Top 20 Big Fluffy Dog Breeds for Extra Cuddles and Joy
Key takeaways:
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Big fluffy dog breeds like the Samoyed, Newfoundland, and Bernese Mountain Dog are beloved for their cuddly nature, affectionate temperaments, and majestic, plush coats.
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Grooming is essential for these breeds, with many requiring weekly or even daily brushing to maintain coat health and minimize shedding.
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Lifestyle compatibility matters—whether you're active, live in an apartment, or have children, there’s a fluffy breed suited for your environment and energy level.
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Proper care includes grooming, exercise, and enrichment like long-lasting treats (e.g., Yak Cheese Chews) to keep these gentle giants healthy and happy.
Dogs are often called "man’s best friend," and for good reason. When it comes to companionship, loyalty, and, of course, snuggles, few things compare to having a large fluffy dog by your side.
Big fluffy dogs are like living teddy bears—loyal, huggable, and full of heart. Whether they’re bounding through the snow or snuggling on the couch, they bring warmth and joy to any home.
If you’re dreaming of a fluffy companion, here are some of the best big breeds to consider, plus what to know before bringing one home.
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Top 20 Big Fluffy Dog Breeds You'll Love
1. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is renowned for its shaggy, cloud-like fur and playful nature. These fluffy giants, originally bred for herding, are more likely to be found lounging at your feet, always ready for a good snuggle. They're perfect for families and crave human companionship. While their coat requires frequent grooming, their gentle demeanor makes them one of the best dogs for cuddling.
2. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are a great example of gentle giant dogs. With hearts as big as their bodies, they are famous for their sweetness and are wonderful with children. Their thick, soft fur makes them the perfect cuddle companions, especially during the colder months. These dogs for snuggling love lounging with their family but need regular grooming to maintain their plush coat.
3. Samoyed
Known for their signature "Sammy smile," Samoyeds have plush, snow-white fur that's irresistible for petting. Affectionate and people-oriented, they thrive on attention and love being involved in family activities. Their coat requires consistent grooming to stay in good condition, but their warmth and constant joy make them one of the top cuddly dog breeds.
4. Saint Bernard
While famous for their heroic work in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards are gentle giants at home. These massive, fluffy dogs are calm and affectionate, making them excellent companions for families. Their dense coats require regular brushing to prevent shedding, and their size means they need a bit of space, but their love and loyalty make it all worthwhile.
5. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees boasts a luxurious, soft coat and a calm, protective nature. Bred to guard livestock, these gentle giants are especially patient with children and adore affection. A weekly brushing schedule will ensure their fur stays clean and soft, and it’s a small price to pay for their devotion and patience.
6. Borzoi
The Borzoi’s long, silky fur gives them an elegant appearance, but don’t be fooled—they’re affectionate and love snuggling with their family. Despite their tall and slender frame, they make wonderful indoor companions. To maintain their smooth, silky coat, gentle brushing once a week is needed to prevent knots and keep them looking polished.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
A popular choice for families, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle, loyal nature. With their tri-colored, fluffy coat, they’re one of the softest dogs around. Berners love both outdoor adventures and cozy indoor cuddles. To keep their thick fur glossy and minimize shedding, regular brushing is essential, particularly during seasonal shedding phases.
8. Siberian Husky
Although Huskies are known for their energy and independence, they have a sweet, affectionate side. Their plush coat is perfect for cozying up with, and they enjoy being close to their humans, even if they aren’t always in your lap. Huskies shed significantly twice a year. During this time, daily brushing is needed, but a weekly grooming routine will suffice for the rest of the year.
9. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are one of the most beloved family dogs, and for good reason. Their soft, thick fur and friendly personalities make them ideal for snuggling. They thrive on affection and love lounging with their human companions. Goldens shed moderately throughout the year, so brushing a few times a week helps keep their coat sleek and reduces fur around the home.
10. Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their impressive, lion-like mane and strong protective instincts. Beneath their independent exterior is a loving dog that bonds deeply with its family, making them perfect for quiet snuggles. Their thick coat needs consistent attention to remain clean and free from tangles, but their warm snuggles and gentle demeanor make them worth the grooming effort.
11. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are well-known for their intelligence and loyalty, but they also have a soft, loving side. While not as fluffy as some other breeds, their dense coat and close bond with their family make them excellent cuddle partners. They shed heavily during seasonal transitions. Brushing several times a week helps manage their coat and reduce loose fur.
12. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes have a thick coat designed for cold weather, perfect for warm snuggles. Known for their strength and independence, they’re also affectionate and enjoy relaxing with their families after a day of activity. Their double coat sheds considerably, particularly in spring and fall. Regular brushing, ideally every day, helps keep their fur under control.
