Dogs with prominent long noses have a distinctive streamlined appearance, due to which they are valued by dog lovers. Having a history as racing or hunting dogs, these canines make wonderful companions for the right household.
Dogs with long noses are called “dolichocephalic,” opposite to the flat-faced breeds that are called “brachycephalic.” Their prominent noses are the result of selective breeding. Obviously, their long noses serve a purpose.
They have around 300 million olfactory receptors, which means these pooches have an excellent sense of smell. These dogs can detect scents from far off distances and have often been used as tracking dogs and search and rescue pups.
Have a look at some of these dog breeds known for their prominent noses.
Top Dog Breeds Known for Their Prominent Noses
1. Bloodhound
True example of gentle giants, Bloodhounds have the strongest nose in the canine world. They make the most loyal and loving family pets, but don’t let their sweet disposition fool you. They were bred as hunting dogs and can track scents better than anybody else.
Along with long ears and floppy jowls, a long snout is a prominent feature in this breed. Their long ears capture the scent particles and direct them towards their long noses, which have millions of olfactory receptors.
Looking at their sad eyes and adorable faces, you will be compelled to snuggle, and your Bloodhound will give you the most slobbery kisses in return. A Bloodhound can follow a scent for over 130 miles. Once they start following a trail, they will not stop until it ends or the subject is found.
2. German Shepherd
German Shepherd is a devoted and intelligent working dog breed with striking facial markings, perked up ears, and a long snout. Thanks to their confident personality, unmatched bravery, and incredible endurance, GSDs have a long history of working as military dogs and police dogs.
Their long noses have plenty of scent receptors, which enable them to detect scents that are impossible for humans to detect. Due to this reason, German Shepherds have been an important part of bomb detection squads and search and rescue missions.
German Shepherds are highly athletic, loaded with energy. They are immensely loyal to their humans and love spending time with them. They are willing to sacrifice their lives in defense of loved ones. Being protective of their owners and wary of strangers, GSDs make excellent guard dogs.
3. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers were originally bred as guard dogs. Their muscular bodies, agility. and stamina enable them to stand firm against all potential threats. It means they can go to any extent to protect you.
Dobermans are known for their laser-like focus and keen sense of smell. Facial features include piercing eyes and a prominent, long nose. Their athletic build and robustness make them excellent running and hiking partners.
Dobermans require plenty of exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Their keen senses, behavioral traits, and physical features enable them to work in the military and police. Additionally, Dobermans’ sharp sense of smell enables them to become a part of search and rescue missions.
4. Greyhound
Having folded ears, lanky legs, and long noses, Greyhounds are often called the “fastest couch potatoes.” This old dog breed was bred for sight hunting and racing, and is still known for its super speed. Greyhounds are sprinters who love a good chase but are calm and gentle at the same time.
Their distinctive long snouts play an important role in enhancing their olfactory abilities and contribute to their aerodynamic structure, enabling them to run at lightning-fast speeds. However, due to their low body fat, these fastest dogs are sensitive to cold and hot weather.
Therefore, avoid going out with your Greyhound in extreme heat and don’t forget to buy a doggy sweater in winter. Since they are not overly energetic, Greyhounds need an hour of daily exercise to stay fit. Instead of going for long walks, they prefer a good couple of runs, explains PDSA.
5. Collie
You may know this breed as Lassie from the famous TV series. Collies exude happiness and charm with their sweet smile, almond-shaped eyes, and folded ears. Their distinctive long noses add to their adorable looks.
Collies were originally bred as herding dogs and are still known for their friendly and playful demeanor. They cherish being with their favorite humans and are very vocal and attentive. Collies can become anxious if left alone or bored for too long.
These active and athletic pooches require at least two hours of daily exercise. Exercise may include walks, hikes, jogs, and dog sports like agility, lure coursing, and herding trials. Collies are very smart and respond well to training due to their eager-to-please nature.
6. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a sight hound, recognized by its flowing coat and long nose. These free-spirited canines were originally bred to hunt in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan. Afghan Hounds are excellent at hunting small game and modern dog sports like lure coursing, explains PetMD.
Their historical role contributes to their independent personality and aloof temperament. Afghan Hounds may not be comfortable meeting new people and tend to be reserved around them. However, they form strong bonds with their people.
Their long snouts enhance their keen sense of smell. These dignified dogs have a high prey drive, so it is important to supervise them around children and small animals like squirrels and rabbits. Afghan Hounds are quite athletic and require at least an hour of daily exercise.
7. Pharaoh Hound
Pharaoh Hounds are playful and energetic dogs that were bred for hunting. They can steal hearts with their regal stature, large eyes, pointy ears, and long snouts. Pharaoh Hounds are quick and tenacious on scents, thanks to their distinctive noses.
Pharaoh Hounds are sleek and aerodynamic coursing hounds bred for navigating rocky terrains, explains the AKC. They are often known as “blushing dogs” due to their ability to smile and a unique way of blushing when happy or excited.
These happy and affectionate canines love spending time with their humans. They make wonderful playmates and companions. Pharaoh Hounds do well with regular physical exercise and mental stimulation. Interactive toys and puzzles can be a great way to engage them.
8. Saluki
One of the oldest breeds in history, the Saluki is the most cherished canine companion. They are recognized by their feathered ears, slender build, and long snouts. Salukis have a narrow head, expressive eyes, and strong jaws.
Saluki is a rare dog breed that has an innate love for running and hunting. They are skilled sprinters who need an ample amount of exercise every day and will be thrilled to accompany you on jogging or hiking. Salukis also enjoy long walks and playing with interactive toys.
Like other hounds, Salukis have a high prey drive, so they should always be kept on leash and allowed to run freely only in a closed yard. They love to interact with the people they know, but do not like strangers.
Salukis should not be kept away from their pet parents for too long, as they are prone to separation anxiety.
9. Borzoi
Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a graceful and elegant dog breed with a distinctive long snout. The long nose is not only for looks, but it also enables them to grab things. They probably have the longest snouts in the dog world.
Originally bred to hunt wolves in Russia, their name literally translates to “swift.” Borzoi dogs are gentle and loyal by nature, but can be aloof at times. They have independent personalities and need plenty of exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
Having a cat-like temperament, Borzois make wonderful family pets. They have an easygoing personality but are quite robust. Despite their athleticism, Borzois enjoy snuggling up next to you on the couch once they have received adequate physical and mental enrichment.
10. Whippet
Whippets are one of the most loving pooches with long noses. They have a gentle nature and a knack for running. Having a slim stature, Whippets were initially bred as hunting dogs. They yearn for attention and affection from their humans and make wonderful family pets.
These playful and affectionate canines are well-suited for owners who spend most of their time at home. Whippets have a high prey drive, so you have to monitor them around small animals and children. Early training and socialization are important to turn them into well-behaved pets.
Whippets are sprinters by nature and enjoy games like flying disc. They also like going on long walks with their favorite humans. Whippets have a short and easy coat that requires minimal grooming. Only weekly brushing will suffice.
Conclusion
Every dog has its own unique behavioral or physical traits. Some breeds are recognized by pointy ears, while others are known for their muscular bodies. Similarly, some pooches have a long nose as a prominent facial feature.
Mostly, hunting dogs have prominent noses as it was required for their historical role. Dog breeds with long noses have plenty of olfactory receptors in their noses.
As a result, they have an excellent sense of smell. Additionally, the long snouts contribute to a more aerodynamic body shape, which enables the dogs to run faster.
