Some dogs come with big personalities—and even bigger grooming needs. Their coats don’t just grow; they demand attention, structure, and a bit of creativity. Understanding why these routines matter is the first step in becoming a confident caretaker.
High-maintenance coats often serve a purpose, from insulation to protection. But without proper care, they can quickly turn into tangles, mats, and discomfort. Knowing what your dog’s coat is trying to tell you can make grooming feel less like a chore and more like bonding.
If you’ve ever wondered why some pups need hours of brushing while others shake off dirt effortlessly, you’re not alone. Coat types vary wildly across breeds. Each comes with its own grooming rhythm.
With the right tools and techniques, even the fluffiest or curliest coats become manageable. It’s all about routine, patience, and a few helpful tricks. Dogs feel the difference when their coats are cared for.
So whether you’re dealing with nonstop shedding, stubborn knots, long-haired dogs, or fast-growing fur, this guide will help you handle it with confidence. Grooming doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It can even be fun once you know what to expect.
Dog Breeds with Intensive Grooming Routines
1. Poodle
The Poodle’s famous curls are more than a style—they’re a full-time grooming responsibility. Those tight, fluffy ringlets trap debris and form mats faster than many owners expect. Their coat grows continuously, making routine upkeep vital for comfort and overall coat health.
PDSA suggests that building a weekly schedule helps keep a Poodle’s coat manageable. Light daily brushing using a slicker brush keeps curls separated, while a weekly conditioning spritz reduces friction during grooming. Bathing every few weeks supports skin health and keeps their coat springy.
Common Coat Challenges Owners Face
Tight matting around ears and underarms
Dry curls that lose shape
Debris tangled in dense fur
Moisture trapped deep in the coat
Essential Grooming Needs
Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks
Daily brushing for curl maintenance
Regular trimming for hygiene and comfort
Blow-drying to maintain coat texture
Healthy grooming boosts blood circulation, supports skin integrity, and prevents mats from pulling at the skin. It also reduces odor and gives the Poodle that signature polished look.
Families who enjoy routine pet care find the Poodle a fantastic fit because the grooming becomes a bonding moment. Owners should reach out to a groomer when mats start forming in layers or when brushing becomes painful for the dog.
2. Shih Tzu
A Shih Tzu’s long, flowing coat is impressive, but it comes with grooming needs that require consistency. Their hair grows similarly to human hair, which means it can get tangled, greasy, or heavy if not maintained. The facial hair introduces extra demands, especially around the eyes.
Short, daily sessions make grooming easier for both dog and owner. A gentle comb-through helps prevent knots, while face cleaning keeps their expressive eyes clear. Using a lightweight leave-in conditioner helps the coat move naturally and stay soft.
Common Coat Challenges Owners Face
Tangles forming at the base of long strands
Tear staining around the eyes
Irritation in the facial folds
Dryness in the tail plume
Essential Grooming Needs
Daily eye and face cleaning
Brushing sessions several times a week
Bathing every 2–4 weeks
Professional trims to keep the coat lightweight
Purina notes that consistent grooming contributes to healthier skin and reduces eye irritation. It also prevents long hair from pulling, which can cause discomfort during play or rest.
The Shih Tzu fits wonderfully with owners who appreciate hands-on coat care and enjoy styling their dog. Groomers should be consulted when mats form behind the ears or when tear staining becomes difficult to manage.
3. Maltese
The Maltese has a silky, floor-length coat that feels luxurious but needs attentive care. Their hair lacks an undercoat, making it prone to tangling close to the skin. The long strands also attract dust, so regular upkeep keeps them looking bright and cloud-white.
Creating a routine with gentle steps makes grooming satisfying rather than stressful. Many owners brush each morning lightly to keep the strands smooth and airy. Using a soft detangling spray before brushing helps reduce breakage and keeps the coat shining.
Common Coat Challenges Owners Face
Stubborn knots near the collar area
Tear stains that discolor the face
Breakage in fine hair fibers
Moisture trapped in the long fringe
Essential Grooming Needs
Frequent brushing to keep the coat flowing
Regular baths with a gentle whitening shampoo
Eye-area cleaning for brightness
Professional trims for maintenance and shape
Proper grooming supports skin clarity, reduces irritation, and helps the Maltese maintain its feather-light coat. It’s also essential for keeping the dog cool and comfortable.
PetMD claims that this cute breed suits owners who love a polished, elegant look and enjoy keeping up with steady grooming routines. Grooming assistance is recommended when tear stains worsen or when the coat forms a dense knot that resists brushing.
4. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound’s dramatic coat is one of the most iconic in the dog world. Their hair is long, fine, and silky—traits that create beauty and extra work. This coat evolved for insulation in harsh environments, which explains its volume and tendency to tangle.
