Sure there are dogs that are cute and fuzzy, they look like teddy bears. Taking a cue from their cuddliness, there are pooches that are actually called teddy bear dogs! Are you curious about who they are? Let us meet and get to know them better in the article below.
What is a Teddy Bear Dog?
Teddy Bear is not an official or recognized dog breed. Using the term descriptively, it is a collection of dogs, mostly designer or cross-bred, which are small as a toy, with button noses, stand-up ears, expressive eyes, fluffy coat and oozing with cuteness.
Suffice to say, they look like one so they named them one.
The popularity of Teddy Bear Dog
Teddy bear dogs were first introduced in the US in the 1950s. The Cockapoo, or a mix of Cocker Spaniel and Poodle, was known to be the first cross-bred teddy bear dog. Since their advent, they have caught the hearts of people.
Getting to Know Teddy Bear Dog: Quick Facts, Temperament and Other Things
It is hard to generalize how teddy bear dogs behave since they come from different parents and their temperament or attitude will greatly depend on the dominant one. Not only that, but how well they are trained and the kind of environment they are in are also factors to consider.
Before we get to know each teddy bear dogs, here are some common denominator among them:
Temperament
- These cuddly balls love to be with their humans. Thus, almost all of them are not to be left alone for long or they will suffer from separation anxiety. If they needed to be left, entrust them to a friend or doggy care. Leave them also with their favorite toys to help them cop
- These cute little balls of fluffy are mostly friendly! That includes humans, other pets and even cats. Early socialization is the key. However, each dog is different, best to double-check and observe them in actuality.
- Not only friendly but most are kid-friendly. Despite that, kids must not be left alone unguarded with them. In addition, kids must be trained on how to interact with dogs. Tail pulling, harsh playing and the likes should definitely be avoided. Because they are small, they tend to get hurt when playing with rowdy kids.
- Most are barky but with training, it can be addressed.
Training and Exercise
- Little as they are, they need exercise too. Although the level will depend on each, exercise will put them in a good mood and will prevent behavioral problems such as too much barking or biting or even chewing of furniture.
- Because most of them are clever, they need to be stimulated physically and mentally. Play and games will keep them busy. Some of them can also even swim! To check if they can, research their purebred parents and about them.
- Most of them are intelligent and human-pleasers, thus they are easy to train. They might be cute but some of them have a stubborn streak, too.
- In terms of training, it is important to do it at an early stage. Positive training techniques will always work. Never hurt them in words and in deeds as most of them are sensitive.
Grooming, Health and Feeding
- While most are called hypoallergenic, no dog is really 100% one. They all produce dander and dead skin cells. But because most of them shed a little, it is great for allergy sufferers.
- In terms of food, just like any dog, portion and frequency must depend on their size, age, level of activity and actual health condition. Generally, dry high-quality kibble is recommended. When in doubt, it is best to check with a vet or canine nutrition specialist.
- Compared to purebreds, they are said to have hybrid vigor. Cross-breeding them eliminates diseases common to both parents. Even so, no dog is invincible. They are still predisposed to diseases. Dealing with reputable and registered breeders, regular vet check-ups, proper feeding and exercise and loads of tender loving care are all important to ensure they live a long, healthy life.
Best to research thoroughly about the specific teddy bear designer breed you have in mind. But as starters, we’ve rounded up a few quick facts about these cuties.
1. CAIRNOODLE
Mix: Cairn Terrier and Poodle
Also known as: Cairndoodle, Cairnpoo, Cairnpoodle and Poocan
Date of Origin: 1990s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Brown, Cream, Gold, Grey and White
Size:
- Average Height: 10 to 15 inches
- Average Weight: 13 to 20 pounds
Grooming needs: Moderate grooming with daily brushing
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly: Yes. They get along well with them and loves to play with them
Is it perfect for apartment-living: Yes
Activity level: Medium
Exercise needs: Needs daily exercise to work their high energies off
Trainability: While a bit stubborn due to its Cairn Terrier genes, their Poodle parent is very smart, obedient and eager to please. Thus it is easier to train than a Cairn Terrier.
Temperament: This fluffy creature is a high-energy, happy dog that is very affectionate to its owners. They are very loyal, highly sociable and playful. While they love being around with people, Cairnoodles are also independent and confident. They are alert and wary of strangers.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes. They prefer not to be left behind especially for a long time.
