Top 10 Fluffy Big Dog Breeds in the World
When it comes to dogs, there’s something irresistibly lovable about the combination of size and softness. Big, fluffy dog breeds offer the best of both worlds—they’re impressive in stature yet incredibly cuddly, with coats that invite endless snuggles.
Whether you’re drawn to their gentle nature, their majestic appearance, or just love having a furry friend who doubles as a giant pillow, these breeds stand out for all the right reasons. In this list, we’re highlighting the top 10 fluffy big dog breeds from around the world—each one a gentle giant with a heart (and fur) as big as their paws.
| Rank | Dog Breed |
|---|---|
| 10 | Borzoi |
| 9 | Tibetan Mastiff |
| 8 | Leonberger |
| 7 | Alaskan Malamute |
| 6 | Samoyed |
| 5 | Old English Sheepdog |
| 4 | Bernese Mountain Dog |
| 3 | Saint Bernard |
| 2 | Great Pyrenees |
| 1 | Newfoundland |
10. Borzoi
The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a tall, graceful sighthound with a silky, flowing coat.
Unlike most other breeds on this list, their fluff is more elegant than dense. Bred by Russian aristocrats to hunt wolves, they are fast, quiet, and surprisingly gentle.
Borzois are calm indoors and do well in peaceful environments. Their independent personality means they can be aloof but are affectionate with their people.
Regular brushing keeps their long coat looking beautiful. These dogs are refined and reserved, with a truly aristocratic charm.
|
Weight |
60–105 lbs (27–48 kg) |
|
Height |
26–32 in (66–81 cm) |
|
Life Span |
10–12 years |
Grooming Requirements:
- Brush 1–2 times per week to remove tangles and debris.
- Their coat doesn’t mat easily but needs regular attention.
- Occasional baths will keep them clean and fresh.
9. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a strong, imposing guardian breed with an ancient heritage. Bred by nomadic cultures of Tibet to protect livestock, they are independent and deeply loyal.
Their thick, woolly coat keeps them warm in harsh climates and adds to their noble look. They are reserved with strangers but affectionate with family.
This breed is highly intelligent but also strong-willed, requiring firm and experienced handling.
Tibetan Mastiffs are natural protectors and take their job seriously. Their dignified presence and powerful build make them unforgettable.
|
Weight |
70–150 lbs (32–68 kg) |
|
Height |
24–30 in (61–76 cm) |
|
Life Span |
10–12 years |
Grooming Requirements:
- Brush weekly during the year; daily during seasonal shedding.
- Their coat repels dirt, so frequent baths aren’t necessary.
- Check behind ears and under the tail for mats.
8. Leonberger
The Leonberger is an elegant giant with a lion-like mane and a gentle, regal demeanor. Bred in Germany as a companion for royalty, they combine size with sweetness.
Their thick, water-resistant coat gives them a majestic appearance and requires regular grooming.
Leonbergers are known for being calm, affectionate, and incredibly loyal. They are excellent family dogs and tend to be very good with children.
These dogs thrive on companionship and do not do well left alone for long. They’re big-hearted and beautiful, both inside and out.
|
Weight |
90–170 lbs (41–77 kg) |
|
Height |
25–31 in (65–80 cm) |
|
Life Span |
8–10 years |
Grooming Requirements:
- Brush several times a week to maintain their thick coat.
- Pay attention to feathering on legs and belly for mats.
- Heavy shedders daily brushing may be needed in spring/fall.
7. Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful, wolf-like breed known for its strength and endurance. Developed to haul heavy sleds over long distances, they are among the oldest Arctic sled dogs.
Their thick, double-layer coat provides insulation from extreme cold.
Independent and strong-willed, Malamutes do best with experienced owners who provide consistent training.
They are loyal and affectionate with family but can be reserved around strangers. Daily exercise is crucial to keep them happy and well-behaved.
Their majestic presence and dense fur make them a striking sight.
|
Weight |
75–100 lbs (34–45 kg) |
|
Height |
23–25 in (58–64 cm) |
|
Life Span |
10–12 years |
Grooming Requirements:
- Brush 2–3 times a week; daily during shedding season.
- Their undercoat sheds heavily twice a year ("blowing coat").
- Avoid shaving, as their coat insulates against both heat and cold.
6. Samoyed
The Samoyed is a stunning breed with a thick, white, cloud-like coat and a signature "Sammy smile." Bred by the Samoyede people of Siberia to herd reindeer and pull sleds, they are extremely hardy and love the cold.
Their sociable and affectionate nature makes them wonderful family companions.
