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Home » Large Dog Breeds » 25 Big Fluffy Dog Breeds That Are Simply Irresistible

25 Big Fluffy Dog Breeds That Are Simply Irresistible

Checked by Calvin Howard

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There’s just something about a big fluffy dog that makes most dog lovers smile. But while there are tons of tiny and medium-sized dogs that have fluffy coats, there are only a handful of large fluffy dog breeds.

20 Great Big Fluffy Dogs

RankingNameHeightWeightLife spanBreed sizeTemperamentOrigin
1The Great Pyrenees27-32 inches110-119 lbs10-12 yearsgiantGentle, Strong Willed, FearlessFrance, Spain
2Old English Sheepdog22-24 inches70-99 lbs10-12 yearslargePlayful, Intelligent, Sociable, BubblyEngland
3Chow Chow18-22 inches45-70 lbs9-15 yearsmedium Aloof, Independent, Loyal, QuietChina
4Tibetan Mastiff25-29 inches90-149 lbs12-15 yearslargeTenacious, Aloof, Intelligent, Strong WilledTibet
5Long-Coated Malamute24-25 inches79-94 lbs10-12 yearslargePlayful, Friendly, Devoted, AffectionateAlaska
6Bernese Mountain Dog24-27 inches83-110 lbs6-8 yearslargeIntelligent, Affectionate, Loyal, FaithfulSwitzerland
7Newfoundland27-28 inches143-176 lbs8-10 yearslargeSweet-Tempered, Gentle, TrainableNewfoundland
8Kuvasz27-29 inches99-115 lbs10-12 yearslargeProtective, Intelligent, Patient, ClownishHungary, Poland
9Samoyed20-23 inches44-66 lbs12-14 yearslargePlayful, Friendly, Lively, SociableSiberia, Russia
10Bearded Collie20-22 inches39-59 lbs14-15 yearsmediumIntelligent, Self-confidence, LivelyScotland
11Golden Retriever22-24 inches66-74 lbs10-12 yearslargeIntelligent, Friendly, Reliable, KindScotland, United Kingdom, England
12Bouvier des Flandres24-26 inches77-88 lbs10-12 yearslargeIntelligent, Loyal, Protective, GentleFlanders, France
13Rough Collie20-22 inches44-74 lbs14-16 yearsmediumIntelligent, Friendly, Loyal, ActiveScotland, United Kingdom
14Leonberger28-31 inches110-169 lbs8-9 yearsgiantFearless, Obedient, Loyal, CompanionableGermany
15Standard Poodle17-23 inches44-70 lbs12-15 yearslargeretrieving, running, swimming, huntingGermany
16Australian Shepherd20-22 inches55-70 lbs13-15 yearsmediumIntelligent, Good-natured, Affectionate, ActiveWestern United States
17Giant Schnauzer 25-27 inches59-105 lbs12-15 yearslargePowerful, Intelligent, Strong Willed, KindGermany
18Akita25-27 inches70-85 lbs10-12 yearslargepowerful, independent, and dominant breedJapan
19Goldendoodle17-24 inches39-50 lbs10-15 yearslargeIntelligent, Friendly, Energetic, TrainableUnited States
20Border Collie18-22 inches30-44 lbs10-17 yearsmediumIntelligent, Tenacious, Energetic, KeenScotland, United Kingdom, England, Ireland, Wales

While definitions of “big” and “fluffy” may vary, there are twenty big furry dog breeds that clearly meet these criteria and make good pets for families. So, if you are in search of a 90-pound ball of fluff, be sure to consider the big fluffy dogs detailed below.

#1. The Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees are very large, yet gentle dogs, who were originally bred to guard sheep and other livestock. In fact, their sheep-like appearance helps to make them especially well-suited for this kind of work, as it appears to make the sheep more comfortable in the presence of these large furry dogs.

While they are usually very good with children, Great Pyrenees are not always an ideal pet for families. They tend to be independent and headstrong, and they are happiest when provided with a large territory to patrol.

First-time owners may become especially frustrated with their stubborn nature, but experienced owners will often fall in love with the breed.

