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15 dog breeds that look like actual bears
Where can I find a dog that looks like a bear?
What do I feed a dog that looks like a bear?
What should I consider when buying a dog that looks like a bear?
FAQ
Meet a few cute puppies and you’ll soon be wishing they lived forever.
There’s just something special about that childhood teddy bear.
The memories of fur cuddles and snuggles still warm people today.
There were chubby teddy bears and tiny tiny teddy bears. Some had big eyes, others had bushy tails.
Regardless, call it a teddy bear and a kid is likely to fall in love.
Fast forward into adulthood and while you’re no longer sleeping with teddy bears, many folks are still drawn to bear like characteristics.
We ooh and aah at bears, and carry a healthy fear of the Grizzly.
The good news is, you can now enjoy those favorite bear traits in the form of a friendly canine rather than a growling monster.
Today we’re looking at 15 dog breeds that do actually look like bears. You’ll meet popular breeds along with lesser-known dogs.
Unlike the bear, these bear-like dog breeds are not dangerous. Instead, they are cuddly, snugly, and oh so fluffy.
Many of these breeds are most teddy-bear like as puppies. However, other breeds carry strong bear resemblance right into adulthood too.
Without further adieu, here are 15 dog breeds that look mighty similar to bears.
15 Dog Breeds that Look Like Actual Bears
1. Akita
1. AkitaAccurately dubbed “silent hunter”, the Akita is the largest of the Japanese sptiz breeds. They are a quiet friend with high-energy. When they made their first debut, Akitas were bred by nobles and for the first while were owned exclusively by nobility.
In time, they became experts in hunting boar, deer, and bears. Not to mention guarding livestock and loved ones is a favorite past time too.
Akitas can weigh up to 130 pounds and stand a dashing 28 inches tall at the shoulder. They are largely an independent pal, with courage and loyalty coursing through their veins. They are donned with a thick double coat that ranges in colors including black, fawn, and red.
A note to Akita owners: these pals need lots of positive socialization, along with plenty of outdoor exercise. Then? You can expect an Akita who is ready to meet the world.
2. Alaskan Malamute
Meet the Alaskan Malamute, a similar yet larger rendition of the well-loved Husky. These dogs are more wolf than bear and were first bred to be working dogs.
True to appearance, the Alaskan Malamute is large, strong, and courageous. They carry a luxurious double coat that is super soft to the touch.
3. Black Belgian Shepherd
As an adult, the Black Belgian Shepherd takes the appearance of a dashing black wolf. However, as puppies, they look like black bear cousins.
The Black Belgian Shepherd is an elegant canine that brings lots of energy to the family and is always up for a good time. So prepare for jokes and games in the backyard when bringing a Black Belgian Shepherd home.
4. Bouvier des Flandres
Hailing from the Flanders region is the well-loved Bouvier des Flandres. This breed serves great as both guard dog and watchdog. They are canine giants who sport a dashing coat of long, black hair.
Plus, the Bouvier des Flandres is great with family and loves a good play session with the kids.
5. Caucasian Shepherd
Also dubbed “Ovcharka”, the Caucasian Shepherd was first named after the Kavkaz (Caucasus) mountains in eastern Europe. In real life, they are the size of a small bear and are exceptionally fearless beings.
Caucasian Shepherds originally served as guard dogs for home and herd alike. Today they are loyal, strong, and towering in size. They can weigh as much as 170 pounds. Interestingly enough, Caucasian Shepherds actually date back to the first century BC where they participated in the army of Armenian Tsar Tigran the II.
While they will guard with their life, they’ll also thrive alongside families and are an excellent, loving addition.
6. Chow Chow
Sporting a lion’s mane and intimidating muscle, the Chow Chow is a force to be reckoned with. These giants are first serious and aloof, and then clean and quick to adapt.
The coat of a Chow Chow can be either rough or smooth. They are a reliable work dog who are quick to excel in hauling carts, guarding livestock, and hunting wild life.
Chow Chows first originated in ancient China where they served as companions to Chinese nobles in the Han and Tang Dynasties. Today they are dignified and sometimes even a bit stubborn. Begin training early with these pals to ensure a well-behaved and happy Chow Chow.
