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23 Jaw-Dropping Puppy-to-Adult Makeovers

By: Ejay Camposano
A college graduate with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Ejay has a diverse background that combines technical expertise with a passion for pets and is now one of the content writers at IHD. Read more
| October 15, 2024

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One of the most exciting aspects of adopting a puppy is watching them grow. Still, some dogs undergo such dramatic transformations that they look like an entirely different breed as adults. Whether it’s a shift in coat color, texture, size, or overall appearance, certain breeds surprise their owners with how much they change. While every puppy starts undeniably cute, some evolve into majestic, rugged, or even more adorable adults, leaving their owners in awe of the transformation as their furry companions mature.

Poodle

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Poodles, known for their curly, fluffy coats as adults, are born with soft, wavy hair that’s much finer. As puppies, they have a teddy bear-like appearance with fluffy fur that doesn’t yet have the tight curls associated with the breed. Their coat changes significantly as they grow, becoming denser, curlier, and more structured. What starts as an adorable puffball turns into an elegant, regal-looking dog, especially after their first professional grooming.

Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael)

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Belgian Sheepdog puppies look fluffy and playful, with soft, dark coats. As they grow, their coats become sleek, shiny, and beautifully refined. The adult Groenendael has an elegant, all-black coat that gives them a regal appearance. Watching them transform from a cute, fluffy pup to a dignified adult dog is a jaw-dropping experience. Their dramatic makeover highlights their strength, intelligence, and loyalty.

Bearded Collie

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Bearded Collies are known for their luxurious long coats as adults, but their appearance as puppies is quite different. As puppies, they have short, soft fur that lacks the dramatic length and texture of the adult version. Many Bearded Collie puppies appear almost like a different breed with their sleek, shiny fur. As they mature, their coats grow significantly longer, and their beards—true to the name—become a defining feature, giving them the shaggy, playful look they’re known for.

Old English Sheepdog

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Old English Sheepdogs are known for their distinctive shaggy appearance, but they look like small, fluffy fur balls as puppies. The adult version has a thick, coarse coat that makes them look like giant clouds with legs. However, as puppies, their fur is much softer and shorter. Their iconic gray-and-white coloring also tends to be more muted, and the dramatic transformation happens gradually as their coats grow into the long, luscious locks we associate with the breed.

Chow Chow

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Chow Chows are famous for their lion-like manes and thick, fluffy coats, but as puppies, they have a softer, rounder appearance that’s more bear cub than lion. Their coat as puppies is fluffy but not as dense or stiff as the adult version. Their faces also change significantly as they grow, with their signature wrinkled, stern expression developing later in life. While Chow Chow puppies are undeniably adorable, their adult transformation gives them a more regal, statuesque appearance.

Dalmatian

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The transformation of a Dalmatian from puppyhood to adulthood is a bit of a surprise for many first-time owners. Dalmatian puppies are born completely white with no spots at all! Their signature black or liver spots appear a few weeks after birth and continue to develop as they age. By reaching adulthood, their coat is covered in the distinctive spots we associate with the breed. It’s almost like watching a blank canvas gradually come to life with ink splotches.

Tibetan Mastiff

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Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their imposing size and thick, lion-like manes as adults, but their appearance as puppies couldn’t be more different. As puppies, they look like oversized, fluffy teddy bears with soft fur and round features. The adult Tibetan Mastiff, however, grows into a massive dog with a thick, coarse double coat and a mane of fur around the neck, giving them the appearance of a majestic lion. The transition from fluffy puppy to powerful adult is one of the most dramatic in the dog world.

Leonberger

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Leonbergers are another breed that goes through a significant transformation from puppyhood to adulthood. As puppies, Leonbergers are small and fuzzy and bear a strong resemblance to fluffy lion cubs. Their fur is soft, and their facial features are more rounded. However, as they grow into adulthood, they take on a more imposing, noble appearance with a thicker coat, particularly around the neck and chest, giving them their signature lion-like mane. They grow into a large, muscular breed with a much more rugged and stately appearance.

Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernard puppies are famously adorable, with large paws, droopy ears, and soft, fluffy coats. As adults, however, Saint Bernards grow into their iconic massive size, with their fur becoming longer, thicker, and more coarse. Their faces also change significantly, with the classic droopy eyes and jowls giving them a much more mature and regal appearance. The transformation from a clumsy puppy to a powerful, gentle giant is one of the most striking in the dog world.

Bedlington Terrier

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Bedlington Terriers are one of the most unusual-looking dog breeds as adults, with their unique lamb-like appearance. However, as puppies, they look quite different. Bedlington Terrier puppies have soft, curly coats that are much shorter and don’t have the distinctive shape of the adult version. Their faces are also more rounded as puppies, lacking the sleek, sculpted appearance that develops as they grow. By the time they’re fully grown, Bedlington Terriers have a distinctive topknot of fur and a narrow, arched head that gives them their signature lamb-like look.

Pomeranian

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Pomeranian puppies are often mistaken for tiny, fluffy balls of fur with their soft, rounded bodies and baby faces. As they grow, however, they develop their signature double coat, which gives them the voluminous, fluffy appearance Pomeranians are known for. Their faces also become fox-like, with sharper features and a more defined snout. The transition from a soft, cuddly puppy to a fluffy, regal adult surprises many Pomeranian owners as their puppies grow into miniature versions of a majestic lion.

