The dogs that we know and love come in all shapes and sizes. From the tiniest Chihuahuas to the tallest Great Danes, there is a doggo for everyone. But what if you’re looking for something in between? That’s where big fluffy dog breeds come in!
These majestic pups are the perfect mix of cuddly and powerful and come in various shapes and colors. From the gentle giants of the dog world like the Bernese Mountain Dog to the playful Pomeranians, there’s a giant fluffy breed for everyone.
So if you’re looking for a new furry friend that will make a big impression, check out our list of the top big fluffy dog breeds.
1. Alaskan Malamute:
The Alaskan Malamute is a large and powerful breed originally bred for sledging. These dogs are known for their thick fur coats, which keep them warm in even the coldest climates. They are also known for being very friendly and good with children.
The weight of an Alaskan Malamute can range from 50-85 pounds, and they typically stand between 21-25 inches tall at the shoulder. Their thick fur coats do require some maintenance, however, as they are prone to shedding. And because of their size and strength, they need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy.
2. Akita Inu:
The Akita Inu is a large and powerful dog breed originating from Japan. Akitas are loyal, protective, and fearless dogs that make great guard dogs and loyal companions. Although they can be independent and aloof with strangers, they are loving and devoted to their families. Akitas are also known for being intelligent, alert, and stubborn dogs that require firm training and socialization from an early age.
The Akita Inu is a large dog breed, with males standing 26 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder and females 24 to 26 inches tall. Akitas typically weigh between 70 and 85 pounds. The Akita’s thick double coat is one of its most distinguishing features. The coat is typically white, with brindle, black, or red markings. The Akita’s thick coat protects it from the cold weather in its native Japan and helps to keep the dog cool in the summer months.
3. Australian Shepherd:
One of the most popular big fluffiest dog breeds, the Australian Shepherd, is a working dog breed originally developed in Australia for herding livestock. Often used on ranches and farms, Aussies are still prized for their impressive herding abilities and are considered one of the best herding dogs in the world.
They usually weigh 50-65 pounds and stand 19-23 inches tall, making them a medium to large-sized breed. While gentle and loving with their family, Australian Shepherds can be reserved around strangers. With proper socialization from a young age, they can learn to be more outgoing and accepting of new people.
4. Old English Sheepdog:
The Old English Sheepdog is a large, intelligent breed that is gentle and loving. They are known for their thick, shaggy coat, which can be any color or combination of colors. These dogs are loyal and protective of their family but can also be willful and stubborn sometimes. They were originally bred in England to herd sheep, and they are still used for this purpose today in some parts of the world.
Old English Sheepdogs usually weigh between 65 and 90 pounds while standing 22 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. The Old English Sheepdog is an active breed that needs plenty of exercises. They enjoy walks, running, and playing fetch. They are also excellent swimmers. This breed does best in a home with a yard where they can run and play.
5. Shetland Sheepdog:
The Shetland Sheepdog, also known as the “Sheltie”, is a medium-sized dog breed that originates from the Shetland Islands off the coast of Scotland. Bred originally as a working dog to herd sheep, the Sheltie is today a popular companion dog and family pet. Standing at around 16 inches tall, the Sheltie is a long and slender dog with a thick coat of fur that can come in many colors.
The average weight for a Shetland Sheepdog is between 16 and 20 pounds. This breed is known for being very intelligent, eager to please, and easy to train. They are also considered one of the most versatile dog breeds, as they excel at various activities such as obedience, agility, herding, and tracking.
6. Tibetan Mastiffs:
You can’t go wrong with the Tibetan Mastiff if you’re looking for a big, fluffy dog breed. These massive pups can weigh up to 200 pounds and stand over two feet tall at the shoulder! But despite their size, they’re pretty gentle giants. They make great family pets if you’re prepared to brush their thick coats regularly.
They’re also one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, dating back thousands of years. Tibetan Mastiffs were originally used as watchdogs and guards, but they’re more likely to be found lounging on the couch these days.
7. Leonberger:
Another fluffy big dog breed on our list is the Leonberger. These gentle giants are loving and loyal companions that make great family dogs. They were initially bred in Germany in the mid-1800s and were named after the city of Leonberg. These dogs are known for being calm, patient, and good-natured. Leonbergers make great family dogs and are good with children.
The Leonberger is a large, muscular dog with a thick coat of fur that can come in various colors, including golden, red, and brown. They have a long muzzle and a black mask around their eyes. Males can weigh up to 170 pounds, and females can weigh up to 140 pounds. They are also brilliant and trainable. However, they need plenty of exercise and are appropriately socialized when they are puppies.
8. Finnish Lapphund:
The Finnish Lapphund is a big, fluffy herding dog that was initially bred to work in Finland’s cold, snowy conditions. These dogs are known for their thick, double coats of fur, which keep them warm in even the most extreme weather conditions. Finnish Lapphunds are friendly and outgoing dogs that make great family pets. They are also very intelligent and easily trained.
