Ever seen a dog that looks like a panda? Sounds crazy, right? But it is real. And it’s stealing hearts around the world. These dogs that look like pandas are all over the internet. They have fluffy faces and black and white fur.
Some of these dogs are born with this look. Others are dyed or groomed to look like panda bears. This Panda dog craze started in China, and people over there went wild for these panda dogs. Many pet shops even started selling them!
In this guide, we’ll look at the most popular dogs that resemble pandas. These aren’t wild animals or bears. They are just adorable pets that might fool your eyes!
7 Dog Breeds That Look Like Pandas
1. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is the most popular panda dog in the world. This dog breed comes from Ancient China. It has thick fur and a round face. That makes it look like a small bear. The American Kennel Club states that Chow Chows are the “all-purpose dogs of Ancient China”.
In Taizhou Zoo, China, two Chow Chows were coloured to look like pandas. The zoo could not get real panda bears. So they used dogs instead. These painted pups have white bodies with black ears and eye spots. They walk around the zoo just like pandas. A zoo worker said that they used dye to colour the dogs. People are totally in love with these cuties!
Another story came from Chengdu, a city in China. A pet shop owner, Hsin Chen, colours the chow chows in a special way and offers them to his customers. The prices are obviously high, but the people don’t mind. They just want the cutest dog in town!
2. Panda German Shepherd
The Panda German Shepherd is a real dog breed. It is not a mix. It is a pure German Shepherd with a rare coat color. The black and white spots make it resemble a panda bear. That is why they are called panda dogs by many people.
This panda look is caused by a natural gene change. It does not harm the dog. It only changes the colour of the fur. Most of these dogs have white on their chest, belly, and face. The rest of the body is black or tan.
These dogs are smart, strong, and easy to train. But they are not for new dog owners. They need daily training and a lot of play. If you leave them alone for too long, they can get upset or act out. They also shed a lot.
These dogs are still rare. But their bold look and loyal nature make them a great pet dog for active homes.
3. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a huge dog. Some weigh over 120 pounds. They look strong and serious. But they love their family and act sweet at home.
These dogs came from the cold mountains of Tibet. Monks and herders used them to guard homes and animals. They kept away wolves and other wild animals. The AKC states that they are the Guardians of the Himalayas.
They have a thick, fluffy coat. Their fur comes in red, black, gray, and gold. Some even have white markings. That makes the look like a panda. The fur is soft but does not need much care. A few brushes each week are fine. They shed a lot when the seasons change.
These dogs do not like hot weather. They enjoy cold places. They play in short bursts and love being indoors. Tibetan Mastiffs are great for people who want a powerful and loyal dog. They will protect you like no other.
4. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is hard to miss. This big dog has long, thick fur. When it walks, it moves like a bear. Some people even say it looks like a panda. This dog is smart and full of energy. It was once used to move animals like sheep and cows. That’s why it was called a drover’s dog. It had to guide large herds through rough roads.
It came from the west of England. Some people say it was mixed with dogs from Scotland or even Russia. Later, it was brought to the United States. Rich families loved this dog. It became a favorite pet.
Old English Sheepdogs love people. They are kind and funny. They like to be near their family. But they might try to herd small kids or other pets. That’s because they still have strong herding habits.
The Old English Sheepdog is more than just cute. It is loyal, happy, and fun. If you can care for the fur and give it time to play, this dog will be your best friend.
5. Maltese Poodle
The Maltese Poodle, also called the Maltipoo, is a mix of two dog breeds. One is the Martese. The other is the Miniature Poodle. This small panda dog looks like a baby bear. They are soft, cute, and full of love. Some even have black and white coats. They look just like little panda cubs. Many people keep them as house pets.
Maltipoos are easy to train. They are smart and kind. They love to be near people. They are good for both big homes and small flats. Even older people enjoy having them around.
Thanks to their poodle genes, they have a hypoallergenic coat. That means they are better for people with light allergies. Their fur is soft. Some coats are curly. Others are wavy. But they all need brushing two or three times a week.
If you want a small dog with a panda look, the maltipoo is a great pick. They are cute and friendly. What else do you need?
6. Newfoundland Dog
The Newfoundland Dog is big and strong. But don’t worry. They are gentle and sweet. These dogs came from Canada. Fishermen used them to pull nets and carry wood. They are hard workers and love water.
They are also amazing swimmers. Some even worked as rescue dogs in lakes and oceans. Water is in their blood. That’s why they love swimming, running, and outdoor fun, but in hot weather, they must stay cool. They do better in the cold.
They can be black, brown, or grey. But many are black and white, which makes them look like a panda. This gives them a sweet, fluffy style.
They shed a lot, so they need brushing. In winter and summer, brush them more often. They are clean dogs but need some care.
7. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is one of the most loved dog breeds today. PetMD mentions that they have claimed the title of the most popular dog breed in the United States for the third year in a row. Many people say they look like mini pandas. That is because of their black and white colors and round faces.
They have big ears that stand up. Their face is flat and cute. Their body is small but strong. They do not have long fur like pandas, but their colours and shape give them that panda dog look.
These dogs were first bred in England. Lace workers kept them as lap dogs. Later, they became very popular in France. That is where they got their name.
Even though they are not fluffy, their panda look and small size make them special. They are loved by many dog owners around the world.
Conclusion
No matter the reason, the love for panda dogs is still growing. Some have natural black and white fur. Some need a little grooming or coloring. But they all have one thing in common: they are sweet and full of love.
From the fluffy Chow Chow to the small Maltipoo, there is a panda dog for everyone. Each one is special. Each one brings joy. So if someone says, “That dog looks like a panda,” now you know. It just might be one of these adorable dog breeds from our list.