7. Eurasier
Coming from European and Asian descent (hence the name!), the Eurasier dog is a strong and confident canine. He is wary of strangers but quick to love on family.
This breed sports a bear-like face and weighs anywhere between 40 – 70 pounds. They are a unique cross of the Chow Chow, “Wolfsptiz”, and Samoyed dog breeds.
Thanks to their excellent genes, the Eurasier is an excellent guard dog with high intelligence. You’ll be the one to benefit when starting this breed young with good, positive training.
8. Great Pyrenees
Named after the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, the Great Pyrenees has a distinct Polar Bear look. They are massive in size and can weigh over 100 pounds while standing 32″ tall at the shoulder.
The Great Pyrenees loves to herd while proving gentle at the same time. This breed is smart, loyal, and calm. Plan for lots of positive socialization with the Greta Pyrenees to teach friend from foe, and acceptable doggy behaviors.
9. Keeshond
Meet the teddy bear turned puppy. Keeshonds appear strikingly similar to actual teddy bears. They carry a plush coat and have been nicknamed the “people’s dog”, thanks to their love of people.
Keeshonds are typically easy to train (provided you start young!), and carry lots of high energy. Plus, they are smart too. So lots of outdoor activity and positive training is a must with this breed.
The Keeshond was used as both guard and companion dog on the early Dutch vessels. They went on to become the symbol of the Dutch Patriots Party during the 18 century. Their name is believed to stem from either the Patriot leader Kees de Gyselaer, or from his dog, Kees.
Today the Keeshond is still companion and loves to be friendly with friend and foe alike. At the shoulder, a Keeshond can stand up to 18 inches tall while weighing as much as 45 pounds.
10. Leonbergers
Arriving straight from Germany, the Leonberger was first bred to be a majestic companion for actual royalty. Specifically, the Leonberger accompanied Tsar Alexander II, the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII), and Napoleon III.
While Leonbergers enjoyed royalty, they were also terrific working dogs who served on docks and farms dotted across the countryside. Thanks to their massive size and exceptional strength, the Leonberger is a master at pulling carts.
Leonbergers can weigh up to 170 pounds and will often stand as tall as 32″ at the shoulder. They are first gentle, serene, and friendly. They are also exceptionally smart and make for excellent watchdogs.
Interestingly enough, Leonbergers were named after the town of Leonberg in the state of Baden-Wurttemburg, Germany.
11. Newfoundland
Weighing a whopping 150 pounds, contrary to appearance, the Newfoundland is a gentle and trainable partner. They were first bred as working dogs for Canadian fisherman and proved themselves well hauling nets and pulling carts of fish to market.
The Newfoundland is among the largest of all dogs and stands 28″ tall at the shoulder. Some consider the Newfoundland a “nanny dog” thanks to their exceptional abilities of loving on children.
This breed is sweet and patient at heart. They’ll go to great lengths in protecting small children, and they are a real joy to have in the family.
12. Pomeranian
In contrast with the Newfoundland, the Pomeranian is more similar to a mini teddy bear. These pint-sized pups weigh a mere seven pounds and stand a whopping 6-7 inches tall. Inside their tiny selves, they’ll greet you with rounded ears and a puffy fur coat.
As their name implies, Pomeranians were first from Pomerania, now part of western Germany and Poland.
Though tiny in size, this breed is confident, curious, and highly energetic. They were bred from larger sled dogs, so exercise is a must. Pomeranians are an extremely popular toy breed who have enjoyed popularity on the laps of Queen Victoria, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Marie Antoinette.
13. Samoyed
A Sptiz breed from the Siberian area of Russia, the Samoyed is a charming combination of strong and smart all in one. They were first bred to both herd reindeer as well as pull sleds on polar expeditions.
The Samoyed carries a luxurious fur coat that is white all over, so yes, the resemblance with polar bears runs high.
14. Sarplaninac
Practically a mini bear, the Sarplaninac is a grayish dog with super large paws. This breed is fluffy in appearance. Plus, they are excellent at herding and guarding both livestock and family. Specifically, the Sarplaninac is master at protecting from wolves and actual bears.
15. Tibetan Mastiff
Arriving from the Himalayan Mountains is the dashing and ever loved Tibetan Mastiff. This breed was born to protect sheep from wolves and bears.