Health Risks: Addison’s Disease, Bloat, Epilepsy, eye issues, Hip Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism and Patellar Luxation
Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
2. CAVACHON
Mix: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise
Also known as: Bichon-King Charles mix
Date of Origin: 1990s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Apricot, Black, Brown, Peach and White
Size:
- Average Height: 12 to 13 inches
- Average Weight: 15 to 20 pounds
Grooming needs: Relatively low maintenance
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Perfect for children of all ages. Unlike other breeds, they are tolerant of children.
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Low
Exercise needs: An hour worth of walk is enough for this energetic breed
Trainability: While they are stubborn, with patience, it is not impossible to train them. Thanks to their intelligence and love for learning.
Temperament: This sweet furball loves to cuddle and is very affectionate. They love to play with their families. They are also very friendly to people and other pets. They make great family dogs and they can accompany their families on their activities.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes, since both parent breeds are.
Health Risks: Anemia, eye problems, Mitral Valve Disease or heart murmur and Syringomyelia (a common brain condition among King Charles Spaniels)
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
3. CAVAPOO
Mix: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle
Also known as: Cavadoodle
Date of Origin: 1950s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Brown Gold, and White
Size
- Average Height: 9 to 14 inches
- Average Weight: 8 to 20 pounds
Grooming needs: Regular grooming
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes, and they hardly shed.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, they are great for kids.
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes, even if they are active.
Activity level: High
Exercise needs: Needs playtime or walk each day. They also love ball fetching.
Trainability: They are intelligent but they have a short attention span. Even so, it is easy to train Cavapoos when done with consistency. As with any sensitive dogs, they do not respond well to harsh training.
Temperament: Cavapoos are very affectionate, loyal, playful and sociable. They love their humans and enjoy playing or snuggling with them. Their friendliness doesn’t make them a good guard dog as they will welcome visitors with smiles and tail wags. They are adaptable and great for first-time pet owners.
The tendency for separation anxiety? Yes
Health Risks: Diabetes, Hip Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation, Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Syringomyelia
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
4. COCKAPOO
Mix: Cocker Spaniel and Miniature Poodle
Also known as: Cockerpoo, Spoodle, Cockerdoodle
Date of Origin: 1950s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Brown, Red, Silver and White
Size
- Average Height: 10 to 15 inches
- Average Weight: 12 to 24 pounds
Grooming needs: Requires regular grooming
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes and less likely to cause an allergic reaction to allergy sufferers
Is it kid-friendly? Yes
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: High
Exercise needs: They need regular exercise like fetch games and even swimming
Trainability: Easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please.
Temperament: Sweet-natured yet very outgoing, Cockapoos are a charmer. Like other small dogs, they require attention and love to cuddle. They love games and activities with their families. As a very sociable dog, they are perfect for first-time owners.
The tendency for separation anxiety? Because they are needy, they are prone also to separation anxiety.
Health Risks: Ear problems, Hip and Retinal Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation and Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Lifespan: 14 to 18 years
5. HAVAPOO
Mix: Havanese and Toy or Miniature Poodle
Also known as: Poovanese, Havanoodle or Havadoodle
Date of Origin: 1980s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Brown, Grey, Tan and White
Size
- Average Height: 8 to 15 inches
- Average Weight: 10 to 15 pounds
Grooming needs: Regular grooming and weekly brushing
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, and they are gentle with them during playtime.
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Medium
Exercise needs: Their high energy needs to be worked off with 30 to 60-minute daily exercise or play.
Trainability: Smart and easy to train, it should not be hard to train a Havapoo. Make sure to do it with positive reinforcement.
Temperament: They look cuddly and they also love snuggles. Very energetic and playful, they love to trot around with their owners. They also do not make a good watchdog because they do not bark often.
