Shichon puppies, also adorably referred to as Teddy Bear puppies, are just as cute and as charming as you would expect. They are sweet, loyal, loving, and affectionate dogs that are completely happy playing with you on the living room floor, cuddling with you on the couch, or even taking a cross-country road trip with you. Here are a few more facts about Teddy Bear dogs:

1. They are a Cross Between a Shih-Tzu and a Bichon Frise

The Shichon is a designer dog breed that is a cross between a Shih-Tzu and a Bichon Frise. The goal was to create an adorable companion dog that would excel as a therapy dog with the best traits of both of the parent breeds.

Although a mixed-breed dog can inherit any combination of traits from their parents, a Teddy Bear puppy tends to be a small dog with a hypoallergenic coat and a gentle, friendly, and affectionate disposition.

They’re called a Teddy Bear because they look like a living stuffed animal! They are a true companion that loves cuddles and attention from their humans, has a plush coat, and also maintains a puppy-like appearance for life.

2. Teddy Bears Love to be Near You

One of the facts about the Shih Tzu is that they love nothing more than being around their favorite humans; the same is true for the Shichon. Much like a child doesn’t want to go anywhere without their favorite teddy bear or stuffed animal, a Shichon loves nothing more than to be with their favorite human. Both of the parent breeds of the Teddy Bear are loyal and devoted to their families and this little cotton ball is no different.

Because they are happiest when they are with you, they don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are not socialized or trained early and often. You don’t want to leave them alone for a long time, but you also don’t want them to be anxious and scared if you are out of sight.

3. They are Often Used as Therapy Dogs

Shichon puppies are bred for their stature, weight, and calm temperament. They were also bred for their patience. They are very compassionate and tolerant animals who will be more than happy to cuddle up and watch a movie after a long day or help their owner through a stressful time.

These traits, plus their open and friendly personality, make them a great fit for being a therapy dog and they can often be found working in this capacity. In fact, that was their original purpose!

Teddy Bear dogs joined the canine world around the year 2000 and initially served as therapy dogs for children with disabilities. As a therapy dog or an emotional support dog, these mellow, sweet dogs can be the perfect companion and can be a big help to their owner.

4. A Shichon Can be a Great Exercise Coach

Although these are small dogs that range between a low to moderate activity level, they can have bursts of high-energy playtime. Because they need some daily walks and dedicated playtime to be happy and healthy, they can be a great exercise coach. Since they love spending time near you, they’ll be ready to take on any activity as long as they get to be with you.

They may not be a great running or biking partner, but they’ll be happy to come along in a dog backpack or in a bike seat! They are also very playful and tend to enjoy a variety of active games. A Shichon will often be up for more activity as long as you are! Just make sure they aren’t overexerting themselves or overheating trying to keep up with you.

5. They Tend to Get Along With Everyone

A well-socialized and trained Shichon tends to get along with everyone. Their playful, loving, and friendly personality often means they get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. After all, each member of the family is another friend to play with and another potential source of attention and affection.

Because they are such small dogs, they can be easily injured by accidental falls or rough play. So, it’s important to make sure everyone in the household knows how to interact carefully with them and for all time with children to be supervised.

6. Teddy Bear Dogs Can be a Great Option for People With Allergies

Although allergies vary, Teddy Bear dogs can be a great fit for people with slight allergies. They are bred to shed very little or not at all. They are also bred not to produce much dander, which is a common allergen. Depending on the severity and type of your allergies, the Shichon could be the perfect pooch for you.

7. They are Smart Dogs

These adorable little dogs have both beauty and brains. Not only do they look like an adorable stuffed animal come to life, but they are also highly intelligent dogs with an eagerness to please their owners and a love of performing. They tend to pick up on things quickly.

But, they can sometimes be stubborn as well. When it suits them, they may try to use their adorable face to get out of doing something they don’t feel like doing. They may also try to use their cuteness to get away with things they shouldn’t.

This can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners. So, don’t be afraid to enroll in puppy training classes. And, regardless of your experience with owning dogs, do your best to keep training consistent despite this dog’s overall adorableness!

These are just some quick facts about Teddy Bear dogs. This dog breed tends to be a great fit for single owners and families who are ready to have a pooch to spoil with affection and attention. They are patient, sweet little dogs who are ready to bring more fun and cuddles into your world.

If you think this could be the right dog breed for you, learn more about them and check out the available Teddy Bear puppies for sale! You may end up finding your new best friend!