Steps for Identifying Purebred Teddy Dogs
- Purebred Teddy dogs have black eyes, eye lines, noses, and mouths without any mixed colors. Additionally, their coat color should be uniform and glossy. When purchasing, opt for dogs with ample coat volume, and for red-brown colors, a deeper and richer shade is preferable. The nose should be small, the eyes almond-shaped but not excessively large, and a shorter nose indicates a smaller adult size. It’s recommended to observe the puppy’s parents when making a purchase. Moreover, it’s advisable to buy puppies that are three months or older, as younger ones may have weaker resistance and are more prone to premature death.
- Teddy dogs typically have a small body size, and those exceeding 8 pounds may not be purebred. Ideally, the shoulder height should not exceed 38 centimeters (the maximum standard for miniature Teddy dogs). Otherwise, your Teddy dog might resemble a bear rather than a teddy bear, especially if you plan to keep their fur long.
- Purebred Teddy dogs should have abundant and well-curled fur. When selecting a puppy, it’s common to prioritize good coat volume, and this is particularly important for Teddy dogs. The preferred curling style is small curls, similar to the texture of lamb fleece (you can observe the hair at the tips of the puppy’s ears for the best indication). After all, you wouldn’t want your teddy bear to feel more like a mini Afghan Hound in terms of texture.
- The muzzle of a purebred Teddy dog is relatively short. Referencing the standard Teddy dog, a shorter and more petite muzzle is preferable for an ideal “Teddy Teddy dog.” This creates a ball-like appearance, especially when the fur is left long. However, for those who already own a dog with a slightly longer muzzle, it can be adjusted through grooming, which will be discussed below.
- Darker colors are preferable for purebred Teddy dogs. While red and chocolate colors are excellent choices, black or apricot is also a good option, depending on personal preferences. However, it’s important to note that a white Teddy dog with long fur on the muzzle may resemble a Bichon Frise rather than a teddy bear, especially for “dwarf-legged Teddy dogs” – those with a noticeably elongated body shape. For Teddy dogs intended as pets, a slightly elongated body shape is acceptable.
