What Kind of Dog Has a Long Flat Muzzle & Long Fur?

There are a number of dogs that possess a long, flat muzzle and long fur. A long muzzle is typically found in breeds bred for work, as it leads to fewer health problems and can increase a canine's ability to catch a scent. Dogs with long flat muzzles and long fur typically resemble the wolf, from which all dog breeds are descendants. The first step in identifying a dog with a long flat muzzle and long fur will be to establish the size of the breed in question. Examining dogs possessing these traits from smallest to largest will be the easiest way to determine a breed identification.

  1. Terriers

    • The Airedale Terrier and Welsh Terrier each possess a long flat muzzle and long fur. Bred for eradicating vermin, terriers are a popular choice for owners of apartments and small spaces. Their friendly disposition and active personality require heavy owner involvement, and terriers can turn destructive if they are left alone for long periods of time without stimulation.

    Herding and Sheep Dogs

    • Herding and sheep dogs such as Rough Collies possess a long flat muzzle and long fur. Collies are easily identified dogs. Popularized by the television show "Lassie," they are medium-sized dogs with long flat muzzles and long hair. They were traditionally sheep herding dogs and are now frequently used as companion animals. There is a short-haired breed as well, referred to as Smooth Collies. These dogs, along with many herding breeds, often possess long muzzles and long fur.

    Guarding Breeds

    • Dogs bread for protection or as guard dogs often have long flat muzzles and long fur. The Belgian Malinois, for example, is a dog frequently used for guarding and property protection. Their long muzzle allows the dog to get a better grip on its quarry, as well as enabling more room for olfactory organs giving the Malinois' a great sense of smell.

    Sight Hounds

    • Sight hounds such as Afghan Hounds are some of the oldest breeds still in existence. Afghan Hounds roughly resemble a greyhound with long fur. Historically sight hounds were used to chase quarry across long distances in open terrain. Now they are popular as companion animals and in the sport of lure coursing, an activity that harnesses their powerful prey drive.