Long Snout Dog Breeds: 10 Charming Canines With Long Noses
Dog with a big nose? Check. Dog with a big heart? Check. One of the craziest dog breeds around? Check.
If you’re looking for the best long snout dog breeds, you’ve come to the right place. We’re sharing some of the most popular canines with long noses and adorable personalities to match.
10 Dogs With Long Snout Breeds
With origins spanning the globe, dog breeds with long noses come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. Here are 10 of our favorites:
1. Borzoi
Once named the Russian Wolfhound, the super long nose of the Borzoi simply commands your attention and adds to the aristocratic appearance of this noble breed. In fact, this breed claims the crown for the longest snout dog, thanks to Eris from Virginia, US. Her nose measured 12.2 inches.
Bred to hunt wolves and rabbits in Russia long ago, that long nose and face shape offers a better line of sight and would certainly come in handy searching out prey. The Bozoi’s name comes from the Russian word “borzyi,” which translates to “swift.” This is apt considering they're an active breed that loves to run, often reaching speeds of 35-40 miles per hour!
Despite their athleticism, the Borzoi is also quiet and easygoing in the home. They get on well with children, although sometimes can seem a little too aloof to enjoy too much roughhousing.
2. Greyhound
These dogs with the long nose have earned the nickname, “the 40 mph couch potato.” With their slender and graceful body, Greyhounds are made for speed — they’re the fastest dog breed going. However, they’re sprinters, not marathon runners, so around the home, they’re relaxed and lazy dogs who love to lounge.
The elongated snout of a Greyhound is akin to the nose on Concorde, ensuring they’re as streamlined as possible. When giving chase, their long nose also allows for more efficient breathing — enabling these swift canines to sprint at incredible speeds with more oxygen intake.
Known for their docile and warm-hearted nature, they’re patient and gentle around kids and their family. However, Greyhounds can be distant with unfamiliar faces. And, their lack of body fat and short coat means you may need a doggy jacket for protection against the elements.
3. Dachshund
Short legs, long body, long snout dog — that sums up the comical look of the ever so popular Dachshund. It’s hard to believe this cute little fella, the sausage or Weiner dog, was originally bred to be a masterful hunter. The long nose of the Dachshund would help sniff out and hunt badgers.
As one of the cutest small dogs with long snouts, Dachshunds have huge personalities and can be playful, vocal, and independent-minded. Curious and friendly, they can also be mischievous if they don’t get enough playtime outdoors. However, due to their smaller size and those stumpy legs, they won’t need too many walkies, a couple a day should suffice.
Known for being incredibly loyal and sociable, they make excellent companion dogs for families or seniors. As much as they revel in playing, they’re just as happy to relax and curl up next to you on the couch.4. Afghan Hound
The supermodel of the canine world, Afghan Hounds are easily recognized for their luxurious long coats, curl-tipped tails, and a dog with a really long snout, which seems to add to their overall beauty. Despite their elegance, the Afghan is a hunting dog at heart.
Afghans can be very affectionate pooches, but at the same time also reserved, especially with strangers — they enjoy a cuddle on their terms. And, all those years of hunting and cornering prey mean they may not be the best choice for homes with smaller animals.
This breed is high energy. However, walking them off-leash isn’t advisable because of that instinct to chase. Hence, exercise should be in a large enclosed area, preferably with a high fence — Afghans are tall dogs and very agile jumpers too.5. Saluki
Thought to be the world’s oldest dog breed, the Saluki is a svelte, leggy, yet robust sighthound with a long snout and an incredible knack for speed.
Their athletic nature means they love going for walks, hiking, playing with interactive toys, and running — very fast. Like other dogs with a long nose bred for hunting, the Saluki can’t shake off that temptation to chase, so they aren’t one of the best dog breeds that get along with cats.
Salukis tend to be gentle, well-mannered, and very affectionate with their humans — the ideal loyal companion for more active families. However, they’re very independent, so they’re better suited to pet parents with previous doggy experience, not first-time owners. The Saluki also needs plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise to prevent them from displaying destructive or naughty behavior, especially when left alone.
6. Bloodhound
A dog with a big snout that pairs with a superb sense of smell, the Bloodhound is often put to use in search and rescue missions and tracking wrongdoers. In short, if you live with one of these hounds, they’ll sniff out their dinner in no time.
Bloodhounds are friendly dogs, they’re sweet and loyal, although they can be somewhat stubborn, so training may be testing at times. They also possess a wanderlust instinct, which sees their long snouts lead them to any interesting smell they discover. And, with those adorable jowls, the Bloodhound also gives the slobberiest of kisses, just expect a lot of drool.
