25 Dogs That Look Like Bears aka Teddy Bear Dogs

Written by: Milica Brzakovic
Is it a bear or a dog you're looking at? Just to be on the safe side - check out our list of 15 dog breeds that look awfully much like bears and discover these adorable dogs!

Teddy bear dogs are the real deal. You may notice that some dogs do resemble bears, whether for their coat, facial expression, or overall pose.

Dogs that look like bears are usually of woolly hair, covered with a thick coat, and have bulky bodies.

Dogs that look like bears are usually very large and have bear-like faces, although they all vary in terms of personality, coloring, markings, coat type, coat length, and even activity levels.

Let’s check dogs that look like bears, mostly known as teddy bear dogs.

25. Great Pyrenees Mountain Dog

Great Pyrenees Mountain Dogs are large, gentle, and smart dogs that have been used for a long time as livestock guardians and shepherds in the Pyrenees mountain region of France and northern Spain.

They look similar to Golden Retrievers and Labradors but are better watchdogs than these two breeds.

Not only but they are also a larger breed and have a fluffier coat. When the Great Pyrenees puppies are born, they all look like small teddy bears that you would only want to cuddle with.

This large dog that looks like a bear was originally bred to be great at guarding.

This breed is more popular in Europe than it is in the States, but it is very popular in areas across the States where livestock guarding dogs are needed.

Fast fact on Great Pyrenees Mountain Dog: Queen Victoria owned one

24. Bernedoodle

Bernese Mountain dogs already look quite teddybear-ish, but in combination with Poodles, they look like these big, fluffy, multicolor bears that you would love to cuddle with.

Bernedoodle won’t only look like a small teddy bear while he’s a puppy, but he will keep his bear look even when he grows up.

This crossbreed is one of the most intelligent ones since they combine the brains of two powerful breeds: Poodles and Bernese dogs.

Although he will indeed be the star of the neighborhood because of his appearance, we’re sure that everyone will fall in love with his beautiful personality.

This teddy bear dog is fluffy, but they do not shed much. After all, this mix has Poodle which is known for low shedding.

Bernedoodle can be a little stubborn, but that doesn’t make them any less loyal.

Fast fact on Bernedoodle: Bernedoodle will love colder temperatures

23. Sheepadoodle

Sheepadoodle is another Doodle puppy that unbelievably resembles bears!

These puppies have amazing traits and can be medium or large-sized dogs.

Depending on their Old English Sheepdog parent they can grow to be really large dogs that won’t make the ideal apartment dogs.

However, although they might surprise you with their size, Sheepadoodles are also very popular because of their coat.

Not only that their coat is hypoallergenic, but it doesn’t shed almost at all.

They are often called Panda dogs because they can often have a patch of black or white coat over one or both of their eyes.

Sheepadoodle is a mix between an Old English sheepdog and a Poodle, hence the fluffy bear dog appearance.

This bear looking dog comes in different sizes, due to their Poodle size, but they usually come in standard size. Mini Sheepadoodle is the hardest to find.

Fast fact on Sheepadoodle: They do not shed a lot, but they tend to be larger

22. Miniature Golden Retriever

Miniature Golden Retriever or so-called, Comfort Retriever is a cuter, smaller version of a standard Golden Retriever. If you thought we finally moved away from Poodles, you’re wrong.

Miniature Golden Retrievers aren’t pure Golden Retrievers but are crossed with Poodles.

Sometimes they can also be crossed with Spaniels, but that often results in temperament problems.

Their teddy bear look, alongside their practical size, makes this dog a perfect solution for families with smaller homes.

Fast fact on Miniature Golden Retriever: They tend to cost $1,500 to $2,500 to a reputable breeder

21. Black Belgian Shepherd Puppy

Although they look more like black wolves when they grow up, Black Belgian Shepherds puppies resemble bears a lot.

We’re sure that a mama bear would confuse it for her kid.

We have to admit that out of all other teddy bear-like dogs, the Black Belgian Shepherd puppy is the most elegant one.

However, don’t let their astonishing appearance fool you, they are filled with energy and will always be ready to play games.

Fast fact on Black Belgian Shepherd: This breed is great at gas detection

20. Poochon

Poochon is a wonderful cross between the Bichon Frise and a Toy Poodle, that is also nicknamed as bichon poo or bichpoo.

