More and more people living in apartments are raising small dogs, often choosing elegant, noble, and versatile dogs like the Poodle. People often hear about the Teddy dog, and many are confused about the differences between Teddy and Poodles. Today, the editor will clarify this for everyone.

The Poodle originated in Europe and is regarded as the national dog of France. Its exact place of origin is unknown but remains a topic of debate among many European countries. Some friends also believe France is the original place of the Poodle. Studies indicate that the French Water Dog, Hungarian Water Retriever, and even the Maltese may be ancestors of the Poodle.

The Teddy dog is a type of Poodle but considered a less successful Poodle. Unlike the typical Poodle with apricot-colored eyes and low-set ears, which look very intelligent, the Teddy dog usually has round eyes and high-set ears. The reason it is called Teddy Poodle is that compared to other Poodles (as shown below, Poodles dressed as Teddy), the Teddy style looks more like a teddy bear. This is similar to earlier trends in Huskies, such as the 'three fires' or 'cross eyebrows,' which were basically hype.

1. Teddy dogs are Poodles, but Poodles are not Teddy dogs. Originally, Teddy referred to a grooming style for the national dog’s coat, only because this style looks best and most interesting on Teddy dogs. This again was hype.

2. Teddy style is a grooming style that all Poodles can wear. Only red Poodles wearing this Teddy style look more like teddy bears because originally teddy bears were red.

3. Differences in aesthetic standards led to the classification of Teddy dogs. Typical Poodle competitions only allow three grooming styles: Continental, English Saddle, and Puppy Cut. Teddy style is not allowed to compete; furthermore, Teddy style requires a round face, which does not meet international standards and results in point deductions.

Most dogs are divided into pet level, pedigree level, and competition level. Teddy dogs only have pet and pedigree levels; there is no competition level. Generally, the so-called competition-level Teddy dogs we see are actually competition-level Poodles.

The appearance of the Teddy dog was actually caused by hype. Because the Teddy dog’s appearance is not favored by competition standards, with a somewhat short and stocky shape, this type of dog looks a bit like a teddy bear; hence, it was called "Teddy Poodle." Its appearance is indeed cute and popular with many women. This commercial success turned qualities that should have been eliminated into advantages and selling points.

In summary, the Teddy dog is a Poodle. After the Teddy dog was introduced domestically, this affectionate name gained attention and love and has been continuously used. In terms of breed, whether Miniature Poodle, Toy Poodle, Medium Poodle, Large Poodle, or Standard Poodle, all have these Teddy styles. Their personalities are consistent, being affectionate and likable. Therefore, the main difference between Teddy and Poodle lies in the face shape.

Currently in our country, the name Teddy and the Teddy bear dog type are more popular. In the future, Teddy will surpass Poodle as the synonym for this breed, even though Teddy is just one grooming style of the Poodle.