Teddy Bear Breed Information
Teddy bear dogs are currently one of the most popular designer breeds around. With their teddy bear appearance and sweet-loving personality, they are a true treasure in Dogdom. These bundles of fluff are renowned for their joyful attitude, and many owners can confirm that it’s difficult not to become joyful yourself around them.
The Shichon, also known as the Zuchon Teddy Bear or Shih Tzu Bichon, is a small and adorable breed that is a mix between the Shih Tzu and the Bichon Frise. This breed is known for its fluffy coat, which is often curly or wavy, and its friendly and affectionate personality. Shichons typically weigh between 7 and 15 pounds and stand about 9 to 12 inches tall. They are great companions and love to be around their owners, making them a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
The Mal-shi, or Malti Tzu, is another cute and cuddly teddy bear breed that is a cross between the Maltese and the Shih Tzu. This breed is also known for its soft and fluffy coat, which can be straight or wavy. Mal-shis usually weigh between 6 and 15 pounds and stand about 10 inches tall. They are known for being playful, loving, and energetic, and make great companion pets for families or owners who have the time and energy to give them the attention they need.
Both the Shichon and the Mal-shi are relatively new breeds, having only been developed within the last few decades. They are popular choices for people who want a small and affectionate dog that is easy to care for and train. With their cute looks and sweet personalities, it's no wonder why they have become such beloved pets!
BREED TYPE / MIX
Hybrid / Shih Tzu crossed with a Maltese or Bichon
ENERGY
Moderate
SHEDDING
Minimum
TRAINING
Responsive
TEMPERAMENT
Affectionate, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Out-Going, Playful
ADULT WEIGHT
6-14 lbs
ADULT HEIGHT
9-12 in
LIFE SPAN
12-14 yrs
Characteristics
- With their soft, fluffy fur, button noses, and big, expressive eyes, Teddy Bear dogs are undeniably adorable. Their cute looks and teddy bear-like appearance make them irresistible to many dog lovers.
- Teddy Bear dogs are known for their loving and affectionate personalities. They thrive on attention and love nothing more than being close to their owners. Their friendly and playful nature makes them great companions for people of all ages.
- One of the benefits of the Teddy Bear dog breed is their low-shedding coat. This makes them a great choice for people with allergies or those who don't want to deal with excessive grooming. Their coat does require regular brushing and occasional trimming to keep it looking neat and tidy.
- Due to their small size and relatively low exercise needs, Teddy Bear dogs make great pets for people living in apartments or smaller homes. They are content with short walks and indoor playtime, making them an ideal choice for city-dwellers.
- Teddy Bear dogs are generally good with children and make great family pets. They are gentle and playful, making them a fun companion for kids of all ages. However, as with all dogs, supervision is important to ensure that both the dog and child are safe.
- With their high intelligence and eagerness to please, Teddy Bear dogs are generally easy to train. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work well with these breeds. Consistent training and socialization from a young age can help ensure they become well-behaved adult dogs.
- Teddy Bear dogs have a longer lifespan than many other small dog breeds, with an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. This means they can provide many years of love and companionship to their owners. Regular vet checkups, good nutrition, and exercise are important to help ensure they live a long and healthy life.
Appearance
The Teddy Bear dog breed is known for its adorable and fluffy appearance, which has made it a popular choice for pet owners who are looking for a small, cuddly companion. These dogs have a soft and luxurious coat that is often compared to a cloud, with a thick, curly or wavy texture that is pleasant to the touch.
One of the defining features of the Teddy Bear breed is their charming facial expression. They have round eyes that are typically dark and sparkling, which gives them a friendly and lovable look. Their small and cute body has a square and compact shape, making them look like a plush toy.
Teddy Bear dogs are small in size, typically weighing between 6 to 15 pounds and standing about 9 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder. They have short legs and a proportionate body that give them a cute and charming appearance.
Their coat is low-shedding and hypoallergenic, which makes them an ideal choice for people who have allergies or who don't want to deal with excessive grooming. The coat can come in a variety of colors such as white, black, brown, and grey, and some dogs may have a combination of two or more colors.
The Teddy Bear dog breed is known for its cute and fluffy appearance that is hard to resist. Their soft and luxurious coat, friendly facial expression, and small size make them a perfect pet for those who want a lovable and cuddly companion. With their charming and cute appearance, it's easy to see why these dogs have become such a popular breed worldwide.
Temperament
The Teddy Bear dog breed is known for its friendly and affectionate temperament, which has made it a popular choice for pet owners around the world. These dogs are social and outgoing, and love to be around people.
Teddy Bear dogs are also intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and are known for being quick learners.
One of the unique characteristics of the Teddy Bear breed is their ability to adapt to their owners' lifestyles. Whether you live in a small apartment or a large house, these dogs are content as long as they are with their owners. They don't require a lot of space or exercise and are happy with short walks and indoor playtime.
Teddy Bear dogs are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts. While they are friendly with strangers, they will often bark to alert their owners to any potential danger. They make great watchdogs, despite their small size.
In addition to their affectionate and protective nature, Teddy Bear dogs are also playful and energetic. They love to play and have fun and will often engage in silly antics that will make you laugh.
However, it's important to note that Teddy Bear dogs can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. They do best with owners who are home often, or who can provide them with plenty of attention and stimulation.
