If your idea of the perfect dog involves lots of fluff and puff, take a look at these fluffy dog breeds with cloud-like coats—including a few that don't shed!
While all dogs are lovable, some people are drawn to certain “looks” in a pet pooch. And if you’re one of those who “oohs” and “ahhs” over dogs with a billowy, cloud-like coat, you’re in luck! There are dozens of fluffy dog breeds that fit this description. Their fluffy appearance often gives them the look of an adorable stuffed animal—some even look like teddy bears—and there’s nothing like running your hands through that thick, soft fur as you pet them.
Before you shop for a new fluffy or curly-haired dog, remember to check your local shelter, where a lovable furball may be waiting for you to take it home. Another smart option: Try reaching out to breed-specific rescue groups in your area. For a dog that has been carefully selected to have good health, temperament and breed-typical looks, contact a preservation breeder through the breed’s national parent club.
With their soft coats, big personalities and cuddle-ready looks, these breeds of fluffy dogs are some of the most adorable animals you’ll ever meet. So read on to learn all about 24 fluffy puppy breeds before you bring one home.
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What to know before getting a fluffy dog breed
If you’ve never owned a fluffy dog, there are a few things you should know, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
- Most fluffy dogs have undercoats, a second layer of fur that insulates them in cold weather and gives them their fluffy appearance. That fine, fuzzy fur is what gets shed—all over your couch or favorite sweater.
- Most fluffy dogs are major shedders, especially when they “blow” their undercoats in the spring and fall.
- Fluffy dogs are a grooming commitment, as they require frequent brushing to prevent their fur from getting matted and tangled. You can groom your dog at home, though you may want to consider regular, professional grooming. You’ll also need a good vacuum cleaner!
- These fluffy pups were mostly bred for cold climates and snow, so they don’t do well in the heat. In warm weather, they shouldn’t be left outdoors for long periods of time or allowed to get too hot when exercising. They need lots of water, an air-conditioned interior and ideally a cool tile floor to lie down on.
- A few fluffy dog breeds don’t shed and are considered hypoallergenic dogs, which are recommended for people with allergies.
Small fluffy dog breeds
Toy and miniature poodles
The quintessential lap (or purse!) dog, toy and miniature poodles are little bundles of hypoallergenic, non-shedding joy. Poodles are considered one of the smartest dog breeds, so they’re easy to house- and leash-train. You can even teach them to do some cute tricks, especially when there’s a dog treat involved.
Non-shedding doesn’t mean “no maintenance,” though. Poodles need regular brushing; otherwise, their fur will mat. And unless it’s regularly trimmed, their fur can get quite long and tangled, which is why you see so many poodles at the dog groomers.
Coton de Tulear
The coton de Tulear is a famously fluffy dog known for its soft, cottony coat. These pups were officially recognized by the AKC just over a decade ago, but they have a centuries-long history that winds through Madagascar—they are named after the town of Tulear, which is now known as Toliara. The coton de Tulear makes a loyal companion and is described by the AKC as being a happy-go-lucky and doting dog with a love for clownery. If you have a coton de Tulear, you’re in for more than just a fuzzy coat—they also have a knack for walking on their hind legs.
Bichon frisé
The original puffball dog, the bichon frisé, with its billowing white fur and black button eyes and nose, is almost comically cute. Despite all that fur, bichons are relatively low shedders, and while not totally hypoallergenic, they are still a good choice for those with mild pet allergies. They need to be brushed out a few times a week to eliminate undercoat shed. They also need to be trimmed frequently in order to maintain their teddy-bear look, so these little divas need regular trips to the groomer. But bichons are not prima donnas—these happy, friendly dogs fall in love with everyone they meet!
Shih tzu
Once the lapdog of Chinese royalty, the shih tzu has long been a favorite toy breed in the United States. Their long, silky, fluffy coats will dust the floor if they’re not trimmed—if you’ve ever seen a shih tzu before and after it’s been to the groomer, it’s like seeing two different dogs! Get this: Shih tzus with long hair are among the few breeds that need their own hair accessories—barrettes, bows and hair ties to keep their long hair out of their eyes.
Playful, loving shih tzus adore spending time with their human companions and are more content with a short walk to the coffee shop than a run in the dog park.
Cockapoo
A cross between a cocker spaniel and a miniature poodle, cockapoos were introduced in the 1960s and soon became popular companion pets, especially for apartment dwellers. Their coat is soft and silky, and their fur may be wavy, curly or straight. Because they’re half poodle, they shed only a moderate amount of fur. That said, adult cockapoos’ fur can grow up to 6 inches long, so you may want to get them trimmed regularly.
