There’s absolute magic about the dogs that look like they just stepped out of a fairy tale forest. You know what we’re about to talk about next. These kinds of dogs have a bear-like appearance, and with their affectionate nature, they just melt hearts right away.
The fluffy bear-faced pups make you do a double-take every single time. These teddy bear lookalikes are pretty faces with extraordinary brains that make them good family pets and lap dogs. The dogs that look like bears are just a version of that childhood toy we all used to sleep with and feel their presence.
They are the most loving companions, and they are gentle giants or the sweetest baby bears. You know what makes them extremely specific? Their mixture of temperament makes them a stuffed animal and also a wrestler.
Dog Breeds That Look Like Bears But Stay Gentle
1. Leonberger
If the title, ‘gentle giant’ suits to some breed in this list, it’s going to be Leonberger, These magnificient creatures have huge size if you see them on your couch, but take it easy as they are just the big bears with a thick coat that makes them look like they have been hanging out with polar bears up north.
Originally bred in Germany, these bear-like dogs were designed to be the exquisite family dog. Interestingly, according to Hill’s Pet, the Leonberger was originally bred to resemble a lion, specifically the lion featured on the coat of arms of Leonberg, Germany.
Their double coat comes in shades that range from golden to reddish-brown. Their flowing coat needs regular grooming to keep looking its best.
What they are all about:
Patient with children and other pets
They are natural swimmers
They’re excellent therapy dogs that look like bears with real emotions
They have strong guarding instincts
You don’t have to run behind them, as they are easy to train
2. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are mysterious and sophisticated dogs in their bear-like appearance. These dogs originated in ancient China over 2,000 years ago, as mentioned by Britannica. They can turn heads with their distinctive appearance.
Their dense fur gives them that teddy bear look, especially around those adorable, rounded ears. The fur comes in five colors, and the red and black combo makes people say “wow”!
The AKC highlights that the Chow Chow is no ordinary dog. This fluffball comes with a quirky twist. It’s the only dog breed with a naturally purplish-blue tongue and lips, earning it the playful nickname “Purple People Eater”.
These dogs that look like bears have an old-soul vibe that we can’t explain in a sentence or two. You’ve got to meet them and explore it all yourself, and trust us that you’ll be astonished by the loyal nature they have.
Naturally clean and affectionate nature makes them your favorite bear dogs. They won’t slobber all over the strangers, but once they get along with you, you have a friend with a calm temperament and cat-like grooming habits.
What Makes Chow Chow Worth It?
Natural and well-prepared guard dogs, and if you give them proper training, you’re just perfectly relaxed for the coming years.
They are loyal and gentle-natured dogs.
Their strong prey drive is intense and blazing, and needs early socialization with small animals.
3. Samoyed
You know what pure joy and free will look like in a dog form? It’s a Samoyed that you can even call Sami. These Arctic best friend dogs are like walking clouds of happiness, and with their signature Sammy smile, along with the white coat, they are just blasting.
Purina UK reveals, Samoyeds are among the oldest dog breeds in the world, based on recent DNA studies. These dogs that are almost bears were bred by the Samoyede people of Siberia to herd reindeer and pull carts and sleds across frozen tundra.
The thick coat, we mean the double coat, is so dense that these bears can comfortably sleep like a baby in the snow.
How is this breed more than a dog?
Social intelligence and energy level make them form strong bonds with people, and that’s what extroverts crave.
They are excellent with children and adults.
Their alert energy level makes them protective without getting aggressive and barking excessively.
Strong endurance and body build help them get the stares.
4. Great Pyrenees
When you first lay eyes on a Great Pyrenees, you look at centuries of selective breeding that was made to create the top-notch livestock guardian. These awe-inspiring dogs that are more like bears originated in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain. They spent long periods protecting flocks from wolves and bears.
These gentle giants were bred to face down actual bears, but today they are found sprawling across your couch like the World’s largest lap dog, just kidding.
Why Great Pyrenees?
Even-tempered and confident make up for scratch human companionship.
They have powerful territorial awareness without unnecessary aggression
They are patient and gentle with small children, so no issues, let your kid play around.
