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Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but some are blessed with coats that are indeed the stuff of envy. Whether they flaunt a long, flowing mane or a shaggy, carefree look, these dogs can easily teach us a thing or two about achieving ultimate hair goals. Their impressive fur isn’t just for show—it often serves a practical purpose, such as protecting them from harsh weather or helping them blend into their surroundings. These coats add to their charm, making them even more lovable and iconic.
Old English Sheepdog
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The Old English Sheepdog is the iconic shaggy dog, with its thick, double-layered coat that can grow long enough to cover their eyes. Known for their gentle and playful nature, these dogs were originally bred for herding sheep, and their coats were protected from the harsh weather of the English countryside. The Old English Sheepdog’s impressive fur isn’t just for show—it’s functional, keeping them warm in cold climates. However, they require regular grooming to prevent matting, but their loving, goofy personalities make the extra effort worth it.
Bearded Collie
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The Bearded Collie, often affectionately called the “Beardie,” is known for its long, flowing coat that gives it a charming, windswept look. These dogs were originally bred for herding, and their shaggy coats protected them from the elements while working in Scotland’s often harsh conditions. With their lively, bouncy nature and signature beard and mustache, Bearded Collies are a hit with anyone who loves a dog with a big personality and even bigger hair. While they require regular grooming, their playful spirits make them a joy.
Briard
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The Briard is another shaggy herding breed known for its thick, luxurious coat that can grow quite long. Originating in France, Briards were used to protect and herd livestock. Their coats, which are naturally wavy and shaggy, help shield them from the cold and rain. Despite their rugged appearance, Briards are known for being loyal, affectionate family pets. They form strong bonds with their human companions and, with their long hair and soulful eyes, it’s hard not to fall in love with them at first sight.
Komondor
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The Komondor is one of the most recognizable shaggy breeds, thanks to its distinctive corded coat. These Hungarian livestock guard dogs have long, thick fur that naturally forms into dreadlocks, making them look like giant mops with paws. The Komondor’s corded coat isn’t just for appearances—it helps them blend in with the sheep they protect and provides insulation against both hot and cold weather. While grooming a Komondor can be a challenge, their unique look, calm, and loyal temperament make them a truly special breed.
Puli
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Similar to the Komondor, the Puli is a Hungarian breed known for its corded coat, though the Puli is much smaller in size. Originally bred for herding, the Puli’s coat forms tight, wooly cords that help protect them from the elements and keep them warm during their long days of work. These small, agile dogs are full of energy and love to stay active. Their unique coat requires special grooming attention to keep the cords clean and mat-free, but their playful personalities and adorable looks make them worth the effort.
Tibetan Terrier
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Despite the name, the Tibetan Terrier isn’t actually a terrier, but they are certainly a shaggy breed with hair goals. These medium-sized dogs have long, thick coats that were designed to keep them warm in the cold Tibetan mountains. Tibetan Terriers are known for their friendly, affectionate nature, making them excellent family pets. Their long, flowing hair requires regular brushing to prevent tangles, but their sweet, loving disposition and goofy charm make them a delight to have around.
Bergamasco
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The Bergamasco is an Italian herding breed that stands out due to its unusual coat, which consists of three different textures that mat together to form flocks or felt-like layers. These layers provide protection from the cold and harsh weather conditions in the Alps, where the breed originally worked. Despite their wild appearance, Bergamascos are gentle, intelligent dogs that bond closely with their families. Their coat requires little grooming once it’s fully formed, making them low-maintenance despite their shaggy look.
Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzus are known for their long, luxurious coats that flow down their bodies like a royal robe. Originally bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty, Shih Tzus still carry themselves with a regal air. While their long hair may look high-maintenance, Shih Tzus are sweet, affectionate dogs that love being pampered by their owners. Their coats require regular grooming to keep them looking their best, but their charming personalities and small size make them excellent lap dogs and companions.
Lhasa Apso
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The Lhasa Apso, like the Shih Tzu, has a long, flowing coat that exudes elegance and charm. Bred in Tibet to guard palaces and monasteries, Lhasa Apsos are known for their independent yet loyal nature. Their long hair is not just for show—it protects against the cold in the high-altitude regions of Tibet. Today, Lhasa Apsos are beloved family pets that enjoy lounging around in style. Their coat does require regular grooming, but their loving personalities and adorable looks make them worth the extra effort.
Afghan Hound
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Afghan Hounds are the supermodels of the dog world, with their long, silky coats and graceful, elegant appearance. These dogs were originally bred for hunting in the harsh mountains of Afghanistan, and their flowing coats helped protect them from the cold. Afghan Hounds are known for their aloof, independent nature, but they are also incredibly loyal to their families. Their long hair requires frequent grooming to keep it tangle-free, but their stunning beauty and dignified presence make them show-stoppers wherever they go.