They are also vocal and expressive, often communicating with howls and barks. Regular grooming is essential due to their dense double coat.
Samoyeds are playful, friendly, and always seem happy. They truly embody the phrase “fluffy and friendly.”
|
Weight |
50–65 lbs (23–29 kg) |
|
Height |
19–24 in (48–61 cm) |
|
Life Span |
12–14 years |
Grooming Requirements:
- Brush 3–4 times a week to keep their coat fluffy and mat-free.
- Daily grooming may be needed during heavy shedding seasons.
- Bath every few months more often if very active outdoors.
5. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is known for its shaggy, teddy bear-like appearance and playful personality. Originally bred for herding, they are agile and surprisingly quick for their size.
Their long, fluffy coat is one of their most distinctive features and needs consistent grooming.
Friendly and intelligent, they are often described as clownish due to their cheerful antics.
They get along well with children and other pets. Despite their size, they adapt well to indoor life if exercised regularly. These dogs are big bundles of charm and joy.
|
Weight |
60–100 lbs (27–45 kg) |
|
Height |
21–24 in (53–61 cm) |
|
Life Span |
10–12 years |
Grooming Requirements:
- Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and matting.
- A full grooming session can take over an hour.
- Regular trimming may be needed for comfort and cleanliness.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog hails from the Swiss Alps and is known for its striking tricolor coat and calm demeanor.
These large dogs were originally used for pulling carts and herding cattle. They are loyal, affectionate, and particularly good with families.
Their long, silky coat needs regular brushing to avoid matting. Though big, they’re quite playful and enjoy outdoor activities.
Bernese are eager to please, which makes training easier than with some other large breeds. With their warm nature, they form strong bonds with their owners.
|
Weight |
70–115 lbs (32–52 kg) |
|
Height |
23–28 in (58–71 cm) |
|
Life Span |
7–10 years |
Grooming Requirements:
- Brush 2–3 times a week to prevent tangles and mats.
- They shed heavily, especially during spring and fall.
- Use an undercoat rake to manage thick fur.
3. Saint Bernard
Famous for their mountain rescues, Saint Bernards are one of the most iconic giant breeds. Their massive size is matched by a sweet, affectionate temperament.
Originally from the Swiss Alps, they were bred by monks to find lost travelers in snowy terrain. Their thick, fluffy coat keeps them warm, but it requires frequent grooming.
Saint Bernards are incredibly patient and loving with kids, earning them a “nanny dog” reputation.
They tend to drool and need space, but their loving nature makes up for it. These dogs are true gentle giants with enormous hearts.
|
Weight |
120–180 lbs (54–82 kg) |
|
Height |
26–30 in (66–76 cm) |
|
Life Span |
8–10 years |
Grooming Requirements:
- Brush at least 2–3 times weekly to control shedding.
- Frequent drooling means regular face cleaning is essential.
- Bathing every couple of months is sufficient unless dirty.
2. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a majestic mountain dog, originally bred to guard livestock in the Pyrenees Mountains. With a thick, weather-resistant white coat, they are well-suited to cold climates.
Calm and stoic, they are protective without being overly aggressive.
Their independent nature means they often think for themselves, which can be a challenge in training.
Regular brushing helps manage their heavy shedding. They bond deeply with their families and are especially gentle with children.
This breed is both beautiful and brave, known for its serene strength.
|
Weight |
85–120 lbs (39–54 kg) |
|
Height |
25–32 in (63–81 cm) |
|
Life Span |
10–12 years |
Grooming Requirements:
- Brush 1–2 times a week to prevent mats and remove debris.
- Heavy seasonal shedding calls for daily brushing during spring/fall.
- Bathing should be done occasionally, as their coat repels dirt.
1. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a massive, strong breed known for its gentle nature and thick, water-resistant coat.
Originally bred as working dogs for fishermen in Canada, they excel at swimming and even lifesaving.
Their dense double coat requires regular grooming to stay neat and tangle-free. These dogs are natural guardians but rarely aggressive.
Their intelligence and easygoing temperament make them ideal for families. Known as gentle giants, Newfoundlands offer unmatched loyalty and affection.
|
Weight |
100–150 lbs (45–68 kg) |
|
Height |
26–28 in (66–71 cm) |
|
Life Span |
8–10 years |
Grooming Requirements:
- Newfoundlands need brushing at least 2–3 times a week.
- Their dense coat sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes.
- Regular baths are necessary but not too frequent to avoid drying the skin.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. Breed characteristics such as weight, height, temperament, grooming needs, and pricing can vary based on genetics, individual dogs, breeder practices, and regional factors.
