breed that is both intelligent and powerful. It makes sense that they were bred for pulling sleighs during polar expeditions. Their white fluffy coat with an equally fluffy tail does give them a small polar bear appearance. It’s not just their adorable appearance that makes them cuddly, it’s also their affectionate and playful disposition, making them exceptionally suited to be family dogs.
5. Newfoundland dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Working Group |
| Height: | 26 to 28 inches |
| Weight: | 100 to 150 pounds |
| Life Span: | 8 to 10 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Flat, long, and coarse coat; colors include gray, brown, black, or black and white |
| Price: | $3,500 to $6,000 |
While the Newfoundland hounds were bred as working dogs to assist fishermen in Canada, the large breed is actually often referred to as “nanny dogs” because of their patient, gentle, and protective nature of children. The Newfoundland is an intelligent breed that is easily trained. They resemble fluffy bears in appearance thanks to their thick fur and a short snout that adorns their oversized heads.
6. Keeshond dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Non-Sporting Group |
| Height: | 17 to 18 inches |
| Weight: | 35 to 45 pounds |
| Life Span: | 13 to 15 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Upright ears; plush, abundant coat; plumed tail; spectacles (shadings and markings around the eyes) |
| Price: | $1500 to $2000 |
Early Dutch vessels used the Keeshond (also known as the “people’s dog”) as both a guard and a companion. So common was this breed in these locations that in the 18th century it became the Dutch Patriots Party symbol. The small, slightly rounded, upright ears on the sides of an extremely furry face have the intelligent, energetic, personable, and easy-to-train Keeshond resembling a bear (and a teddy bear) more than some actual bears do.
7. Caucasian Shepherd dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Foundation Stock Service Program |
| Height: | 23 to 30 inches |
| Weight: | 99 to 170 pounds |
| Life Span: | 10 to 12 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Ranges from short to long coat; colors include fawn, gray and red with markings that can be white, piebald and/or brindle |
| Price: | $1000 to $3000 |
Here is a breed that can rival a small bear in its size with its muscular build and thick fur coat. The Caucasian Shepherd’s name comes from the Eastern European Caucasus (Kavkaz) mountains. Bred and raised in harsh conditions, these dogs were historically tasked with remaining loyal protectors of both the herds they helped shepherd and their families, who they show unconditional love and affection for.
8. Leonberger dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Miscellaneous Class |
| Height: | 25 to 32 inches |
| Weight: | 90 to 170 pounds |
| Life Span: | 8 to 9 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Medium-long waterproof coat; lion-like mane around the neck and chest; bushy tail; triangular ears; black face |
| Price: | $2,000 to $4,000 |
Originally bred as royal companions in Germany, the majestic Leonbergers were most notably adept at pulling carts, which, given their impressive strength and size, seemed to suit the breed. While their size makes them look intimidating, and their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs, they are sere and gentle dogs by nature. This ties in well with their large stature and thick fur, giving them a definite appearance of a bear.
9. Eurasier dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | – |
| Height: | 19 to 24 inches |
| Weight: | 40 to 70 pounds |
| Life Span: | 12 to 14 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Thick, medium-long coat in an array of colors; purple, pink, or spotted tongues; can have dark face masks or light “reverse” masks |
| Price: | $1,000 and $2,500 |
The name Eurasier comes from the dog’s dual decent, being regarded as being from both Europe and Asia. This breed is muscular, covered with thick fur, specifically around its neck and head. While they are excellent guard dogs, the Eurasiers adore being around their people and belonging to a family. It isn’t the largest breed like some others on this list, but it certainly fits the mold of its bear-like appearance.
10. Pomeranian dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Toy dog |
| Height: | 6 to 7 inches |
| Weight: | 3 to 7 pounds |
| Life Span: | 12 to 16 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Fluffy and abundant double coat with frill extending over the chest and shoulders; can be found in up to two dozen colors (orange or red are most common); various patterns and markings |
| Price: | $800 and $2,000 |
One is unlikely to ever mistake a Pomeranian for an actual bear. They are small dogs, but they have a curiosity about them and a level of confidence that is more suited to a larger dog breed. Their puffy fur and rounded ears yield a likeness more of a teddy bear quality to them. Interestingly, the ancestors of the Pomeranians were actually bred from sled dogs that were significantly larger in size.
These days, the Pomeranians (or Poms as they are sometimes referred to) are generally regarded as a “toy breed,” though their size is generally larger than what most toy breed dogs are considered to be. Pomeranians tend to not have the greatest record with health, but they make great friends and family members for those who are lucky enough to own these cuddly pups.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, dogs that resemble bears or teddy bears are a delightful and unique addition to any family. Whether you’re looking for a loyal and cuddly companion or an energetic and playful pup, the breeds on this list have something for everyone. From the fluffy and adorable Chow Chow to the charming and friendly Pomeranian, these bear-like dogs will surely bring a smile to your face. So why not consider adding one of these furry friends to your home and enjoy the joy they bring to your life?
Since you have finished reading this amazing article of the TOP 10 Dog Breeds That Look Like Bears or Teddy Bears, we suggest to you to check this one: TOP 10 Best Hairless Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is bear from dog family?
Bears are not from the dog family. They belong to the family Ursidae, which is a separate family from the Canidae family that includes dogs, wolves, and foxes. While bears and dogs may share some similarities, such as their carnivorous diet, they are distinct species with different evolutionary histories.
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Hi, my name is Idammah, and I am a huge animal lover! I have always had a special place in my heart for pets, especially cats. I currently have a rescue cat named Simba, who has brought so much joy and love into my life. In my free time, you can find me playing with my cats or watching some animal documentaries. When not spending time with my cat, I enjoy writing about my experiences as a pet owner and sharing helpful tips and advice with other pet lovers. I hope to connect with other pet enthusiasts and share our love for animals through this blog.
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