5. Newfoundland
These spectacular dogs were originally bred to work alongside fishermen in the harsh waters of Newfoundland, Canada. They are naturally swim partners and will be your perfect pool partners. With webbed feet and a water-resistant double coat, they are experts when they dive into water. So you see a dog like bears swimming, right?
Their thick coat gives them their teddy bear look, and it comes in black, brown, gray, or the stunning pattern of black and white.
Newfoundlands are too good, but how?
They have remarkable rescue instincts and a balanced energy level.
Incredibly gentle, mouth and bite inhibition around children
They have a patient and calm nature and the right maths to form close bonds.
6. Tibetan Mastiff
An ancient breed with bear bear-like look that’s basically the living history. The Tibetan Mastiff is a good dog that has been used to guard livestock in the Himalayas for over 4,000 years. These dogs don’t just look like teddy bears.
They have a large size that pairs up with a thick coat, and the lion-like mane around their head just gives different vibes. Their sheer size is breathtaking. They are real mountain dogs with a bit stubborn nature, but call it their rules. They can live in the harsh conditions where temperatures drop to freezing.
Their thick fur helps them stay alive, they are ready for the challenges, and that’s how bear-like dogs with a fluffy coat develop their protective energy level.
Why Tibetan Mastiff?
Unusual independent judgment and decision-making skills.
Highly intelligent energy level makes them superior to other animals when it comes to bravery.
They act actively and powerfully in the evening hours.
7. Caucasian Shepherd
Want to take the livestock guardian concept to the next level? The Caucasian Shepherd is a dog breed that looks like a bear and hails from the mountainous regions of Eastern Europe.
They protect livestock from wolves and bears with their dark eyes that are alert. They don’t just look intimidating, they actually are. With you, they are still the sweet and sugary, gentle companions.
They can switch the modes within seconds, and that’s what makes them incredible. They get their role, they play, and they win. Not aggressive, not ignorant, just perfectly balanced.
Why Caucasian Shepherd?
Intelligent energy level pairs with a gentle temper, and you get a teddy bear with humility
They have good problem-solving skills, so you can take the brain for sometimes from them, no jokes.
They assess the situations well, and the right confidence makes them superb bear dogs.
8. Estrela Mountain Dog
This ancient breed has been guarding flocks for over 700 years, and they perfected the art. People mistake these dogs with bears when they are wandering around the Portuguese countryside.
The Estrela Mountain dogs have served for generations as good companion dogs and are flawless protectors. They have incredible emotional intelligence, and that’s why they have the right to be a family member of a sweet and kind family.
What’s Good About Them?
They are alert like watchdogs, so you can sleep peacefully
Loyalty and devotion run in their genes, and they are your real friends, never going to stab you.
Their calm and dignified nature won’t let you ignore them for a second; that’s a little dangerous, isn’t it?
9. Akita
The Akita is one of the most magnificent and bear-like dog breeds you’ll ever see. These powerful, sturdy dogs from Japan slay with an almost regal dignity that immediately makes you want them.
With their thick double coat, broad head, and small triangular ears that stand erect, they’re no less than a cuddly bear. Then you look into their alert and intelligent eyes that reveal the sharp mind within.
The Akita has a storied legacy steeped in Japanese tradition. Did you know that the breed was so revered that folklore believed disgraced Samurai might reincarnate as an Akita for a second chance, as mentioned by the American Kennel Club.
You know why they exist? To hunt wild boar, bears, and other large game in the mountainous regions of Japan. Akitas have an incredible combination of strength, courage, and loyalty that makes them legendary.
Why AKita?
They make intense bonds with you and your family, so you don’t have to go the extra mile to make them happy
They are perfect watchdogs, and their alert eyes see everything
Sure, they are alert, but also with a calm nature; they win hearts
Conclusion
If you’re considering bringing one of these lovable breeds to your family, remember that their thick coats won’t let you be care-free, their size means they need adequate space, and their intelligence will scream for proper training and mental stimulation. Ready?
These dogs look like bears and are highly protective dog breeds that guard their families from all kinds of dangers from the outside world.
