It’s hard to resist a dog with a luxuriously long coat. They’re beautiful, eye-catching, and extra pet-able. What’s not to love? Read on to learn more about some of our favourite long-haired dog breeds.
These canines are all about that ‘long hair, don’t care’ lifestyle, and we gotta say—we’re totally digging it.
1. Briard
Also known as the Chien Berger de Brie in France, these large, spirited dogs have worked as herders in the French countryside since the time of Charlemagne.
They have brains and brawn to spare, but it’s their parted peek-a-boo hairstyle that has us hooked.
The Briard’s shaggy coat comes in a variety of shades including grey, tawny, and black.
2. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a paradigm of extremes—while elegant, regal, and aloof, they aren’t above entertaining people with their goofy antics.
Even though this ancient breed is used to turning heads, their signature flowing coat was designed to be more than just a fashion statement.
Originally, the Afghan’s silky locks were meant to protect the breed from the unforgiving climate in South Asia.
3. Bergamasco
Owners of this breed have a lot to boast about: Bergamascos are friendly, intelligent, patient, and devoted companions. But the thing most people will be drawn to about this breed is its one-of-a-kind coat.
Composed of naturally occurring mats, the Bergamasco’s unique coat is surprisingly low-maintenance.
According to the American Kennel Club: “A Bergamasco doesn’t shed, doesn’t need to be brushed, and doesn’t need to be bathed more than two or three times a year.” Where do we sign up?
4. Maltese
The crowning glory of the Maltese is its white floor-length hair.
This breed exudes pristine elegance, but they’re no prissy divas: in fact, they’re as playful as they are lovely.
If you can work daily brushing into your routine, a Maltese could be a charming companion for you.
5. Irish Setter
This flashy redhead has us swooning over her stunning mahogany coat.
Aside from their good looks, Irish Setters are known for their boundless energy and sweet dispositions.
Graceful and swift, this affable long-haired breed is a hit with kids and seniors alike.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
With its distinct facial markings and thick double coat, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a real showstopper.
Smitten with this large breed’s majestic and voluminous hair? Then you’ll be happy to hear they’re also sweetly affectionate and generally calm dogs.
Just be prepared for daily brushing during the twice-a-year shedding season.
7. Shih Tzu
It doesn’t get much cuter than the Shih Tzu. I mean, just look at that perfectly paired moustache and top-knot!
These little lion dogs are darling no matter their hair length, but we just adore them with well-groomed, luxurious locks.
Their coat comes in a range of colours, and we love them all.
8. Komondor
Here’s a dog that stands out from the crowd. Hailing from Hungary, and covered in thick, white cords, the Komondor is a giant breed with the protective instincts of a guard dog.
If you love the look of a long-haired dog, but you’re not a fan of arduous brushing, a Komondor might suit you perfectly.
Just take note: Although they don’t need to be brushed, they do require regular baths. After all, dreadlocks or no dreadlocks, no one wants a stinky dog!
9. Yorkshire Terrier
Appearances can be deceiving, and the Yorkshire Terrier is no exception to this rule.
Outwardly, this dog displays delicate features. But brush those charming looks aside, and you’ve got a true terrier, through and through.
Yorkies are spirited companions with a plucky zest for life that we find delightful. Plus—that long hair!
10. Bearded Collie
Who doesn’t love a dog with a beard? These scruffy collies are the ultimate ‘shaggy dog’, and we can’t get enough of them!
Outdoorsy and outgoing, the Bearded Collie must be brushed for at least five to 10 minutes every day.
11. Havanese
It should come as no surprise that the long-haired Havanese was once called the ‘Havana Silk Dog’.
With its gorgeous silky coat, this class clown of the dog world definitely deserves a place on our list.
Tiny but mighty, the Havanese is a spunky pooch with a bright personality that’s hard not to fall in love with.
12. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
That face! That hair! In terms of good looks, the caramel-coloured Cavalier has it all.
It doesn’t hurt that their long, silky coat is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing.
These sweethearts get along great with kids, and they’re adaptable to both active and quiet environments.
13. Lhasa Apso
Looks this good don’t come easy, but fans of the Lhasa Apso don’t mind.
They’ll happily take on the extra work necessary to keep this pup’s coat in top condition. All it takes is one look at their stunning floor-length hair to see why.
And even though she may look dainty, the fun-sized Lhasa is one feisty watchdog.
14. Puli
Whether it’s his mop-like dreadlock look or his affectionate personality, the Puli has a way of winning over the hearts of anyone who crosses his path.
His densely corded coat will take around four to five years to grow out completely, but it’s worth the wait to see these dogs in all their unique, locked glory.
15. Skye Terrier
This breed has bangs down to a science. Parted with precision and falling like a veil across their face, the Skye Terrier’s hairdo is one for the ages.
Straight, long locks cascade down his sides, and large feathery ears complete the look.
Bred on the Isle of Skye in Scotland’s Hebrides, these good-tempered terriers are known as “the heavenly breed with the heart of a lion”. But, sadly, they’re listed as a vulnerable native breed here in the UK.
16. Newfoundlands
This sweet-tempered ‘nanny dog’ has a soulful expression that’s hard to resist. But it’s the breed’s luscious coat that has us dreaming of Newfies all day long.
Known for their giant size and intelligence, Newfoundlands are also tremendously calm and loyal dogs. Quite the combination of traits, if you ask us.
Long-Haired Dog Breed Love
We have to admit—when we see a long-haired pup, it’s hard to switch off the part of our dog-loving brains that squeals: “Must. Pet. Now.”
And, for the most part, we’re ok with that. Besides, after looking at these photos, can you really blame us? And while we didn’t cover all of the long-haired dog breeds that are out there, we hope you enjoyed learning more about these fabulously shaggy, soft and fluffy canine companions.
If you’re looking to bring a long-haired breed dog into your family, you may be interested in these articles:
Featured image of a Lhasa Apso via Pixabay