This lovely “doodle” crossbreed is so popular because of its friendly personality and its teddy bear looks.

They require a lot of attention and affection and are usually highly sociable dogs that love spending time around their people.

So, if you want to get yourself one cute Poochon puppy, rest assured that he will soon be everyone’s favorite dog.

Fast fact on Poochon: Poochons loves water, so make sure that you plan water-related activities

19. Cavachon

Cavachon is a small sized, a result of mixing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise. They may be small, but they are very active, playful, and packed with energy.

Cavachons are also great family dogs, who love to please people.

As such, this teddy bear dog is a true companion breed suited for families of different sizes.

While their temperament might be less cuddly than one of a Poochon, they will surely be full of energy and will try to entertain you with their impressive tricks.

Fast fact on Cavachon: They love meeting new people, but they will bark at strangers

18. Pomchi

Pomchi is a cross between a Pomeranian and a Chihuahua. They are utterly cute, toy dogs with a determined personalities.

Pomchis are super protective of their owners and will do anything to protect you from potential dangers (even though they wouldn’t be able to).

When they are puppies, they have this teddy bear like appearance. But as soon as they grow into their adult size, they get more of the Chihuahua look.

Fast fact on Pomchi: They tend to lick their people a lot, to show affection

17. Cavapoo

Ooops, it looks like all Doodle crossbreeds look like teddy bears when they are puppies! Thanks, Poodle genes!

Cavapoo is similar to the Cavachon, only that instead of the Bichon, the Cavalier Spaniel is mixed with a Poodle!

These teddy bear dogs have a loving and careful nature, and they are exceptionally friendly toward other people and children.

Cavapoos come in many colors and can be up to 14 inches tall. However, their final adult size depends on the type of Poodle they are crossed with.

They are also very smart, love to play and are relatively easy to train.

Fast fact on Cavapoo: This breed has low tendency to shed

16. Australian Labradoodle Puppy

If you want a bigger-sized dog that still looks like a tiny bear when he’s small, then you might want to check out the Australian Labradoodle.

These pups have an outstanding personalities and are the most lovable pets to whoever can provide them with enough exercise.

This lovely breed is a result of crossing 6 different breeds: Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, Irish Water Spaniels, Curly Coat Retrievers, American Cocker Spaniels, and English Cocker Spaniels.

Australian Labradoodle comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. As a puppy, this breed will be extra playful, and a bit hyperactive.

Fast fact on Australian Labradoodle: This breed is often used as therapy and service dogs

15. Bouvier des Flandres

Bouvier des Flandres is an old breed.

Originally from the Flanders region, is famous for being excellent for guarding and as a watchdog, but also for being a loving family dog.

Full-grown Bouvier des Flandres is a giant, strong, black long-haired, and bearded dog with a bark that can freeze the bones.

A Bouvier puppy, on the other hand, looks like a cute, tiny bear rather than a future dog.

Bouvier des Flandres is a breed of rough coat, making grooming a regular practice.

This is a shaggy dog with a rough appearance and a dense undercoat, that keeps them warm and dry during cold days.

Fast fact on Bouvier des Flandres: They need a lot of space to run and explore, or they might become destructive

14. Chow Chow

Unique in so many ways, the Chinese Chow Chow, aside from having a blue tongue and distinctive head and coat features, looks like a small bear in many stages of its life.

Chow Chow may be like a bigger teddy bear dog, but they are mostly known as ‘puffy-lion dogs’ due to their coat.

Keeping their coat neat and clean can be done with weekly brushing sessions and regular grooming.

They are great guard dogs, but they hate being left alone for long hours.

Chow Chow is a breed often seen in busy cities because they are very calm and quiet making them great apartment dogs.

Chow puppies look like bear babies, especially the black ones, and the bear-likeness remains even with full-grown adult Chow Chow dogs.

Fast fact on Chow Chow: Chow Chow is a highly independent dog, making it a great choice for only experienced dog owners

13. Poodle Puppies

poodle puppies

When puppies Poodles are true teddy bear dogs. They are fluffy bear dogs with soft and curly hair.

Once they are fully grown up, they will have more of a dog appearance, and bear like look will be a long gone memory.

Poodle puppies, especially the apricot ones, resemble vintage teddy bears so much that you can’t be sure which one is a poodle and which one is a toy.