The most important thing to know about Finnish Lapphunds is that they require a lot of exercise. These dogs are bred to work all day, and they will become bored and destructive if they don’t have enough to do. A daily walk or run is a must for these dogs, and they will also enjoy playing fetch or going for hikes in the woods. They weigh between 33 and 54 pounds and stand 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder.
9. English Golden Retriever:
The golden retriever is the epitome of a giant fluffy breed. They have a thick, creamy coat that is often compared to a lion’s mane. They are gentle giants who love nothing more than spending time with their families. They are highly intelligent and trainable, making them ideal companions for families with children.
They are among the most popular breeds in the world, and their friendly disposition makes them a hit with everyone they meet. Their gentle nature also means they are great around children. They usually weigh between 45 and 75 pounds and stand 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder.
10. Great Pyrenees:
The largest of the giant fluffy dog breeds, the Great Pyrenees, can weigh up to 175 pounds. These gentle giants were bred to protect sheep from wolves and other predators in their native France, and they’re still as loyal and protective today. They’re also one of the most patient dog breeds, making them great for families with small children.
They’re not the easiest dogs to train, however, so be prepared for some patience and consistency when teaching them obedience commands. But once they’re trained, they make great hiking and camping companions, as they’re relatively calm and low energy compared to other dogs their size.
11. Bernese Mountain Dog:
The Bernese mountain dog is a large breed of dog that originates from Switzerland. They are also known as Saint Bernard’s. These dogs were originally bred for farm work and to be watchdogs. They are still used for these purposes today, but they have also become popular pets. Bernese mountain dogs are very friendly and good with children.
They are big dogs, with males typically weighing between 65 and 120 pounds and females between 65 and 105 pounds. They are also very fluffy, with a thick coat of hair that can be either black, brown, or white. This coat helps to keep them warm in the cold mountain winters.
They are also very loyal to their family and will protect them if they feel they are in danger. However, they can be suspicious of strangers and may bark at them if they feel they are a threat.
12. Siberian Husky:
The Siberian Husky is a beautiful dog breed known for its thick fur coat. These dogs are originally from Siberia and were used as working dogs in cold climates. They are still used as working dogs today but are also popular family pets. Siberian Huskies are amiable and loving dogs that enjoy being around people. They are also very active and need a lot of exercise.
Their weight can range from 35 to 60 pounds, and they can grow to be 20 to 24 inches tall. They can be willful at times and require firm, consistent training. If you are looking for a big, fluffy dog breed that is also intelligent and loving, then the Siberian Husky may be the right breed for you!
13. Newfoundland:
The Newfoundland is a large working dog. They were originally bred and used as fishermen’s helpers in the Canadian province of Newfoundland. They are strong swimmers and have a water-resistant coat. Newfoundland is a gentle giant and is good with children. They are loyal and devoted to their family.
Their weight can range from 130 to 155 pounds, and they can grow to be 28 inches tall at the shoulder. The Newfoundland’s coat is thick and oily, which helps protect them from the cold water. They come in black, brown, gray, or white with black markings. The Newfoundland is an intelligent dog and is easy to train. They are patient and good-natured. They make excellent watchdogs and will protect their family.
14. St. Bernard:
St. Bernard is a giant dog breed from the Swiss Alps, originally bred for rescue work. They are large, muscular dogs with a thick coat of fur that helps protect them from the cold weather. They are gentle and loving dogs but require a lot of exercise and space to run around.
They are also excellent watchdogs and will bark to alert their owners of any strangers or potential threats. The weight of a full-grown St. Bernard can range from 130 to 180 pounds, while their height is typically 28 to 36 inches.
15. Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier:
The Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed that originates from Ireland. They are gentle, friendly dogs that make great family pets. The soft-coated Wheaten Terrier has a soft, wavy coat that can be either wheaten or white. They are relatively easy to groom and require little to no trimming.
The Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is an intelligent breed that is easy to train. They are known for being very affectionate and good with children. They are also relatively active dogs that need a fair amount of exercise. They usually weigh between 35 and 45 pounds while standing 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder.
16. Samoyed:
The Samoyed is a large, fluffy dog that originates from Siberia. They were originally bred to hunt and herd reindeer, but today they are mostly kept as pets. Samoyeds are known for their friendly dispositions and their thick, white coats. They are also one of the few breeds that can smile!
Grooming a Samoyed can be a bit of a challenge, as they shed a lot. But if you can handle the hair, they make great family pets. Their height ranges from 19-24 inches, and they weigh anywhere from 35-65 pounds. With family, the Samoyed is gentle, playful, and loving. But they can also be independent and stubborn, so training is essential.
17. Tornjak:
The Tornjak is a large, heavily built dog originating from Bosnia and Herzegovina. They are considered one of the oldest breeds in the world and were originally used as guarding and herding dogs. Tornjaks are loyal and protective of their family but gentle and good with children. They need plenty of exercises, and their thick coats must be brushed regularly.