The tendency for separation anxiety? Yes
Health Risks: Cataracts, Deafness, Hip Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and Patellar Luxation
Lifespan: 10 to 14 years
6. MALSHI
Mix: Maltese and Shih Tzu
Also known as: Mal-Shi, Malti Zu, Malt-Tzu, Shima, and Shih-tese
Date of Origin: 1990s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Brown and combination
Size
- Average Height: 10 inches
- Average Weight: 6 to 12 pounds
Grooming needs: Regular grooming with daily brushing
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes and they love to cuddle them
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Medium
Exercise needs: Compared to other dogs, they only need 10 to 15-minute exercise daily
Trainability: They may have a stubborn streak but it can be addressed with positive and consistent training. They can also pick up easily as they are intelligent
Temperament: Charming and loving, Malshis loves to spend time with their families. Also outgoing, it is easy for them to make friends with other humans and pets. They also have the tendency to be nervous especially in new situations that can lead them to bark often. However, this can be resolved through training.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes, because they love their families so much.
Health Risks: Eye issues, Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism and Patellar Luxation
Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
7. MALTIPOO
Mix: Maltese and Poodle
Also known as: Malti-Doodle/ Malt-A-Doodle, Maltidoodle/ Maltedoodle, Malta-Poo, Malti-Poodle, Maltepoo, Maltesepoo, Maltese-Poodle, Maltesedoodle, Moodle and Malt-oodle.
Date of Origin: Unknown
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Blue, Brown, Cream, Gray, Silver and White
Size
- Average Height: 8 to 14 inches
- Average Weight: 5 to 20 pounds
Grooming needs: Minimal maintenance with at least once a week brushing
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes they are a child-friendly dog and gets along well with them
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Low
Exercise needs: They need daily walks for at least 40 minutes
Trainability: Very smart and eager to please, Maltipoos are easy to train
Temperament: Maltipoos are very friendly to both humans and animals. Having strong bonds with their humans, they love to snuggle in their laps while relaxing. Active and playful, they are known for their barking.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes because they require lots of attention
Health Risks: Epilepsy, Patellar Luxation, Progressive Retinal Atrophy and skin problems
Lifespan: 10 to 13 years
8. MINIATURE GOLDENDOODLE
Mix: Golden Retriever and Miniature Poodle
Also known as: Groodle, Curly Golden, Curly Retriever, Goldendoodle, Goldenpoo
Date of Origin: 1980s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Brown, Blue, Cream, Red, Sable and Silver
Size
- Average Height: 13 to 20 inches
- Average Weight: 15 to 35 pounds
Grooming needs: Regular grooming needed
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, they are known to be gentle dogs. Gentle enough even for the youngest member of the family.
Is it perfect for apartment living? Since they require lots of exercises, they are better at a house with bigger space for them to play and run
Activity level: Medium
Exercise needs: They need moderate exercise daily. Three times a day walk for half an hour is recommended. Goldendoodles love to play and even swim!
Trainability: Intelligent and eager to please, Goldendoodles are easy to train. Thanks also to both their smart parents, positive reinforcement works for them.
Temperament: Goldendoodles are known for their sunny, playful and energetic personality. They are confident, loyal and love to be around their humans often. They are so friendly and easy-going that they almost never bark at strangers or other dogs. That said, they also do not make good guard dogs.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes
Health Risks: Allergies, ear infections, Hip or Elbow Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation, and even cancer
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
9. MORKIE
Mix: Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier
Also known as: Malkie, Malki, Maltiyork, Morkie, Yorkiemalt and Yorktese
Date of Origin: 1990s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Blue, Fawn, Silver, and White
Size
- Average Height: 8 to 10 inches
- Average Weight: 4 to 15 pounds
Grooming needs: High maintenance that requires daily brushing
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? No, they are best with families with bigger children
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes, they can thrive in small spaces
Activity level: Low
Exercise needs: Morkies need 30 to 45-minute exercise daily
Trainability: Morkies can be stubborn so bring lots of patience when training them. But thanks to their intelligence, training them is still possible. Clicker training is recommended for this dog and never ever punish them.
