7 Big Fluffy Dog Breeds [with photos]

Reviewed and Fact-Checked by Veterinarian Charlotte Stiles (DVM)

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Big fluffy dogs are the perfect addition to any family with a large yard and the need for a big, soft snuggle buddy. While big fluffy dog breeds are typically high-maintenance due to their long coats, the love and affection you will receive from your big ball of fluff are worth it. 

Whether you are looking for a big fluffy dog to act as a guard dog around the house or a big ball of love, here are seven of the best big fluffy dog breeds.

[Also consider our list of the best dog names for big dogs]

Newfoundlanders

Bred as a water rescue dog, Newfoundland dogs are all big and all fluff. Their coat has a different texture than most big fluffy dogs, as their fur contains more oil to repel water.

newfoundland dog large
A large and in charge Newfoundland dog

Not only are Newfoundlanders big and fluffy, but they are also off the charts in their affection ratings and are great with young children and other dogs. 

Maybe it’s their affectionate nature, but Newfoundlanders drool a lot, so make sure you have a towel close if you don’t want to have dried pup drool on you after giving your Newfoundland dog some snuggles. 

It’s hard not to love a water rescue dog that loves young children, is large and fluffy, and can’t get enough snuggles. 

Bernese Mountain Dogs

berense mountain dog
The beautiful Bernese Mountain Dog breed.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a big fluffy dog breed that you can’t help but love. Their affectionate nature and calm temperament make them an excellent addition to your family, not to mention the top-notch snuggles they give. 

Bernese Mountain Dogs are great with young children and other animals, which gives them a high rating on incorporation into a family setting. Because they have a long, fluffy coat, they require frequent coat grooming, and their shedding level is high. 

It’s hard not to love the loving, drooling, and playful nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog. (They have an above-average IQ for a big dog too)

Australian Shepherds

asutralian shepherd puppy with three color coat
An Australian Shepherd puppy stands tall in the grass.

A dog that is big, fluffy, and is good on the farm? Australian Shepherds are playful, active, and loyal to their families. What more could you ask for? They are also excellent with young children and find it easy to get along with other dogs. 

While not the largest dog on our list, the Australian Shepherd provides the fluff and the size to give some of the best snuggles out there. With a life expectancy of 12-15 years, Australian Shepherds are the perfect dogs to grow up with children and train to help around the farm.

Tibetan Mastiffs

fluffy tibetan mastiff
The super fluffy Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff dog breed originated in the Himalayas, where some of the most challenging weather in the world resides. Tibetan Mastiffs have a thick, fluffy coat to help keep them warm and withstand any climate thrown their way.

This large, fluffy dog breed is known for its affection and being good with young children. Because of their protective nature, they can struggle with getting to know other dogs, but give them time, and soon they will find a new best friend. 

It is vital to remain close when your Tibetan Mastiff meets new people, as their protective tendencies make them hesitant to open up to strangers. Get to know a Tibetan Mastiff, and you will have one of the most loyal and protective snuggle buddies out there. 

Leonbergers 

leonburger dog
A Leonburger dog

When we say big and fluffy, we mean big and fluffy. Leonbergers are a dog breed that can weigh up to 170 pounds. But don’t let their weight and size fool you; underneath all that fluff and body mass is a puppy that wants your love and attention. 

The Leonberger breed is a great family dog as they are protective but also excellent with young children and affectionate with family. They also do well with other dogs and have never met a stranger. Unfortunately, because of their massive size, they have a relatively short life expectancy of seven years. 

As with most long-haired dog breeds, Leonbergers are high-maintenance and require thorough grooming. They should be brushed daily to help contain the fluff and keep their coat from matting. 

“It’s a good idea to brush your dog’s coat to help keep it in good condition.”

OodleLife Veterinarian Dr Charlotte Stiles (DVM)

The Great Pyrenees

great pyrenees dog
The beautiful white coat of a Great Pyrenees

If you want big and you want fluff, the Great Pyrenees is the perfect large, fluffy dog breed for endless amounts of snuggles. Originally bred in the Pyrenees Mountains with the responsibility to protect sheep, the Great Pyrenees are protective. 

The Great Pyrenees is an affectionate breed, and they are good with children if they are exposed to them at a young age. This makes them great family dogs, as they are known to guard those to whom they are loyal.

Get your snuggles ready because it’s hard to say no to their big, brown puppy eyes when they decide they want some attention!

Old English Sheepdogs

old english sheep dog
An Old English Sheep Dog

Old English Sheepdogs require frequent grooming sessions, but the adorable ball of fluff is 100% worth the time and money. If you don’t take your Old English Sheepdog in for regular groomings, their fur can get out of control rather quickly.

Let the fluff consume you as Old English Sheepdogs are affectionate and excellent with young children. They aren’t as friendly with other dogs as they are with their humans, but they will get to know and become friends with other dogs if you give them time to acquaint themselves. 

Old English Sheepdogs require some mental stimulation activities, so it’s vital to keep them active with various jobs. If you’re looking for a furry friend that loves to learn, Old English Sheepdogs are an excellent choice. 

Conclusion

Big fluffy dogs have a special place in our hearts as their loving loyalty is unmatched. Whether your fluffy dog serves as a watchdog for your personal property or an indoor snuggle prop, it’s hard not to fall deeply in love with their playful ways.

If you’re considering adding a big fluffy dog to your family, ensure you understand the maintenance involved, as their coats typically require lots of care.