Tonkey Bear rose to internet fame when her owner started an Instagram account showcasing her unique, bear-like appearance. As a bear-coat Shar Pei, her thick, velvety fur and squishy face made her look more like a plush toy than a living dog. The meme typically revolves around her identity crisis—whether she is a grizzly, a polar bear, or just a very fluffy puppy. Users often utilize this template for wholesome content, identity reveal jokes, or to express feelings of being overwhelmingly cozy and soft. It remains a staple for pet lovers and creators who want to inject a dose of pure cuteness into their social media feeds.