SEE ALSO: What is the Biggest Dog Breed in the World?

#2. Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdogs are not only adorable, but they’ve also got a personality and zest for life that makes them easy to love (and hard to ignore). They are energetic, enthusiastic and they fall deeply in love with their families.

It is important that you are prepared for a dog that bonds so strongly with their people, as they commonly experience separation anxiety when left at home for long periods of time.

Old English Sheepdogs can be wonderful pets for first-time owners, but you’ll need to be prepared to provide these dogs with plenty of exercise to help prevent destructive behaviors. They also require frequent grooming to keep their long fluffy coat looking its best.

#3. Chow Chow

Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is one of the fluffiest big dogs in the world, but they are not gigantic by any stretch of the imagination.

But while they only weigh about 50 to 80 pounds, they look much larger than they actually are, thanks to their dense, long coat. Keep in mind that you will need to brush that long, thick hair several times a week to reduce shedding and prevent painful mats from forming.

Otherwise, Chow Chows are low-maintenance dogs, who don’t require much from their owners. They don’t require a lot of exercise, they usually tolerate being left alone and they won’t keep you up all night barking.

However, this self-sufficient personality means that they aren’t terribly affectionate, and they aren’t very friendly with strangers, either.

They aren’t the most difficult breed for novice pet owners, but they are better suited for those who’ve had several dogs before.

#4. Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan mastiffs are very big fluffy dogs, who occasionally exceed 150 pounds in weight and stand up to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.

Fortunately, these gigantic and intimidating dogs are generally big softies, who love nothing more than smothering their people with love.

They may not greet strangers very warmly, but they usually get along well with other dogs and are gentle with children.

However, these are very intelligent dogs who like to think for themselves. They are not very easy to train, and they are often difficult for novices to control.

Like some of the other long-haired breeds listed here, Tibetan mastiffs are not well-suited for hot weather, so they aren’t a good option for those living in the Sun Belt.

#5. Long-Coated Malamute

Most Alaskan Malamutes can probably be described as fluffy, but some have genetic mutations that make their hair incredibly long. This big fluffy dog is often quite striking looking, and they look even bigger than normal malamutes, thanks to their long coat.

Just be sure you can deal with mountain-sized mounds of shed fur before you add one of these dogs to your family, as they shed profusely.

Malamutes are rugged, tough dogs, who were originally developed to hunt and drag sleds across the frozen Alaskan landscape. However, despite this tough exterior, malamutes are big softies on the inside.

Malamutes tend to love everyone they meet, and they become very attached to their owners. However, thanks to their stubborn nature and penchant for mischief, they aren’t always a good choice for novices.

#6. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain dogs are well-rounded canines, who have a great collection of personality traits. Unlike a number of other big-and-fluffy breeds, these dogs are actually a pretty good option for first-time dog owners.

They are a very affectionate dog breed and love to hang out with their families, and their high intelligence makes them easy to train. Just be sure to socialize them early to ensure they get along with people and other dogs.

However, it is important that you obtain any Bernese Mountain dog from a high-quality, reputable breeder to avoid obtaining a pup with congenital health problems.

These fluffy dogs have a fairly small gene pool, which means they frequently suffer from a variety of health problems.

#7. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are another good choice for those who are new to the world of dogs. They have a remarkably sweet and laid-back disposition and they love to spend time with their families.

They are usually quite sharp, and they pick up commands and routines very quickly. And while they may look intimidating because of their size, Newfoundlands usually greet strangers with a wagging tail and smiling face.

The biggest challenges Newfoundlands present include their tendency to pack on the pounds and the gigantic clumps of hair they shed on a nearly constant basis.

So, be sure to watch your Newfoundland’s weight carefully and invest in a good vacuum for pet hair to make it’s easier to clean up after your pet.

#8. Kuvasz

The Kuvasz isn’t as fluffy as some of the other dogs on this list, but its hair is very dense and occasionally reaches 6 inches in length, which clearly puts the breed in the “fluffy” category if you ask us.

Originally developed to guard sheep and other livestock in the rural parts of Hungary, Kuvaszok (the plural of Kuvasz) are very protective dogs, who won’t hesitate to protect their home or family.

