The Most Famous Teddy Bear Brands in the World
Teddy bears have warmed hearts across generations. Whether you had a fuzzy companion growing up or you collect plush icons today, teddy bears are more than toys—they’re a part of our emotional fabric.
In this blog post, we’ll take a tour through the most famous teddy bear brands in the world. These iconic names have defined what a teddy bear is, each with their own unique style, charm, and legacy.
1. Steiff (Germany)
Founded: 1880
Famous Bear: The Steiff 1902 Teddy Bear
Notable For: “Button in Ear” trademark
📸 Image suggestion: A close-up of a Steiff bear with the signature metal button in the ear.
📍 Find on: www.steiff.com
Steiff is widely regarded as the original creator of the teddy bear. Founded by Margarete Steiff, a German seamstress who started by making felt elephants, the brand’s pivotal moment came in 1902 when her nephew designed a jointed bear. This was presented at the Leipzig Toy Fair, where an American buyer snapped up 3,000 bears. And the teddy bear era was born.
Today, Steiff bears are known for their luxurious mohair, jointed limbs, and collectability. Some rare Steiff bears have sold at auction for over $100,000!
2. Gund (USA)
Founded: 1898
Famous Bear: Snuffles
Notable For: Super-soft, huggable plush toys
📸 Image suggestion: A classic white or grey Snuffles bear smiling up at the camera.
📍 Find on: www.gund.com
Gund is one of America’s oldest soft toy manufacturers. Their signature teddy bear, Snuffles, has been a fan favorite since its debut in 1980. With a crescent moon-shaped face and cozy, cuddly texture, Snuffles is a hug magnet.
Gund’s bears are often considered the softest on the market, making them a top pick for babies and younger children. They’ve also adapted with modern characters like Pusheen and Baby Yoda.
3. Build-A-Bear Workshop (USA)
Founded: 1997
Famous Bear: Your custom bear
Notable For: Personalization & in-store experience
📸 Image suggestion: A child stuffing a bear at a Build-A-Bear Workshop.
📍 Find on: www.buildabear.com
Build-A-Bear revolutionized the teddy bear world by letting kids and adults create their own stuffed friend. From picking the stuffing to choosing clothes, recording messages, and even giving your bear a “heart,” the brand offers a personal, emotional experience.
They also partner with huge franchises like Pokémon, Harry Potter, and Star Wars to create themed bears and merchandise.
4. Merrythought (UK)
Founded: 1930
Famous Bear: Cheeky Bear
Notable For: Handmade in England, traditional craftsmanship
📸 Image suggestion: A Cheeky Bear with its trademark squeaker inside.
📍 Find on: www.merrythought.com
Merrythought is the last remaining British teddy bear factory, and all its bears are handmade in Ironbridge, Shropshire. The Cheeky Bear, with its round face, large ears, and playful smile, is a nostalgic classic.
These bears are made using traditional methods and materials, such as mohair, making them heirloom-quality.
5. Ty Inc. (USA)
Founded: 1986
Famous Bear: Beanie Baby “Teddy”
Notable For: Beanie Babies collectible craze
📸 Image suggestion: Classic red “Teddy” Beanie Baby with its Ty heart-shaped tag.
📍 Find on: www.ty.com
While Ty is better known for Beanie Babies, their line includes several bear figures that became legendary during the 1990s collectibles boom. Bears like “Princess” (dedicated to Princess Diana) and “Teddy” have become part of pop culture history.
At one point, certain Ty bears were fetching thousands of dollars online. Today, they’re a fun entry point for bear enthusiasts and collectors alike.
6. Jellycat (UK)
Founded: 1999
Famous Bear: Bashful Beige Bunny (technically a bunny, but their bears are rising stars!)
Notable For: Luxurious plush and quirky designs
📸 Image suggestion: A Jellycat teddy bear sitting on a nursery shelf.
📍 Find on: www.jellycat.com
Jellycat may be best known for its bunnies, but don’t sleep on their teddy bears. Known for ultra-soft textures and contemporary aesthetic, Jellycat’s bears are beloved by both children and trendy adults.
Their bears often have minimalist, Scandi-chic vibes with calming neutral tones. Perfect for Instagrammable nurseries.
7. Russ Berrie (USA)
Founded: 1963
Famous Bear: “Smiley”
Notable For: Affordable and expressive bears with personality
📸 Image suggestion: A cheerful Russ bear with a big smile and patterned bow tie.
📍 Find on: eBay or collector sites
Russ Berrie’s bears were all about expression. From smiley-faced plushies to graduation-themed bears and holiday specials, they captured moments and emotions, making them a hit for gifts.
Though not as active in teddy production today, vintage Russ bears still hold a warm place in many hearts.
8. Boyds Bears (USA)
Founded: 1984
Famous Bear: The Boyds Bear Collection
Notable For: Vintage-style bears with Victorian flair
📸 Image suggestion: A Boyds bear with jointed limbs and period-style clothing.
📍 Find on: Etsy or vintage collector websites
Boyds Bears created whimsical, old-timey teddy bears that became hugely collectible. Each one had a name, a story, and often a cute outfit to match. Their bears looked like they belonged in a grandmother’s attic—nostalgic and charming.
Boyds ceased production in 2014, but their fanbase and collector market live on.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a lifelong teddy bear lover or a casual admirer, these brands represent the pinnacle of plush. From Steiff’s antique elegance to Build-A-Bear’s modern customization, there’s a teddy for every heart.
🧸 Which teddy bear brand is your favorite?
Do you still have your childhood teddy? Let me know in the comments below!
