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Small dog breeds often captivate with their charm, but those with long, luxurious coats take the spotlight regarding beauty. These breeds aren’t just tiny in size; they possess flowing coats that require regular care and grooming, turning heads wherever they go. While their gorgeous locks can demand time and effort, the results are worth it, as their coats give them a regal appearance. Whether you’re looking for a dog with a silky, flowing coat or a dense, fluffy mane, a small breed fits the bill.
Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzus, often called “lion dogs,” are renowned for their long, flowing coats almost sweeping the ground. Their coat is double-layered, which makes it not only luxurious but also ideal for creative grooming. Shih Tzus were bred to be royal companions, and their majestic appearance reflects their noble heritage. Their long hair requires regular brushing to prevent matting, and many owners style their dogs with top knots or bows to keep hair out of their eyes. Despite the grooming demands, Shih Tzus are affectionate, gentle, and love being the center of attention, making them the perfect pampered pooch.
Maltese
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The Maltese is another small breed that boasts a beautiful, long coat. With its silky white hair flowing down to the floor, the Maltese has an elegance that has made it a favorite for centuries. Despite their dainty appearance, these little dogs are spirited and full of personality. While gorgeous, their coats require regular grooming to maintain their shine and prevent tangles. Maltese owners often keep their dogs in a “puppy cut” to reduce maintenance, but there’s nothing quite like seeing a full-coated Maltese prance around like the royalty they are.
Yorkshire Terrier
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Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are small dogs with big personalities and even bigger coats. Their silky, flowing hair can be grown long, often draping down their sides like a shimmering curtain. Yorkie coats are similar to human hair, which means they shed less than other breeds but require regular grooming to stay tangle-free. Many Yorkie owners style their dogs with top knots or bows to highlight their cute faces. Yorkies may be small, but their luxurious coats and fearless personalities make them stand out in any crowd.
Lhasa Apso
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The Lhasa Apso, originally bred as a guard dog for Tibetan monasteries, is a small dog with a luxurious coat. Their long, flowing hair is dense and silky, giving them an air of elegance that matches their confident demeanor. Lhasa Apsos may be tiny, but they carry themselves with dignity, and their beautiful coats only add to their regal appearance. Grooming is essential to keep their hair in top condition, but many owners find the effort worthwhile for such a stunning companion. With their protective nature and gorgeous locks, the Lhasa Apso is a beauty and a little guardian.
Havanese
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The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and is known for its long, flowing coat that can be silky or wavy. These small dogs are charming, affectionate, and love to be the center of attention. Their long hair requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best, but Havanese owners are often happy to put in the time, as their dog’s coat is a showstopper. The Havanese’s soft, luxurious coat is perfect for those who love a cuddly and elegant dog. The Havanese look fabulous, whether long or trimmed in a stylish cut.
Silky Terrier
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The Silky Terrier, often confused with its cousin, the Yorkshire Terrier, has a stunning long, silky coat that perfectly matches its name. This small breed’s hair is sleek and fine, giving them a polished, refined appearance. Despite their glamorous coat, Silky Terriers are energetic and feisty little dogs, always ready for an adventure. Their hair requires regular brushing to stay smooth and shiny, but they proudly wear their luxurious coats. Silky Terriers are a great choice for those who want a dog with both style and spirit.
Tibetan Spaniel
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Tibetan Spaniels are small, affectionate dogs with beautiful coats that can grow long and flowing, especially around their necks, giving them the appearance of a lion’s mane. Bred to be companion dogs for monks, these little dogs are as loyal as they are fluffy. Their coat is dense and soft, making them perfect cuddle buddies. While their coat is long, it’s relatively low-maintenance compared to other long-haired breeds, requiring regular brushing to prevent tangles. Tibetan Spaniels may be small, but their luxurious coats and calm demeanor make them standout companions.
Pekingese
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With its long, flowing mane, the Pekingese looks every bit the royal dog it was bred to be. These small dogs were once the companions of Chinese emperors, and their luxurious coat certainly matches their regal status. Pekingese coats are thick, with a flowing mane around the neck and soft, dense hair covering the body. While their coat requires regular grooming to stay neat, their majestic appearance makes them well worth the effort. Pekingese are known for their independent and dignified nature, and their beautiful coats only add to their air of royalty.
Papillon
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The Papillon is easily recognizable by its distinctive butterfly-like ears, but this small breed also has a long, flowing coat that adds elegance. Their coat is silky and fine, draping gracefully over their bodies, giving them a regal appearance. Despite their delicate look, papillons are energetic and playful dogs always up for an adventure. Their long coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting, especially around their ears, but their beauty and charm make them well worth the effort. Papillons are perfect for those who want a small dog with grace and spirit.
Lowchen
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The Lowchen, also known as the “Little Lion Dog,” has a luxurious, long coat that can be styled to resemble a lion’s mane. Despite their small size, Lowchens carry themselves confidently, and their flowing coat only adds to their regal appearance. Their hair is soft and dense, requiring regular grooming to maintain its beauty. Lowchens are affectionate and playful and love being the center of attention—whether in the show ring or at home. Their luxurious coat makes them look like royalty, but their loving nature makes them perfect family companions.
When Your Dog’s Hair Outshines Yours
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Owning a dog with a long, luxurious coat is like having a furry model strut through your home daily. While the grooming routine can be quite demanding, there’s an undeniable sense of satisfaction in watching your dog show off their flowing mane, often better than most human hairdos. Whether it’s the silky, elegant locks of a Yorkie or the regal, majestic mane of a Pekingese, these small dogs know exactly how to command attention. Their fabulous coats turn heads everywhere they go, making all the grooming effort worth it.
Toledo, United States.