Temperament: Morkies are happy and playful dogs. They love a game of fetch with their families. They are also extremely loyal and attached. They love curling at their owner’s lap. When untrained and not properly socialized, they tend to get demanding and barky. When trained to socialize, they can be friendly with other animals.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes
Health Risks: Dental overcrowding and gum diseases, Hypoglycemia, Portacaval Shunt, Patellar Luxation, and Tracheal Collapse
Lifespan: 10 to 13 years
10. PEEKAPOO
Mix: Pekingese and Poodle
Also known as: Pekepoo, Pekapoo, Peke a Poo, Peke-A-Poo and Peka-poo
Date of Origin: 1950s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Brown, Cream, Red, Silver and White
Size
- Average Height: 11 inches
- Average Weight: 4 to 20 pounds
Grooming needs: Regular grooming with at least every other day brushing
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes and low-shedding
Is it kid-friendly? Yes and gentle towards kids
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: High
Exercise needs: They are very active and needs high level of mental activity and exercise
Trainability: Training Peekapoos is not an easy feat. While they are small, they are stubborn and dominating. However, they are also intelligent and they respond well to positive training techniques.
Temperament: Peekapoo are sweet and affectionate dogs who love to be around with their humans as much as possible. They are very loyal and distrustful to strangers. They are highly protective of their owners. They also make good watchdogs with their barking ability. When properly trained at socializing, they will enjoy playing with other people and other pets.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes
Health Risks: Because it is a brachycephalic dog (or flat-faced), they have breathing problems and prone to dental issues
Lifespan: 11 to 15 years
11. POMAPOO
Mix: Pomeranian and Poodle
Also known as: Pooranian, Pompoo and Pomeroodle
Date of Origin: 1980s or 1990s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Brown, Fawn, Red and Sable and White
Size
- Average Height: 6 to 10 inches
- Average Weight: 5 to 15 pounds
Grooming needs: Requires good brushing daily and professional trim every three months
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, they love children and are tender and kind with them
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Medium
Exercise needs: They do not have a high need for exercise but daily walks are good for them. They also love water!
Trainability: Their strong desire to please their owners and smart minds makes them easy to train. Positive reinforcement coupled with treats work well with them. To keep them from being bored, make sure to have varied training lessons
Temperament: Pomapoos are loving and affectionate companion dogs. They are very outgoing, curious and loyal. They are very eager to meet new friends and animals.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes as they rely on their owner’s company
Health Risks: Addison’s disease, Entropion, Epilepsy, Patellar Luxation and Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
12. POMCHI
Mix: Pomeranian and Chihuahua
Also known as: Chi-Pom, Pomachi, Chiapom and Chiranian
Date of Origin: Unknown
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Brown, Cream, Fawn, Gray, Red and Sable
Size
- Average Height: 6 to 10 inches
- Average Weight: 5 to 12 pounds
Grooming needs: Daily brushing and grooming every two or three months
Is it hypoallergenic? No, since both parents are not
Is it kid-friendly? Best for families with older children.
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes, they do not need a big space to live in
Activity level: Medium
Exercise needs: They are quite an active dog that needs daily walks. Mostly, they get their exercise by bouncing around the house.
Trainability: Pomchis can be quite stubborn and assertive. Good thing they are willing to please and are intelligent. They respond well to calm and consistent positive training.
Temperament: Pomchis are known to be a small dog with a big personality. They are outgoing and lively. They love cuddles and enjoy a shower of attention. They tend to be nervous at strangers and new situations so it is best to socialize them while still young. They also make great watchdogs as they are vocal and fiesty.
The tendency for separation anxiety? Yes as they prefer to be with their family most of the time
Health Risks: Dental issues, Epilepsy, Hypoglycemia, Patellar Luxation and Tracheal Collapse
Lifespan: 12 to 18 years
13. POMERANIAN
Mix: None as they are the only purebred teddy bear dog in the category
Also known as: Pom, Pom Pom, Deutsche Spitze, Loulou, Spitz Enano, Spitz Main, Zwergspitz and Zwers
Date of Origin: 1800s
Purpose: Companion and working dog
Common colors: Black, Brown, Cream, Grey, Fawn, Red Silver and White
Size
- Average Height: 6 to 7 inches
- Average Weight: 3 to 7 pounds
Grooming needs: Pom Pom’s need daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Having fluffy and medium coats, they need grooming at least thrice a week.
Is it hypoallergenic? No, Pomeranian’s coat sheds constantly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes but like any small dogs, they are best with older children
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Medium
Exercise needs: Daily 30-minute walks are recommended for them although running around the house is already good for their health.
Trainability: Known for their alertness and intelligence, Pomeranians are easy to train. In fact, they are a favorite among dog shows. They also love to be mentally stimulated.
