26 Dog Breeds That Look Fierce but Are Actually Big Fluffy Softies

Interesting
By Maya Rivera

Appearances can be deceiving, especially in the world of dogs. Some breeds that look intimidating at first glance are actually gentle giants. In this blog post, we explore 26 dog breeds that have a fierce look but are known for their sweet and fluffy nature. These dogs may appear tough, but they are among the most loving companions. Let’s discover these gentle giants and learn more about their unique personalities and characteristics.

Rottweiler

© lolrescue

Rottweilers have a robust physique and a confident demeanor, which often leads people to perceive them as intimidating. Yet, beneath this exterior lies a heart of gold.

These dogs are incredibly affectionate to those they trust and are known to form strong bonds with their families. Rottweilers are protective, often showing a soft side only to their closest humans.

With proper training, they are well-behaved and can be gentle companions. Regular exercise and socialization are key to keeping them happy.

Doberman Pinscher

© dobiesandlittlepawsrescue

Doberman Pinschers are known for their sleek, muscular build and alert expressions, often seen as intimidating. However, they are known to be incredibly affectionate and loyal.

When raised in a loving environment, Dobermans become devoted family members who thrive on human interaction. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them very trainable.

Despite their fierce appearance, they are gentle with children and enjoy being part of family activities. Regular exercise and mental challenges keep them content.

Bullmastiff

© frenzowithenzo

Bullmastiffs have a solid, imposing figure that can give the impression of being fierce, yet they are known for their gentle and affectionate nature.

These dogs are calm, confident, and incredibly loyal to their families. They have a natural instinct to protect their loved ones, making them excellent guardians.

Despite their size, Bullmastiffs are big softies who love lounging with their humans. They require moderate exercise and plenty of love to keep their spirits high.

Saint Bernard

© saint.in.the.city

Saint Bernards are large, powerful dogs with a rugged appearance, but they are known for their gentle and friendly nature.

These dogs are incredibly patient and gentle with children, often earning the nickname “nanny dogs.” They thrive on human companionship and enjoy being part of family activities.

Despite their large size, they are calm and easygoing, making them great family pets. They require regular grooming due to their thick coats and moderate exercise to stay fit.

Newfoundland

© the_petengineer

Newfoundland dogs have a massive build and a thick coat, often giving them an intimidating look. However, they are known for their gentle and sweet nature.

These dogs are excellent swimmers and have been historically used in water rescues. They are patient, loving, and incredibly friendly with children.

Newfoundlands are gentle giants who thrive on companionship and enjoy being part of family activities. They need regular grooming and exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Great Dane

© bordertailsrescue

Great Danes are known for their towering height and strong build, which can be intimidating at first glance. Yet, they are among the gentlest of dogs.

These gentle giants are affectionate and thrive on human interaction. They are known to be patient with children and make excellent family pets.

Despite their size, Great Danes often see themselves as lap dogs, enjoying snuggle time with their owners. Regular exercise and a comfortable living space are essential for their well-being.

Boxer

© boxerrescueontario

Boxers have a muscular build and an alert, confident stance, often mistaken for being fierce. However, they are playful and affectionate dogs who love being around people.

These dogs are known for their boundless energy and enthusiasm for life. They are great with children and can make loyal family companions.

Boxers benefit from regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy. Despite their energetic nature, they have a gentle disposition and love cuddling with their human family.

Alaskan Malamute

© urbantails___

Alaskan Malamutes have a wolf-like appearance due to their size and thick fur, often giving them a fierce look. Yet, they are known for their friendly and affectionate nature.

These dogs are incredibly social and thrive on companionship, whether it’s with humans or other dogs. They are playful and enjoy outdoor activities, making them great adventure buddies.

Despite their strong appearance, Malamutes are gentle and enjoy being part of family life. They need regular grooming and exercise to stay healthy and content.

Chow Chow

© chowchow_blue_mystery

Chow Chows have a distinctive lion-like appearance with their thick, fluffy mane, often leading to misconceptions about their temperament. In reality, they are known for their calm and reserved nature.

These dogs are incredibly loyal to their families and form strong bonds with their humans. They enjoy a peaceful environment and are often quite independent.

Despite their fierce look, Chow Chows are gentle and dignified companions. They require regular grooming to maintain their luxurious coats and prefer a serene lifestyle.

German Shepherd

© be_like_wulf_gsd

German Shepherds are often associated with police and military work, which can give them a fierce reputation. However, these dogs are incredibly loyal and loving.

When socialized and trained properly, they are gentle with children and can make great family pets. Their intelligence is unparalleled, making them easy to train for various roles.

Despite their strong appearance, German Shepherds thrive on companionship and enjoy spending time with their families. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Akita

© purepetcaresg

Akitas have a powerful build and an alert expression, which can seem intimidating. However, they are deeply loyal and affectionate dogs.

These dogs are known for their strong bonds with their families and their protective nature. Despite their fierce appearance, they are gentle with children and enjoy being part of family life.

Akitas require regular exercise and socialization to remain well-behaved and happy. They thrive in environments where they can be close to their loved ones.

Tibetan Mastiff

© kylights

Tibetan Mastiffs have an imposing presence with their large size and thick coat, often perceived as fierce. Despite appearances, they have a calm and gentle nature.

These dogs are independent and thoughtful, forming strong bonds with their families. They are known for their protective instincts but are also incredibly loyal and loving.