Care
Grooming
The Teddy Bear dog breed has a beautiful, hypoallergenic coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. Their coat is soft and fluffy, with a curly or wavy texture that is reminiscent of a teddy bear.
To maintain their coat, Teddy Bear dogs require regular brushing with a slicker brush. This helps to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Daily brushing is recommended, particularly for dogs with longer hair, to prevent their coat from becoming tangled and matted.
Teddy Bear dogs also require regular trimming to maintain their coat's shape and prevent matting. This is particularly important around their eyes, ears, and paws, where hair can become matted and cause discomfort. It is important to use proper grooming tools and techniques to avoid causing injury or discomfort to the dog.
In addition to brushing and trimming, Teddy Bear dogs also require regular bathing. This helps to keep their coat clean and prevent skin irritation. It is important to use a mild dog shampoo and to avoid over-bathing, as this can dry out their skin and cause itching.
Teddy Bear dogs also require regular dental care to maintain good oral health. Daily tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are important to keep these dogs healthy and comfortable.
Exercise Needs
The Teddy Bear dog breed is a small and adaptable breed that can can do well in a variety of living environments. They have a low-energy level and do not require a lot of exercise, making them a great choice for people who live in apartments or have busy schedules.
While Teddy Bear dogs do not require a lot of exercise, it is still important to provide them with daily physical activity to maintain their health and well-being. Short, frequent walks can provide them with the mental stimulation and exercise they need to stay happy and healthy. Ideally, these dogs should get 10 to 30 minutes of daily walking.
In addition to walks, indoor playtime can be a fun and effective way to provide Teddy Bear dogs with exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy playing games such as fetch, tug-of-war, and hide-and-seek, which can provide them with a challenge and help keep them engaged and entertained.
Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys can also provide Teddy Bear dogs with a mental challenge, which can help keep their mind sharp and prevent boredom. These toys are great for occupying them when their owners are not at home and can help prevent destructive behaviors that can arise from boredom.
Health
Teddy Bear dogs are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they may be prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health problems in Teddy Bear dogs include dental problems, allergies, eye issues, and luxating patella.
Dental problems are a common issue in Teddy Bear dogs, which can be caused by their small size and overcrowded teeth. Regular dental check-ups and daily tooth brushing can help prevent dental decay and gum disease, which can also have an impact on their overall health.
Allergies are another common health issue in Teddy Bear dogs. They may be prone to skin allergies, which can cause itchiness, redness, and other skin issues. This can be managed with proper diet and regular grooming, and by using anti-allergy medications and supplements if necessary.
Eye problems are also a common issue in Teddy Bear dogs, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular eye exams can help detect and prevent these issues, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat them.
Luxating patella is another health issue that can affect Teddy Bear dogs. This is a dislocated kneecap, which can cause limping and discomfort. This condition can be managed with medication or surgery, depending on the severity.
Lifespan
The Teddy Bear dog breed is known for having a relatively long lifespan compared to other dog breeds. On average, Teddy Bear dogs can live for 12 to 16 years, although some dogs may live longer, or shorter lives based on a few factors.
One of the most important factors that can impact the lifespan of Teddy Bear dogs is their overall health. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care can help detect and manage any health issues that may arise, which can help increase their lifespan.
Another important factor that can impact the lifespan of Teddy Bear dogs is their weight. Obesity can lead to a variety of health issues, including joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease, which can all have an impact on their lifespan. Owners should monitor their dog's diet and provide them with regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
In addition to proper care and attention, genetics can also play a role in the lifespan of Teddy Bear dogs. By obtaining a dog from a reputable breeder who performs health screenings on their breeding stock, owners can help ensure that their dog has the best chance of living a long and healthy life.
Training
Training a Teddy Bear dog can be a fun and rewarding experience for both the dog and the owner. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement techniques.
Basic obedience training, such as basic commands should be taught to Teddy Bear puppies at a young age. This can help establish good behavior and make it easier to teach more advanced commands and tricks later on.
Socialization is a crucial part of training for Teddy Bear pups. They should be exposed to new people, pets, and places from a young age to help prevent reservedness towards new people or situations.
With proper training and attention, Teddy Bear dogs can become well-behaved and obedient companions. These affectionate and friendly dogs enjoy learning new things and pleasing their owners, making training a fun and rewarding experience.
History
The Teddy Bear dog breed has a relatively short history, having only been developed in the last few decades. The name "Teddy Bear" comes from their resemblance to the classic stuffed animal.
The exact origin of the Teddy Bear breed is not clear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the 1990s. Breeders began crossing various small companion breeds, such as the Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Poodle, to create a dog that would be small, hypoallergenic, and cute.
The Teddy Bear dog breed quickly became popular due to its adorable looks, friendly personality, and ease of care. They are known for their soft and fluffy coat, which requires regular grooming to keep it looking neat and tidy. They are also known for their affectionate and playful personalities, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.
Today, the Teddy Bear dog breed remains a popular choice for those looking for a small, affectionate companion. They are great pets for people who live in apartments or smaller homes, as they don't require a lot of space or exercise. With their adorable looks and loving personalities, it's easy to see why the Teddy Bear dog breed has become so beloved by dog lovers around the world.