Some dogs are born to be fluffy, fabulous, and… a little bit high-maintenance. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a dog with a show-stopping coat, be prepared for the dedication that comes with it.
Labor-intensive coat care dog breeds are the supermodels of the canine world—their luxurious locks don’t just happen by chance. These breeds require serious time, tools, and grooming skills to keep their coats in top condition. But here’s the thing: grooming isn’t a chore for the right owner—it’s a joy.
It’s a chance to bond, to create a routine, and to enjoy the satisfaction of seeing your dog look and feel their best. If you’re up for the challenge (and the fluff), these breeds will reward you with loyalty, love, and jaw-dropping good looks.
We will take you through the most beautiful but high-maintenance coat types in the dog world, what makes them so demanding, and how to care for them like a pro.
Labor Intensive Coat Care Dog Breeds
1. Portuguese Water Dog
Don’t be fooled by the name—this pup isn’t just splashing around carefree like a Labrador on vacation. The Portuguese Water Dog is a curly-coated aquatic athlete with the grooming needs of a high-maintenance influencer. That beautiful, tight curl doesn’t detangle itself, honey.
Compact and muscular, with webbed feet and a waterproof jacket of hair that’s more functional than fabulous—unless you’re into that rugged surfer look. As per WebMD, unlike many other water-loving breeds, Portuguese Water Dogs do not have an undercoat.
These dogs were once the fishermen’s best buddies in Portugal, herding fish and acting like lifeguards before Baywatch made it cool.
Today, they require regular brushing (think 2–3 times a week) and professional grooming every month. Without it, they go from “adorable sea sponge” to “dreadlocked pirate dog” real quick.
Pro Tip: You’ll need grooming tools such as a detangler spray, a sturdy brush, and patience. So much patience.
2. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are like the cranky aristocrats of the dog world. With their lion-like mane and resting wrinkled face, they look like they rule ancient kingdoms—and honestly, they kind of act like it too.
With a massive mane framing its face like royalty, a blue-black tongue that looks like it was dipped in ink, and a serious, squinty stare, this breed is a royal advisor trapped in a dog’s body.
This breed comes with one of the thickest double coats out there, and let me tell you, that coat is a full-time job. Brushing them every other day is a must unless you want a fur-matted statue taking over your couch.
Plus, these high-maintenance dogs shed like it’s their hobby, especially during seasonal changes when they “blow their coat”—a phrase that sounds cute until you see the aftermath.
Fun Fact: Chow Chows are clean dogs by nature… but good luck keeping them that way.
3. Samoyed
Oh, the Samoyed. Also known as the “Smiling Sammy,” this pup is so cute it hurts, but be prepared for loose hair everywhere. Literally, that fluff traps heat like a sauna, and if you’re not brushing them often, you’ll have a mat the size of a small town under there.
Originally bred to herd reindeer and guard against predators in freezing Siberia, this wolf-dog breed is naturally alert and deeply devoted to its people. They may not have the tough-guy image of other guard breeds, but they’re excellent at sensing danger and aren’t afraid to speak up with a hearty bark.
Plus, their friendly yet protective nature makes them wonderful family companions—like a walking security blanket that’s also down for a snowball fight. As per PetMD, although Samoyeds are hardworking dogs, they are also very playful and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep boredom at bay.
That luxurious white coat? It’s not self-cleaning, especially during seasonal shedding periods. Samoyeds shed constantly and need regular brushing, especially during the infamous “coat blow.” Picture a snowstorm—but inside your house. And you’re the unlucky meteorologist.
They also love to dig, roll in mud, and bring all the nature inside with them like little snowy tornadoes. But somehow, you still forgive them because… look at that face.
Grooming Samoyed = Gym workout + Meditation + Snowstorm survival training.
4. Cocker Spaniel
You might recognize the Cocker Spaniel as Lady from Lady and the Tramp—elegant, sweet, and date-night material over a plate of spaghetti. But what didn’t Disney show you? That gorgeous, silky coat is a magnet for mats, mud, and mayhem.
With long, feathered ears that flow like a shampoo commercial in slow motion, the Cocker Spaniel is all about elegance… and ear flaps. Compact in size but blessed with big, soulful eyes and a constantly wagging tail, this pup’s physical features scream “pet me now, brush me later.”
Known for their affectionate nature, these small dogs are incredibly loyal and tend to form tight bonds with their humans. They’ll happily sound the alarm if something (or someone) unfamiliar pops up, especially if it interrupts their nap or snack time. Sure, they might not tackle an intruder, but they’ll let you know he’s there—with dramatic flair.
Cocker Spaniels have fine, feathery hair that needs daily brushing to stay tangle-free. Skipping a few days? Say hello to dreadlocks that even Bob Marley would raise an eyebrow at.
Plus, their floppy ears trap moisture like a sponge, which means routine ear cleaning is essential, or you’ll be on a first-name basis with your vet.
Pro Tip: Keep the coat trimmed if you’re not ready for time-consuming salon-level upkeep. Or just accept the chaos and call it “boho chic.”
5. Old English Sheepdog
Imagine owning a mop that barks and occasionally disappears in a snowstorm. That’s the Old English Sheepdog in all its mop-tastic glory.
This walking fluff ball looks like someone glued cotton balls to a bear. With a strong, square body buried under layers of soft, shaggy fur (and eyes you may never see), it’s a mystery wrapped in wool.
