Long Haired Dog Breeds That Can Compete With Rapunzel
With an elegant coat that can appear corded, lengthy, silky or curly, what long haired dog breeds do you prefer? There is no denying these pooches are showstoppers thanks to their various coats.
Some breeds are super high-maintenance, whereas others can be a touch easier to take care of. That said, if you ever feel grooming is getting out of hand, you always have the option of clipping that coat short.
So, do you want your dog to turn heads at the park? Check out our favorites with the most extended hair.
Types of Long-Haired Dog Breed Coats
You'll probably encounter one of the following types of long hair on dogs:
Double — a dense, fluffy undercoat and a thick, lengthy top coat.
Silky — glossy, smooth, and either single or double-coated.
Wire-haired — feels rougher and more like hair than fur.
Curly/wool — many are hypoallergenic. It can be tightly curled, slightly wavy, or straight.
Most individuals would contend that any breed with hair longer than the short-coated Labrador Retriever or Boxer qualifies for the lengthy coat classification. Others would argue that a dog's coat isn't long-haired until it resembles Rapunzel's tresses. Generally, a coat could be described as ‘long’ if it’s more than a few inches in length.
Long Haired Dog Breeds
Long-haired dog breeds are the ultimate fashionistas of the canine world, with their beautiful, flowing coats that are the envy of dogs everywhere. From the elegant Afghan Hound to the silky Yorkie, these breeds are sure to turn heads wherever they go.
Just be prepared to spend some extra time on grooming to keep their locks looking their best. But with their affectionate and friendly personalities, it's worth it for the joy these pampered pooches bring to their families. Below are our picks of the best long-haired breeds that would pique your interest.
1. Yorkshire Terrier
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Height/Weight: 7-8 inches / 7 pounds
Life Span: 11-15 years
The tiny Yorkie has a long, fine, silky single coat, which gives this pooch an elegant appearance. With their coat hanging down nicely on each side of their body, it forms a neat parting at the top of their back.
While some pet parents are content making them wear hair clips and scrunchies, you should pay attention to the time necessary for coat maintenance. Yorkshire Terriers need to be brushed every day, and complete grooming is necessary every one to two months. Also, it's best to regularly trim the hair around their eyes or tie it up in a top knot, so they can see.
2. Mini Long Haired Dachshund
Hypoallergenic: No
Height/Weight: 5-6 inches / 11 pounds
Life Span: 12-16 years
Whether smooth, wire, or of course, long-haired — Dachshunds are incredibly sociable canines who adore spending time with their owners. They were developed to maintain concentration and follow a trail without becoming sidetracked. Hence, their keen sense of smell and high prey drive.
The long haired miniature Dachshund has a long body and short legs, and their shiny, silky coat can be straight or slightly wavy. This breed may be the most glamorous of the mini Dachshund varieties. The tail should have a smooth hair ‘flag,’ and the ears, legs, and undercarriage — form feathering in the coat.3. Jack Russell Terrier
Hypoallergenic: No
Height/Weight: 10-12 inches / 15 pounds
Life Span: 12-14 years
The Russell was bred to be robust and quick enough to keep up with the hounds. This little Terrier is bursting with energy and has incredible stamina, so you’ll need to keep up with their activity levels.
One of the breed's three coat forms — the rough-coated, is also referred to as the long haired Jack Russell Terrier. This pooch has a double coat with thick, lengthy hair that’s also quick to tangle. However, despite this, they’re reasonably low maintenance. The natural ‘unkempt’ look is deemed acceptable for these pooches. A weekly brush-through should be enough.4. Puli
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Height/Weight: 16-17 inches / 35 pounds
Life Span:10-15 years
It's hard not to mention the Puli in the list of long haired dog breeds — nor in that of dogs with an original look! Easily recognizable by their coat of long braids similar to dreadlocks.
Anyone wishing to adopt a Puli must think carefully, because coat care is one of the most unique within the canine world. Indeed, their corded coat cannot be combed or brushed. But, each week you’ll need to untangle every cord one-by-one, by hand.
And, a regular cut is highly advisable, so their fur doesn’t drag on the ground.
5. Afghan Hound
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Height/Weight: 25-27 inches / 60 pounds
Life Span: 12-18 years
Afghan Hounds are known for their dignified and aloof demeanor, and they’re often described as being independent and sometimes stubborn. They’re generally gentle and affectionate with their family, but they may be reserved with strangers.
The quintessential big long haired dog, the Afghan, has a more sophisticated appearance than most other sighthounds due to their silky coat and long, drooping, furry ears. Such elegance, however, has a price — their impressive coat must be brushed daily to ensure a matt-free appearance. And, you have to make regular grooming trips for coat trimming.6. Komondor
Hypoallergenic: No
Height/Weight: 25.5-27.5 inches / 100 pounds
Life Span: 10-12 years
The Komondor is a Hungarian breed with corded hair resembling dreadlocks. The previously mentioned Puli is the only other breed to present this characteristic.
