If you think a dog’s coat is just fur, think again! Some breeds are blessed with stunning, layered coats that are practically works of art.
Fluffy, silky, and sometimes wildly voluminous, these dogs don’t just walk — they strut through life looking effortlessly fabulous. From thick double coats to elegant feathered layers, the beauty (and grooming challenges!) of layered coat dog breeds is part of their endless charm.
You might find a little extra fur around your house, but when your dog looks this good, who’s complaining?
We’ll showcase the most dazzling dogs with layered coats that turn heads wherever they go. Whether you’re dreaming of a dog with a majestic mane or a soft, cloud-like companion, these breeds are ready to steal the spotlight—and your heart.
Layered Coat Dog Breeds
1. Australian Shepherd
If there were an award for “Most Energetic and Stylish,” the Australian Shepherd would win it without breaking a sweat (though, for them, that’s a lot).
With a gorgeous double coat designed to weather any storm, this breed’s outer coat is waterproof, and the undercoat is super insulating—basically, it’s like wearing a top-tier, weatherproof jacket. Not that your Aussie will mind. They’re too busy herding everything, including your heart!
Color Options
Blue Merle
Red Merle
Black
Red
Tricolor (black, white, and tan or red, white, and tan)
Australian Shepherds have stunning color combinations, often with a merle pattern that makes their coat appear speckled with light and dark shades. They can also have striking blue or amber eyes that complement their colorful coats.
But don’t let the fluff fool you; these medium-sized dogs are not just about looking good. They’re hard workers, always ready for action.
So, if you can keep up, you’ll find your Aussie Shepherd to be your loyal companion, fluffy fur flying in the wind as you go on your next adventure together.
2. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is the definition of “don’t mess with me” while wearing a crown of fluffy fur. Imagine a lion wrapped in a blanket, and you get the general idea. These majestic dogs have one of the fluffiest, thickest double coats you’ll ever see.
Their luxurious mane and bushy tail are a showstopper in their own right, perfect for making a dramatic entrance. But what they might lack in “always-ready-to-play” energy, they more than make up for in “total boss” energy.
Color Options
Red
Black
Blue
Cinnamon
Cream
Chow Chows are well-known for their thick, lion-like mane, and their color can range from deep red to a soft cream. Blue and black Chow Chows are rare, but they add even more diversity to the breed’s appearance.
Chow Chows are incredibly independent, often giving you a “I’ll do what I want” look as they lounge around like royalty. While they do need regular grooming to maintain that magnificent coat, the effort is worth it. They’re like a walking, barking piece of art, and with their dignified personality, they’ll keep you on your toes.
Just don’t expect them to fetch your slippers—this breed would rather supervise from their comfy spot on the couch.
3. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever may not have the “fluff factor” of an Aussie or a Chow Chow, but don’t be fooled—this breed’s coat is equally impressive in its own right. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, loved for their friendly, intelligent, outgoing, and loyal nature. Their double-layered fur is short and dense, made to be water-resistant.
Color Options
Yellow
Chocolate
Black
Whether they’re fetching a ball from the lake or playing in the snow, a Lab’s coat keeps them warm and dry, making them the ultimate outdoor companion. And if you’re into water sports or love to have a dog who’s always ready for a swim, Labs have the perfect “layered” look for the job.
But here’s the best part: Labs are as affectionate as they come. They’ll wag their tail and run straight toward you, eager to give you a hug (or maybe knock you over with a bit too much excitement).
They’re not just fashion-forward with their coat; they’re also all about spreading love and affection, no matter the weather.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
If you’ve ever wished you could hug a fluffy mountain, the Bernese Mountain Dog is your dream come true. With their thick double coat, these dogs are built to thrive in chilly mountain climates, which makes sense considering their origins in the Swiss Alps.
Their silky, tricolored coat—black, white, and rust—looks like it was designed for a doggy runway show. But these stunning looks are not just for show. The double-layered fur provides excellent insulation, keeping them warm in the cold, while their long, flowing coat adds a majestic touch.
