Top 10 Softest Dog Breeds

Key Points

• Dogs with the softest coats tend to have long hair that may require extensive grooming.
• Double coated dogs have a very soft undercoat and a more coarse outer coat.
• Dogs that don’t shed require routine hair cuts to stay healthy.

There are many reasons why someone may want to know the dog breeds with the softest coats. The softest dogs are often associated with being the most cuddly, which can be true. However, the type of coat is not the only factor. Being cuddly is more of a personality trait that has nothing to do with the coat. While we humans may prefer cuddling with a soft, fluffy pooch, dogs with all types of fur can be cuddly. A fluffy dog that is very high energy and independent will not be as cuddly as a pup with a harsher coat that loves people and attention.

Another reason many people are curious about which dog breeds have the softest coats is because of the grooming required. Some dog breeds that don’t shed are known for their soft coats but these dogs generally need routine clipping to keep their coats healthy. If time and effort spent grooming are important when you are considering dog breeds, do further research. Double-coated dogs will shed extensively a couple times of year. Single coated dogs do not shed much, but need regular grooming. Not all dog breeds with soft, cuddly coats are non-shedding.

#10: Keeshond

For pet lovers looking for a sturdy companion, the Keeshond may be a perfect fit. Originally the breed served as a guard dog and companion on barges. Today, they make excellent companions and are affectionate with children, other pets, and strangers.

The grooming needs of the Keeshond are high. Their dense, soft fur requires frequent grooming, and they are a heavy shedding breed.

#9: Lhasa Apso

For the dog lover looking for a small bundle of fluff, the Lhasa Apso may be a perfect choice. Maturing to a height of 11 inches, this small pup loves his family and is generally good with children and pets. Another breed that doesn’t shed, the Lhasa Apso’s silky coat is kept looking its best with frequent grooming and clipping.

#8: Bernese Mountain Dog

A large dog that loves being a member of the family, the Bernese Mountain Dog has a silky, soft coat that you can burrow your hands in. While they may be too large to curl up with you on the couch, you can count on these highly trainable companions to always be at your side. Their double coat does require regular, although not daily, grooming.

#7: Bichon Frise

If you are serious about keeping hair and dander down, Bichon Frises are a choice that doesn’t shed. Fun-loving and affectionate, this small breed is the perfect cuddly choice for those with allergies.

Don’t be fooled by the breed’s no-shed status, they still require frequent grooming and clipping. Frequent brushing will keep your pup as fresh, fluffy, and soft as possible.

#6: Samoyed

For people looking for a sweet, loving companion that is highly trainable and adaptable, the Samoyed is a good choice. This gorgeous woolly-coated dog has a white, thick, plush coat that begs you to snuggle. The breed is high energy and athletic. He loves his family and is always ready to play, cuddle, or just hang out. Regular grooming keeps his medium-length double coat looking good.

#5: Bouvier Des Flandres

A large fluffy breed that makes a great companion is the Bouvier des Flandres. The breed can mature to over 100 pounds and are nice companions. Not quite as affectionate as many dogs, it isn’t one of the cuddly dog breeds, but its medium-length double coat is deceptively soft.

The breed is highly trainable, requires daily exercise, and can make a good watchdog for the household.

#4: Havanese

One of the most endearing cuddly dog breeds, the Havanese is a small breed with a big personality. Loving and affectionate with family, other pets, children, and strangers, this charmer is a delightful addition to the family.

Although they are not one of the dog breeds that don’t shed, they are light shedders. This does not mean they can go without frequent grooming. Their long, wavy coats grab hold of loose hairs. This is one of the reasons they are such light shedders, however, your pup can develop tangles and painful mats quickly if this loose hair builds up.

#3: Alaskan Malamute

A fluffy dog that is active and always ready to play, the Alaskan Malamute is a popular breed. They are affectionate and tolerant of children and other dogs. While open to strangers, they also make excellent watchdogs. They are quick with an alerting bark when someone shows up at your door.

Their short, plush, double coat requires regular grooming. Frequent brushing removes loose hair and keeps the coat looking good. Fortunately, due to the length of their coat, mats and tangles are not typically an issue. These double-coated dogs generally “blow” their coat twice a year, meaning that they shed out their under coats all at once over the course of a few weeks. During these periods, they require extensive grooming but much less during the rest of the year.

#2: Coton de Tulear

One of the smaller of the softest dogs, the Coton de Tulear is an endearing charmer. Their wavy double coat feels more like cotton candy than fur. This playful breed gets along well with children, strangers, and other pets. Eager to please and less vocal than many smaller breeds, the Coton de Tulear fits in well with many types of households.

Coton de Tulears are light shedders, but their long coats require nearly daily combing to keep them in good shape. The good news is, these pups are small and affectionate, making grooming a breeze.

#1: Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is one of the softest dogs you could hope for. Your hands will disappear in the plush coat of one of these dogs. They are a large breed bred to be livestock guardians. They can be very sweet and affectionate but are not for everyone. For those with time and energy to ensure this guardian breed gets plenty of exercise, they can be a good choice.

Grooming-wise, the breed is not a heavy shedder, although they are not a non-shedding breed. As long as they are groomed on a regular basis, their double coat isn’t too difficult to manage.

Bonus: Here are Three More Softies

Our list of soft dog breeds is a good one – but we couldn’t resist adding three more pups – all with names that start with a “P” and all available in a toy size.

Poodle

Poodles are not only among the most intelligent of all dog breeds – they are also one of the softest! Their curly, hypoallergenic coats can be cut in a variety of charming styles. Poodle coats can become easily tangled – and require frequent brushing and combing to prevent matting at the roots. A shorter haircut can prevent this – meaning a trip to the groomer every four to six weeks. Poodles are easy to train and are natural athletes who are happy to provide their families with opportunities to run and play.

Pomeranian

Pomeranians are among the softest pups on the planet – and are one of the most adorable! Considered to be an ideal companion dog – the pom has a tiny body covered in mounds of soft, fluffy fur. They are highly intelligent and are alert and effective watchdogs. Children old enough to handle such a fragile dog will be rewarded with a sweet playmate who loves to be cuddled. Frequent brushing is important to keep your pom’s coat soft and tangle-free. A trip to the groomer for the works is recommended every four to six weeks.

Pekingese

Chinese Emperors referred to the Pekingese as a “lion dog” for its stocky body and long, silky-soft mane. Known for their pug faces, easy rolling gait and their silky coats- these little dogs were bred to sit in royal laps and they are happiest when they are the center of attention. They are sweet companions who become quite attached to their humans and despite their diminutive size – they are great watchdogs. Pekingese are affectionate with their family are good with older children. Their coats require brushing at least twice a week and regular haircuts and grooming.

Summary of the Top 10 Softest Dog Breeds

There are few things in life as satisfying as cuddling with a soft, lovable canine friend. In order to keep your soft pup in good condition, they will all need some kind of routine grooming. They are worth the effort though as you will be rewarded with endless cuddles. These are our top 10 picks for a soft coat.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/ktatarka

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