Their weight can range from 99-110 pounds, and they typically stand 24-28 inches tall at the shoulder. The Tornjak’s coat is thick and woolly, with a dense undercoat. The hair on the head and face is shorter than on the rest of the body. The Tornjak is an intelligent breed that is easy to train. They are versatile dogs that can excel at various activities, including agility, obedience, tracking, and herding.
18. Standard Poodle:
The Standard Poodle is one of the most famous giant fluffy dog breeds. They are known for their intelligence and trainability. Standard Poodles make great family pets and are good with children. They need daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation. They are also among the most popular breeds for agility and obedience competitions.
They can weigh anywhere from 40 to 70 pounds and stand 18 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. They come in various colors: black, white, cream, brown, apricot, and red. Standard Poodles have a long lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
19. Kuvasz:
The Kuvasz is a large, white, fluffy Hungarian breed of dog. Bred as a working dog, the Kuvasz is loyal and protective, making them an excellent family pet. They can be independent and stubborn, so early training is essential. Kuvaszok are also known for being very gentle with children.
They can be aloof with strangers, but they are very affectionate once they get to know someone. Kuvaszok need plenty of exercise and space to run around, so they are not suited to living in apartments. Their weight can range from 95-115 pounds, and they typically live 10-12 years.
20. Slovak Cuvaca:
The Slovak Cuvaca is a large and fluffy herding dog breed native to Slovakia. The breed is relatively new, developed in the early 20th century. The Slovak Cuvaca is a versatile breed used for herding, guarding, and even as a working dog in the forestry industry.
The breed is large and muscular, with a thick coat that can be either black or brown. The Slovak Cuvaca is an intelligent breed that is easy to train. The breed is also known for being good-natured and even-tempered. Their weight can range anywhere from 75-100 pounds, and their height is typically between 24-28 inches.
21. Bouvier des Flandres:
These big, fluffy dogs were originally bred in Flanders (Belgium, France, and the Netherlands) as all-purpose farm dogs. They’re still used for herding and protection today, but they also make great family pets. These dogs need plenty of exercise and space to run. They’re not a good fit for small homes or apartments.
The Bouvier des Flandres is a large, powerful dog with a thick coat of coarse hair. The coat is usually black but can also be fawn, brindle, or gray. The Bouvier des Flandres is an intelligent and loyal breed protective of its family. They usually weigh between 80 and 120 pounds while standing 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder.
22. Chow Chow:
The Chow Chow is a big, fluffy dog breed that originates from China. They are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, and their thick fur coats make them very well suited to colder climates. Chow Chows are very independent and reserved around strangers but incredibly loyal and loving towards their families.
Their weight can range from 50-70 pounds, and their height can vary from 18-22 inches tall at the shoulder. They are a relatively high-maintenance breed, as their thick fluffy coat need regular grooming and are also prone to weight gain. However, if you are looking for a big, fluffy companion to cuddle up with on cold winter nights, the Chow Chow is the perfect breed!
23. Barbet:
The Barbet is a big fluffy dog breed that originates from France. It is believed to be one of the oldest French breeds, with records of the breed dating back to the 16th century. The Barbet is a versatile breed, capable of working as a hunting dog, retrieving game from water, and serving as a loyal and affectionate family companion.
The Barbet is a large breed, with males standing 24-26 inches tall at the shoulder and females 22-24 inches tall. The breed has a thick, water-resistant coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, fawn, and liver. The coat is relatively long, with the hair on the head and ears being particularly long and shaggy. Barbets require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles from forming in their coat.
24. Borzoi:
This Russian Hunting Sighthound is not only one of the most elegant dog breeds but also one of the fluffiest. The coat is double and either wavy or straight, with a dense undercoat that helps protect against the cold weather in their homeland.
They come in many colors, but white is the most common. Borzoi can reach up to 30 inches tall and 110 pounds, making them one of the larger dog breeds on this list. Even though they are large dogs, they are still gentle giants that make great family pets. They are also relatively low energy for their size, so they don’t need a ton of exercise.
25. Rough Collie:
The Rough Collie is a large breed of herding dog that comes in two varieties: short-coated and long-coated. The breed was developed in Scotland in the 19th century and is named for its rough, dense coat. Collies are intelligent, gentle, loyal dogs that make great family pets. They are also one of the most popular breeds in the United States.
The weight of a Rough Collie ranges from 50 to 75 pounds, and the height is 21 to 26 inches. The coat is dense and thick, with a long outercoat and a short, downy undercoat. The coat can be either straight or wavy and comes in various colors, including black, blue, brown, gray, sable, and white. Collies shed moderately throughout the year.
Conclusion:
We hope you enjoyed learning about these giant, fluffy dog breeds! One of these dogs might be the perfect fit if you are looking for a cuddly companion to keep you warm on cold winter nights. Remember to do your research before selecting a breed, as each has unique needs and temperament. Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below!