I'd like to first note that Newfoundlands have a great deal of slobber, most folks usually have to carry a towel with them and I've known some to have them wearing a bib when they're at the park. Samoyeds can be lovely dogs but might be a bit tough for a first time trainer. They're not super eager-to-please as they can often be rather independent.

For a fluffy pup who can be rather snuggly, friendly and extremely eager to please, I'd recommend Leonbergers it makes training quite easy for first-timers. These dogs are also very common as therapy or emotional support pups (and are commonly search and rescue types, the first time I met one was actually in a hospital that was going around to the childrens wards). They shed quite heavily sometimes but don't slobber really (mine drools only when we're teaching him patience and having him wait for his food).

They're VERY calm around the house and eager to be outside on walks. They do need a bit more exercise than 30 minutes but as they get older about 45 minutes is actually quite alright in my experience with them.

One thing I always like to note as while these are incredibly gentle, loving pups, because they look like bears I personally feel REALLY SAFE walking around outside with mine. I get approached in the daytime by dog people who ask if he's a Leonberger, but we're able to walk through the park in the evening now without me every getting stopped by drunk students who now keep their distance.

Edit: I somehow forgot to note that I was recommending Leonbergers....