Fast fact on Poodle: Poodles first originated in Germany, not France as many believe

12. Eurasier Puppies

The Eurasier, or the Eurasian dog, is a member of the Spitz family, originating from Germany.

This middle-sized dog makes an excellent family pet, but it stays reserved towards strangers.

Although adult Eurasiers look like dogs and nothing else, Eurasier puppies, especially the dark ones (all colors are permitted by the standard) look like tiny bears.

If you ever meet a puppy that looks like a bear, like a lot, be sure that it is probably Eurasier.

As a breed, Eurasiers are sensitive dogs who enjoy family time. They may look independent, but they are true clingy dogs who love toys, people, and life without major stress.

Eurasiers love people so much, that they will demand to spend time with humans 24/7.

Fast fact on Eurasier: This is one of the rarest dog breeds alive

11. Akita Puppies

Did you know that Akita is the most loyal dog breed in the world? Or that Akita puppies look like teddy bear dogs while puppies?

Before their ears straighten up and they get those distinctive fox-like facial features, Akita puppies look pretty much like baby bears when they’re still tiny fur balls.

The legs are far from long and gracious as they will later become, so the bear-like appearance is enriched with goofy, bearlike walking all young puppies share.

Moreover, Akita Inu is often the choice of busy people because they tolerate being alone during the day.

Fast fact on Akita: Akita is a very strong-willed breed, which is why this breed is never recommended for first time dog owners

10. Pomeranian

Pomeranians can hardly be viewed as dogs, when it comes to appearance, although they are most definitely dogs when it comes to character.

However, Pomeranians tend to look like small, fluffy versions of baby bears, especially as puppies, both appearance and attitude-wise, as well as by bear-like movement while very young.

This small teddy bear dog descended from a large sled dog breed to the size that they have today.

Pomeranians are among the most popular dog breeds today, thanks to their compact size and low shedding traits.

These white-coated dogs are often city dogs, based in an apartment, but do not think that it means that they are quiet all the time. They will bark at any sound and will shed a bit no matter what you hear.

Fast fact on Pomeranian: These teddy bear dogs come in 23 different color combinations

9. Keeshond And American Eskimo Spitz Mix

keeshond and american eskimo spitz mix

A Keeshond mixed with an American Eskimo Spitz gives, as the photo illustrates – a baby bear!

Neither of these two breeds reminds of a bear as the dog reaches adult age (actually, they both look like a fox a bit), but at the young fur ball age, a Keeshond Eskimo baby can easily pass as a lost baby bear.

If you are not into regular grooming sessions, such as weekly brushing you might want to skip this breed. They require brushing sessions to keep their coat clean, neat, and tangles-free.

Fast fact on Keeshond And American Eskimo Spitz Mix: They are best-suited for cold climates

8. Caucasian Ovcharka

Caucasian Ovcharka is a large teddy bear dog who can fight off a bear.

Commonly bred as a guard and watchdog in Eastern Europe and Russia, Caucasian Ovcharka is a giant dog breed, originally used to defend farms and herds from bears and wolfs in Caucasian Mountains.

Adult Ovcharkas are huge, grayish mid-length hair dogs, and their chubby, fluffy puppies look just like little bears, although they are anything but little.

Fast fact on Caucasian Ovcharka: They prefer to be single dog in homes

7. Samoyed

Samoyed is best known for its smiley face.

This teddy bear dog is originally from Siberia and as such Samoyed enjoys harsh climates.

Their famous smiley face is actually practical: the upturned corners of the mouth keep Sammies from drooling, preventing icicles from forming on the face.

Before they get their overgrown polar fox looks, Samoyed puppies don’t have as pointy faces and are generally much chubbier and fur ball-like.

Looking more like hairy snowflakes than actual dogs, Samoyed puppies resemble polar-bear babies, with only dark eyes and nose to tell which side of the pup is in question.

Fast fact on Samoyed: If left alone frequently, they will become strong barkers

6. Tibetan Mastiff Puppies

Tibetan Mastiff is one of the largest dogs that look like bears, with 75 to 160 pounds.

As a massive dog, this breed isn’t for those who can physically restrain this breed in a simple walk.

They may look independent and strong, but they are true softies. Tibetan Mastiffs hate being left alone, which is why they are highly affectionate with people, even children.

Given the size, an adult Tibetan Mastiff seen from a distance could pass for a bear. But, when it comes to their fluffiness and chunkiness as puppies – these are the characteristics they share with baby bears.