Accordingly, they require early and frequent socialization as well as proper obedience training to ensure they don’t become dangerous. This also means they aren’t a great choice for first-time dog owners.

However, for those with the necessary experience (and plenty of space), these big dogs can make very rewarding pets.

#9. Samoyed

Samoyed

The Samoyed is a beautiful breed, who always turns heads in public. They aren’t especially large, but most people would still consider them “big” dogs. They typically weigh between 50 and 60 pounds, and some stand 24-inches-tall at the shoulder.

Samoyeds have one of the most amazing fluffy coats of any dog breed, but it is also a high-maintenance coat.

Samoyeds will require once or twice weekly brushings under normal circumstances, but they’ll need to be brushed every day when actively shedding. Bathing Samoyeds can also be a tricky undertaking, and they often take hours to dry completely.

Samoyeds are very friendly and adventurous dogs, who love playing with their owners (or other dogs). But they do not enjoy being left alone for long periods of time, so they’re best-suited for families that spend plenty of time around the house.

#10. Bearded Collie

Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie is a Scottish breed, originally developed to herd cattle and sheep. Their long coats are an adaptation that helps ensure they remain comfortable working outdoors in cold or inclement weather.

Bearded Collies are usually around 50 pounds, and they’re often about 22 inches tall at the shoulder. They have fantastic personalities, as they’re friendly, gentle with children, and affectionate with their families. They are also very intelligent dogs, who are remarkably easy to train.

Bearded Collies do require plenty of exercise, like most other herding breeds. Accordingly, you’ll want to avoid this breed unless you have a large fenced yard and are willing to take your pet outside for regular games of fetch.

#11. Golden Retriever

We couldn’t forget to add America’s third-favorite dog to our list of fluffy dog breeds. At 55-75 pounds, they definitely qualify as a big, fluffy dog breed. With an eagerness to please and intelligence to match, the Golden Retriever makes an excellent family pet.

The only sad thing about having a Golden Retriever in your life is that they’re highly prone to cancer, and their lifespans are trending shorter. If you choose to get a Golden puppy, make sure you do plenty of research to find a breeder who does lots of health testing on their breeding dogs.

Golden Retrievers make excellent working dogs. Whether you want to train your Goldie to be a therapy dog, a service dog, or to excel at agility, they’ll lovingly do anything you ask of them.

#12. Bouvier des Flandres

This French herding dog can weigh more than 100 pounds and will guard your home as readily as they protect a flock of sheep.

The Bouvier des Flandres’ continuously growing coat doesn’t shed much. However, they do need frequent brushing to keep their fur fluffy and free of mats. Otherwise, the groomer may need to shave your Bouvier. Then, they’ll no longer have a fluffy coat (until it grows back).

The Bouvier was originally bred to be an all-around farm dog. They could manage everything from herding cattle to pulling carts to guarding the property. As a result, this dog breed has a lot of energy and needs a lot of exercise.

#13. Rough Collie

Surprisingly, it’s been a few years since the last Lassie movie. However, most people still recognize the star as a Rough Collie. The dogs have an unmistakable long coat that impresses in the show ring and walking down the street.

Even before Lassie popularized the breed, Queen Victoria brought fame to the breed in the second half of the 19th century.

Collies are generally good with children. They need an outlet for their energy, so be prepared to play lots of fetch or take your Collie for plenty of long walks.

Collies also come in a smooth coat variety. While they look like an entirely different breed, they have the same personalities and physical features, just without the beautiful long flowing coat.

#14. Leonberger

Leonberger

These German giants can weigh up to 170 pounds or more. Male “Leos” can also have a lion-like mane around their neck. As a result, Leonbergers can look fierce.

While the Leonberger dog is capable of being a guard dog when necessary, they were originally bred to be companion dogs. That’s unusual for a large breed dog, who usually comes from working backgrounds.

If you’d like to put your Leo’s strength to good work, they excel in cart-pulling competitions. However, their gentle personality is nothing if not adaptable.

