What is it about long-haired dogs that makes people stop and stare? Maybe it’s the way their coats seem to frame their expressions, or how their fluff, waves, or feathering highlight every bit of their personality.
Long-haired breeds come with a wide range of temperaments, from quiet and thoughtful to lively and playful, and each one brings something special to the home.
This guide explores popular long-haired dogs through two important lenses: who they are and how to care for their coats. Some breeds enjoy constant companionship, while others shine during outdoor adventures or structured activities.
Their grooming needs can vary just as much, from simple weekly brushing to more involved routines for full, flowing coats.
Whether you’re drawn to elegance, rugged fluff, or something in between, you’ll find plenty to love as you learn what it takes to live happily with these beautifully coated companions.
Lovely Long-Haired Dog Breeds: Personality & Grooming
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is celebrated for its exceptionally long, silky coat that flows gracefully as the dog moves. According to the AKC, the breed’s history dates back thousands of years in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, where its coat served as protection against harsh climates.
Its tall, slim build speaks of a sighthound designed for speed, agility, and endurance.
Personality within this breed is both dignified and surprisingly playful; while it may appear regal and aloof at first, many Afghan Hounds form strong bonds with their families and can show a fun-loving side at home.
In grooming the coat, a lot of attention is required: the silky hair needs regular brushing and care to prevent mats and to preserve that show-style look. The breed is best suited to owners who appreciate grooming commitment and value an elegant companion.
The breed does not typically rush to greet strangers; rather, it moves with poise and observes before engaging. Because of its long coat and lithe frame, outdoor activity in cool environments suits it best, and indoor environments where coat maintenance is respected.
Fun Fact
Among the oldest officially recognized dog breeds, the Afghan Hound once hunted large game such as deer and leopards in its native land, relying on its speed and keen eyesight.
2. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small, long-haired breed initially bred in Tibet as a sentinel dog within remote monasteries, its coat thick and flowing to endure cold mountain air. Its long, straight coat often reaches the ground and requires regular brushing if kept in full length.
This dog has a mix of alert watchdog instincts and affectionate behavior with familiar people; while independent and somewhat aloof with strangers, it thrives on attention and mental stimulation at home.
Grooming is key: owners who wish to maintain that full, silky coat must commit to consistent brushing and sometimes professional trimming to avoid mats and tangles, as noted by PetMD. Despite its luxurious coat, the Lhasa Apso is relatively low in high-energy exercise needs but higher in grooming demands.
Because of its origin as a temple guardian, the breed carries serious devotion to family while retaining an aristocratic bearing. The distinctive long coat alongside its compact frame makes it striking visually yet manageable in space when groomed properly.
Fun Fact
The name “Lhasa Apso” roughly translates to “bearded lion dog,” referencing its flowing facial furnishings and proud expression in its original Tibetan role.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a long-haired toy breed known for its silky, feathered coat and friendly, people-oriented temperament. The small size of the CKCS makes it well-suited to both apartment living and family households.
Its grooming needs include regular brush-throughs and brushing to avoid tangles in the feathering.
Personality-wise, Cavaliers are affectionate and sociable, eager to please, and compatible with children and other pets when introduced properly.
As per PDSA, they enjoy moderate daily exercise such as walks or playtime, but they also appreciate curling up on the couch as a loyal companion. Health considerations for this breed include certain inherited conditions, making breeder selection and care important.
The coat’s feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail gives the Cavalier its classic look and contributes to its appeal as a long-haired family companion.
With clear guidance, socialization, and grooming routines, this breed integrates smoothly into daily life while offering that silky-coated charm.
Fun Fact
This breed was named after King Charles II of England, who was particularly fond of his small spaniels that resemble modern Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in companionable temperament.
4. Maltese
The Maltese breed is famed for its long, straight, pure-white coat and diminutive size. Originating near the Mediterranean island of Malta more than 2,500 years ago, this toy dog has a history as a beloved companion among aristocrats.
Its luxurious white coat requires consistent grooming attention to maintain its sleek appearance.
Despite its size, the Maltese is lively and playful, thriving on attention, affection, and interactive play with its human family. While comfortable in smaller living spaces, it still enjoys regular short walks and indoor playtime to channel its energy.
Grooming for the Maltese involves daily brushing if the coat is left long, or regular trimming if kept in a shorter “puppy cut.” Because of its heritage and coat type, prevention of tangles around the ears and body is key to both appearance and comfort.
Fun Fact
Ancient texts refer to the Maltese as “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” and archaeological finds show similar dogs served as beloved companions over two millennia ago.
5. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a compact, long-haired toy breed originally bred in imperial Chinese courts, where its lush double coat and expressive face earned it the nickname “little lion.”
The coat requires regular grooming, such as brushing several times a week or occasional trimming, especially if the coat is kept long. Though small in size, the Shih Tzu carries a confident, friendly presence suitable for home life.
This breed enjoys both relaxed indoor lounging and light outdoor activity. Shih Tzus are affectionate and eager to be part of the family, thriving on companionship and guidance from their owners.
They are generally easy to train with positive reinforcement, and they adapt well to households with children and other pets when socialized early.
Grooming attention should include face and eye areas, given the long coat and facial furnishings, as well as regular dental and ear care common to long-haired toy breeds.
