If your dream dog is part polar bear, part best friend, and 100% cuddle-worthy, then big, fluffy dog breeds might be your perfect match. These majestic pups are like walking clouds—soft, oversized, and irresistibly huggable. But don’t let their giant fluff fool you; beneath that thick coat is a heart full of love, loyalty, and gentle affection.
Big fluffy dog breeds are often calm, great with families, and surprisingly easygoing. From snow-loving mountain dogs to shaggy shepherds, these dogs were bred for strength and endurance, but win you over with softness and soul.
Here, we’re introducing the fluffiest large breeds that turn heads and melt hearts. Whether you’re looking for a big buddy to join you on hikes or just want someone to hog the sofa, there’s a giant furball out there for you.
Ready to meet your new best friend? Let’s get fluffy!
Fluffy Large Dog Breeds
1. Leonberger
Originally bred as both a family companion and a hardworking dog (talk about multitasking), Leonbergers have a soft spot for their families but are ready to spring into action when needed, whether it’s performing water rescues or protecting livestock.
The Leonberger is an impressive breed, standing 25 to 32 inches tall and weighing up to 170 pounds. Due to their size, their life expectancy is shorter than most dogs, averaging just 7 years. They possess a unique trait—webbed feet—which enhances their swimming abilities, says Purina.
Don’t let their size fool you; despite being big dogs, Leonbergers are surprisingly friendly. They’re known for their calm demeanor around strangers, which makes them excellent companions for families.
However, don’t underestimate their protective nature — when they sense danger, they’ll stand by their family like a four-legged fortress. And while they’re not alarm barkers, they’ll certainly give you a heads-up if there’s something fishy going on.
Why You’ll Love a Leonberger
✔ Huge Heart — Despite their massive size, they’re incredibly loving and loyal to their family.
✔ Super Protector — Will keep a watchful eye on your home and loved ones.
✔ Gentle Giant — They’re great with kids and other pets, making them perfect family dogs.
Now, let’s talk about drool. Leonbergers are moderate to heavy droolers — a bit like the local ice cream vendor in the summertime. Their big mouths and loose jowls mean you’ll probably need a few extra towels to keep things tidy. But hey, it’s all part of their charm!
They get along well with other pets and children, often showing remarkable patience and surprising playfulness for such a large breed.
Exercise-wise, Leonbergers need their daily dose of movement, whether it’s a stroll in the park, a hike, or a good old-fashioned game of fetch. But here’s the catch — you’ll need space.
These guys are big, so living in a tiny apartment with a Leonberger might be like trying to fit a giraffe into a sedan. They’ll appreciate a nice, spacious yard where they can stretch their legs and show off their lovable personality.
Fun Fact: A Leonberger’s drool might rival a waterfall, but their loving nature is worth every drop!
2. Newfoundland
Imagine a fluffy dog breed that could save your life in the water and still be ready for a good snuggle afterward — that’s the Newfoundland for you!
Originally bred by fishermen in Newfoundland (Canada), Newfoundlands are absolute water lovers. Their webbed feet make them excellent swimmers, and they’re naturally drawn to the water, whether it’s the ocean, a lake, or even your backyard pool.
But don’t be intimidated by their size — although Newfoundlands can weigh up to 150 pounds (that’s about the size of a small car), they’re the most laid-back giants you’ll ever meet. They have a heart as big as their paws, and they’ll stick by their family no matter what. Think of them as the gentle, wise old soul of the dog world.
Why You’ll Love a Newfoundland
✔ Devoted to Family — These dogs are the ultimate family companions and will adore every member of the household.
✔ Water Enthusiasts — If you love swimming or water activities, they’re the perfect swimming buddy.
✔ Low-Key Giants — Despite their size, they’re calm and not overly energetic, making them great for relaxed households.
One thing you should know about owning a Newfoundland is their thick, water-resistant coat. It’s beautiful, yes, but it requires maintenance. Regular grooming is essential to avoid mats, tangles, and an avalanche of fur all over your house.
Newfoundlands have a moderate energy level — they enjoy their exercise, but they’re not going to be running marathons anytime soon. A good walk or a playful swim will do the trick. They also appreciate space, so while you can certainly have a Newfoundland in an apartment, they’ll enjoy a spacious backyard even more.