#15. Standard Poodle

While most pet owners keep their Standard Poodles in shorter haircuts, the breed is absolutely capable of being fluffy – as long as you’re willing to put in the work to keep it brushed out.

Poodles have a perception of being dainty and prissy, but they’re the second-smartest dog breed (behind the Border Collie) and have the stamina to work all day.

Since the Standard Poodle doesn’t shed much, it’s the best option for allergy-sufferers who want a big, fluffy dog. While Poodle mixes like the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle are becoming increasingly popular, there are no guarantees about how much or how little they’ll shed. Your best bet is to stick with the original if you want a hypoallergenic dog breed.

#16. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd

Nicknamed “Australian Shedders,” the Aussie will leave their fluff all around your home if you don’t brush them enough. If you don’t mind that, though, they make excellent family pets.

Australian Shepherds love children. In fact, it often takes a child’s endless energy to match that of an Aussie. With a fenced-in backyard and plenty of tennis balls, an Aussie and a child can spend hours wearing each other out.

Despite the name, Australian Shepherds were actually developed in the United States as the ultimate farm and ranch dog. Although they’re usually considered to be a medium-sized breed, males can reach 65 pounds. That’s big enough for us!

#17. Giant Schnauzer 

You’re probably familiar with the more-popular Miniature Schnauzer. However, the Giant Schnauzer can also make an excellent pet.

While many dog breeds were bred down in size to become Miniatures or Toys, the Giant Schnauzer was actually bred up from the Standard Schnauzer. They were used to drive cattle and as all-around farm dogs.

Though they can also come in salt-and-pepper, Giant Schnauzers are typically a striking black figure, especially when their beard is left long.

Giant Schnauzers are commonly used as police dogs in Europe and are capable of being excellent working or guard dogs in the right hands. They aren’t a great choice for first-time dog owners, though. They can be very stubborn and headstrong.

#18. Akita

If you’re looking for a loyal fluffy dog, it’s hard to beat the Akita. Hachiko, perhaps one of the most loyal dogs of all time, was an Akita. He used to meet his owner on the train platform every day. One day, the owner passed away unexpectedly. Hachiko still went to the train station every day for the rest of his life and waited for an owner who would never come home from work again.

Akitas tend to bond strongly with one person. They can be wary of strangers and need plenty of socialization as puppies so they don’t grow up to be aggressive toward all strangers.

It’s important to note that Akitas are heavy shedders, especially when the seasons change.

#19. Goldendoodle

If you want the eagerness to please of a Golden Retriever with the intelligence of a Standard Poodle in one giant, fluffy package, you probably want a Goldendoodle.

Even though Goldendoodles are a hybrid rather than a pure dog breed, they’re popular enough to warrant a spot on our list.

Grooming a Goldendoodle can be tricky with regular attention to keeping their coats brushed out and fluffy, and you may need to become friends with a dog groomer to keep them looking their best.

However, little is more impressive than a large, fluffy Goldendoodle running around a dog park.

As with any purebred dog, do your research to find a good breeder who is focused on producing healthy puppies over making a quick buck.

#20. Border Collie

Border Collies are barely big enough to qualify as a large breed, but it would be a shame to leave off the smartest dog breed when it’s plenty fluffy enough and just large enough to qualify for our list.

You may be surprised just how much exercise Border Collies need. They’re one of the highest-energy dog breeds out there. It makes them excellent at dog sports like agility and flyball. However, their excessive amounts of energy can become destructive if they’re left alone for too long.

Still, if you want a big fluffy dog to accompany you on all your active adventures, it’s hard to go wrong with a Border Collie. They can hike or run next to you all day long without tiring.

Try to buy black furniture, though, if you have a Border Collie – they tend to shed a lot.

#21. Keeshond

The medium-sized Keeshond has a striking gray, black, and cream coat and a huge, plumed tail. Due to their popularity as a companion and watchdog on barges and other small boats on Holland’s numerous canals and rivers, for many years, they were referred to as the “Dutch Barge Dog.”

The Keeshond enjoys chilly temperatures. When the weather is crisp, it enjoys being outside. However, if it must remain indoors, it is made to participate in all his family’s activities.