Fun Fact
The term “Shih Tzu” means “lion dog,” and the breed was once bred exclusively for Chinese royalty, reflecting a regal history despite its toy size.
6. Skye Terrier
The Skye Terrier is a distinctive long-haired dog originally bred on Scotland’s Isle of Skye to hunt small game, stepping lightly over rugged terrain.
Its coat falls straight and long over a low, sturdy frame, giving the dog a unique silhouette that is nearly twice as long as it is tall. Under that silky outer layer lies a muscular build that served its working roots well.
Personality-wise, this breed is loyal and highly devoted to its family. The Skye Terrier tends to form strong bonds, often preferring to stay near its people rather than roam freely outdoors all day.
For grooming, the long flowing coat demands regular brushing to avoid tangles, especially around the ears and legs, where debris can collect.
Despite its elegant coat and regal presence, the Skye Terrier has moderate exercise needs and is often content with daily walks and interactive play.
The breed’s historical role as a dedicated small-game hunter gives it a quietly confident nature rather than a constantly active one. Caring for a Skye Terrier involves blending grooming enthusiasm with appreciation for its gentle yet alert character.
Fun Fact
The Skye Terrier is considered “long and low” in build, meaning its body length is nearly double the height at the shoulder, a rare form among terriers.
7. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is celebrated for its massive, shaggy double coat and its heritage as a drover dog in England, where it helped move cattle to market over rugged ground. Its characteristic “bear-like shuffle” walk, heavy bone, and profuse coat make it instantly recognizable.
Beneath the fluff, this breed carries strength, agility, and work-dog roots.
Temperament in this breed is typically affectionate and playful with family members, often showing a fun-loving side, especially with children. It can be protective of its household, yet generally remains gentle in demeanor when trained and socialized properly.
Grooming needs are significant: weekly to several times per week brushing is commonly recommended to keep the coat free from mats and debris.
Because of the coat’s volume and texture, pet parents should be prepared for regular grooming, attention to ears and eye areas, and moderate exercise to maintain health and comfort.
The Old English Sheepdog’s combination of size, personality, and coat makes it a standout for someone comfortable with grooming commitment and a sturdy presence in their home.
Fun Fact
Despite its traditional tail docking, most modern Old English Sheepdogs now carry their tails, but the nickname “bobtail” still sticks in popular culture.
8. Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie, often affectionately called “Beardie,” is a spirited herding dog from Scotland, prized for its long, flowing coat and lively personality. Its coat includes a soft underlayer and a rough outer coat that ripples with movement, and often a distinctive “beard” under the muzzle.
Originally bred to drive sheep and cattle, the Beardie combines work-dog energy with a friendly temperament.
This breed thrives when given a job or purposeful play; it enjoys long walks, outdoor activity, and occasions to use its intelligence. At home, it is loyal and affectionate, making a good companion for families who lead active lives.
Grooming is one of the major commitments: the long coat requires regular brushing to avoid mats and maintain its distinctive look.
Because of its herding heritage, the Bearded Collie may respond best to training that includes direction and interaction, helping channel its instincts.
Overall, the breed offers a combination of playful enthusiasm, charming appearance, and family-friendly character for those prepared for grooming and lively participation.
Fun Fact
Bearded Collies were once known colloquially as “Scotch Sheepdogs,” and their coat color often lightens as they mature, making each dog’s appearance truly distinctive.
9. Havanese
The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba, prized for its silky, long coat, cheerful expression, and friendly disposition that suits both apartments and family homes.
Its ancestors were brought to the island from Europe, and the breed found favor among aristocrats before being refined by modern breeders.
Temperament in the Havanese is outgoing, affectionate, and smart; the breed typically forms strong bonds with people and enjoys participating in games or light training. They thrive on human connection and thrive in indoor settings with moderate daily play and walks.
The coat requires regular brushing to avoid tangles and a care routine to maintain its silky texture, but its size makes the grooming manageable compared to larger long-haired breeds.
Socialization from puppyhood ensures the Havanese shares space well with other pets, and because of its friendly nature, it suits homes seeking a warm, long-haired companion.
For those wanting a small long-haired dog with personality, elegance, and adaptability, the Havanese certainly earns attention.
Fun Fact
The Havanese was once known as the “Havana Silk Dog,” thanks to its long, soft coat and prominence among Cuban nobility centuries ago.
Conclusion
Long-haired dogs bring charm, personality, and luxurious fur that appeal to people who enjoy a fluffy dog breed with a distinct appearance and expressive eyes.
Their long hair, dense double coat, or curly coat often requires frequent brushing and occasional professional grooming, but the reward is a companion with an affectionate nature and wonderful presence.
Many small fluffy dogs and little dogs thrive as family pets, while breeds with thick coats or a dense undercoat can handle cooler weather and remain incredibly affectionate toward their families.
Even with seasonal shedding, these dogs offer endless joy and affectionate personalities that make them great family pets and excellent pets for homes that enjoy regular grooming time.
Other dog breeds, such as the Yorkshire Terrier, Bernese Mountain Dog, Bichon Frise, Siberian Huskies, Chow Chows, and even a short-haired dog with long-coat mixes, can also be wonderful companions that get along beautifully with other dogs.
