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Long-haired dog breeds are adored for their striking looks, luxurious coats, and often sweet and friendly personalities. Whether you’re a fan of flowing manes or tight, curly locks, long-haired dogs are captivating in more ways than one. Their coats require a little extra attention and care, but for many owners, the beauty and elegance of these dogs make the grooming well worth it. From show-stopping breeds to everyday companions, long-haired dogs never fail to catch the eye and win hearts.
Afghan Hound
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The Afghan Hound is the epitome of elegance and grace, with its long, flowing coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty. These dogs are famous for their dignified and regal appearance, which is complemented by their independent and aloof personalities. Despite their high-maintenance grooming needs, Afghan Hounds are adored for their gentle, loving nature and loyalty to their families. They have a strong prey drive, thanks to their history as hunting dogs, but at home, they’re affectionate and enjoy being the center of attention.
Shih Tzu
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The Shih Tzu’s long, silky coat is one of its defining features, making it a favorite among toy breeds. Originating from China, this breed was once a companion to royalty, and it still carries itself with the same regal air today. Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, often making fast friends with strangers and other pets. While their coats require a fair amount of grooming, many owners love to adorn their Shih Tzus with bows and accessories, adding to their charming appearance. These dogs thrive on affection and attention, making them perfect lap dogs for those seeking a loyal, cuddly companion.
Yorkshire Terrier
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Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are small in size but big in personality. Their long, silky coats are one of their most iconic features, often compared to human hair for its fine texture and sheen. Yorkies are fearless and spunky, often acting like they’re much larger than they actually are. Despite their tiny stature, they are bold and confident, making them excellent watchdogs. Their coats require regular grooming to keep them from tangling, but many Yorkie owners choose to keep them in a “puppy cut” for easier maintenance. Whether in a full show coat or a more practical trim, the Yorkie’s long hair is a major part of its charm.
Maltese
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The Maltese is a tiny breed with a big heart and an even bigger coat. Their long, white fur gives them a cloud-like appearance, and their gentle, affectionate nature makes them a popular choice for families and singles alike. Maltese dogs have a reputation for being sweet, playful, and devoted to their owners. Their coats do require daily grooming to prevent mats and tangles, but their loving personalities and adorable looks make the effort worthwhile. Despite their small size, Maltese dogs are brave and will happily protect their home, though they’re much more likely to charm visitors with their cuteness.
Lhasa Apso
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Lhasa Apsos have long, flowing coats that give them a regal and dignified appearance. Originally bred as watchdogs in Tibetan monasteries, these dogs are known for their alertness and independent personalities. Lhasas can be aloof with strangers but are deeply loyal to their families. Their long coats require regular grooming to keep them looking their best, but their strong-willed and intelligent nature makes them a rewarding breed. With their distinct look and confident attitude, Lhasa Apsos often give the impression that they’re fully aware of their own importance.
Havanese
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The Havanese is known for its long, silky coat that flows gracefully as it moves. This breed hails from Cuba, where it was a favorite of aristocrats. Today, the Havanese remains a popular companion breed, known for its cheerful and affectionate personality. These dogs are highly social and thrive on human interaction, making them excellent family pets. Their long coats require regular brushing to prevent mats, but many owners enjoy keeping their Havanese in a shorter, more manageable cut. Regardless of the hairstyle, the Havanese’s long fur is one of its most beautiful features, and its friendly nature only adds to its charm.
Old English Sheepdog
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The Old English Sheepdog is easily recognizable thanks to its shaggy, long coat that covers its entire body, including its eyes. Despite their somewhat messy appearance, these dogs are known for being gentle giants with a kind and easygoing temperament. Old English Sheepdogs are great with children and are often referred to as “nanny dogs” because of their protective and caring nature. Their thick coats require a lot of maintenance, but their playful, loyal personalities make the effort worthwhile. With their distinctive look and friendly demeanor, Old English Sheepdogs are a favorite among families and dog enthusiasts alike.
Bearded Collie
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Bearded Collies, affectionately known as “Beardies,” have long, flowing coats that give them a distinctive, almost wild appearance. These energetic and intelligent dogs were originally bred for herding sheep and cattle, and their active nature makes them best suited for families with lots of space and time for exercise. Bearded Collies are known for their happy-go-lucky personalities and their strong work ethic. Their long coats require regular grooming to keep them looking their best, but their friendly and playful nature makes them a joy to be around. Beardies are great companions for those who can keep up with their high energy levels.
Rough Collie
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Rough Collies, made famous by the character Lassie, are known for their beautiful, long, flowing coats and their gentle, intelligent nature. These dogs are highly trainable and have a strong desire to please their owners, making them excellent family pets. Rough Collies are known for being particularly good with children, often displaying a protective instinct that makes them wonderful companions for families. Their long coats require regular grooming to maintain their beauty, but their calm, loyal personalities make them worth the effort. Rough Collies are known for their elegance and grace, both in appearance and behavior.
Tibetan Terrier
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Despite their name, Tibetan Terriers are not true terriers, but they do have a terrier-like independent streak. These dogs are known for their long, shaggy coats that give them a somewhat scruffy yet endearing look. Tibetan Terriers were originally used as herding dogs and watchdogs in their native Tibet, and they still retain a strong sense of loyalty and alertness. Their long coats require regular maintenance, but their affectionate and friendly personalities make them popular pets. Tibetan Terriers are known for being particularly good with children, and their playful, energetic nature makes them a joy to have in the home.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, gentle giants with thick, long coats that are built to withstand cold weather. These dogs are known for their calm, patient demeanor, making them excellent family pets, especially for households with children. Bernese Mountain Dogs are incredibly loyal and tend to form strong bonds with their owners. Their long, tricolored coats require regular brushing to prevent mats, but their affectionate and gentle nature makes them a popular choice for families looking for a large, loving companion. Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for being gentle and easygoing, making them great additions to any home.
Cocker Spaniel
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Cocker Spaniels are known for their long, silky coats and sweet, gentle personalities. These dogs are affectionate and love to be around people, making them wonderful family pets. Their long coats require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles, but their loving and playful nature makes them worth the extra effort. Cocker Spaniels are also known for their expressive eyes, which often convey a wide range of emotions, making them even more endearing to their owners. Cocker Spaniels have been popular for many years with their friendly nature and beautiful appearance.
Irish Setter
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Irish Setters are known for their stunning red coats that flow elegantly as they run. These dogs are energetic and friendly, making them great companions for active families. Irish Setters are known for their playful and outgoing personalities and tend to get along well with children and other pets. Their long coats require regular grooming to maintain their beauty, but their lively, affectionate nature makes them a joy to have around. Irish Setters are also known for their intelligence and trainability, making them a popular choice for families looking for an energetic and loving companion.
The Hairiest Hounds You’ll Ever Love
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Long-haired dogs may require more grooming than their short-haired counterparts, but the rewards far outweigh the effort. These majestic, fluffy companions bring an undeniable elegance, grace, and charm to any home, turning heads with their luxurious coats. It’s hard not to smile when a dog’s flowing hair looks like it belongs in a shampoo ad! While keeping up with all the shedding might give your vacuum a run for its money, the boundless affection, and loyalty these dogs provide make grooming well worth every bit.
Toledo, United States.