Grooming becomes more enjoyable with tools laid out ahead of time and plenty of patience. Weekly bath-and-blow-dry sessions help keep the coat flowing smoothly. Using a wide-tooth comb reduces friction while preserving that elegant drape.
Common Coat Challenges Owners Face
Large mats form behind the legs
Strands tangling after outdoor adventures
Silky hair breaking when brushed dry
Moisture is trapped near the skin layer
Essential Grooming Needs
Comprehensive brushing multiple times a week
Coat conditioning during baths
Thorough blow-drying after every wash
High-quality combs and brushes that protect fine hair
A well-maintained coat boosts airflow to the skin and reduces the risk of painful tangles. Grooming promotes natural shine and helps the dog move gracefully.
The Afghan Hound fits homes that appreciate a regal companion and don’t mind dedicating real time to grooming sessions. Professional help is needed if mats spread across large areas or when the coat clumps after a missed grooming cycle.
5. Puli
The Puli stands out with its signature corded coat, which requires a unique approach. Unlike traditional fur, the Puli’s coat forms cords that start as soft fluff and tighten over time. This specialized coat protected the dog during its herding origins, but it needs committed upkeep today.
Hands-on maintenance keeps the cords healthy and uniform. Owners gently separate cords as they grow to ensure they form clean, even shapes. Bathing takes patience because cords must dry completely to prevent odors.
Common Coat Challenges Owners Face
Cords fusing at the roots
Moisture lingering deep inside the cords
Debris caught between tight layers
Uneven cord thickness
Essential Grooming Needs
Regular cord separation
Thorough drying after baths
Occasional trimming for hygiene
Frequent checks for hidden dirt
A well-maintained Puli coat improves airflow and keeps skin healthy. Proper cord care helps prevent irritation and maintains the dog’s classic look.
Pulik suit owners who love hands-on grooming and enjoy working closely with their dog. Professional help becomes important if cords mat into large clumps or if drying takes too long and creates a damp smell.
6. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise’s plush, cotton-like coat is soft to the touch and full of charm. Its texture springs back naturally, giving the breed its signature powder-puff silhouette. This coat type rarely sheds, which increases the need for intentional grooming.
Short, cheerful grooming sessions help keep the coat clean and bright. Light brushing every day keeps the fluff airy, while scheduled trims maintain the rounded look. Pairing grooming with treats can turn the routine into a fun experience.
Common Coat Challenges Owners Face
Tight curls matting close to the skin
Stains forming around the mouth
Fluff flattening without regular brushing
Dryness that reduces coat volume
Essential Grooming Needs
Frequent brushing to maintain buoyancy
Full grooming appointments every 4–6 weeks
Regular baths for coat brightness
Face cleaning to reduce discoloration
Healthy grooming keeps the skin free of irritation and encourages even coat growth. Consistent care maintains the breed’s lively expression and fluffy charm.
Bichons thrive in homes where regular brushing fits naturally into the lifestyle. A groomer should be contacted when mats tighten along the legs or when the coat loses volume and becomes patchy or when there is a skin infection.
7. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog’s thick, shaggy double coat is legendary for both beauty and upkeep. Its texture was designed for harsh weather, which explains the insulation and heavy layers. This coat traps hair, dust, and moisture easily, making routine grooming essential.
Breaking grooming into stages makes it more manageable. Many owners brush one section of the coat per day, so the process feels balanced. A sturdy pin brush and undercoat rake help reach deep layers without causing discomfort.
Common Coat Challenges Owners Face
Shedding that becomes trapped inside the coat
Large mats form beneath the top layer
Moisture is locked near the skin
Debris was tangled in the long outer coat
Essential Grooming Needs
Layered brushing through both coat types
Regular undercoat removal
Scheduled baths with thorough drying
Professional de-matting when needed
Strong grooming habits encourage airflow through the dense coat and prevent skin irritation. The dog feels lighter, cleaner, and more comfortable during activity.
This breed works well for owners with time, space, and a love for grooming challenges. Professional assistance is recommended when mats cover large sections or when the undercoat becomes too thick to brush through comfortably.
Conclusion
High-maintenance breeds may ask for regular grooming, but keeping a dog’s coat healthy can be surprisingly fun with the right grooming techniques. Even breeds we didn’t cover—like the Siberian Husky, Cocker Spaniel, and Komondor—benefit from weekly brushing and simple habits that prevent tangles and skin issues.
A consistent schedule of ear cleaning, nail trimming, and frequent grooming keeps thick coats, longer coats, and dense double coat types in good condition. It also helps manage shedding and removes dead fur that can lead to skin irritation.
If certain breeds feel a bit demanding, professional groomers can make dog grooming easier. Start today, try positive reinforcement, and enjoy the process—your dog deserves great care!
