Fluffy dogs are irresistibly cute, cuddly, and charming—but that luxurious coat comes with a cost: grooming. If you’re considering adding a fluffy dog to your family, be prepared for regular brushing, detangling, and trips to the groomer. These breeds are showstoppers, but they need dedicated care to stay clean, healthy, and mat-free.
Here are the top 7 fluffy dog breeds that require frequent grooming—and are totally worth the effort.
1. Pomeranian
Why They Need Grooming:
Pomeranians have a dense double coat that sheds year-round. Their thick undercoat tangles easily and can trap dirt and debris, making daily brushing a must.
Size:
6–7 inches tall; 3–7 pounds
Traits:
- Big personality in a tiny body
- Alert and intelligent
- Prone to tangling and matting
Grooming Needs:
Brush daily to keep fluff manageable and prevent painful knots. Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks is recommended.
2. Shih Tzu
Why They Need Grooming:
With long, flowing locks, Shih Tzus are high-maintenance beauties. Their coat grows continuously like human hair and can easily tangle if neglected.
Size:
9–10.5 inches tall; 9–16 pounds
Traits:
- Sweet and loving
- Great with kids and families
- Requires regular coat maintenance
Grooming Needs:
Brush daily and bathe weekly. Many owners opt for a “puppy cut” to reduce upkeep.
3. Bichon Frise
Why They Need Grooming:
The Bichon’s signature cloud-like coat is made of soft curls that don’t shed much but do require serious maintenance to avoid matting.
Size:
9.5–11.5 inches tall; 12–18 pounds
Traits:
- Cheerful and playful
- Hypoallergenic coat
- Demands consistent grooming
Grooming Needs:
Brush 2–3 times per week and schedule monthly grooming to maintain the round, fluffy look.
4. Old English Sheepdog
Why They Need Grooming:
With a shaggy, double coat that grows quickly, the Old English Sheepdog needs thorough brushing to keep their fur tangle-free and clean.
Size:
21+ inches tall; 60–100 pounds
Traits:
- Friendly and calm
- Very fluffy and full-bodied
- Can overheat if not groomed regularly
Grooming Needs:
Expect to brush several times per week and commit to full grooming sessions every 4–6 weeks.
5. Afghan Hound
Why They Need Grooming:
This elegant breed has long, silky hair that tangles easily and picks up debris from the ground. Their beauty comes with intense grooming needs.
Size:
25–27 inches tall; 50–60 pounds
Traits:
- Independent and graceful
- Striking, flowing coat
- Requires dedicated grooming time
Grooming Needs:
Daily brushing and weekly baths are essential to prevent matting and maintain their stunning look.
6. Collie (Rough Coat)
Why They Need Grooming:
The Rough Collie’s beautiful double coat is thick and long, shedding heavily twice a year and matting if neglected.
Size:
22–26 inches tall; 50–75 pounds
Traits:
- Loyal and gentle
- Known for their elegance
- Seasonal shedding adds to the workload
Grooming Needs:
Brush several times a week and more during shedding seasons. Use a rake comb to reach the undercoat.
7. Portuguese Water Dog
Why They Need Grooming:
Their dense, curly coat is water-resistant and low-shedding, but without regular grooming, it becomes a matted mess.
Size:
17–23 inches tall; 35–60 pounds
Traits:
- Athletic and intelligent
- Loves swimming and outdoor play
- Curly coat demands upkeep
Grooming Needs:
Brush every few days and groom professionally every 6 weeks to avoid tight mats.
Final Thoughts
Owning a fluffy dog means committing to a grooming routine that matches their majestic coats. From compact puffballs like the Pomeranian to large show-stoppers like the Afghan Hound, these breeds thrive when well-maintained. If you love bonding time with a brush and don’t mind the extra effort, these furry companions will reward you with unmatched beauty and affection.