Have you ever come across a big black bear while out for a walk? Did that encounter make you think about getting a dog that resembles a black bear? Well, you're in luck! In this article, we will introduce you to nine big black and fluffy dog breeds that will surely capture your heart.
But before we dive into the list, let's talk about some important things to consider when owning a large breed dog with lots of hair. Owning a big dog comes with its pros and cons, and the same goes for owning a dog with fluffy, long hair. So let's explore them in detail.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Big Dog
When it comes to describing the advantages and disadvantages of owning a dog, opinions may vary. However, there are two clear benefits to owning a larger dog. Firstly, larger dogs tend to be cheaper than small dogs. Secondly, big dogs are more obvious guard dogs than smaller ones. On the other hand, big dogs require more exercise, can be more expensive to feed, create more mess, and are harder to clean and dry.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Dog with Fluffy, Long Hair
Now let's talk about the pros and cons of owning a dog with fluffy, long hair. While these dogs may look cute and cuddly, they do require more grooming and can create more “dog” smell. Additionally, they are harder to clean and dry compared to short-haired dogs. However, their long hair gives them an adorable appearance that many people find irresistible.
Now that we have discussed the pros and cons, let's move on to the main event – the fifteen big, black, long-haired, and fluffy dog breeds.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a large, heavily coated working dog breed native to Newfoundland, Canada. These dogs have a muscular build with thick double coats and webbed feet. They are known for their giant size, immense strength, intelligence, and loyalty. Newfoundlands can grow up to 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh about 100 to 150 pounds. Despite their size, they are very loyal and make excellent pets for families with kids.
Long Haired German Shepherd
German Shepherds are one of the most popular dogs in the world known for their intelligence and loyalty. The long-haired German Shepherd has a distinct long fur, which sets it apart from its short-haired counterparts. These dogs stand as tall as 26 inches at the withers and weigh between 50 and 70 pounds. They come in various coat colors, including black and tan or rusty red.
Black Russian Terrier
The Black Russian Terrier is a large dog breed bred in the former USSR for military purposes. These dogs have thick double coats, usually pure black with a sprinkle of grey hairs. They are intelligent, obedient, and easy to train. Black Russian Terriers make excellent family pets and companions.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a heavy Swiss working dog breed known for its distinctive tricolor coat of black, white, and tan. Despite not being completely black, these dogs are worth mentioning due to their impressive size and beautiful coat. They can grow up to 28 inches tall and weigh from 80 to 120 pounds. Bernese Mountain Dogs are affectionate companions and good guard dogs.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is an ancient dog bred in Afghanistan for hunting large prey in deserts and mountains. Known for their long, silky coat and elegant build, these dogs are truly a sight to behold. Afghan Hounds can grow to about 25 to 27 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 50 and 60 pounds. They come in various coat colors, including mostly black, black-and-tan, brindle, blue, cream, or white.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are the tallest dog breed in the world. Originally bred for hunting large prey, these dogs have long legs, deep-chested narrow bodies, and slender waists. They can grow up to 36 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh at least 120 pounds. Despite their enormous size, Irish Wolfhounds are gentle and make loving companions.
Borzoi
The Borzoi is a large Russian sighthound bred for coursing and hunting. They have elegant bodies with long and slender legs, deep chests, and narrow heads. Borzois can stand as tall as 28 inches at the withers and weigh around 105 pounds. They come in various coat colors, including completely black. Borzois are known for their independence and make affectionate family dogs.
Tibetan Mastiff
Originating from Tibet, the Tibetan Mastiff is a powerful and muscular dog breed used for guarding livestock and property. They have double coats with long outer fur that comes in various colors and patterns, including solid black or black-and-tan. Tibetan Mastiffs can grow up to 26 inches tall and weigh over 100 pounds. They are easy-going, loyal, and make great companions.
Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers are German working dogs used for driving cattle and guarding property. They have an imposing appearance with stoic and muscular builds. These dogs stand as tall as 27.5 inches at the shoulders and weigh up to 95 pounds. Giant Schnauzers have a double coat that is usually solid black or pepper-and-salt. They require serious training and lots of exercise but make great companions.
Bouvier Des Flandres
The Bouvier Des Flandres is a courageous and strong-willed working dog breed that excels at farmyard tasks. They have an impressive build and can grow to be 24 inches tall and weigh up to 110 pounds. Their coat comes in various colors, including black. Bouviers are intelligent, charming, and make excellent companions.
Briard
The Briard is an old French breed known for its herding abilities. They come in shades of black, grey, or blue and can be as tall as 27 inches high. Briards have a loving temperament and are great family pets.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are an ancient breed originating from Northern China. They have a distinctive thick fur around their necks, which gives them a lion-like appearance. While they are most often seen in shades of red, they do come in solid black. Chow Chows are known for their unique look and blue-black or purple tongues.
Portuguese Water Dogs
Portuguese Water Dogs, also known as “Cao de Agua,” were originally used on Portuguese fishing boats to retrieve lost gear and herd fish into nets. They have webbed feet and are excellent swimmers. These dogs can grow to be about 19 inches tall and weigh around 60 pounds. Their coats come in black, white, brown, or black/brown with white.
Flat Coated Retrievers
Flat Coated Retrievers are known for their cheerful nature and silky coats. These dogs can grow to be around 24.5 inches tall and weigh up to 70 pounds. They come in black and liver colors with feathering at their tail and legs. Flat Coated Retrievers are great family pets with a playful spirit.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco Sheepdog has an incredible coat that resembles dreadlocks. Despite its unique appearance, these dogs make great family pets. They can stand up to about 25 inches tall and weigh around 77 pounds. Bergamascos were bred to herd and guard livestock in the mountains and are known for their robustness.
Photo Credits:
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- ² Photo by Alicja on Flickr
- ³ Photo by Gerry Wood on Flickr
- ⁴ Photo by Petful on Flickr
- ⁵ Photo by Andy Blackledge on Flickr
- ⁶ Photo by Bear on Flickr
- ⁷ Photo by Airwolfhound on Flickr
- ⁸ Photo by Deb on Flickr
- ⁹ Photo by Barbara Dieu on Flickr
- ¹⁰ Photo by Svenska Massan on Flickr
- ¹¹ Photo by Centrilobular on Flickr
- ¹² Photo by Pete Beard on Flickr
- ¹³ Photo by 2Tales on Flickr
- ¹⁴ Photo by smerikal on Flickr
- ¹⁵ Photo by CT M on Flickr
Now that you know all about these fifteen big, black, long-haired, and fluffy dog breeds, you can choose the perfect companion that matches your preferences and lifestyle. Remember, owning a dog is a long-term commitment, so make sure to provide them with love, care, and a happy home.
Keys to take away:
- Big black and fluffy dog breeds are a great choice for those who want a bear-like companion.
- Owning a big dog has its pros and cons, including cost, guarding abilities, exercise needs, and maintenance.
- Dogs with fluffy, long hair require more grooming and can create more mess.
- The Newfoundland, Long Haired German Shepherd, Black Russian Terrier, Bernese Mountain Dog, Afghan Hound, Irish Wolfhound, Borzoi, Tibetan Mastiff, Giant Schnauzer, Bouvier Des Flandres, Briard, Chow Chow, Portuguese Water Dogs, Flat Coated Retrievers, and Bergamasco Sheepdog are all fantastic options to consider.
- Each breed has its unique characteristics and traits, so make sure to choose the one that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
- Don't forget to provide love, care, and a happy home for your furry friend.
For more information about pet care, visit HowPetCare.