A veritable nightmare for groomers, the coat of the Komondor requires a battery of special and tedious care. Their long braids, once formed, must be separated by hand at least once a week, and drying after a bath is particularly time-consuming.
What’s more, the bathing regime itself is pretty particular. The Komondor's thick, corded coat must be thoroughly cleaned without causing any tangles or knots to form.
7. Borzoi
Hypoallergenic: No
Max Height/Weight: 26-28 inches / 105 pounds
Life Span: 9-14 years
Renowned for their finesse, the Borzoi is a Russian dog that resists the cold well, thanks to their long and dense coat. This breed has many qualities, particularly a graceful gait, an impressive size, and immense speed like most Greyhound-like hounds.
To keep his beautiful long coat in good condition, they must be brushed several times a week. And, during seasonal shedding periods, in the fall and spring, you’ll have to tend to them daily.
8. German Longhaired Pointer
Hypoallergenic: No
Height/Weight: 22-28 inches / 80 pounds
Life Span: 12-14 years
One of the first continental Pointers, the German Longhaired is a game-retrieving breed that loves the water. However, in a home environment they’re placid and family-friendly canines.
If you intend to take your Pointer hunting, be ready to brush them every day and remove any burrs or twigs that might get caught in their tail. Plus, since these hunting dogs have double coats, assisting them with routine brushing will make the shedding season far less painful for you.
Caring for a Long Haired Dog Breed
The sort of coat your dog sports affects how you need to look after them. Long-haired breeds are more prone to accumulating dirt and tangles, so they need to be brushed more regularly than other breeds.
Silky Coats
Daily grooming with a slicker brush is essential for fur that’s both silky and long. This type of brush is adept at untangling knots and removing dirt, while still being gentle enough for sensitive coats.
Curly/Wooly Coats
For those canine companions with a tendency for curls or wool-coated fur, regular brushing with a slicker brush is necessary to maintain a healthy coat. In cases where knots are more prominent, a detangling brush is the best way to go.
Double Coats
When it comes to double-coated long-haired dogs, avoid close trims or shaves. Their coats are essential for providing protection from extreme temperatures and weather patterns. Seasonal shedding is normal, leading to a thicker or thinner coat, depending on the time of year.
General Coat Care Tips
Have a few different brushes on hand. A grooming rake for the underlayer, a bristle brush for the outer coat, and a wide-toothed comb for any tangles or mats. Regular brushing helps to manage shedding and keep your furniture fur-free!
Thoroughly inspect your dog’s long hair while brushing. Seek out any signs of ticks, fleas, or mites that may be lurking among the strands. And, don't forget to take a close look at their skin to be sure nothing is going undetected.
Conclusion
Long haired dog breeds are renowned for their distinct look. They come in all shapes and sizes, and some are even allergy-friendly! However, don’t forget to keep your side of the deal — you’ll need to set aside plenty of time to keep your canine companion’s coat looking luscious.
Long Haired Dog Breeds FAQs
Which Dog Breed Has Long Hairs?
There are numerous breeds — for example, long haired Terriers, like little Yorkies. Others include Lhasa Apsos, Collies, and Setters to larger dogs like Newfoundlands and Old English Sheepdogs.
What Dog Breeds Have Long Straight Hair?
Long-haired Pointers, Yorkshire Terriers, and Afghan Hounds are a few breeds with straight, long hair.
What Dog Has the Closest to Human Hair?
The Yorkshire Terrier possesses one of the canine world's most striking coats because of its long, silky fur. And while this lush-looking coat is lovely, taking care of it may be a hassle. However, because their hair resembles human hair so closely, the Yorkie is a breed that people with pet allergies should consider.
What Are the Tall Dogs With Long Hair?
1. Afghan Hound — Height: 25-27 inches.
2. Irish Setter — Height: 25-27 inches.
3. Briard — Height: 22-27 inches.
3. Bergamasco Sheepdog — Height: 22-24 inches.
4. Collie — Height: 22-26 inches.
5. Gordon Setter — Height: 23-27 inches.
6. German Longhaired Pointer — Height: 22-28 inches.
7. Barbet — Height: 19-25 inches.
What Breed Is a Shaggy Dog?
Most people nowadays are familiar with the Old English Sheepdog, a sizable, long-haired dog with fur covering their eyes. However, the breed was virtually unknown in America until Disney released the film "The Shaggy Dog" in the 1960s. The breed gained popularity overnight.
Can You Get Long Haired French Bulldogs?
Traditionally, these dogs are short-coated. However, if you’re interested in learning more, take a look at our guide on the Long Haired French Bulldog.