Long-Haired Dog Breeds: Beautiful Companions with Flowing Coats

From regal guardians to lap companions every fur texture offers unique appeal.

By Shinta

Created on Sep 2, 2025

From regal guardians to lap companions every fur texture offers unique appeal.

Long-Haired Dog Breeds: Elegance and Companionship

Long-haired dog breeds captivate dog lovers with their striking appearance and variety. From silky, flowing coats that sweep the floor to uniquely corded or shaggy locks, these breeds come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Whether youre drawn to the beauty of a traditional herding dog, the lively spirit of a toy lapdog, or the rustic charm of a working guardian, theres a long-haired dog to suit every household.

Choosing a long-haired breed often means committing to a regular grooming routine, but the rewards are as heartwarming as they are dazzling. In this guide, well walk you through the most beloved long-haired dog breeds, their key traits, and what sets them apart. Whether youre considering adoption or just celebrating their unique beauty, youll discover everything you need to know about these gorgeous canine companions.

Why Choose a Long-Haired Dog?

Long-haired dogs attract admirers with their elegant appearance, but they also bring a range of positive traits for families and individuals alike. Heres why these luxurious-coated canines make such popular pets:

Visual Appeal: Their flowing, silky, or corded coats offer a regal or playful look that stands out in public and at home.
Diverse Sizes and Temperaments: From tiny lapdogs to giant protectors, long-haired breeds vary widely in personality and adaptability.
Companionship: Many long-haired breeds are loving, intelligent, and loyal, making them excellent family pets.
Great for Dog Enthusiasts: Grooming and maintaining their coats can be rewarding for owners who enjoy bonding time and the satisfaction of a well-kept pet.

Popular Long-Haired Dog Breeds

Below, youll find an overview of the most popular and beautiful long-haired dog breeds, organized from large guardians and herders, to smaller lap and companion dogs. Each breed brings distinct traits and unique coat types, offering plenty to discover for aspiring dog owners.

Large and Medium Long-Haired Breeds

Afghan Hound: Known for its elegant, thick, flowing coat, the Afghan Hound is a glamorous sighthound with ancient origins in the rugged mountain regions of Central Asia. Their coats come in many colors and require regular bathing and grooming. Afghan Hounds are loyal, dignified, and can be surprisingly silly at home.
Komondor: Famous for its distinctive white, corded fur that forms “dreadlocks,” the Komondor is a powerful livestock guardian from Hungary. Their corded coat is never brushed but needs periodic bathing to keep clean. Komondors are independent, protective, and have a strong guarding instinct.
Bergamasco Shepherd: This Italian herding breed has a unique, matted âflockâ coat that provides insulation in harsh climates. With no need for routine brushing, these dogs are intelligent, gentle, and excellent with children.
Bernese Mountain Dog: A striking Swiss breed with a long, tricolor (black, white, and tan) coat. Berners have a thick undercoat and need frequent brushing, especially during shedding seasons. Theyâre gentle, loyal, and excellent with children.
Bearded Collie: Medium-to-large in size, the âBeardieâ features a shaggy double coat and is full of energy. Regular grooming keeps their coats beautiful and tangle-free.
Rough Collie: Immortalized by Lassie, the Rough Collie is celebrated for its striking, smooth mane and luxurious double coat. Dedicated grooming rewards owners with a gorgeous companion who is both affectionate and keen.
Golden Retriever: One of the worldâs most popular breeds, the Golden Retrieverâs thick, golden coat needs regular brushing. Known for loving temperaments and loyalty, theyâre natural family pets and wonderful therapy dogs.
Alaskan Malamute: A large, powerful breed with a dense, fluffy coat built for cold climates. The Malamuteâs thick fur needs consistent maintenance to prevent matting and manage heavy shedding, especially in spring and fall.
Chow Chow: With their dense, teddy bear-like double coat and lion-like mane, Chow Chows require consistent grooming. Calm and aloof, they are loyal to their family and have a chows distinctive blue-black tongue.
Australian Shepherd: An intelligent, energetic herding dog with a long, textured coat in hues of blue, red, or merle. Aussie Shepherds are highly active and suit experienced owners committed to regular grooming and exercise.

Small and Toy Long-Haired Breeds

Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie): The Yorkieâs signature silky, steel-blue and tan coat is perfect for styling but demands frequent brushing. These little dogs are spirited, determined, and adapt well to city life or small homes.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Beloved for their sweet, affectionate nature and gentle eyes, Cavaliers sport a wavy, glossy coat that benefits from routine care. Their small size and loving temperament make them cherished lapdogs.
Maltese: Renowned for elegant floor-length white hair, the Maltese dazzles with a stunning, fine-textured coat that needs daily brushing. They are playful, intelligent, and form deep bonds with their families.
Havanese: With a silky, textured coatâstraight or curlyâthe Havanese is cheerful, outgoing, and well-suited to apartment living. They require regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats.
Lhasa Apso: Originally bred as temple watchdogs in Tibet, Lhasa Apsos have long, double coats that sweep the floor. Regular upkeep is needed, but their independent, loyal natures make them a joy for experienced owners.
Maltese Shih Tzu: This popular toy hybrid blends traits from its parent breeds for a thick, flowing coat and outgoing personality. Maltese Shih Tzus are affectionate with all ages and generally easy to train, though they need consistent grooming.
Pekingese: An ancient breed from China, Pekingese boast a double coat with long, straight top hair and dense undercoat. Their signature âlionâs maneâ look and dignified bearing set them apart. Regular brushing reduces mats and tangles.
Scottish Terrier: Often characterized by its hand-stripped long âskirt,â beard, and furnishingsâScotties have a unique textured (not fluffy) coat, giving them a sophisticated appearance. They require skilled grooming for show trim.