Afghan Hound

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Afghan Hound puppies look like tiny fluff balls with soft, short coats that barely hint at their future elegance. As they grow, their coats transform into long, flowing silk that gives them a regal, show-stopping appearance. The change from scruffy pup to glamorous adult is dramatic, and their unique look makes them one of the most striking breeds. With their long ears draped in silky hair and graceful posture, Afghan Hounds turn heads wherever they go. It’s hard to believe these majestic dogs start as unassuming little fluff balls.

Irish Wolfhound

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Irish Wolfhound puppies are charmingly scruffy and look like oversized teddy bears. However, as they grow, they become towering giants with a rugged, noble appearance. Their wiry coats and soulful eyes give them an almost mythical presence. Watching them transform from a playful, fuzzy pup into one of the tallest dog breeds is awe-inspiring. The contrast between their puppy stage and adult form is jaw-dropping, as they go from cute companions to majestic guardians.

Komondor

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Komondor puppies start as fluffy, sheep-like pups with soft, curly coats. But as they mature, their coat begins to cord naturally, forming the breed’s signature mop-like appearance. This dramatic transformation takes years to complete, with the cords growing longer and more defined over time. The adult Komondor is a walking marvel, with their coat providing protection and insulation. It’s incredible to witness the change from a soft puppy to a fully corded, imposing adult.

Bouvier des Flandres

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Bouvier des Flandres puppies are born with soft, shaggy coats that make them look like adorable teddy bears. As they grow, their coats become dense and coarse, giving them a rugged and weather-resistant appearance. Their transformation from a cute, fluffy pup to a strong, dignified working dog is striking. Bouviers are known for their loyal and protective nature, and their mature look reflects their hardworking personality. The before-and-after difference is so dramatic that it’s hard to believe they’re the same dog.

Giant Schnauzer

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Giant Schnauzer puppies start with sleek, short coats that don’t give away their iconic look. As they mature, they develop their signature beard and bushy eyebrows, turning into one of the most distinguished breeds. The adult Giant Schnauzer’s appearance is dignified and powerful, with a striking black or pepper-and-salt coat. Their transformation from a smooth-faced puppy to a whiskered, regal adult is truly impressive. The change highlights their strong and protective nature, making them excellent guardians.

Great Pyrenees

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Great Pyrenees puppies are little fluffy clouds, but they grow into majestic, powerful guardians. Their soft, puppy fluff transforms into a thick, weatherproof coat that’s both elegant and practical. Watching a Great Pyrenees go from a cuddly ball of fur to a dignified adult dog is awe-inspiring. As adults, they exude calm and confidence, with their beautiful white coats making them look like gentle giants. The transformation from playful pup to regal protector is one of the most dramatic makeovers.

Airedale Terrier

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Airedale Terrier puppies look scruffy and playful, with smooth coats that hint at their future look. As they grow, their coats become wiry and distinct, forming the breed’s classic black-and-tan pattern. Their transformation from a soft, scruffy pup to a sleek, well-groomed adult is fascinating to witness. Known as the “King of Terriers,” Airedales carry themselves with dignity and charm. Their puppy-to-adult makeover is dramatic, making them look like two completely different dogs.

Schapendoes

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Schapendoes puppies start as fluffy little balls of energy with soft, downy coats. As they grow, their coat becomes longer, shaggier, and more distinctive. The adult Schapendoes have a unique, tousled look that stands out in any crowd. Their transformation from a cute fluff ball to a woolly, spirited adult dog is remarkable. Known for their lively personalities, Schapendoes dogs bring joy and energy to every household.

Briard

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Briard puppies are born with soft, fuzzy coats that make them look like teddy bears. However, as they grow, their coats thicken and become wavy and textured, giving them a distinct sheepdog appearance. The transformation from an adorable, scruffy puppy to a majestic, well-coiffed adult is stunning. Briards are known for their loyalty and protective instincts, and their impressive coats add to their dignified presence. Watching a Briard’s coat change over time is part of the joy of raising this breed.

Finnish Lapphund

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Finnish Lapphund puppies are bundles of fluff with soft, downy coats. As they grow, their coat becomes thick, double-layered, and weather-resistant, perfect for their northern heritage. The adult Finnish Lapphund is a striking dog with a mane-like ruff around the neck and a bushy tail. Their transformation from a fluffy pup to a majestic, wolf-like dog is truly impressive. Known for their friendly and gentle nature, Finnish Lapphunds are beloved for both their looks and their personality.

Saluki

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Saluki puppies start with short, smooth coats and a slightly awkward appearance. But as they grow, they transform into elegant, regal dogs with silky, feathered ears and tails. The adult Saluki looks like a royal canine straight out of ancient art, embodying grace and poise. Their puppy-to-adult transformation is remarkable, as they grow into one of the most refined and beautiful breeds in the world. Their slender build and flowing coat make them stand out, adding a touch of class to any setting.

Spanish Water Dog

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Spanish Water Dog puppies start with soft, fluffy curls that hint at their future look. As they grow, their curls tighten and form the breed’s signature woolly coat. The adult Spanish Water Dog has a distinct, curly appearance that sets them apart from other breeds. Their transformation from a fluffy pup to a unique, textured adult is eye-catching. Known for their versatility and intelligence, Spanish Water Dogs are both striking and highly capable.

The Transformation From Puppy To Adult

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The transformation from puppyhood to adulthood in many dog breeds is remarkable. Watching a fluffy, soft-furred puppy gradually morph into a stately, powerful adult is one of the joys of being a dog owner. While every dog is adorable as a puppy, some breeds take cuteness to a new level as they grow up and develop their unique adult features. Whether it’s the growing coat, changes in color, or the development of certain physical traits, the journey from puppy to adult is fascinating.

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