Those huge paws indicate just how gigantic the puppy will grow to be, but they also add up nicely to the general bear-baby appearance.

Fast fact on Tibetan Mastiff: This massive teddy bear dog originated in Tibet several centuries ago

5. Goldendoodle Puppy

golden doodle pup

Goldendoodle is incredibly popular for both great character and overall cuteness, Goldendoodle pups took over the internet when someone noticed the resemblance between Goldendoodle pups and retro teddy-bear toys.

Look at this Goldendoodle – the color, those round black eyes – was the teddy bear dog designed after a puppy maybe?

Goldendoodle is an affectionate and smart breed. They are calm dogs who thrive when surrounded by people and other animals.

As such, Goldendoodles are often recommended to first time dog owners.

As a sensitive breed, Goldendoodles don’t like being left alone, especially for too long, or too often. They are great with kids, especially because they look like big teddy bear dogs which kids find extra adorable.

Goldendoodle is an affectionate and smart breed. They are calm dogs who thrive when surrounded by people and other animals.

As such, Goldendoodles are often recommended to first time dog owners.

Fast fact on Goldendoodle: This breed is great for families with children

4. German Shepherd, Akita, and Corgi Mix Puppy

german shepherd akita and corgi mix puppy

This particular teddy bear dog literally looks like a baby-black bear. Such an amazing mix of these three breeds involved can’t turn out bad, right?

Semi-grown pointy ears, round eyes, chubby cheeks, and the color leads one to believe that what he is seeing is not a puppy but a baby bear that got confused and tends to bark.

Fast fact on German Shepherd, Akita, and Corgi Mix: This breed will shed significantly

3. Alaskan Malamute Puppy

alaskan malamute puppy

As they get older, Alaskan Malamutes get more and more wolf-like.

But, at some point in their puppy days, Alaskan Malamute babies, especially the chubbier ones, seem to have some bear traits.

Alaskan Malamute are often promoted as huskies-like dogs, due to their appearance and temperament. As puppies, they are true teddy bear dogs who enjoy harsh climates, especially snowy days.

Given all the fluffiness, their huge paws, and cheeks, these puppies really look as if they will grow up to be elegant, white, and grey bears.

Alaskan Malamutes are often compared to Siberian husky.

Fast fact on Alaskan Malamute: They love to howl

2. Sarplaninac Puppy

sarplaninac puppy

Named after Sar Mountains, Sarplaninac pronounced (shar-pla-nee-natz), is also known as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog.

This dog is a national symbol in Macedonia and they are mostly based in rural areas. Due to their size, they need a large space to explore and roam freely.

These large bear looking dogs were used as military guard dogs. They are gentle despite their large posture and prefer to be close to their owners.

Sarplaninac puppies, the breed used as guard and herding dogs, protecting herds from wolfs and bears, could easily be mistaken for small bears.

All fluffy, plump, and grayish – they really give the impression that they might be lost bear babies. Huge paws that are characteristic of all giant breeds add up to the picture as well.

Fast fact on Sarplaninac: Sarplaninac is among 13 breeds that are banned in Denmark

1. Newfoundland

newfoundlander

Newfoundland is a large size dog that loves children. This is the ultimate nanny dog who could spend hours playing with children.

Regardless of their teddy bear look, these dogs still need proper training, socialization, and supervision when with smaller or younger children.

Newfoundlands are large and they can easily knock a kid or something off the table with their tail. Overall, this large teddy bear dog is a true gentle giant.

With huge paws, a fluffy coat, round dark eyes, chubby cheeks, and general chubbiness – a Newfoundlander puppy can pass for a black bear baby with no trouble at all.

Adult Newies, given how big they are, seen seated from a certain distance could also confuse one into running in the opposite direction or playing dead as well!

Last but not least… Do proper research and compare dog breeds to find a teddy bear dog that fits your lifestyle.

What To Name A Dog That Looks Like A Bear?

As you can see from this article, teddy bear dogs are many and each one comes with a certain set of traits.

Some are large, some are sensitive, and some have amazing guarding skills.

Still, one this is common to all of them – they all resemble bears, throughout their entire life, or at least while they are puppies.

If a dog looks like a bear is your next dog you might think about making fido with a really powerful name.

Not sure how to name your teddy bear dog? Check this ultimate list of dog names to get inspiration.