Fun Fact: If you ever find yourself in a tight spot in the water, you’ll want a Newfoundland nearby — they’ve saved lives more times than you can count!
3. Akita
Akitas are like the majestic lions of the dog world — regal, powerful, and a little bit of a mystery. The Akita is a Japanese breed originally used for hunting, revered as a national symbol in Japan, and linked to good health.
Akitas resemble Shiba Inu dogs with their fox-like face, pointed ears, thick coat, and fluffy tail that curls over their back. Unlike the 20-pound Shibas, Akitas are much larger, weighing between 70 and 130 pounds and standing 24 to 28 inches tall.
Though Akitas can be aloof with strangers, they are fiercely loyal to their family. They tend to be independent, which means they can be a bit stubborn at times, so if you’re planning to train an Akita, patience is key.
But once they’ve bonded with you, there’s no dog more protective or devoted. Just be ready for their “lion-like” mane to occasionally start shedding all over your furniture.
Why You’ll Love an Akita
✔ Loyal to the Core — Once they choose you, they’re your best friend for life.
✔ Independent — These dogs think for themselves, but that just adds to their charm.
✔ Strong Protector — They’ll guard your home and loved ones with fierce loyalty.
With their luxurious, thick double coat, these dogs demand regular grooming to keep their fluffy coats from turning into a tangled mess. If you want your Akita to look as pristine as they deserves, be prepared to brush those luscious locks frequently. The result? A handsome, dignified dog that’s the embodiment of strength and grace.
WebMD notes that Akitas aren’t the right fit for every household, as they tend to be reserved and not overly social.
Fun Fact: Akitas are known for their majestic fur, but all that fluff can easily turn into a full-time job for the person holding the brush!
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
If you’re looking for a large, lovable, and fluffy companion, the Bernese Mountain Dog is your go-to cuddle buddy. These dogs are big — we’re talking up to 120 pounds of pure sweetness — and their size isn’t the only impressive thing.
With their muscular build and farm dog heritage, Bernese Mountain Dogs were bred for strength. They can pull carts that weigh up to 1,000 pounds! It’s like having a personal forklift, but much cuter.
According to Britannica, the Bernese Mountain Dog is among the more active of the giant breeds, yet it generally has a lower energy level compared to many other dog breeds.
But it’s not all about muscle with these guys. Berners are gentle giants with hearts of gold. They’re perfect family dogs, loyal and affectionate, though they do shed… a lot.
Why You’ll Love a Bernese Mountain Dog
✔ Gentle Giant — Bernese Mountain Dogs are sweet, calm, and fantastic with kids.
✔ Mighty Muscles — They may be big, but they’re also strong and capable of serious work.
✔ Fluffy Heaven — If you love cuddling with a big, soft dog, this is your breed.
Bernese’s calm nature makes it a great option for people of all ages, its size and strength may pose challenges for children and seniors to handle.
If you have a Berner in your life, expect fur to follow you everywhere — in your car, on your couch, and probably in your morning coffee, too. Regular grooming helps, but let’s face it, the fluff invasion is inevitable.
Fun Fact: A Bernese Mountain Dog might leave a trail of fur wherever they go, but the love they give is worth every stray hair!
5. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is like the majestic mountain sentinel — noble, powerful, and always on alert. This large breed was originally used as a war dog during the World Wars, serving as messengers and even transporters of artillery.
This breed stands between 25 and 32 inches at the shoulder, with females averaging 85 pounds and males weighing over 100 pounds. While they’re certainly strong, they’re also surprisingly calm and grounded.
Rather than running wild, Great Pyrenees are content to patrol their territory, always observing and protecting their space.
With their thick, weather-resistant, white, fluffy coat, Great Pyrenees thrive in cooler climates, making them perfect companions for those who live in chillier areas. Just don’t expect them to be hyperactive; they’re content to watch over their family in peace.
Why You’ll Love a Great Pyrenees
✔ Guardian Instincts — They’ll keep watch over your family and space with a calm, watchful eye.
✔ Low-Key Majestic — Despite their size, they prefer to stay grounded and observe rather than roam.
✔ Protective & Loyal — Great Pyrenees are fiercely loyal to their family and space.
These dogs have a strong guarding instinct, but it’s not born from aggression. They’re just naturally aware of their surroundings and will act swiftly when a threat appears.