Bouvier des Flandres
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The Bouvier des Flandres is a large, powerful breed known for its rugged, shaggy coat. Originally bred in Belgium as a farm dog, the Bouvier is a versatile worker capable of herding cattle, pulling carts, and protecting the farm. Their thick, tousled fur protects them from the elements, and their strong, sturdy build makes them excellent guard dogs. Despite their tough exterior, Bouviers are known for their gentle, calm demeanor around their families. They do require regular grooming to maintain their coats, but their loyalty and hardworking nature make them fantastic companions.
Skye Terrier
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The Skye Terrier is a small but mighty breed known for its long, flowing coat that gives it a larger-than-life appearance. These dogs were originally bred in Scotland to hunt foxes and badgers, and their long hair protected them from the rough terrain. Skye Terriers are loyal, affectionate dogs with a strong sense of independence. Their coat requires regular grooming to keep them in top condition, but their charming personality and striking appearance make them a favorite among dog lovers.
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
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The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, or PON, is a medium-sized herding dog known for its thick, shaggy coat. These dogs were bred to work in the harsh climates of Poland, and their fur was protected from both the cold and rain. PONs are intelligent, hardworking dogs that are known for their loyalty and devotion to their families. Their shaggy coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting, but their playful, affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions for active families.
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
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The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is known for its silky, wavy coat that sets it apart from other terrier breeds. These medium-sized dogs were originally bred in Ireland as farm dogs, used for herding and guarding livestock. Today, Wheaten Terriers are beloved family pets thanks to their friendly, outgoing personalities. Their soft, fluffy coats do require regular grooming to keep them looking their best, but their playful, energetic nature makes them great companions for families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Rough Collie
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The Rough Collie is best known for its role as “Lassie,” but their impressive coat is what really sets them apart. These herding dogs have long, thick fur that protects them from the elements while they work. Rough Collies are intelligent, loyal, and gentle dogs that make excellent family pets. Their long coats require regular grooming to keep them tangle-free, but their sweet, loving personalities make them well worth the effort. Whether they’re herding sheep or cuddling on the couch, Rough Collies are always ready to impress with their beautiful coats.
Tibetan Mastiff
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The Tibetan Mastiff is a massive, powerful breed known for its thick, luxurious coat. These dogs were bred to guard livestock and property in the harsh climates of Tibet, and their fur provided insulation from the cold. Tibetan Mastiffs are independent, strong-willed dogs that are highly protective of their families. Their impressive coats require regular grooming, but their majestic appearance and loyal nature make them a favorite among dog lovers who appreciate a strong, independent companion.
Havanese
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The Havanese is a small, fluffy dog known for its silky, flowing coat. Originally bred as companion dogs for Cuban aristocracy, Havanese dogs are playful, affectionate, and full of energy. Their long hair requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best, but their charming personalities and small size make them perfect lap dogs. Havanese dogs love being the center of attention and are known for their playful antics and love of cuddling.
Pyrenean Shepherd
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The Pyrenean Shepherd is a small herding breed from the Pyrenees Mountains of France and Spain. These agile, energetic dogs have thick, shaggy coats that protect them from the harsh mountain weather. Pyrenean Shepherds are known for their intelligence and strong work ethic, making them excellent herding dogs. Despite their small size, they are full of energy and love being active. Their shaggy coats require regular grooming, but their lively, affectionate personalities make them a joy to have around.
Spanish Water Dog
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The Spanish Water Dog, known for its curly, woolly coat, is both a herder and a water-loving retriever. Its coat forms natural curls, which can be clipped short or left to grow into longer, more defined curls for that perfect shaggy look. This breed’s fur doesn’t require brushing, making maintenance surprisingly easy compared to other shaggy breeds. Spanish Water Dogs are energetic and intelligent, thriving in active homes where they can have both mental and physical stimulation. Their playful, affectionate nature also makes them great family companions.
Icelandic Sheepdog
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The Icelandic Sheepdog is a small herding breed with a fluffy, thick double coat designed to keep it warm in harsh weather. This breed hails from Iceland and is known for its cheerful and energetic personality. Icelandic Sheepdogs have a dense, shaggy coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting, but their loveable and affectionate nature makes it worth the extra effort. These dogs are highly social and thrive in family environments, where they can play and snuggle up with their human companions.
Shaggy Dogs, Big Hair, Bigger Hearts
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These shaggy dog breeds take hair to a whole new level. While their coats may require a bit more maintenance, the love, loyalty, and charm they bring to their families make every grooming session completely worth it. Whether you’re seeking a furry companion for a hair-raising adventure or simply want a bit of extra fluff in your life, these dogs are here to show that when it comes to fur, bigger truly is better. With their larger-than-life personalities and unforgettable looks, they’re sure to steal your heart!
Toledo, United States.
