The 12 Fluffiest Dogs Ever

Poodles

Poodles are probably best known for their super coifed hairdos—but did you know their unique-looking fluff originally served a very specific purpose?

Before Poodles earned an unfounded reputation as being "prissy," they were often used as hunting and duck dogs, due to their strong swimming skills and "soft" mouths. Because they were hopping into freezing cold water to retrieve ducks and birds, their owners would trim their hair in strategic patterns to protect vital body parts from the cold, while reducing the amount of cold, wet fur the Poodle had to carry around. 

Samoyeds

Although Samoyeds are typically known for their super thick, fluffy coats and sweet Sammy smiles, these fluffy dogs aren't all good looks—they have some serious history, too.

Originating in Asia, Samoyeds are believed to be one of the world's oldest dog breeds. Although they were originally bred by the Samoyede people of Persia to hunt, herd animals, and pull sleds, they were considered true members of Samoyede families, too. 

Chow Chows

There's definitely no shortage of adorable photos of Chow Chows' fluffy coats. There are also quite a few pictures showing their massive, toothy grins on the internet. So, it only makes sense that Chows would have an abundance of teeth, too. While most dogs have 42 teeth, Chow Chows have 44. That has to be the explanation for their charming smiles, right? 

Old English Sheepdogs

Although Old English Sheepdogs were originally bred as working dogs in southwestern England, they became symbols of wealth when they first arrived in the United States.

William Wade, an industrialist from Pittsburgh, first kept Old English Sheepdogs in the 1880s. Then, within 20 years, five of the 10 richest families in the United States owned, bred, and showed Old English Sheepdogs, including the Vanderbilts and Guggenheims. 

Border Collies

Believe it or not, many Border Collies can trace their ancestry back to a single dog named Old Hemp. Born in 1893, Old Hemp's herding technique was seriously impressive—so impressive, in fact, that cattle ranchers had to propagate his skills. Accordingly, he became a stud dog and fathered over 200 puppies!

Pomeranians

Today's Pomeranians have a common reputation as being lap pups, teacup dogs, and even purse pooches—but back in the day, Pomeranians were actually powerful working dogs that were used to herd animals and pull sleds across snowy terrain.

Early Pomeranians weighed about 30 pounds but were bred to a smaller size sometime during the 19th century. Now, most Pomeranians weigh between four and seven pounds. 

Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees were originally bred to guard livestock in Europe's Pyrenees Mountains, but they're incredibly nurturing, gentle dogs—despite their massive size! 

Because they're so calm and loving, Great Pyrenees are often used as therapy dogs in schools, hospitals, and care facilities. Not only are they super sweet, but they're tall enough to reach the edge of a wheelchair or hospital bed for easier petting. 

Lhasa Apsos

In Tibet, where Lhasa Apsos originated, these fluffy dogs are known as Abso Seng Kye, which translates to "Bark Lion Sentinel Dog." Pretty badass, right? Lhasa Apsos were often charged with guarding the interiors of Tibetan buildings and would bark to alert their humans of intruders—hence the "bark" and "sentinel" aspects of their name. What's more, Lhasas are linked to the Tibetan Snow Lion, which Tibetans consider the guardian of their country. 

Affenpinschers

Affenpinschers, otherwise known as monkey terriers, were named for their extremely unique appearance. But they were given their nickname, diaboltin moustachu—or mustachioed little devil—for their playful nature. It's true that Affenpinschers are super smart, loyal, and curious, but the fact that they're terriers can make them a bit excitable. 

Maltese

Boasting an impressive 2,800-year history, Malteses are believed to be another one of the oldest dog breeds. Over the course of those 2,800 years, Malteses have become fan favorites of royalty around the globe. Not only were they cherished by ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian royalty, but Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots adored them, too. These days, Maltese pups are super popular among Hollywood's royalty. 

Pekingese

It's hard to handle how irresistibly adorable these balls of fluff are. Aside from their impressive coats, Pekingese also have an interesting smushed face—similar to that of Pugs or Shih Tzus. There's actually a name for the variety of pups who share this type of face: brachycephalic dogs. Their shortened airways can lead to possible health problems, but with proper care, they can live healthy, happy lives! 

Newfoundlands

Despite their massive size, Newfoundland dogs are nothing but fluffy, gentle giants. They're hardworking, kind, and trustworthy. So much so that Lewis and Clark took one on their expedition across the United States. Seaman happened to be a Newfy and helped keep the team fed by hunting animals throughout the trip. It was also believed that he was stolen at one point during the journey, but then later returned. We can't blame whoever took him—these pups are just too cute!