You're in for a treat! In this blog post, we'll share top 33 facts about teddy bear that will surprise and delight you. We'll cover everything from the history of teddy bears to their unique symbolism.

So why not take a look and learn something new?

33 Interesting Facts About Teddy Bears

1. A teddy bear is the official national symbol of Japan.

2. In the early 1900s, bears were used as comfort dolls for soldiers during World War I because they felt gentle and nonthreatening.

3. The oldest known Recordable teddy bear was made in 1887 and belonged to a soldier named Albert Lasker, who brought it back from France after the war ended.

4. Teddies are often given as Valentine's Day gifts because they symbolize love and loving care.

5. Babies usually love to hug teddies, which may be why most people associate them with happy emotions or good luck!

6. There are more than 500 types of Teddy Bears on sale at any time (as of 2019).

7. It can take up to eight hours for a Teddy Bear's stuffing to fully expand once it has been stuffed with cotton batting and latex fibers – making them very resilient when hit in the face!

8. Over 90% of teddy bears sold in the United States are created in China.

9. The name "teddy bear" was first used in 1903 when a toy dealer named Edward Bear made stuffed animals for children at his shop on Broadway in New York City. He called them "teddies."

10. There is no specific teddy bear breed, as they come in various shapes and sizes, including lions, tigers, pandas, unicorns, and more!

11. Teddy bears have been dressed up since 1905 and originally served as part-time animal companions to sick children during hospital visits. (source)

12. A 100% polyester fiber is used to make most teddies because it's soft enough to be gentle on the skin but strong enough not to tear easily.

13. Teddy bears are one of the most popular gifts worldwide. Annually, over 50 million teddy bears are gifts in the U.S. alone!

14. In Europe, Russia, and China, giving a bear without mentioning its name first is considered bad luck. This is why many Russian teddies have names such as Vladimir or Natasha inscribed on them!

15. The stuffed animal was created in 1876 by German entomologist Karl Spangenberg and named 'Tektuarisch Wunderkind' ('Kids' Wondrous Toy'). It wasn't until 1902 that Charles Fenton received a U.S. patent for his design of an Anthropomorphic Plush Toy - which we now know as our beloved teddy bear!

16. Contrary to popular belief, bears were not always soft and cuddly -during medieval times, they were often used as mascots for warring factions because their tough skin made them difficult to kill (and, therefore, good protection against enemy arrows). As England emerged victorious from several wars due to their love of this furry friend (and the consequent production of more fluffy ones), they began manufacturing larger-size plush toys known today as grizzlies!

17. Teddy bears are one of the most popular holiday gifts.

18. In 1903, a teddy bear named Fluff became America's first stuffed toy and quickly became a favorite amongst children all over the country.

19. The modern Recordable teddy bear was created in 1902 by Berliner Karl Storz, who wanted to make an animal that would be soft enough for children and tough enough to withstand wear and tear. He patented his idea in 1905 and began selling them commercially from his store aptly called "Teddies'.

20. The teddy bear has been featured in many different movies and T.V. shows, including The Godfather, Forrest Gump, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

21. In 2004, more than 36 million teddy bears were sold in the U.S. alone!

22. In December 2009, a new record was set for the most teddy bears sold in one day - more than 5 million bears!

23. In 2013, it was reported that the average American spends about $220 on teddy bears each year!

24. Although the teddy bear is most prevalent during the holidays, it can be enjoyed year-round!

25. In 1966, Vietnam War veteran and businessman Tomy Lee became the first person to patent a toy specifically designed for children with disabilities. His company, Spin Master, now manufactures more than 300 toys, including the popular Tickle Me Elmo character.

26. The teddy bear has even been used in medical research. A study published in the journal PloS One showed that when children receive teddies as gifts, it can lead to increased levels of happiness and satisfaction with life. Hopefully, this article has shed some light on the great history and popularity of the teddy bear!

27. In Europe, Russia, and China, giving a bear without mentioning its name first is considered bad luck. This is why many Russian teddies have names such as Vladimir or Natasha inscribed on them!

28. In 1944, President Franklin D. Roosevelt created the National Foundation for the Preservation of Fur-Bearing Animals (now known as The Humane Society) to help preserve bear populations worldwide. In 1978, Congress passed legislation designating December 26th as Recordable Teddy Bear Day in honor of this influential animal advocate!

29. The first teddy bears were made of flannel and bear fur by Jill Craigie, an American artist, in 1888.

30. A single cotton teddy bear will take approximately 150 pounds (68 kilograms) of fabric to produce.

31. Thomas Kinkade is the most expensive living artist, with a $250 million price tag as of 2018.

32. Teddies are the world's favorite toy, leading children worldwide to create over 6 billion stuffed animals yearly.

33. A British company created the first commercially produced teddy bear in 1902.

Conclusion

What are some of the top teddy bear facts you didn't know? Teddy bears have been around for a long time, and they continue to be one of the most popular gifts for children. This blog shares 33 top teddy bear facts that will surprise you! You'll learn everything you need to know about teddy bears, from their history to popularity!