Dogs have long been cherished companions, often providing comfort and warmth akin to a beloved teddy bear. Some large dog breeds, with their fluffy coats and gentle expressions, resemble these stuffed toys, making them even more endearing to dog lovers. If you’re dreaming of a life-sized teddy bear to snuggle with, this list of large dog breeds might just make your dreams come true.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a gentle giant known for its friendly demeanor and thick, fluffy coat. Originating from Canada, these dogs were historically used by fishermen for their swimming prowess. They are wonderfully sweet and often described as “nanny dogs” due to their protective nature around children. Their large size, combined with their soft, dense fur, makes them look like a real-life teddy bear, perfect for cuddles. If you’re looking for a dog that is both loving and reassuring, the Newfoundland is a fantastic option.
Chow Chow
With its lion-like mane and plush coat, the Chow Chow is a breed that truly resembles a teddy bear. Originating from China, these dogs are known for their distinct blue-black tongues and dignified presence. While they can be aloof with strangers, they form strong bonds with their families. Their fluffy appearance is complemented by their sturdy build, making them look both adorable and majestic. Despite their reserved nature, they are loyal and protective, ensuring their loved ones feel safe and cherished.
Samoyed
The Samoyed, with its iconic “Sammy smile” and snow-white coat, is a breed that exudes warmth and friendliness. Originally bred to herd reindeer and pull sleds in Siberia, these dogs are known for their gentle and sociable temperament. Their fluffy, cloud-like fur makes them look like a walking teddy bear, and their cheerful nature makes them a joy to be around. Samoyeds thrive on companionship and are always eager to spread joy and affection to those around them.
Leonberger
The Leonberger is a majestic breed that combines strength with a teddy bear-like appearance. With its thick, water-resistant coat and soulful eyes, this breed hails from Germany and was initially bred as a companion for European royalty. Despite their large size, Leonbergers are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them excellent family pets. Their playful demeanor and loving heart make them the perfect blend of a gentle giant and a cuddly teddy bear.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their tricolor coats and expressive eyes, which give them a teddy bear-like appearance. Originating from Switzerland, these dogs were bred as working farm dogs, adept at pulling carts and herding cattle. Despite their working roots, Bernese Mountain Dogs are incredibly affectionate and gentle, especially with children. Their combination of beauty, intelligence, and a loving nature makes them a favorite among families.
Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a breed that commands attention with its impressive size and luxurious coat. These dogs have a storied history as protectors of Tibetan monasteries and homes. Their thick, mane-like fur and statuesque presence often draw comparisons to both lions and teddy bears. While they can be independent and reserved, Tibetan Mastiffs are fiercely loyal to their families, offering both protection and companionship.
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a majestic breed known for its serene demeanor and fluffy white coat. Originally used as livestock guardians in the Pyrenees Mountains, these dogs are both gentle and courageous. Their thick, weather-resistant fur gives them a teddy bear-like appearance, inviting endless cuddles. Despite their calm nature, Great Pyrenees are vigilant protectors, always keeping a watchful eye over their loved ones.
Akita
The Akita is a breed that combines strength with a teddy bear-like charm. Originating from Japan, Akitas are known for their loyalty and dignified presence. Their thick, plush coats and curled tails add to their teddy bear resemblance. While they are often reserved with strangers, Akitas are incredibly devoted to their families, offering both companionship and protection. Their combination of strength and affection makes them a unique and cherished breed.
Old English Sheepdog
With its shaggy coat and playful personality, the Old English Sheepdog is a breed that embodies the spirit of a teddy bear. These dogs were historically used for herding livestock, but their affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions. Their fluffy appearance and endearing expressions make them a favorite among dog lovers. Despite their size, Old English Sheepdogs are known for their gentle and friendly demeanor, making them a joy to be around.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are gentle giants known for their massive size and gentle hearts. Originally bred for rescue work in the Swiss Alps, these dogs are both strong and compassionate. Their thick coats and expressive eyes give them a teddy bear-like appearance, inviting warmth and affection. Despite their size, Saint Bernards are incredibly gentle and patient, especially with children. Their loving nature and protective instincts make them a cherished addition to any family.
Eurasier
The Eurasier is a relatively new breed that combines the best traits of its ancestors, the Chow Chow, Wolfspitz, and Samoyed. Known for their serene demeanor and fluffy coats, Eurasiers have a teddy bear-like charm that is hard to resist. They are incredibly loyal to their families and thrive on companionship. Their calm and balanced nature makes them excellent family pets, offering both affection and tranquility.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a breed that exudes both strength and charm. With its tricolor coat and sturdy build, this breed resembles a giant teddy bear. Known for their work in the Swiss Alps, these dogs are both hardworking and affectionate. Their gentle nature and loyalty make them a favorite among families, offering both companionship and protection. Despite their size, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle and friendly demeanor.
Keeshond
The Keeshond is a striking breed known for its fox-like face and plush coat. Originating from the Netherlands, these dogs are known for their cheerful and sociable nature. Their fluffy appearance and expressive eyes give them a teddy bear-like charm that is hard to resist. Keeshonden thrive on companionship and are always eager to spread joy and affection to those around them. Their playful and loving nature makes them a joy to be around.
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful breed that combines strength with a teddy bear-like appearance. Bred for their endurance and strength, Malamutes were historically used for sledding in the Arctic. Despite their working origins, these dogs are incredibly affectionate and gentle with their families. Their thick, plush coats and expressive eyes give them a teddy bear-like charm, making them a favorite among dog lovers. Their loyalty and playful nature make them a cherished addition to any home.
Kuvasz
The Kuvasz is a majestic breed known for its protective nature and fluffy white coat. Originating from Hungary, these dogs were historically used as livestock guardians. Their thick, weather-resistant fur and gentle demeanor give them a teddy bear-like appearance, inviting warmth and affection. Despite their calm nature, Kuvaszok are vigilant protectors, always keeping a watchful eye over their loved ones. Their combination of strength and affection makes them a unique and cherished breed.
In conclusion, these large dog breeds not only possess the appearance of a teddy bear but also embody the warmth and affection that these beloved toys represent. Whether you’re seeking a gentle giant or a playful companion, these breeds offer a delightful blend of both. Their fluffy coats and loving natures make them the perfect addition to any family, providing endless joy and companionship.
Born and bred in South Africa, a Capetonian at heart. Amy-Leigh’s love for nature and animals was inherited from her Dad. He loves taking the family on road trips to experience nature at its finest; Amy-Leigh’s favourite being whale watching in Hermanus and spotting Kudu along the West Coast. Amy-Leigh holds a BA in English Literature and Communication Studies.