Here’s a sweet cockapoo fact: Because this mix is so sensitive to those in need, it makes an ideal companion dog for children and adults with disabilities and special needs.
Maltese
Another dog with its own box of hair ties and bows, the Maltese is a toy breed famous for its long, resplendent white fur, which grazes the ground as it walks. Like bichons, these dogs’ button eyes and noses make them irresistible. But despite this regal appearance, these little guys are low shedders; and they’re also sweet, friendly family dogs. But have the dog brush handy, as they need daily brushing to keep their coats from matting and tangling.
Papillon
Take one look at a papillon’s tall, pointy, fan-like big ears and you’ll know how this dog got its name—papillon is French for “butterfly.” These winged wonders are toy-size, but they’re tremendous athletes and excel at agility training. Their long, silky fur needs regular brushing to keep knots and mats out but otherwise is low-maintenance. They don’t have an undercoat, but papillons shed, especially in summer and fall.
Lhasa apso
Called “bearded lion dogs” in their native Tibet, Lhasa apsos once guarded high-altitude Buddhist monasteries. In a household, they’re always ready to alert their family members and protect them from danger. Their long, fluffy, silky coats are surprisingly shed-free, though they do need regular brushing, as well as bathing about every two weeks. You can keep their fur flowing long and free, or give them a short “puppy cut” that shows off their sweet eyes.
Havanese
Looks can be deceiving. The Havanese has a long, soft coat, which might make it seem like a cold-weather dog. But this popular, affectionate breed hails from Cuba, and its coat actually protects it from heat and sun. Havanese are low shedders, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. But that long fur does need frequent brushing. Fortunately, if you decide to trim a Havanese’s fur, they look just as cute with a short cut as they do with a long one! These are also among the breeds of dogs that live longest.
Pomeranian
High-energy puffs of fluff, Pomeranians—one of the most popular dog breeds—appear to be all fur, and that’s sort of correct. They max out at 7 pounds, though their copious double-coat fur makes them look a lot stockier. They need frequent brushing to tease out that undercoat; otherwise, you’ll find furballs wafting all over your house. This is one fluffy dog whose fur shouldn’t be cut short—he needs that dense coat to keep him warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Plus, how cute is that curly tail?
Medium-size fluffy dog breeds
Shetland sheepdog
Shetland sheepdogs, or Shelties, look like miniature collies and share many of the same qualities with their larger cousins: They’re highly intelligent dogs and trainable, natural herders, medium in size and great for the family. They also have long, fluffy hair and a thick undercoat—perfect for Scottish winters but not so great for your couch. These agreeable pups need at least weekly brushing and frequent de-matting.
Chow chow
Two major traits distinguish a chow chow: its black tongue and its thick, fluffy coat with a lion-like mane. One of the world’s oldest breeds (it’s a Chinese dog breed with a fascinating history), chow chows have been used as companion dogs, guard dogs and hunting dogs. They have a strong protective streak and do best in homes with no other dogs.
Sometimes just called a chow, this breed comes in two coat types: rough and smooth. Both are thick and plush, but the rough is longer. To control their dense undercoat, brush two to three times a week—more often in shedding season.
American Eskimo dog
Despite its all-American name, this medium-size white puffball originated in Germany. They were given a more patriotic name during World War I. Their short, thick undercoat helps give a fluffy look to their longer outer coat. These kid-friendly, affectionate dogs are shedders and need to be brushed at least once a week, more during shedding season.
Australian shepherd
This plush-coated dog has a strong work ethic and is super-smart. It comes in several colors, and some have beautiful icy-blue eyes or even two different-colored eyes. These friendly dogs make great additions to active families because they need regular exercise and stimulation. Their fluffy undercoats require frequent brushing or raking, particularly in shedding season and after they’ve had a romp out in the yard.
Border collie
Like their Australian kin, border collies are incredibly intelligent, active dogs that need to be challenged with regular activities, like agility courses or even herding. They will chase and retrieve a ball until their owner falls down from exhaustion. Their double coats need to be brushed a few times a week, and be forewarned—border collies like to play in the mud! These loyal, nimble pups are best for owners with a lot of time to devote to them.
Big fluffy dog breeds
Saint Bernard
Immortalized in history for rescuing stranded travelers in the Swiss and Italian Alps, giant Saint Bernards are loyal, playful dogs and can be big goofballs. Both long- and short-haired varieties do some major shedding, so you’ll need to brush them frequently. Saints can’t handle hot weather or sustained bouts of exercise. Rambunctious as puppies, they’ll happily mellow out as they mature.
