If there’s one thing I love doing with my dog – it’s giving him a big bear hug. What better pet to do this with than a large fluffy dog? The bigger and fluffier, the better. But what are the best fluffy dog breeds that you can cuddle with or embrace in a hug?
There are so many fluffy dog breeds in the canine kingdom, ranging from various sizes and shapes. But in my opinion, the best fluffy dogs are the biggest. And in this case, there are only a handful of big dog breeds that make the cut.
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Best Big and Fluffy Dogs
From the Slovensky Cuvac to the Samoyed and Tornjak, we’ve found plenty of large fur-balls that you’ve probably never heard of. Read on to discover the next big dog breed you’ll want to bring home to cuddle with you and your family.
1. Great Pyrenees
Highlights: Patient, Docile, Intelligent
The Great Pyrenees is nothing short of “great.” Originating from the Pyrenees Mountain range wedged between Spain and France, the Great Pyrenees depends on its fluffy coat for warmth. They have a thick large coat that makes them ultra-soft and huggable.
Despite their large stature (weighing upwards of 100 pounds), they are famously known for being gentle and calm dogs. And while they are excellent working dogs, the Pyrenees will always enjoy a cuddle and hug every now and then.
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2. Chow Chow
Highlights: Proud, Independent, Cheerful
The Chinese Chow is a big muscular dog with a coat that rivals the fluffiest of breeds. They’ve been here since the days of ancient China and were bred to be the ultimate multi purpose work dog. Chow Chows can guard, hunt and even herd if needed.
But if you’re looking for a fantastic companion dog with enough fluff to cuddle with – they can be that for you too. It’s worth noting that they’re very serious and dignified dogs. And with all the fluff, expect to see some major shedding.
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3. Golden Retriever
Highlights: Affectionate, Loyal, Smart
There’s a lot to love about the Golden Retriever – including their fluffy golden coat. After all, there’s a reason why this dog breed is consistently the third most popular in America. And although they will be notorious shedders, the hassle is worth the fluff.
Because they’re such loving dogs, Golden Retriever will definitely enjoy a nice big hug. In fact, owners describe them as giant lap dogs. So if you’re serious about bringing home a big fluffy dog breed, then the Golden Retriever is an obvious choice.
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4. Bernese Mountain Dog
Highlights: Sweet, Calm, Powerful
The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the biggest, but also fluffiest dog. They may be the breed that fits this category best. Like with most mountain dogs, the Bernese needs a thick fluffy coat to stay warm in the high altitudes of the mountainous regions.
Not all big fluffy breeds are great dogs to hug. However, because of the Berner’s good nature and docile demeanor, they’ll enjoy nothing more than to be embraced by their owners from time to time. Plus, they makes great playmates for children too!
5. Alaskan Malamute
Highlights: Playful, Energetic, Loyal
The Alaskan Malamute may have a relatively short coat. However, this doesn’t mean that they aren’t big or fluffy. This powerful yet energetic spitz type dog originated from the wilderness of Alaska, where night time temperatures reach below freezing.
Though they may be a great dog to give a hug, it’ll be difficult trying to get them to stay still. It’s because Alaskan Malamutes love to play and have a ton of energy. They were bred to be diligent workers so it’s a good idea to tire them out before giving them a hug!
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6. Newfoundland
Highlights: Patient, Good-natured, Loyal
The Newfoundland is more like a massive fluffy dog. Weighing upwards of 150 pounds, the Newfie is a surprisingly patient and sweet dog. Like a few other breeds, the Newfoundland does very well with kids – often being called the “ultimate nanny dogs.”
Newfoundlands are great working dogs, but they can also have a calm side. Plus, they are not big on the barking, making them some of the best large apartment dogs. If your kids need a huggable dog, take a long hard look at the Newfoundland.
7. Samoyed
Highlights: Adaptable, Affectionate, Calm
The Samoyed is the ultimate big fluffy white dog. These dogs come with an elegant solid white “double coat” that’s both thick and fluffy. They’re not as big as the Great Pyrenees, but coming in at roughly 50 lbs make them large dog breeds.
Sammies do shed quite a bit. However, they don’t produce a lot of dander (allergens) from their coats. In other words, they’re kind of like hypoallergenic dogs that shed a lot. And while Samoyeds have calm personalities, the tireless worker in them comes out when needed.
8. Bouvier des Flandres
Highlights: Loyal, Brave, Strong-willed
There’s a lot of great things about the Bouvier des Flandres other than their fluffy coats. In fact, they’re one of the sweetest dog breeds to originate from France. With their strong personalities and loyalty, the Bouvier is a dependable companion.
They may have a curly coat, but the fluffiness is still among the best. When you’re done cuddling with a Bouvier, they can double as guard dogs for your home. Plus, they’re some of the best herders and are frequently used in farms all around France.
9. Eurasier
Highlights: Confident, Gentle, Social
Weighing between 40 and 70 pounds, the Eurasier is a borderline medium or large dog breed. Their thick medium-length coat comes in a variety of different colors – ranging from black, fawn, wolf-sable, and so much more. You’ll have a lot of options.
The best thing about Eurasiers is that they’re 100% loving and loyal to their family and people-oriented dogs. They tend to be very reliable dogs with a sense of confidence. It’s why they make such amazing guard dogs!
10. Tibetan Mastiff
Highlights: Brave, Confident, Reserved
The Tibetan Mastiff can be a frightening dog. Even so, they’re one of the fluffiest big dogs in the dogdom thanks to their lion-like mane. With such a furry coat and 150-pound frame, the Tibetan has been said to resemble a cross between a bear and lion.