They tend to bark at night rather than during the day, which can be beneficial for deterring intruders while you rest.
Fun Fact: The Great Pyrenees was used as a war dog, but today they’d rather lounge in the sun and keep an eye on the yard.
6. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is the original “shaggy dog” — a big, fluffy, and adorable ball of fur that’s as charming as it is high-maintenance.
These large dogs typically weigh between 60 and 100 pounds, with show-quality dogs standing 21 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder. With their voluminous, beautiful coats, they look like they’ve just stepped out of a vintage photo shoot.
Despite their slightly impractical fur (but who can resist those cute eyes peeking through?), Old English Sheepdogs are gentle, playful, and excellent with families. They’re athletic, enjoy a good romp, and are just as happy to snuggle on the couch as they are to run around in the yard.
Why You’ll Love an Old English Sheepdog
✔ Shaggy & Adorable — They’re as cute as they are lovable.
✔ Gentle & Playful — Perfect for families who want an affectionate and fun dog.
✔ Athletic & Energetic — They’ll keep up with your active lifestyle and love outdoor adventures.
But don’t let their cute, mop-like appearance fool you; grooming these dogs is serious business. You’ll need a steady supply of patience and a good brush to keep their fluffy coats in tip-top shape.
Old English Sheepdogs were originally bred to work with humans and still prefer to be close to their owners. Without enough companionship and mental or physical stimulation, they can become bored, leading to behavioral problems such as excessive barking and chewing.
Fun Fact: The Old English Sheepdog’s fur may look like it belongs to a professional football player, but these dogs are soft-hearted and lovable!
7. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are the wild spirits of the dog world. With their thick, double-layered fur, these muscular dogs are built to survive in the coldest of environments. But don’t let that fool you — they’re just as fluffy in warm weather, too!
Their faces can appear wolf-like. They are usually white with a stripe down the center of their face or a dark mask around the eyes. Siberian huskies are known for their striking eyes, which can be a piercing light blue.
They’ve got a thick undercoat that helps keep them insulated, but it also makes them look like they just rolled out of a snowstorm year-round. If you’ve ever seen one looking especially fluffy, it’s probably because they’re packing an extra layer of winter coat!
These dogs are social butterflies, getting along with kids, other dogs, and anyone ready to play. However, their high prey drive means that cats and small animals might not be safe from their curiosity.
Why You’ll Love a Siberian Husky
✔ Adventurous Spirit — If you love the outdoors, this is the dog to take on hikes and runs.
✔ Social Butterfly — They get along with everyone, but don’t leave your small pets unattended!
✔ Energetic & Playful — These dogs need exercise and will thrive in active homes.
They’re best suited for families with a secure yard and plenty of room to run. Huskies are intelligent but can be a bit mischievous, so training them might feel like you’re in a game of mental chess.
Huskies are a working breed and thrive when they’re busy and active. They enjoy daily walks and require 3 to 5 miles of walking or running at least four times a week, especially in colder weather.
Fun Fact: Huskies might look like they’re always ready for the winter Olympics, but they’re just after your attention — and your snacks!
Conclusion
Fluffy large dog breeds are more than just majestic giants with plush coats and soft fur—they’re loyal, intelligent, and make wonderful companions for families, herders, and even solo owners. From the regal Tibetan Mastiff and protective German Shepherd to the gentle Saint Bernard and affectionate Golden Retriever, these breeds often serve as working dogs, herding dogs, or guard dogs with strong protective instincts and a deep bond with their human companions.
Many of these fluffy breeds, such as the Rough Collie, Chow Chow, or Alaskan Malamute, boast a thick double coat or silky coat that helps them thrive in colder climates like the Pyrenees Mountains or Scottish Highlands—but it also means regular brushing is essential. To prevent mats, tangles, and remove dead hair, their coats should be brushed several times a week, and during shedding season, some may even require daily brushing or the help of a professional groomer.
These dogs often undergo heavy shedding, so they may not be ideal for those with allergies, but for the right owner, their presence can be calming, comforting, and even lower blood pressure. Whether guarding livestock, herding sheep or cattle, or snuggling beside small kids, fluffy large dog breeds bring a strong desire to protect, serve, and love every member of the family.