Samoyed
There are a lot of cute, white fluffballs out there, and Samoyeds are among the biggest of the bunch. This working dog comes from Siberia, where it herded and protected reindeer in temperatures that could reach minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Most Samoyeds now have an easier lifestyle, but they still like to be engaged in play or exercise. Their ultra-thick double coat sheds year-round, so have that dog brush ready!
Siberian husky
The Siberian husky is another Russian dog breed that is quite popular. Often featuring striking blue eyes (or one blue eye and one brown), elegant Siberian huskies are friendly with kids and other animals. They do have a strong chase instinct and need room to run—though not necessarily pulling a sled across the Arctic tundra. Insulated against the cold climate from which they originated, these beauties need frequent brushing yet infrequent baths, as they’re one of the cleanest breeds out there.
Old English sheepdog
Peekaboo! Old English sheepdogs are known for their fabulously fluffy coats, including fur that frequently covers their eyes and gives them a comic look. While an OES may very well be the clown of the family, caring for its coat is no joke—they need to be brushed several times a week, and their paw fur needs to be trimmed to keep it from matting and accumulating assorted dirt and crud. And OES owners, be advised: Serious shedding happens.
Rough collie
Distinct for their long nose and narrow face, rough collies also have luxurious, billowy fur that needs regular brushing, with special attention around the ears and haunches, where matting can occur. Collies were known for their loyalty and friendliness long before Lassie came along, and they remain a steadfast, loving family dog, especially with young children.
Tibetan mastiff
A giant among dog breeds, a Tibetan mastiff can tip the scales at 150 pounds—only some of which is made up of copious amounts of fur! It gets pretty cold in mountainous Tibet, and this ancient breed still has the dense coat to show for it. Expect a huge shedding event twice a year, and plan for at least weekly brushing the rest of the time.
Newfoundland
Expect the fur—and the drool—to fly when you welcome a sweet, fun-loving Newfoundland into your home. These gentle giants are water dogs and were used as rescue dogs and fishermen’s helpers in their native Canada. Newfies still love to swim, so treating yours to an outing at a lake or beach will send them over the moon. These big beauties need to be brushed out at least once a week, and when it’s shedding season, well, get ready to vacuum.
Bernese mountain dog
With an expression and demeanor similar to its fellow Swiss breed, the Saint Bernard, Bernese mountain dogs were bred for herding, not for rescuing snowbound travelers. Today, they make great family pets and do especially well with children. Their double fur coat will blow twice a year, so expect some major shedding. Regular brushing and detangling are a must.
Great Pyrenees
Tall, furry and acutely aware of their surroundings, Great Pyrenees—named for the western European mountain range—were first used as sheepdogs, always ready to tangle with a menacing bear, wolf or sheep rustler. Today, these strong-willed, rugged mountain dogs can make great family companions, but they do need a steady, consistent hand. And that white, fluffy fur? Expect a spectacular spring blow that can be (somewhat) alleviated by frequent brushing.
FAQs
What health issues are associated with fluffy or double-coated breeds?
Fluffy dog breeds are undeniably adorable, but their thick coats can lead to certain challenges. Without proper grooming, their undercoats can mat, which may trap moisture and cause skin infections or irritation. Because most fluffy dog breeds were developed for cold climates, they are also prone to overheating in hot weather.
Some breeds may also develop hot spots, dandruff or other skin conditions if their fur isn’t properly maintained. Regular grooming and keeping them cool in summer are essential. Stock up on some dog grooming supplies or take them to a professional groomer.
What are some tips for keeping a fluffy dog’s coat clean and healthy?
The best way to keep a fluffy coat in top condition is regular brushing—ideally several times a week, if not daily, for long-haired breeds. Brushing removes loose hair, prevents matting and helps distribute natural oils for a shiny coat. Professional grooming every four to eight weeks can also help.
Bathe your dog when necessary (not too frequently, to avoid drying out the skin) and always dry them thoroughly to prevent trapped moisture. To avoid tangles, use a slicker brush or undercoat rake depending on your dog’s coat type.
Which fluffy dog breeds are best for people with allergies?
While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, some fluffy dog types are better suited for people with allergies because they shed less dander. Breeds like the poodle (toy, miniature and standard), bichon frisé, Maltese, Havanese and coton de Tulear are among the best options. These low-shedding, fluffy puppy breeds still require frequent grooming, but they produce fewer allergens than heavy-shedding double-coated breeds like Samoyeds or huskies.
Why trust us
At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece, Elizabeth Heath tapped her experience covering dog behavior and health, and then Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science, gave it a rigorous review to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Sources:
- American Kennel Club: “Dog Breeds”
- American Kennel Club: “Dog Shedding: What To Expect and How To Manage It”
- BloomingPaws: “Grooming Double-Coated Dogs”