13. Akita
Akitas are dignified and strong-willed, but they have a loving side, especially toward family members. With a thick, plush coat, they make wonderful companions for those who want a loyal and protective, yet affectionate, dog. Akitas experience heavier shedding twice a year, so weekly brushing is crucial to maintain their coat’s condition and minimize loose fur.
14. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are instantly recognizable with their lion-like mane and distinctive blue-black tongues. While they may be aloof with strangers, they’re incredibly loyal to their family and love to spend time relaxing with their favorite humans. Their thick, fluffy coat requires consistent brushing several times a week to prevent mats and maintain its luxurious appearance.
15. Leonberger
Leonbergers are gentle giants with a soft, luxurious coat that’s perfect for cuddling. They have friendly, easygoing personalities and love being part of family activities, whether indoors or outdoors. However, their thick fur sheds heavily, requiring regular brushing at least a few times a week to keep their coat healthy and manage the shedding.
16. Rough Collie
The Rough Collie might be best known as Lassie, but there’s more to this breed than heroics on the big screen. With a long, flowing double coat and a graceful, alert stance, this dog turns heads wherever it goes. Rough Collies are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them great family dogs and quick learners.
Grooming Needs: Their luxurious coat requires regular brushing—about 2–3 times per week—to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Best For: Families looking for a gentle, loyal companion with a flair for herding and a love of children.
17. Standard Poodle
Often overlooked in the "fluffy" category, the Standard Poodle is actually one of the most elegant and intelligent big dogs around. Their curly, hypoallergenic coat gives them a soft, plush look—and while it doesn’t shed much, it does need consistent grooming.
Grooming Needs: High maintenance. Regular trims every 4–6 weeks and frequent brushing are essential to keep their curls neat and mat-free.
Best For: Allergy sufferers seeking a fluffy dog with brains, grace, and athletic ability.
18. Eurasier
A true hidden gem, the Eurasier is a balanced blend of the Chow Chow, Keeshond, and Samoyed. This medium-large breed is calm, affectionate, and known for its thick, plush double coat that gives it a dignified, fox-like appearance.
Grooming Needs: Weekly brushing is usually sufficient, though they shed heavily twice a year.
Best For: Calm households that want a loyal, people-oriented dog with a majestic, fluffy appearance.
19. Keeshond
The Keeshond is like a cloud with a face—a small-to-medium-sized bundle of fur with bright eyes and a famously expressive “spectacle” pattern around its eyes. These cheerful, outgoing dogs are wonderful companions and don’t need a ton of exercise to be happy.
Grooming Needs: Moderate. Weekly brushing and occasional baths keep their coat looking its best.
Best For: Apartment dwellers or first-time dog owners looking for a fluffy friend with personality and charm.
20. Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael)
Sleek yet fluffy, the Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael) is a striking black-coated beauty with a long, feathered coat and sharp intelligence. Originally bred for herding, this breed is athletic, alert, and incredibly devoted to its family.
Grooming Needs: Regular brushing 2–3 times per week to keep their dense coat healthy and free of tangles.
Best For: Active homes that can match this dog’s mental and physical energy—and appreciate a protective, elegant companion.
🐶 What Are Those Big Fluffy Dogs Called?
There’s no single name for them—these cuddly giants come in many breeds, each with their own charm. From the majestic Samoyed to the regal Rough Collie, they share one thing in common: a thick, luxurious coat that’s made for snuggling (and regular brushing!). They're often referred to as large fluffy breeds, fluffy giants, or simply big fluffballs by their adoring fans.
❤️ What Is the Best Fluffy Dog?
The best fluffy dog depends on your lifestyle. Want a gentle, kid-friendly giant? The Bernese Mountain Dog or Newfoundland might be your match. Prefer a more reserved but regal companion? The Chow Chow or Belgian Sheepdog could be perfect. And if you’re looking for a combination of brains, beauty, and low-allergen fur, the Standard Poodle checks every box.
✨ Quick Tips for Big Fluffy Dog Owners:
🧽 Grooming: Daily brushing = less shedding and more bonding time.
🐾 Exercise: These dogs need room to move! Walks, hikes, and yard zoomies are a must.
🧀 Treats Matter: Big dogs = big chewers. Keep their tails wagging with healthy, long-lasting treats like our all-natural Yak Chews 🧡
🛌 Space & Patience: They may be gentle giants, but they’re still... well, giant. Make room in your home and heart.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a big, fluffy dog to add extra love and snuggles to your home, these 15 breeds offer plenty of options. From the loyal Saint Bernard to the always-smiling Samoyed, these dogs are perfect for anyone seeking a gentle giant with a cuddly side.
To keep your fluffy companion entertained and healthy, try Yak Cheese Chews—a natural, long-lasting treat that satisfies chewing instincts while promoting dental health. They're perfect for downtime and complement grooming routines.
Which of these fluffy breeds would be your ideal cuddle companion? Comment down and share your thoughts. If you liked this article, these articles might also relate:
