9 Fluffy Dog Breeds (Small, Medium, and Big)
Comforting, cozy, and soft, dogs with a little extra fluff can make any home warmer and more welcoming. These breeds come in all different sizes and are sure to provide you with more than just the ultimate cuddling experience.
Here are nine fluffy dog breeds that really put the “fur” in “fur kid.”
Small Fluffy Dog Breeds
Havanese
The Havanese is a small fluffy dog breed typically weighing between 7 and 14 pounds. Named after the Cuban capital of Havana, these elegant and outgoing pups descended from the Old-World Bichon family. Either Italian sea captains or early Spanish colonizers introduced them to Havana in the early 1600s, and by the 18th century, they were favored among Cuban aristocracy!
Most Havanese thrive on mental challenges. So, it’s a good idea to supply them with plenty of puzzle and treat toys to keep them happy and stimulated.
Learn more about the cheery Havanese!
Pomeranian
These mighty and small fluffy dogs are the littlest breed on the list, typically weighing somewhere between 3 and 7 pounds. Named after the German province of Pomerania, modern Pomeranians are descendants of early herding spritz dogs and used to weigh up to 30 pounds! By the time they came to North America, they were bred as much smaller dogs with the breed’s typical fluffy, double coat they have today.
Be prepared to pay lots of attention to this breed’s coat! They’re constant shedders who require daily brushing.
Learn more about the spunky Pomeranian!
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful fluffy dog breed known for its soft, white coat and friendly disposition. Originating from the Bichon Tenerife off the coast of Spain, these dogs gained popularity among French royalty in the 16th century and later became beloved furry friends for commoners and performers.
Affectionate and gentle, Bichons thrive on human companionship and enjoy being the center of attention. They require regular grooming and benefit from daily exercise, so be sure they have small play toys to choose from!
Learn more about the merry Bichon Frise.
Medium Fluffy Dog Breeds
American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is an energetic and spunky breed first popularized when an American Eskimo named Stout's Pal Pierre walked on a tightrope in the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus. Today, the American Eskimo's talents shine in obedience and agility dog sports.
While charming and affectionate, this breed can be very energetic and may develop not-so-great behaviors if they’re left alone too long or don’t receive proper mental stimulation. Be sure to give them plenty of attention and offer a chew toy while you’re both winding down for the evening.
Learn more about the affectionate American Eskimo!
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland sheepdogs, affectionately nicknamed “Shelties,” are alert, eager working dogs that originated on the Shetland Islands in Scotland. Although the breed was initially trained as a sheep dog, a Shetland Island native later standardized the breed for competitions and shows. Today, this intelligent dog breed excels in high-level obedience, agility, and interactive dog games.
These medium fluffy dogs can be lively, but they’re typically gentle, making them a good pick for families. As working dogs, they tend to have lots of energy, so plan to take them on plenty of walks and offer chew toys to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
Learn more about the intelligent Shetland Sheepdog!
Cocker Spaniel
Originating from the U.S., these breeds were among the most popular dogs in the nation during the mid-20th century. They initially gained a reputation as talented hunting dogs, but their sweet temperament helped them become well-loved family companions, too!
Although their popularity has dwindled, this fluffy dog breed is still a favored breed for active pet parents and families alike. Of course, they still enjoy quiet evenings snuggled up on the couch.
Learn more about the sweet Cocker Spaniel!
Big Fluffy Dog Breeds
Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres is a big fluffy dog that ranges from just under 60 pounds to about 100 pounds. These shaggy pups are said to originate from France and Belgium, specifically in the Flanders region, which at the time covered parts of both countries and the Netherlands.
The breed was so beloved that France and Belgium once debated which country would claim it as their own. Their disagreement caused so much tension that the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), an international federation of kennel clubs and purebred registries, intervened and eventually dubbed the breed the "Franco-Belgian" dog.
Learn more about the affectionate Bouviers des Flandres!
Samoyed
Don’t let your eyes deceive you—this is no polar bear! European polar explorers originally discovered the Samoyed in Russia in the mid-19th century. These white fluffy dogs were later used in Arctic expeditions and eventually introduced to England.
The Samoyed’s fluffy fur isn’t just for show; that double coat protects against harsh weather conditions and freezing temperatures. That means these dogs will be happy in a home with chilly winters! As winter dogs, Samoyeds tend to shed heavily once or twice a year and require daily brushing during this time to survive dog shedding season.
Learn more about the easygoing Samoyed!
Poodle
These best-in-show pups may often be considered proper, but the Poodle is more than just a prim show dog. Found in three sizes—Toy, Miniature, Standard—this is a fluffy dog breed with plenty of versatility.
Although often perceived as a French dog, the standard Poodle originated in Germany. They’re well versed in many tasks and historically held all sorts of active jobs, from sniffing out truffles to performing tricks in European circuses.
While hypoallergenic, their pristine coats require a lot of maintenance. Their trademark curls quickly grow dense—keeping shedding to a minimum—but are prone to knots and mats.
Learn more about the lively Poodle!
Not All Fluff
Whether small, big, or somewhere in between, these fluffy dog breeds all offer something special for every lifestyle! If these cuddly pups caught your eye, check out these other breed lists:
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