Color Options
Tricolor: Black with rust and white markings
But wait—there’s more! The Bernese Mountain Dog is as sweet as it is beautiful. They’re calm, gentle, and incredibly affectionate, making them perfect companions for families, especially those with kids. These dogs are large, with an easygoing nature that hides their hardworking background as farm dogs.
Just be prepared for some serious grooming sessions—those lush coats require regular maintenance. But in return? You’ll have a giant fluffball who will love you unconditionally and make any chilly day feel like a warm hug.
5. Leonberger
If the Bernese Mountain Dog is the cuddly mountain king, the Leonberger is the charming teddy bear of the dog world. We’re talking about a dog so big and fluffy, it might be mistaken for a living, breathing stuffed animal.
Their double-layered coat—dense, water-resistant, and thick—is the ultimate barrier against cold weather, making them perfect for mountainous regions. The coat, often a mix of gold and reddish hues, gives them that regal look, but don’t be fooled by their size and beauty—they’re gentle giants at heart.
According to PetMD, the Leonberger’s large size contributes to a shorter lifespan compared to the average dog, with a life expectancy of just 7 years.
Color Options
Gold
Red
Lion-like yellow
Sand
Mahogany
Black and Tan (with some white markings possible)
Leonbergers typically have a beautiful golden or reddish coat, and they can also come in a variety of warm, sun-kissed tones. Their fur has a soft, flowing appearance that complements their large frame.
The Leonberger is one of those breeds that’s just happy to be around its family, often acting as a loving, patient companion. They’re playful with children, yet calm and composed, making them an excellent family dog. And because of their size, they do require a bit more space to stretch out, so a big yard would be ideal.
As for grooming? With all that fluff, expect regular brushing, but the bond you’ll form with your Leonberger will be worth it. Plus, how could you resist that teddy bear face?
6. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is the epitome of “fluffy and functional.” These dogs were bred for water rescue and working alongside fishermen, so their thick, double-layered coat is not only for looks—it’s designed to keep them warm in icy waters.
Their outer coat is water-resistant, while their dense undercoat keeps them insulated during cold swims. And, let’s face it, they’re built like fluffy tanks, with huge paws that are perfect for paddling through rivers or lakes.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), these majestic giants rank among the largest dogs in the world, and bringing home a pet that might weigh more than you naturally does comes with its own set of challenges.
Color Options
Black
Brown
Landseer (White with black markings, similar to a pinto pattern)
Gray (rare)
Despite their enormous size, Newfoundlands are known for their calm, sweet, and patient demeanor. They’re often referred to as “gentle giants,” and when they’re not rescuing people from the water (or maybe just from a bad mood), they’re happily lounging with their families.
Their coat might require a bit of upkeep—regular brushing to keep it from becoming a tangled mess—but it’s worth it for the love and companionship they offer.
Newfoundlands are also fantastic with kids, and their affectionate nature makes them a great addition to any family. Plus, with all that fur, they’re built-in blankets for chilly nights. Just be prepared for some serious shedding—Newfoundlands can leave a trail of fluff behind them wherever they go. But again, who could resist that warm, fluffy hug every time they walk in the room?
7. Pekingese
Let’s face it, the Pekingese is the canine equivalent of royalty—small, regal, and wrapped in a luxurious double coat that looks like it belongs to a Chinese emperor.
These little dogs were originally bred to be lap companions for royalty in ancient China, and they sure carry themselves like they know it. According to Hill’s Pet, these alert little watchdogs will let out an alarm bark that sounds much bigger than their small size.
With their flowing, silky fur and signature pushed-in face, Pekingese have a unique, almost exotic charm. Their coat is dense and long, and while it’s absolutely adorable, it does require frequent grooming to keep it looking its best.
Color Options
Fawn
Black
White
Cream
Sable
Red
Tan
Blue (a rare color)
Particolored (a mix of the above colors, with various markings)
The Pekingese often has a beautiful blend of shades, and their coat can be a mix of a solid color with a contrast of lighter markings, especially on the chest and face.