Temperament: This 23rd most popular dog according to AKC is inquisitive, lively, bold and indeed an ideal companion. While small, this dog has a big heart and personality. These Pom Poms love to be treated like a prince. They are active but also love the lap of their owners very much. They are also good watchdogs because of their alert nature and frequent barking. Although without training, it can be problematic.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes because this dog craves for attention
Health Risks: Collapsed Trachea, Entropion, Shoulder Luxation, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, and other eye diseases
Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
14. POOCHON
Mix: Poodle and Bichon Frise
Also known as: Bichnoodle, Bich Poo, Bichon Poo or Bichon Poodle
Date of Origin: Unknown although some say as early as the 13th century
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Apricot, Black, Blue, Cream, Grey and Tan
Size
- Average Height: 9 to 14 inches
- Average Weight: 6 to 18 pounds
Grooming needs: Once a month is great for them
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, but will do well with older children
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes because of their compact size
Activity level: High
Exercise needs: This high energy dog needs lots of exercises and mental stimulation to make them happy and healthy.
Trainability: Because of their intelligence and eagerness to please, they are highly trainable. Clicker training is also recommended for Poochons.
Temperament: Poochons are very friendly and sociable; they can be around with other humans and pets. They are also very cuddly and affectionate stealing the hearts of their humans. While they have a tendency to bark a lot, training can help address this.
The tendency for separation anxiety? Yes.
Health Risks: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation and Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
15. SCHNOODLE
Mix: Schnauzer and Poodle
Also known as: Schnoodle Doodle or Doodle, a common term for Poodle mixes
Date of Origin: 1980
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Brown, Gray, Sable and White
Size
- Average Height: 10 to 16 inches
- Average Weight: 7 to 16 pounds
Grooming needs: They require a lot of grooming every 4 to 6 weeks and should be brushed every few days
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes, perfect for allergy sufferers
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, they get along well with children
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Medium
Exercise needs: Daily exercises of 30 up to 60 minutes daily is recommended. It can be in the form of walking, jogging and even playing fetch! They also get bored easily and exercise will help them have a positive mood.
Trainability: Schnoodles have both intelligent parents thus they are highly trainable with proper motivation. Reward-based training works well with them. Positive encouragement will also help a lot.
Temperament: They are described as charming and eternally happy dogs. These energetic dogs love to play and spend time with their families. They require attention and values companionship. Because they are territorial, they tend to be protective and bark at new things. However, once warmed up, they can get along well with other humans and animals.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes
Health Risks: Addison’s Disease, Cataract, Epilepsy, Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Patellar Luxation
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
16. SHIH POO
Mix: Shih Tzu and Poodle
Also known as: Shoodle, Shih-Doodle, Shipoo, Shi-Poo/ Shi Poo, Shihpooh/ Shipooh and Shitzpoo
Date of Origin: Unknown
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Brown, Grey and White
Size
- Average Height: 8 to 15 inches
- Average Weight: 8 to 18 pounds
Grooming needs: Shih-Poos need regular upkeep
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? They tend to get nervous around young children; families with older children or none at all is recommended
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Low
Exercise needs: They do not need lots of exercises. Short brisk walks twice daily are enough for these little pooches already.
Trainability: They might be cute, but they are stubborn and quite a lot to handle especially when training. Since house training can be time-consuming, they can be taken in an obedience class.
Temperament: These tiny balls of energy are affectionate and loving. They are also playful, gentle and good-natured. They make everyone smile! Shih-Poos also love to hear themselves bark.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes, they need a lot of company
Health Risks: Addison’s Disease, Brachycephalic Syndrome, Epilepsy, Mitral Valve Disease, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
17. SHORKIE
Mix: Yorkshire Terrier and Shih Tzu
Also known as: Shorkie Tzu
Date of Origin: 1880s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Brown, Blue, Fawn, Red and White
Size
- Average Height: 6 to 14 inches
- Average Weight: 7-15 lbs
Grooming needs: Shorkies need a lot of grooming from daily brushing to grooming every six weeks.
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, but suitable for families with older children
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Medium
Exercise needs: While they can get their exercise by trotting inside the house, daily short walks are beneficial for them.
