Imagine a dog so irresistibly fluffy and cuddly that it looks like it stepped right out of a toy store—except it moves, barks, and showers you with affection. These charming canines are affectionately known as living teddy bears, thanks to their plush coats, button eyes, and snuggly demeanor. Whether small and compact or large and huggable, these breeds look more like stuffed animals than typical dogs, capturing hearts wherever they go.
But don’t let their adorably soft exteriors fool you—these pups are far more than just a pretty face. Many of these fluffy companions are full of personality, brimming with curiosity, intelligence, and loyalty. From energetic playmates to devoted lap warmers, each has its own unique charm and needs, especially when it comes to grooming and care.
In this article, we’ll explore the dog breeds that most resemble teddy bears, both in looks and temperament. Whether you’re drawn to a mini fluffball or a gentle giant, these lovable furballs are as delightful to live with as they are to cuddle.
Dog Breeds That Are Living Teddy Bears
1. Keeshond
The Keeshond is also known as the “Dutch Barge Dog” or “Wolfspitz”. The AKC explains that the Keeshond, once commonly seen on canal barges in its homeland of Holland, has long served—and still serves—as a symbol of Dutch patriotism.
A member of the non-sporting group, this medium-sized spitz-type dog typically stands 17 to 18 inches tall and weighs between 35 to 45 pounds. Keeshonden are admired for their expressive faces, accentuated by distinctive dark markings around their almond-shaped eyes, giving them a “spectacled” look.
Their bushy, plumed tails curl tightly over their backs, and their coats shimmer in a blend of cream, gray, and black hues. This breed’s striking lion-like mane and plush “trousers” on their hind legs only add to their teddy bear resemblance. Keeshonden have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years and thrive best in families that can give them consistent companionship and affection.
Appearance
These affectionate dogs‘ luxurious double coat consists of a soft, woolly undercoat and a straight, long outer coat that creates a plush, cloud-like texture. Their fur forms a noticeable ruff around the neck, enhancing their cuddly, teddy bear aesthetic.
Erect, triangular ears and a bright, fox-like expression further contribute to their endearing charm. While their thick coats may look high-maintenance, a couple of weekly brushings usually suffice to prevent tangles and maintain their fluffy glory.
Fun Fact: Keeshonden are known for their “smile”—a naturally cheerful expression that, paired with their affectionate nature, makes them one of the happiest-looking teddy bear breeds around.
2. Caucasian Shepherd
The Caucasian Shepherd, also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka or Russian Bear Dog, is a formidable guardian breed that hails from the Caucasus Mountains of Eastern Europe. PetMD describes Caucasian Shepherd Dogs as deeply loyal to their owners, while also exhibiting a notable degree of independence.
Originally bred to protect livestock and property from predators like wolves and bears, this breed has a rich history of service dating back to ancient times. With males typically standing between 27 to 30 inches tall and weighing 120 to 170 pounds (females slightly smaller), the Caucasian Shepherd is one of the largest and most powerful dog breeds in the world.
These dogs fall into the Working Group and boast an impressive life span of 10 to 12 years, which is notable for a breed of such substantial size.
They come in two coat varieties—mountain (longer, fluffier) and steppe (shorter, lighter)—and display a range of colors including white, cream, gray, black, fawn, and more, often with brindle or piebald markings. Distinct features include a broad, muscular body, a large head with deep-set eyes, and a curled or sickle-shaped tail carried high.
Appearance
With their dense, weather-resistant double coats, Caucasian Shepherds resemble massive teddy bears. Their muscular physique, deep chest, and lion-like mane amplify this impression, especially in the mountain-coated variety. Their large oval eyes, thick feathered tail, and erect triangular ears complete their bold silhouette.
Despite their soft, fluffy exterior, these dogs project strength, alertness, and dignity—making them both awe-inspiring and huggable in appearance. Grooming needs vary by coat type, but long-haired individuals require frequent brushing to manage shedding and prevent matting.
Fun Fact: Historically referred to as “Russian Bear Dogs,” Caucasian Shepherds were once used to hunt large predators and were even adopted by the Soviet military to guard borders and prison camps.
3. Leonberger
Majestic and lion-like in stature, the Leonberger is a German breed that balances grandeur with gentleness. Developed in the 19th century as a companion for royalty, this breed is as noble in temperament as it is in appearance.
Historically used to pull carts and perform labor-intensive tasks, Leonbergers are true working dogs at heart, yet they thrive on companionship and make exceptional family pets.
Adult males typically stand between 28 to 31.5 inches tall and weigh 110 to 170 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 25.5 to 29.5 inches and weigh 90 to 140 pounds. WebMD notes that these dogs feature a distinctive black mask on their faces, complemented by a pair of thick, triangular-shaped ears.
Their average lifespan ranges from 8 to 9 years. A Leonberger’s hallmark features include expressive brown eyes and a thick, water-resistant double coat that comes in hues like reddish-brown, golden, and sand. Classified under the Working Group, this breed is both muscular and elegant, with a smooth, elastic gait and strong protective instincts.
Appearance
Leonbergers are often mistaken for oversized teddy bears due to their voluminous coats and soulful eyes. Their medium-to-long fur is dense and straight, forming a regal mane around the neck and chest—especially pronounced in males.
Their broad heads, bushy tails, and plumed thighs (“culottes”) enhance the breed’s soft, cuddly silhouette. Despite their size, their movement is fluid and graceful, adding to their teddy bear appeal.
Fun Fact: The Leonberger’s affectionate nature and desire to be close to family often lead them to lean gently against their humans—a trait affectionately called “the Leonberger lean”.
4. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow, also known as the “Edible Dog” in ancient times, is one of the oldest dog breeds, with origins tracing back to ancient China during the Han dynasty. Revered for their lion-like appearance and dignified demeanor, these dogs were historically used for hunting, guarding, and even pulling sleds.
A full-grown Chow Chow stands about 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder and typically weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. These sturdy, medium-sized dogs belong to the Non-Sporting group and usually live for 8 to 12 years.
Appearance
Chow Chows are instantly recognizable thanks to their thick, luxurious double coat, which comes in colors like black, blue, cream, cinnamon, and red. Their fur forms a dense mane around the head and neck, resembling a teddy bear or a miniature lion.
Their face features deep-set eyes, a short, broad snout, and their famously unique blue-black tongue—a rare trait they share with just a few other breeds. Their stiff-legged gait and curly tail carried high over their back further enhance their regal look.
A fun fact: the breed’s name “Chow Chow” may come from a pidgin-English term used to describe miscellaneous goods from the East, reflecting the breed’s introduction to the West.
5. Akita
Also known as the American Akita or Great Japanese Dog, the Akita is a powerful and dignified breed that originated in Japan’s snowy Akita Prefecture. Bred initially for hunting and guarding, this large spitz-type dog has earned its reputation as a loyal protector and a devoted companion.
With males standing 26–28 inches tall and weighing up to 130 pounds, and females slightly smaller, the Akita’s sheer size is awe-inspiring. These loyal dogs boast a dense double coat that can come in various hues, including black, red, fawn, brindle, and white, often with a distinctive facial mask.
Their life expectancy ranges from 10 to 14 years, and they belong to the Working Group. Akitas are best suited for experienced owners due to their independent, sometimes stubborn nature and strong guarding instincts.
Appearance
The Akita’s bear-like look is one of its most charming features. Its rounded, erect ears and plush, thick coat give it an unmistakable teddy bear resemblance. The broad head and curled tail enhance this effect, making the breed appear both regal and cuddly.
The Akita’s double coat is especially plush around the neck and shoulders, resembling a mane, and requires regular brushing to manage shedding and maintain its impressive appearance.
Fun Fact: The most famous Akita, Hachikō, displayed unwavering loyalty by waiting daily at a Tokyo train station for his deceased pet owner for nearly 10 years.
6. Great Pyrenees
With roots in the Pyrenees Mountains straddling France and Spain, the Great Pyrenees—also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog—is a majestic guardian historically bred to protect livestock from predators. Towering at 25 to 32 inches and weighing anywhere between 85 to 150 pounds, this breed commands attention with its immense size and dignified presence.
A member of the Working Group, the Great Pyrenees typically lives between 10 and 12 years. Their strikingly thick, double coats, typically white with occasional markings of gray, tan, or reddish-brown, make them resemble cuddly polar bears—hence their inclusion among the most teddy bear-like breeds.
Appearance
The Great Pyrenees boasts a lush, dense double coat with a coarse, straight, or slightly wavy outer layer and a soft undercoat that provides insulation against harsh weather. Their broad head, expressive dark eyes, and feathered tail arching elegantly over the back enhance their teddy bear charm.
Their white coats—sometimes patterned with faint badger, gray, or tan markings—give them a snowy, cloud-like, teddy bear appearance. Despite their sheer size, their grace and fluffiness make them irresistible cuddle companions.
Fun Fact: The Great Pyrenees was once mistaken for a polar bear due to its thick white coat and large frame.
7. Samoyed
With origins in the icy stretches of Siberia, the Samoyed—also called the “Sammie”—was bred by the nomadic Samoyede people for sled-pulling, herding reindeer, and enduring harsh Arctic conditions. Today, this working breed has transformed into a beloved companion known for its affectionate spirit and unmistakable teddy bear charm.
Male Samoyeds typically stand 21 to 23.5 inches tall and weigh between 45 and 60 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. They belong to the Working Group and have a life span of 12 to 14 years. These dogs are known for their smiling expression—famously called the “Sammy smile”—which originally evolved to prevent drool from freezing on their face.
Appearance
The Samoyed’s plush, cloud-like coat is one of its most defining features. Their dense double coat consists of a soft underlayer and a coarse outer coat, typically in a glistening white hue, though cream and biscuit tones also exist. They have a strong, compact frame, dark almond-shaped eyes, perky ears, and a plumed tail that curls over their back.
This teddy bear dog breed’s thick coat was designed to protect them from sub-zero temperatures, but it also gives them the look of a living polar bear. However, the same fur requires regular grooming—especially during seasonal shedding—to keep its luxurious texture and prevent matting.
Fun Fact: The iconic “Sammy smile” helped prevent icicles from forming on their face during polar expeditions.
Conclusion
From oversized charmers like the Samoyed to cuddly lap dogs with plush personalities, many teddy bear dogs live up to their name with both looks and lovable traits. These breeds combine fluffy coats, gentle demeanors, and affectionate temperaments that make them irresistible companions for families, singles, and anyone craving a cuddle buddy. Whether you’re drawn to the most teddy bear dogs for their soft appearances or their warm personalities, one thing is certain—these fluffy breeds can melt even the toughest hearts.
While some, like the Great Pyrenees, boast thick fur and regal presence, others, such as a Shih Tzu mix, exude charm in a smaller, huggable package. These fluffy dogs are more than just cute faces—they’re loyal friends that thrive on companionship and bring calm, joy, and warmth to any home. Choosing one of these bear-like canines means inviting home a living stuffed animal with a heart full of love.