But don’t be fooled by their luxurious exterior—these dogs may be small, but they’ve got big personalities. They are known for being independent, confident, and sometimes a little stubborn. Pekingese don’t take well to being pushed around, and they’ll let you know when they’re not in the mood for cuddles.
Despite their slightly aloof nature, once they choose you as their person, they’re incredibly loyal. Just make sure to brush them regularly, because under all that fluff is a dog who expects to be pampered like royalty.
8. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are basically the definition of “big things come in small packages.” Don’t let their pint-sized stature fool you—this breed has a personality and a coat that could fill a room.
Their fluffy double coat, which comes in a dazzling array of colors, makes them look like little balls of sunshine (or fireballs of sass, depending on the day). The outer coat is thick and soft, while the undercoat provides warmth and structure. It’s the perfect fluffy ensemble for these pint-sized pooches.
Color Options
Orange
Black
White
Cream
Blue
Chocolate
Tan
Red
Sable
Beaver
Lavender (a rare color)
Particolored (such as a mix of white and orange, etc.)
Pomeranians have one of the widest ranges of color options, which makes them even more unique and fun to choose from. Their coats can feature striking color contrasts and rich hues.
What Pomeranians lack in size, they more than make up for in attitude. They’re confident, extroverted, and often think they’re the biggest dog in the room.
Their coat might require some regular grooming, but the good news is, they usually love the attention. These dogs are energetic and will keep you on your toes with their playful antics.
But remember, they’re not just here for the cute looks—they’ll demand the royal treatment, and you’ll gladly give it, because they have a way of melting your heart with their adorable faces and energetic personalities.
9. Saint Bernard
Now, let’s talk about a dog who is a living legend. The Saint Bernard is the gentle giant that saves lives (and steals hearts). This breed, known for its impressive size and life-saving role in the Swiss Alps, has one of the most iconic coats in the dog world.
Their thick double coat is designed to protect them from the harsh cold of mountainous environments, and it does so with style. The outer coat is coarse and water-resistant, while the undercoat is dense and insulating—perfect for keeping them warm as they trek through the snow.
Despite their formidable size and strength, Saint Bernards are known for being incredibly sweet, gentle, and patient. They’re like giant, fluffy teddy bears with a heart of gold. And while they might look intimidating at first glance, they’re some of the most affectionate dogs you’ll ever meet.
With their adorable wrinkled faces and huge paws, Saint Bernards are fantastic family pets, and they love being around people.
Color Options
Red and White
Mahogany and White
Brindle and White
Black and White (less common)
Saint Bernards often have a combination of large white areas on the chest, face, and paws, with a rich red or mahogany coloring that covers the rest of their body. The brindle version has dark and light stripes.
Just be prepared for a lot of fur and some serious drool—this breed sheds a lot and can leave a trail of fluff wherever they go. But their sweet nature and loyal hearts make them more than worth it.
Conclusion
Layered coat dog breeds are known for their two layers of fur—a dense double coat with a soft, thick undercoat and a water-resistant outer coat. This thick coat traps air close to the dog’s skin, helping to regulate body temperature in cold temperatures and protecting against harsh weather and UV rays. While this dense layer keeps these furry friends warm, especially arctic sled dogs, it also means double-coated dogs shed heavily, especially during seasonal shedding periods twice a year. To maintain coat health and healthy skin, dog owners should commit to regular care like weekly brushing or even daily brushing during shedding season, using tools such as a slicker brush or a pin brush to remove loose fur and dead hair.
Professional grooming and the use of dog-specific shampoo also help preserve the natural oils in the coat, remove loose hair, prevent mats, and avoid skin issues like infections. However, too many baths can strip away these oils, impacting the insulating undercoat. Professional groomers can assist in managing the woolly undercoat and maintaining a weather-resistant coat. Whether caring for many dog breeds or one specific furry friend, understanding the coat type and needs of double-coated breeds ensures protection against hot weather and cold, supporting a lifetime of coat health and comfort.