Despite their subdued look, a Bloodhound can be an energetic dog with powerful legs allowing them to track a scent over the most punishing terrains. You’ll need a strong leash, and plenty of time for long walks in places perfect for sniffing around.
7. Whippet
Often called “the poor man’s racehorse,” the Whippet is a smaller cousin of the Greyhound. They have the same sleek, muscular body and long nose as their larger relatives, which enables them to run remarkably fast for short bursts. And, the Whippet’s activity levels are also similar — they need to run, but are just as happy to kick back and relax for hours too.
With their friendly, gentle, and affectionate nature, Whippets are great with children of all ages, families, and seniors — making them the ideal companion pets. Originally they were bred to chase rabbits for sport, which makes games of Frisbee or ‘fetch’ combined with short walks the perfect exercise for this pooch.
Whippets enjoy a fenced yard to run in, but they also adapt to cozy apartments, as long as their exercise needs are met. One more plus for city dwellers is the Whippet rarely barks and is a robust, low-maintenance dog.
8. Pharaoh Hound
Another dog with long snout breed for coursing small game — that is, the Pharaoh Hound. But, what sets these canines apart from many other dogs with the longest nose is their unique ability to smile and even “blush” when they’re happy — their large pointy ears and nose turn pinkish — a glow lighting up their entire face.
Quick and tenacious when out on the hunt for rabbits, these affectionate hounds quickly settle down at home. Pharaohs are also reasonably straightforward to train, if you have sighthound experience. However, if they find themselves ‘free,’ don’t expect them to come back to you anytime soon — recall training doesn’t work with this breed.
Playful and energetic, the Pharaoh Hound literally has a nose for adventure. These loyal and protective dogs are happy hounds who just love spending time with their humans and playing with other canine companions.
9. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher may have a reputation for being one of the most dangerous dog breeds with a long snout. But this dog’s large nose matches the size of their heart. A deeply devoted breed, the Doberman Pinscher is a natural guardian dog, protective of those they’re close to.
A clever canine, the Doberman needs consistent training and mental stimulation to keep this traditional “alpha dog” happy. And, while not always friendly towards outsider canines, they will defend their family members, including other pets, from any real or perceived threats.
Affectionately called one of the “velcro dogs,” Dobermans are incredibly athletic and robust, making for a perfect running or hiking buddy. They also have a playful and often goofy side and can be excellent family dogs with older or well-behaved children.
10. Poodle (Standard)
Poodles may be better known for their allergy-friendly, curly coats, yet under those luscious curls lies a dog with a long nose.
Although many would argue their long snout adds to the elegance of this regal-looking pup, the Poodle’s snout also has a functional use. Originally bred as hunting water dogs, the extra sensory smelling skills of the nose would help them find and retrieve ducks and other waterfowl. In addition, the oxygen intake from a lengthier nose would enable them to be more agile with more endurance.
Poodles today are one of the most popular dogs with a long snout. They get along with all humans — family members, kids of all ages, and even strangers. One of the smartest dogs breeds, their willingness to please also means they’re highly trainable. But as they’re athletic dogs, they will need plenty of exercise.
Final Thoughts
A dog with a very long snout has a distinct advantage over other dogs who may have flat faces or smaller snouts. They can generally run faster and typically have better health too.
From the oldest dog with a big nose, the Saluki, to the smartest dog breed with a long snout, the Poodle. We’ve covered 10 of the most impressive breeds in the canine kingdom.
Nowadays, long snout dogs may not use their noses for their traditional purpose — but they still retain a regal elegance, which makes them special pets for everyone.Long Snout Dogs FAQs
Why Do Some Dogs Have Long Noses?
A long snout in dogs serves multiple purposes, including:
An enhanced sense of smell.
Improved breathing efficiency.
Specialized adaptations for hunting or tracking.
Do Dogs With Long Snouts Smell Better?
Long snout dogs often have an increased surface area for scent receptors in their nasal passages. However, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest their sense of smell is better than dogs with short noses.
Are Dogs With Very Long Snouts More Prone to Respiratory Issues?
Compared to flat-faced breeds (brachycephalic) like the Pug, Boxer, or Bulldog, long-nosed dogs are at low risk for respiratory issues. Their elongated snouts allow for better airflow and ventilation.
Do Dogs With Longest Snouts Have More Dental Problems?
No. Their long noses provide more space for proper teeth alignment and oral health. However, regular dental care is still essential for all dogs.
Are Dog Breeds With Long Snouts More Intelligent?
Intelligence varies among dog breeds, and it’s not solely determined by nose length. However, some long snout breeds, such as Poodles and Collies, are widely regarded as highly clever canines.