Trainability: While intelligent, Shorkies have a stubborn streak with a limited attention span. Training needs lots of patience. Short training sessions with positive reinforcement are advised.
Temperament: Shorkies are known to be a perfect companion dog because they love to be with their owners whether during playing or just cuddling. They are loyal and have a high amount of energy. Beware also as this dog loves to bark.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes
Health Risks: Collapsed Trachea, Hypoglycemia, problems with breathing and overheating because of its flat face
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
18. WESTIEPOO
Mix: West Highland White Terrier and Poodle
Also known as: Wee-Poo and Westiedoodle
Date of Origin: 1970s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Cream and White
Size
- Average Height: 11 to 17 inches
- Average Weight: 25 to 35 pounds
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes, they are a non-shedding breed
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, especially for older kids
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Medium
Exercise needs: Westiepoos need 30 to 45 minutes of activity daily such as walking and playing. This crossbreed loves agility exercises and games with their owners.
Trainability: Westiepoos are very clever and can learn quickly. Make them more cooperative by offering rewards. In fact, in 15 to 25 repetitions, they can memorize new commands.
Temperament: They are loving, affectionate and people-oriented. While they are independent, they love to spend time with their humans. They are also generally friendly but they can have a high prey drive, that might not be good with other pets especially cats. This can be resolved through early training and socialization.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes
Health Risks: Addison’s Disease, Bloat, Cushing’s Disease, Gastric Dilation Volvulus, Hip Dysplasia, Hypoadrenocorticism, Patellar Luxation and Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
19. YORKIPOO
Mix: Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle
Also known as: Yorki-Poo, Yoodle, Yorkapoo, Yorkerpoo, Yorkiepoopoo and Yorkiedoodle
Date of Origin: 1880s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Brown, Cream and Silver
Size
- Average Height: 4 to 14 inches
- Average Weight: 3 to 14 pounds
Grooming needs: Relatively low maintenance with twice to thrice weekly brushing
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Low
Exercise needs: They have low activity needs but daily walking and playing are best for them.
Trainability: Intelligent and eager to please,Yorkipoos are highly trainable. Positive training techniques with treats for a job well done are also recommended for them.
Temperament: Good companion dogs, Yorkipoos are affectionate, gentle and playful. They love to be with their humans. Not only to their families but they are also outgoing to other people and pets.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes
Health Risks: Atopic Dermatitis, Epilepsy, Hypothyroidism, Patellar Luxation and Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
20. ZUCHON
Mix: Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu
Also known as: Shichon, Shichon-Teddy Bear, Tzu Frise, BichonTzu and Rag Doll
Date of Origin: 1990s
Purpose: Companion
Common colors: Black, Cream, Gray, Fawn, Pied, Red and White
Size
- Average Height: 7 to 12 inches
- Average Weight: 8 to 14 pounds
Grooming needs: Daily brushing and hair cut every 3 months
Is it hypoallergenic? Yes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, great for children of all ages
Is it perfect for apartment living? Yes
Activity level: Low
Exercise needs: Requires the daily exercise of about 30 minutes
Trainability: Highly adaptable and clever, Zuchons can be easily trained.
Temperament: Loved by many, Zuchons are sweet and friendly. They get along well with everyone. Apart from being affectionate, they are good watchdogs and will bark at anyone approaching.
Tendency for separation anxiety? Yes and they love attention
Health Risks: Deafness, Hip Dysplasia and Patellar Luxation
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
How Much Are Teddy Bear Dogs?
Now endeared to them, let us get to know their price. Teddy bear dogs can cost from $500 to $3,000. To reiterate, deal with legitimate breeders as they ensure dogs are healthy by testing them against diseases.
While buying one is an option, there are a lot of teddy bear dogs in rescue centers. Consider adoption which can range from $150 to $350. If interested, check for specific breed rescue areas as they usually take in the mixed-breeds.
Owning a dog is also like having a child. Aside from its upfront cost, consider grooming needs, health care, vaccination and food it needs throughout its lifetime.
Owning a dog is a lifelong commitment. Once committed, they should stay with you through thick and thin because they are family.
Ready to Get A Teddy Bear Dog?
There are many teddy bear dogs to choose from! It is up to you to check and see which one fits your personality and lifestyle. Whoever you choose though, they make good family dogs who will love you to bits and pieces.
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