Their dense double coat is not only long but also soft and insulating—aka the perfect storm for matting. Grooming them is not a task, it’s a commitment. Think: brushing several times a week, frequent baths, and enough conditioner to qualify for a salon discount.
Known for their gentle demeanor and goofy charm, these dogs are affectionate with their families and great with kids, often earning the title of “nanny dog.” But when it comes to guarding, they’ve got serious instincts.
With a booming bark and an alert nature, they’re quick to let you know if something’s off, though they’ll likely do it with a tail wag and a polite “Excuse me, there’s trouble afoot.” Think of them as the warm-hearted woolly bouncer of your home.
And yes, they are moderate shedders. A lot. Despite what some breeders may say about them being “hypoallergenic.” Lies. All lies. Prepare your vacuum accordingly.
Bonus: That shaggy hair also covers their eyes, so they occasionally walk into things. You’ll laugh. They’ll pretend it didn’t happen.
6. Afghan Hound
Ever seen a dog with better hair than you? Meet the Afghan Hound. Elegant, mysterious, and judging your fashion choices.
It’s tall and slim with a long neck and face. This dog looks very fancy and graceful when it moves. The most distinctive feature is their floor-length, flowing, silky coat; Afghan Hounds could easily land a Pantene commercial. But behind that red carpet look is a daily grooming regime that rivals Hollywood prep rooms.
That silky hair tangles like nobody’s business, especially if your Afghan has any concept of “playtime” (spoiler: they do).
They also have a regal attitude. You’ll be brushing them for 45 minutes, and they’ll just sit there, probably thinking about how peasants like you should be honored to serve them.
Real Talk: This is not a beginner’s breed. It’s more like owning an exotic runway model who enjoys sprinting at 40 mph and then lounging dramatically on your furniture.
7. Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie, or “Beardie” if you’re on a nickname basis, looks like a shaggy professor who lives in the countryside and probably plays the banjo. That windswept, slightly disheveled look? Intentional—but not effortless.
Bearded Collies have long, messy fur that covers their face and body. They’re medium to large dogs with strong, lean bodies. Their “beard” makes them look like wise old dogs.
Their long, flowing double coat is thick, soft, and tangles faster than headphone wires in your pocket. Grooming a Beardie isn’t just brushing—it’s an event. We’re talking daily comb-throughs, detangling, and plenty of treats to bribe cooperation. Skip a day, and your brush might come out with its beard.
According to the AKC, these dogs get bored easily, so training should be engaging and varied. Active families seeking a sturdy companion for a lively lifestyle will find them to be affectionate and entertaining sidekicks.
Bonus Quirk: Their bangs often cover their eyes, so they develop the cutest habit of peeking through their hair like they’re always judging your life choices.
8. Maltese
If dog breeds had an exclusive spa club, the Maltese would be the founder, CEO, and brand ambassador.
The Maltese is small and light with straight, white hair that reaches the floor if not trimmed, requiring regular grooming to maintain. It has a cute, round face and big, dark eyes. Its coat is soft and shiny.
Underneath that white cloud of hair is a dog so dainty, it practically floats. But that floor-length silk coat? Not for the faint of heart. If you let it grow, it needs daily brushing, regular baths, detangling, and even eye stain cleaning because—yes—beauty has no time for tear stains.
Many Maltese parents opt for a “puppy cut” just to reclaim their weekends. Without it, you’ll need the patience of a monk and the styling skills of a runway hairstylist.
Small dog, big diva energy. They don’t walk—they prance. Preferably across a tufted velvet cushion.
Fun Fact: The Maltese has been a royal lapdog for centuries—even ancient Romans believed they could heal people just by sleeping on their pillows!
9. Yorkshire Terrier
Tiny, fearless, and rocking hair shinier than yours on your best day, the Yorkshire Terrier is the fashion influencer of the dog world.
The Yorkie is a tiny dog with long, straight hair that looks like human hair. It usually has a steel-blue and tan coat. Its face is small and alert, and it often wears bows to keep hair out of its eyes.
That glossy, human-like hair flows with drama and elegance—but it doesn’t grow like a regular dog’s coat. Nope. It keeps growing, tangles like mad, and demands frequent brushing to prevent matting (Okay, maybe not a whole squirrel, but at least a pinecone.)
Also, Yorkies are very aware of how fabulous they are. They’ll strut their stuff through your house like it’s Fashion Week, expecting admiration… and snacks.
Pro Tip: Keep hair out of their eyes with a bow or clip. Not just for cuteness—it’s a lifestyle.
Conclusion
Some high-maintenance dog breeds, such as the Shih Tzu, require extensive dog grooming to stay healthy and groomed. Breeds like the Shih Tzu, Old English Sheepdog, Siberian Husky, and Bichon Frise have dense coats, silky fur, or intricate coats that demand frequent grooming sessions and proper grooming techniques to prevent tangles, avoid matting, and control loose fur and seasonal shedding.
These long-haired breeds, including some heavy shedders, often go through time-consuming, labour-intensive grooming routines involving regular brushing, regular trimming, and drying with a blow dryer to dry completely after baths. Proper care and the use of the right tools are essential to manage their unique coat and avoid painful tangles.
While breeds like the French Bulldog are considered low maintenance, many pet owners still opt for professional grooming for high-maintenance dogs to ensure their dogs’ health and appearance. Many owners find it helpful to rely on a professional groomer to manage the grooming requirements of these breeds.
