The Ultimate Guide to Fluffy Dog Breeds (And How to Look After Them)

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a cloud with legs, this one’s for you. 🐾Fluffy dog breeds are some of the most photogenic, huggable, and Instagram-worthy pets out there — but beneath that fluff is a lot of upkeep.

Veterinary Team
June 07, 2025

So which fluffy breeds are best? And what do you need to know before bringing one home?

Whether you're after a cuddle companion or a showstopper in the park, these breeds bring the fluff and the personality:

Samoyed – Known for their iconic "Sammy smile" and thick, double-layered white coat.
Chow Chow – The teddy bear of dogs… with a lion’s attitude.
Keeshond – Like a raccoon and a cloud had a baby.
Old English Sheepdog – Big, goofy, and extremely shaggy.
Pomeranian – Tiny body, massive personality (and fur volume).
Newfoundland – Giant, gentle, and shedding like it’s a sport.
Shih Tzu – Compact fluff with royalty vibes.

See the full list of our top 10 fluffiest dog breeds:
👉 Read the fluffiest breed breakdown here

All that fluff comes with commitment. Most fluffy breeds need:

Brushing at least 3–4x a week (daily for double-coated dogs like Samoyeds or Huskies)
Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
Regular checks for mats, hot spots, and skin infections under the fur

Neglecting coat care can lead to painful mats, skin irritation, or overheating — especially in warmer climates like Australia or the southern U.S.

Let’s be honest — a fluffball dog is high-maintenance.

More grooming.
More vacuuming.
More time in front of the mirror than you.

But the trade-off?
You get a real-life teddy bear who turns heads and cuddles like no one else.

Our vets at Dial A Vet see a lot of issues that could be prevented with better coat maintenance. Here’s what they recommend:

Use a slicker brush and a metal comb — not just one or the other.
Bathe monthly, but don’t overdo it (or you’ll strip natural oils).
Keep the ears clean and dry — especially with breeds like the Shih Tzu or Cocker Spaniel.

And if you’re ever unsure about whether a lump is just a mat — or something more — check in with a vet.

Fluffy dogs are walking pillows, but they need a bit more TLC to stay healthy and happy.

If you’re ready to add one to your life, make sure you’ve got a brushing routine (and a lint roller) on standby.