Tibetan Mastiffs require regular grooming and a spacious environment to thrive. They enjoy a calm, outdoor lifestyle where they can keep watch over their surroundings.

Bernese Mountain Dog

© thedogist

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a large, sturdy build with a tri-colored coat, often giving them an imposing look. However, they are among the friendliest and most gentle dogs.

These dogs are known for their affectionate nature and love for family activities. They are great with children and make excellent companions.

Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs have a calm demeanor and are happiest when surrounded by loved ones. Regular exercise and a loving home environment keep them content.

Leonberger

© healingpawsanimalhospital

Leonbergers have a lion-like appearance with their large size and flowing mane, often perceived as fierce. Yet, they are gentle giants known for their friendly nature.

These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They are playful and enjoy being part of family activities, especially outdoor adventures.

Despite their imposing appearance, Leonbergers are affectionate and thrive in environments where they are loved. Regular grooming and exercise are essential to keep them happy and healthy.

Irish Wolfhound

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Irish Wolfhounds are known for their towering height and robust build, often giving them an intimidating look. However, they are gentle and friendly dogs.

These dogs are known for their calm and patient nature, making them excellent companions. They form strong bonds with their families and are great with children.

Despite their size, Irish Wolfhounds are gentle and love being part of family life. They require regular exercise and a spacious environment to thrive.

Bouvier des Flandres

© michaela.doggrooming

Bouvier des Flandres have a rugged exterior with a thick coat, often giving them a fierce look. However, they are known for their calm and gentle nature.

These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They are protective but gentle, making them great companions for children.

Bouvier des Flandres thrive on companionship and enjoy being involved in family activities. Regular grooming and exercise keep them happy and healthy.

Giant Schnauzer

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Giant Schnauzers have a robust build and a distinctive beard, often giving them an intimidating appearance. Yet, they are known for their friendly and loyal nature.

These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable. They form strong bonds with their families and are protective yet gentle.

Despite their fierce look, Giant Schnauzers thrive on companionship and love being part of family life. Regular exercise and mental challenges keep them happy.

Samoyed

© doumarsdrivein

Samoyeds have a fluffy white coat and a perpetual smile, giving them a charming appearance. Although they look regal, they are incredibly friendly and gentle dogs.

These dogs are known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them great family pets. They thrive in social environments and enjoy being part of family activities.

Despite their pristine appearance, Samoyeds are sturdy dogs who love outdoor adventures. Regular grooming and exercise are key to keeping them happy.

Great Pyrenees

© bigdogrescueproject

Great Pyrenees have a majestic appearance with their large size and thick white coat, often seen as intimidating. However, they are known for their calm and gentle nature.

These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They are protective yet gentle, making them excellent companions for children.

Despite their imposing presence, Great Pyrenees are gentle giants who thrive on companionship. Regular grooming and space to roam keep them content.

English Mastiff

© maisytheenglishmastiff

English Mastiffs have a massive size and a strong build, which can be intimidating at first glance. However, they are known for their gentle and loving nature.

These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They are protective yet gentle, making them great companions for children.

Despite their size, English Mastiffs are calm and enjoy lounging with their humans. Regular exercise and a comfortable living space are essential for their well-being.

Komondor

© akceducation

Komondors have a unique corded coat that gives them a striking appearance, often perceived as fierce. Yet, they are known for their gentle and loving nature.

These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They are protective but gentle, making them excellent companions for children.

Despite their unusual look, Komondors are friendly dogs who enjoy being part of family life. Regular grooming and socialization are essential for their well-being.

Kuvasz

© Reddit

Kuvasz dogs have an elegant appearance with their large size and thick white coat, often giving them a fierce look. However, they are known for their calm and gentle nature.

These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They are protective yet gentle, making them excellent companions for children.

Despite their imposing presence, Kuvasz dogs thrive on companionship and enjoy being part of family life. Regular grooming and exercise are key to keeping them happy.

Old English Sheepdog

© tinyntallrescue

Old English Sheepdogs have a fluffy coat and a sturdy build, often giving them an intimidating appearance. Yet, they are known for their playful and friendly nature.

These dogs are incredibly social and thrive in family environments. They are great with children and enjoy being part of family activities.

Despite their shaggy appearance, Old English Sheepdogs are gentle dogs who love being around people. Regular grooming and exercise are essential for their well-being.

Caucasian Shepherd

© brotherbearacres

Caucasian Shepherds have a large size and a thick coat, often giving them a fierce appearance. However, they are known for their calm and gentle disposition.

These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They are protective yet gentle, making them excellent companions for children.

Despite their imposing look, Caucasian Shepherds thrive on companionship and enjoy being part of family life. Regular grooming and a spacious environment are beneficial for their happiness.

Bearded Collie

© curlytails_bowen

Bearded Collies have a shaggy coat and an enthusiastic demeanor, which may seem fierce at first glance. Yet, they are known for their playful and friendly nature.

These dogs are incredibly social and thrive in family settings. They are great with children and enjoy participating in family activities.

Despite their lively appearance, Bearded Collies are gentle dogs who love being around people. Regular exercise and grooming are important to keep them content.

Tosa Inu

© koreank9rescue

Tosa Inus have a large, muscular build often associated with strength and power, giving them a fierce look. However, they are known for their calm and gentle nature.

These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They are protective yet gentle, making them excellent companions for children.

Despite their imposing appearance, Tosa Inus thrive on companionship and enjoy being part of family life. Regular exercise and a loving environment are essential for their well-being.