Unique Coat Types Among Long-Haired Dogs

Long-haired dogs offer surprising variety in their furâs length, texture, and grooming needs. Understanding these differences helps owners provide optimal care:

Flowing and Silky: Seen in breeds like Afghan Hounds, Maltese, and Yorkshire Terriers; requires frequent brushing to prevent tangles and mats.
Double Coat: Breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Chow Chows, and Bernese Mountain Dogs have long, protective outer coats and thick undercoats that shed seasonally. Frequent brushing is a must during shedding periods.
Corded Coats: Some breeds naturally develop cords or mats, like the Komondor and Bergamasco. These coats need specialized careâbathing but little brushing, and careful cord separation for cleanliness.
Shaggy or Wooly: Bearded Collies and Old English Sheepdogs have a tousled or âdreadedâ look that requires routine maintenance to keep them comfortable and healthy.

Grooming and Maintenance: Keeping Long Haired Dogs Healthy

One of the key commitments when choosing a long-haired breed is grooming. Each coat type requires its own approach:

Brushing: Most long-haired breeds benefit from daily to several-times-weekly brushing to prevent mats and tangles, as well as to control loose hair in the home.
Bathing: Depending on activity level and coat type, regular bathing keeps coats fresh. Always use dog-safe shampoos.
Clipping and Trimming: Many owners choose to keep breeds like the Maltese, Shih Tzu, or Pekingese in a âpuppy cutâ for easier maintenance. Trimmed feet and belly fur can prevent mats and tangles.
Professional Grooming: Some breeds require expertise; schedule sessions every 6â8 weeks with a groomer experienced in your dogâs specific coat.
Seasonal Shedding: Double-coated breeds shed more heavily in spring and fall; increase brushing frequency to help with hair turnover.
Health Inspections: Grooming is a prime opportunity to check for skin issues, ticks, or injuries hidden under the hair.

Temperament and Adaptability: More Than Just Looks

While their stunning coats attract admirers, long-haired breeds are just as diverse in temperament and suitability for different lifestyles:

Family-Friendly: Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Cavaliers are known for being patient, gentle, and playful with children.
Energetic and Working Dogs: Australian Shepherds and Bearded Collies need lots of exercise and mental stimulation, thriving with active families.
Independent Spirits: Afghan Hounds and Lhasa Apsos can be a bit aloof or reserved with strangers but tend to be devoted to family.
City Companions: Yorkshire Terriers, Havanese, and Maltese are adaptable to smaller living spaces, provided their grooming needs are met.
Loyal Guardians: Komondors and Chow Chows are devoted protectors who benefit from experienced, firm handlers.

Choosing the Right Long-Haired Dog for You

Breed	Size	Coat Type	Main Traits	Grooming Needs
Afghan Hound	Large	Flowing, Silky	Elegant, Independent	High
Komondor	Large	Corded	Protective, Strong	Specialized
Yorkshire Terrier	Small	Silky	Energetic, Loyal	High
Golden Retriever	Large	Double Coat	Loyal, Friendly	Moderate to High
Maltese	Small	Long, Silky	Affectionate, Playful	High
Bernese Mountain Dog	Large	Double Coat	Gentle, Friendly	High
Havanese	Small	Long, Straight or Curly	Outgoing, Adaptable	High
Bearded Collie	Medium	Shaggy/Double	Energetic, Intelligent	High

Adopting or Finding the Perfect Long-Haired Companion

Once you’ve found a breed whose traits line up with your lifestyle, consider your sources for adding a long-haired dog or puppy to your home:

Adoption: Many purebred and mixed-breed long-haired dogs are waiting for homes in rescues and shelters.
Reputable Breeders: If you have specific requirements, choose ethical breeders who prioritize temperament and health alongside appearance.
Breed Rescues: Specialized organizations often have adults and puppies of various breeds seeking new families.
Prepare Your Home: Long-haired puppies can be especially prone to matting and will need to be acclimated to grooming routines from an early age.

Frequently Asked Questions About Long-Haired Dog Breeds

Q: How often should I groom a long-haired dog?

A: Most long-haired dogs need brushing at least several times per weekâdaily is best for breeds with silky or dense coats. Regular grooming prevents painful mats, reduces shedding, and keeps coats looking beautiful.

Q: Are long-haired breeds harder to manage than short-haired dogs?

A: Long-haired breeds demand more time for grooming and maintenance, but their needs are manageable with consistent effort. Some owners find the routine a relaxing way to bond with their pet.

Q: Do long-haired dogs shed more?

A: Shedding varies by breed. Double-coated breeds (e.g., Golden Retrievers) often shed more noticeably, especially seasonally. Regular brushing helps minimize hair around your home and keeps pets comfortable.

Q: Can long-haired dogs live comfortably in warm climates?

A: Many long-haired breeds adapt to various climates, but they need shade, water, and sometimes a haircut during hot weather to prevent overheating. Double-coated breeds benefit from natural insulationânever shave them entirely, as this can damage their coat.

Q: What kind of brush or grooming tool is best?

A: Slicker brushes, detangling combs, and grooming rakes work well on most long-haired coats. For corded breeds, consult a professional groomer or experienced breed expert for tailored advice.

Conclusion: The Joys of Long-Haired Breeds

Choosing a long-haired dog brings daily delight for admirers of canine beauty and spirited companionship. Their stunning coats require commitment, but dedicated care ensures a healthy, happy pet and strengthens the bond between dog and owner. With the diversity among long-haired dog breeds, every family can find a flowing-coated companion to love for years to come. If youâre ready for the adventure (and the regular brushing), a long-haired breed could be your perfect match.

References

Author

Shinta

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

Read full bio of Shinta