Types of Long-Haired Dogs

Dog breeds have varied coats: hairless or short-haired, long or thick. Long-haired dogs with well-maintained coats can look lovely but can be a great deal of work, requiring regular grooming and trimming. People with the time to devote to a long-haired breed can be rewarded with a beautiful and adoring animal.

  1. Afghan Hound

    • The Afghan hound is a tall, slender dog breed. It grows to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighs up to 60 pounds. It has a thick coat made up of long, fine silky hair that hangs down all over its body. As its name suggests, the breed comes from Afghanistan. The dog's coat takes a lot of grooming to avoid matting. It is an energetic breed and needs plenty of exercise.

    Bearded Collie

    • The bearded collie is a large dog that grows to 22 inches at the shoulder. It has a thick, shaggy, medium-length coat. It is one of Scotland's oldest dog breeds and is used as a herding animal in harsh, cold environments. The coat needs regular grooming and attention to avoid matting. It is a loyal and energetic breed that also needs plenty of exercise.

    Bergamasco

    • The Bergamasco is a large breed that grows to 22 inches at the shoulder. It has a long, thick coat that naturally mats to give it a sheep-like fleece texture. Left to grow naturally, the dog's coat reaches the ground and covers its legs by the age of six. It is a herding breed with high intelligence and a sociable nature. Grooming is not crucial in this breed, since the natural coat state is matted.

    Briard

    • The briard is a tall, well-muscled breed. It grows to 27 inches at the shoulder and has a thick, long, straight-haired coat. The breed originates from France, where it is a common herding breed and watchdog. The coat needs constant attention to avoid mats. The breed is lively and independent and bonds with the family but distrusts strangers.

    Maltese

    • The Maltese is a dog of the toy class, generally weighing between 4 and 6 pounds. It has an allover long, straight coat that grows down to the ground, completely hiding the dog's legs. The dogs are brave and energetic animals with gentle natures. Its coat requires a lot of attention to avoid matting.

    Skye Terrier

    • The Skye terrier is a medium-sized breed that weighs up to 35 pounds. It has a long body and short legs, with a shaggy, two-layer coat that grows to the ground and hides the dog's legs. It is a vermin-controlling breed, designed to locate foxes, badgers and otters. Its coat requires regular grooming to avoid matting.