You may have guessed that a "teddy bear dog" is not an actual breed. But the good news is, there are lots of dogs out there who look just like stuffed animals.
These breeds combine companionship and cuteness perfectly.
Maltese
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The Maltese is an ancient breed, particularly popular among Roman women.
Originally tasked with chasing mice away from ports in the Mediterranean, they are playful, intelligent companions.
With their bright eyes, cute button noses and silky white coats, the Maltese looks just like a tiny teddy bear.
Coton de Tulear
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Much like the Maltese, the Coton de Tulear makes a wonderful pet.
This happy, social little dog became known as the "Royal Dog of Madagascar" in the 17th century. These days, they are the fluffy superstars of the dog world, regularly accompanying A-listers like Barbara Streisand and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
Pomeranian
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The Pomeranian may be small, but they make up for their size with plenty of personality!
Loyal, active and intelligent, this breed is devoted to their owner. With their endearing foxy faces, they most definitely deserve a place on the list of dogs that look like teddy bears.
Bichon Frise
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A descendent of the Poodle, the Bichon Frise first rose to popularity with the French Royal Court in the 16th century. They later excelled as circus dogs, due to their high intelligence and inquisitive nature.
Today the Bichon is best know as a beloved family pet.
Lucas Terrier
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The Lucas Terrier may be one of the rarest breeds in the UK, with only 350 dogs currently registered.
Originally bred by crossing the Norfolk Terrier, they are willing, active dogs, with endearing teddy bear features.
Chow Chow
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With their enormous fluffy coats and wrinkled brows the Chow Chow was first used as a war dog in China.
They then became popular watchdogs, due to their independent, reserved nature.
These dogs may be aloof with strangers, but they are completely devoted to their master.
Cockapoo
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Perhaps one of the most popular mixed breed dogs in the UK, the Cockapoo is a cross between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel.
The result is an affectionate, friendly dog, who loves the company of people. As the Cockapoo is a mix between two breeds, their coat type can vary. Some dogs take after the curly coated Poodle, while others have wavy fur.
Shih Tzu
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His name may mean "Tibetan Lion", but the Shih Tzu is anything but fierce. In fact, this amiable little dog makes a wonderful companion, who loves spending time around his people.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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The outgoing, loveable Cavalier King Charles was first created by crossing the King Charles, with the Pekinese and the Pug.
The result is a sweet, docile dog, with the most captivating teddy bear looks.
The Cavalier is easy to train, but they don't like being left alone. Gradual training from a young age can help to prevent separation anxiety in older dogs.
Cocker Spaniel
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The Cocker Spaniel excels as both a gun dog and a family pet, provided they are offered enough mental stimulation and daily exercise.
With their long, floppy ears and bright eyes, it's no wonder they make such beloved family pets.
Affenpinscher
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If tiny, scruffy teddy bears are your thing, the Affenpinsher is the perfect choice!
These quirky little dogs make excellent companions and watchdogs, named after "affe", which means monkey in German.
Newfoundland
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Unique in both size and temperament, the majestic Newfoundland is known as the gentle giant among dogs.
They may look like enormous teddy bears, but the Newfoundland is also a strong and determined swimmer, regularly helping in the rescue of humans struggling at sea.
Tibetan Mastiff
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An ancient breed, the Tibetan Mastiff was originally used as a watchdog in the Himalayan Mountains.
He may look cute and cuddly, but this mastiff is an excellent guard dog, known to have a voice as powerful as that "of a lion".
Old English Sheepdog
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Affectionately referred to as the "Bobtail", the Old English Sheepdog was originally bred to herd sheep. These days, there are more commonly seen as pets in the UK.
With their shaggy coats and sweet expressions, they are one of the larger teddy-bear dog breeds out there.
Toy Poodle
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The Toy Poodle may look like a delicate breed in appearance, but they are actually robust little dogs who excel at a variety of different tasks.
As adorable as they are affectionate, the Poodle makes a wonderful pet with the right training and mental stimulation.
Cairn Terrier
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If you're looking for a cute companion who loves the outdoors, the Cairn Terrier is an excellent choice.
These hardy little dogs are active and outgoing. They can find interacting with other dogs difficult, if not given the correct socialisation when young.
West Highland White Terrier
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The origins of the West Highland White Terrier date as far back as the 1600s, when they were first bred to hunt vermin.
These days the Westie may be best know as a companion, but it's important to remember where this feisty little dog first came from. Time outside and plenty of stimulation mean they will be able to relax and settle when indoors.
Lhasa Apso
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Last but not least on our list is the Lhasa Apso, who was first classified as a companion dog in the UK in 1955.
This sweet-natured, loving breed was originally considered a lucky charm in China, subsequently soaring to popularity in Europe.
The Lhasa's beautiful, long coat sheds a lot in spring and summer. To keep it looking soft and tangle free, it requires regular maintenance throughout the year.
If you've got your heart set on a dog breed that looks like a teddy bear, you'll be spoilt for choice. Just be sure to properly research the dog's temperament and specific needs before bringing a puppy home with you.