The Keeshond enjoys playing with youngsters and is a child-friendly dog. The Keeshond also gets along very well with other dogs and pets young when introduced as a pup.

#22. Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is an incredibly strong, active, resilient, independent, and intelligent dog breed. In earlier times, they were used to hunting polar bears and seals. Additionally, they pulled sleds on the snowy terrains as well.

Malamutes are very friendly and consider everyone to be friends, even complete strangers. So, if you are looking for a good watchdog, they are not the best option. They are huge in size, and that is probably the only reason why an invader may get scared of them.

Alaskan Malamutes are big dogs and require lots of space. They can become restless and should have ample exercise.

Their independent nature has earned them the tag of being obstinate or foolish. But with proper training and instructions, nobody can fail to notice their brilliance.

#23. Eurasier

Eurasier

A medium-sized dog breed that originated in Germany is the Eurasier. These dogs are reputed to be extremely intelligent, calm, and quite devoted to their masters or owners.

The Eurasier maintains a herd mentality and is an even-tempered dog. They are incredibly devoted to their families.

They make excellent pack or family protectors because they are constantly on the lookout and aware of their surroundings.

These devoted dogs get along with people quite easily. Besides, they are friendly towards other animals, significantly if they grew up around them.

This dog breed enjoys a family lifestyle where they are always around someone they feel comfortable with and has a generally fairly laid-back demeanor. If not, they are prone to issues like depression and anxiety.

#24. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

It was Ireland that gave birth to the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, also known as the Wheaten, in short. It is now a versatile family dog that can thrive well in both cities and villages as long as it receives the necessary exercise and care.

Its moderate size, love of children, and need for exercise make him a good fit for most households. He is also very people-oriented. Walking or hiking are enjoyable activities for the all-purpose Wheaten. Additionally, it excels as a therapy dog and can win titles in tracking and herding.

A wheaten spins about when it is joyful, lays its head on your lap when it needs something, plays in the snow for no reason, and sulks when asked to go outside in the rain.

#25. Eloschaboro or Elo dog

The three founder breeds inspired this dog’s official name, the “Eloschaboro.” Unfortunately, these three breeds are Chow chow, Eurasier, and Bobtail, which are now extinct and known as the Old English Sheepdog. So, thankfully, Eloschaboro’s name has been abbreviated to the more palatable “Elo.”

Elos are medium in size and have long muzzles. In addition, by appearance, it is slightly foxy. It has a long, densely furred tail that is frequently lying on its back, and its body is rather long. Elo’s personality is best characterized as joyful, playful, and submissive.

FAQs

How much do the fluffy breeds shed?

Fluffy dogs shed a lot. Double-coated dog breeds will often “blow” their coat twice a year, once in the fall and the other in spring. These are peak shedding seasons, which typically span two to four weeks. You can aid the process by brushing your dog daily.

How can I care for my fur baby’s fluffy coat?

To take care of your dog’s fluffy coat, give it a thorough bath and shampooing, and then pat your pet’s coat dry with a dry towel. Moreover, brush your pet’s fur with a hair dryer and volumize its coat. Last, brush its coat at regular intervals.

What dog looks most like a bear?

Several dog breeds have thick coats and large, almost bear-like frames. Some well-known and popular dog breeds with bear-like looks are Akita, Great Pyrenees, Samoyed, Newfoundland, Caucasian Shepherd, Leonberger, Keeshond, and Eurasier.

What is the cutest fluffy dog?

A way to raise your happiness level is to cuddle up to a fluffy dog. Before they can even utter woof, these adorable shaggy dogs, whether tiny, large, or mammoth, will make you want to bring one home.

Some cute and fluffy dog breeds are Pomeranian, Bichon Frise, Chow Chow, Samoyed, Tibetan Mastiff, Great Pyrenees, Newfoundland, and Alaskan Malamute.

Wrapping Up

Again, because the words “big” and “fluffy” can mean slightly different things to different people, you may be able to think of a few other big fluffy dog breeds.

We’d love for you to share them in the comments, and while you are at it, let us know about your experiences with a big fluffy dog.

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