As much as I would love to hug a Tibetan Mastiff, these dogs are not cheap. In fact, the most expensive dog ever sold was a Tibetan Mastiff. Though it’s not rare to see a purebred Tibetan, they’re definitely one of the fluffiest, biggest dog breeds ever.
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11. Rough Collie
Highlights: Loyal, Graceful, Dignified
The Collie is an elegant and majestic dog made popular by pop-culture. As a result, they’re easily one of the most recognizable and beloved breeds in the world. Sitting at 50 to 75 pounds, they’re big dogs with a sturdy frame.
However, not all Collies are fluffy. There are actually two variations of the breed: there’s a Rough Collie and a Smooth Collie. The former is a full-coated Collie with longer hair. These are the ones we consider to be the fluffy Collie.
12. Leonberger
Highlights: Friendly, Calm, Cheerful
The Leonberger is a massive dog. In fact, some male Leonbergers can reach nearly 200 pounds at their peak! This German dog breed has an ultra-dense coat needed for the harsh winters of the country. And like with any double coat, sheds heavily in the spring.
On the bright side, the Leonberger is one of the fluffiest dog breeds there is. Owners describe their coats as lush and soft. Furthermore, they aren’t aggressive or overly energetic, so getting a daily hug out of a Leonberger is a real possibility.
13. Old English Sheepdog
Highlights: Calm, Adaptable, Smart
The Old English Sheepdog is not your ordinary big fluffy dog breed. They come with a distinct fluffy coat with facial fluff that covers the whole face. If you decide to keep one, there’s a good chance you’ll spend several afternoons lounging around with the dog.
They’re very mellow and calm dogs by nature. As a result, the OES is a fantastic companion for single owners or families. They may seem docile and calm, but they can be deceivingly athletic. Most of the time, they’ll just go with the flow.
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14. Kuvasz
Highlights: Loyal, Courageous, Good-natured
The Kuvasz dog is the hardworking breed that few are aware of. Originally bred in Hungary, this brave yet energetic herding dog was also used as guard dogs and companions of the kings. Though they look like a Golden Retriever or Lab, they’re much bigger (up to 100 lbs).
Not only are they big, but they have a thick fluffy coat that helps them adapt to the harsh conditions of Eastern Europe during winter time. They’re stunning, highly intelligent, exceptionally loyal, but can be a little stubborn at times.
15. Bearded Collie
Highlights: Charming, Intelligent, Lively
The Bearded Collie looks a little similar to the Old English Sheepdog, except that they tend to be more charismatic. Always bubbly and energetic, the Bearded Collie is a fluffy big dog that would absolutely love to cuddle with its owners.
Beardies are affectionate, but also strong willed. This Scottish dog is the perfect playmate when doing outdoor activities. Rain or shine, the Bearded Collie is always eager to get out and play with the owners. Weighing in at 50 pounds, they can handle pretty much anything.
16. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Highlights: Friendly, Cheerful, Loyal
While the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is typically considered a medium sized dog breed, we can argue they’re borderline large. In fact, some male Wheatens can reach the 60 pounds range depending on the parents and genetics.
Wheatens (or Wheaties) are some of the most optimistic dogs you can find. They will almost always be cheerful and few things can get them down. If you’re having a bad day, the Wheaten will always be by your side to give you a big hug.
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17. Standard Poodle
Highlights: Intelligent, Dignified, Active
No big and fluffy list is complete without the Standard Poodle – the world’s second smartest breed. They aren’t your typical fluffy dog, but they do have a lot of fluff in certain areas. They’re the softest at the head, chest, legs, and tails. Some opt to shave them into “fluffy pompons.”
Regardless of grooming, Standard Poodles are dignified dogs that are proud of all their fluff. A bonus for Poodles is the fact that they’re hypoallergenic dogs. As a result, even the most allergy-sensitive owner will be able to hug a Poodle!
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18. Australian Shepherd
Highlights: Diligent, Smart, Energetic
Australian Shepherds have unique coats – consisting of over 14 wonderful colors. But what we love most about their coat is all the excess fluff that comes with it. And yes, they are quite the excessive shedders, but it’s totally worth it!
If you can get past the shedding, Aussies are some of the best big fluffy dog breeds (trust me, we have one!) Though it’ll be difficult to squeeze a hug in (they can’t stop moving!). It’s worth noting that they’re super energetic and require a ton of exercise too.
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19. Giant Schnauzer
Highlights: Loyal, Obedient, Vigilant
Weighing in at around 80 lbs, the Giant Schnauzer is the largest of the three variations. However just like a Mini or Standard, the Giant Schnauzer is just as fluffy. These working dogs have a bold personality with a strong work ethic too.
They’ll thrive no matter what jobs and roles you throw at them. With their high dog intelligence, intense loyalty, and a fluffy coat – what more can you ask for in your companion? And when they’re not working, they can transition into excellent giant lap dogs.
20. Elo Dog (Eloschaboro)
Highlights: Happy, Obedient, Loyal
The Elo dog is a relatively new dog breed that few know about. They were originally bred in Germany by crossbreeding other big fluffy dogs, such as the Eurasier, Old English Sheepdog and the Chow Chow. So, it’s no surprise the Elo inherited the fluff as well.
Weighing between 45 and 75 lbs, the Elo is a friendly and cheerful dog. They do great in most families, but they’re even better in families with c