True to their purpose, the Tibetan Mastiff is first loyal, then noble. He is high in energy, so daily exercise is simply a must.
Where Can I Find a Dog that Looks Like a Bear?
Despite the fact that they look very much like bears, dog breeds that resemble bears can actually be super gentle and kind. Meaning they would make a great addition to a family looking to spice things up just a bit.
So whether you are searching for a teddy-bear pup, a pint-size Pomeranian, or a towering canine with commanding appearance, when looking for your next bear-like dog, I suggest starting your search right here at VIP Puppies.
You can browse our newest puppies for sale by clicking here.
What Do I Feed a Dog that Looks Like a Bear?
Every dog needs a specific balance of nutrients and vitamins if they are going to thrive.
Yes, we care that you find the puppy that is right for you. However, we also care about helping you best take care of your puppy after he/she arrives home.
Because there actually are bad dog foods out there, we’ve partnered with Life’s Abundance to bring you a dog food you can feel proud of.
If you are bringing home a small or medium dog, you’ll want this food here. It’s literally formulated to help puppies grow and thrive and is packed with wholesome ingredients. Not to mention, it supports high energy and healthy puppy development.
Or if you are looking to bring a large breed puppy home, you’ll want this bag instead. This one is specifically formulated to encourage healthy and controlled growth rates in puppies while providing the perfect balance of protein, calories, and calcium for a large breed puppy. My favorite thing? The kibble size and flavor are spot on for large puppies too.
What Should I Consider when Buying a Dog that Looks Like a Bear?
Like any puppy, when searching for a puppy that looks like a bear, you’re going to want to consider more than just appearance.
Will you have time to groom your new dog? Are you allergic to dogs? Do you prefer a dog who sheds lots or only a little?
To spare you headaches, we’ve compiled a list over here of things you’ll want to consider before you bring your new dog home.
FAQ
Q. Is there a dog that looks like a Panda Bear?
Yes, affectionately dubbed the Panda Dog. Unlike how it appears, the Panda Dog isn’t Panda at all. Rather, it’s typically a Chow Chow specially groomed to resemble a Panda.
Q. What dog breed looks like a Polar Bear?
There are actually two dog breeds that closely resemble the Polar Bear. Both the Samoyed and the Great Pyrenees flaunt luxurious white coats putting them in close resemblance with Polar Bears.
Q. What kind of dog is a Teddy Bear?
The Teddy Bear dog, also known as the Shichon, is a mixed breed combining the Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise dog breeds. They are smart, affectionate, and a favorite friend.
Q. What kind of dog looks like a black bear?
The Chocolate Chow Chow shares a strong resemblance with the Black Bear. Debuting first in Asia, they carry a luscious black fur coat making them appear very similar to a Black Bear.
In Closing…
There you have it, 15 dog breeds that actually look like bears.
From towering giants to pint-size Pomeranians.
Now it’s your turn: tell me in the comments below which breed is your favorite.
As always, I’m glad you are here.
Thanks for being a part of this dog-loving community!
Until next time,
Sara
References
Dogs That Look Like Bears (n.d.). Snoozer. Retrieved from https://www.snoozerpetproducts.co.uk/blogs/snoozer-dog-blog/dogs-that-look-like-bears-the-best-biggest-cuddliest-dog-breeds.
25 Dogs That Look Like Bears (2019). Barking Royalty. Retrieved from https://barkingroyalty.com/dogs-that-look-like-bears/.
Lesser, J. (2020). 10 Dog breeds that look like bears. Retrieved from https://www.thesprucepets.com/dogs-that-look-like-bears-4832518.
Ropp, M. (n.d.). 10 Dogs that look like bears. Retrieved from https://www.rover.com/blog/dogs-that-look-like-bears/.
Turner, J. F. (2018). 20 Breeds of dog that look like Bears. Retrieved from https://www.animalwised.com/20-breeds-of-dog-that-look-like-bears-2699.html.
Sara Ochoa, DVM is an expert veterinarian ready to help you give your dog an amazing life. Stationed in East Texas, Dr. Ochoa specializes in small and/or exotic animals. She’s currently loving life alongside her husband Greg and their three fur babies: Ruby the Schnoodle, Monkey the tortoise, and Oliver James (affectionately dubbed “OJ”) the cat.
