There’s something magical about long haired dog breeds that instantly steals attention. With flowing long hair, soft fur, and a shiny silky coat, these dogs don’t just enter a room—they glide in.
Their eye-catching beauty and fluffy charm make long haired dogs impossible to ignore.
Of course, their appeal goes far beyond looks. Most long haired breeds are also known as great family dogs and loving companion dogs.
Many were originally bred for work or protection, but today they’re happiest sharing everyday moments with pet parents.
Whether enjoying short walks or relaxing at home, their affectionate nature helps them bond easily with people and other pets.
With all that beauty comes a little extra care. Regular brushing, proper grooming, and thoughtful coat care help prevent tangles and manage loose fur.
While long haired dogs harder to maintain than a short haired dog, their luxurious locks and fluffy coats make the effort feel completely worth it.
Lovely Long-Haired Dog Breeds to Adore and Cherish
1. Afghan Hound
If dogs had red carpets, the Afghan Hound would steal the spotlight every time. With its long, flowing coat and graceful walk, this breed looks like it knows it’s glamorous.
Every step feels dramatic, every pose looks effortless, and those silky locks make heads turn wherever it goes.
This breed isn’t just about looks, though. Originating from the cold mountains of Afghanistan, its thick coat once served as natural protection against harsh weather.
As a sighthound, it prefers using speed and sharp eyesight over noise, which is why it’s known for being calm and relatively quiet.
Sweet and gentle at heart, the Afghan Hound can also be a little independent, so patience is key when it comes to training.
Grooming Needs
Caring for an Afghan Hound is like maintaining a luxury hairstyle. Daily brushing, light misting, and regular baths are musts.
It’s high maintenance, yes—but the stunning result makes every grooming session worth it.
2. Bearded Collie
Imagine a dog with boundless energy and a coat that seems to have its own personality—that’s the Bearded Collie!
With its long, shaggy hair bouncing as it runs, this breed looks like it’s always ready for fun.
Its expressive face, framed by a fluffy mane, gives it an adorable and slightly mischievous charm that makes everyone smile.
Originally bred as a herding dog, the Bearded Collie is full of spirit and loves staying active. Whether it’s chasing a ball or racing through open fields, this lively pup brings excitement everywhere.
Friendly and affectionate, the Bearded Collie gets along well with people and other pets, making it a joyful addition to family life.
Grooming Needs
That amazing shaggy luxurious coat does need some attention! Regular brushing helps prevent tangles and keeps the fur looking soft and healthy.
While grooming takes time, the payoff is a wonderful companion with a coat that practically begs for extra scratches and cuddles.
3. Bolognese
Meet the Bolognese, a tiny cloud of fluff with a soft, all-white coat and a square, sturdy little body.
This charming companion dog is intelligent, witty, and loves bonding with its humans, making it a perfect lapdog with personality.
Originally from Italy, the Bolognese is calm, easygoing, and playful in short bursts. While it may be shy around strangers, it warms up quickly when properly socialized.
As per AKC, these pups don’t like being left alone for long periods, so they’re ideal for retirees or homes where someone is around most of the day.
Grooming Needs
With a soft, non-shedding coat, the Bolognese requires consistent grooming and occasional baths.
Trimming around the eyes, nail care, ear checks, and teeth brushing help keep this little fluff healthy.
Many owners prefer a short coat for easier maintenance while keeping its adorable mop-head look.
4. Briard
Meet the Briard, a rugged, long-haired French beauty with a history as impressive as its flowing coat.
As per PetMD, originally bred to herd and guard sheep, this ancient breed moves with the grace of “quicksilver,” making sudden turns and leaps like a pro athlete.
While they’ve traded farm life for family life, their energy and instincts remain strong, so keeping them active is a must.
These dogs thrive on jobs or adventures, whether it’s hiking, running, or biking alongside their humans.
Intelligent, confident, and independent, Briards are also natural herders—so expect them to keep an eye on kids and new pets.
They are devoted companions who love being near their people but still carry the pride of a working breed.
Grooming Needs
The Briard’s long, wavy dense double coat comes in black, tawny, or gray and repels dirt and water.
Regular grooming in form of frequent brushing multiple times a week prevents matting, while careful bathing and skin checks keep them healthy.
Two hours of grooming weekly keeps their coat shiny, debris-free, and ready for adventure.
5. Komondor
If a dog could rock a mop and still look regal, it would be the Komondor. Famous for its corded coat, this herding breed was originally bred to guard flocks, so a protective streak runs deep.
Calm and quiet at home, it will step up when needed, making early socialization and training important.
As per PDSA, despite looking like a giant fluffball, Komondors don’t need hours of exercise—about an hour a day keeps them happy.
They make devoted, gentle giants for owners who understand their instincts and unique personality.
Grooming Needs
The Komondor’s cords are showstoppers but require care. Cords must be separated regularly to prevent matting, while brushing isn’t necessary.
Regular baths with mild shampoo keep the long haired pups clean and low-odor.
Starting around 9–10 months, cords are split into sections to grow properly, ensuring this mop-haired marvel stays impressive and healthy.
6. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is like a tiny, furry guardian with a big personality and an even bigger coat!
Originating from the ancient Himalayan region, this little dog was once a palace sentinel, watching over sacred temples with fierce loyalty and a luxurious long coat flowing behind its confident steps.
At home, the Lhasa Apso is affectionate, alert, and sometimes a little sassy—think tiny body, huge attitude!
These dogs make wonderful companions for families and individuals alike. They enjoy playtime and attention but are equally happy curling up beside you after a fun day.
Although small in size, their spirited nature means they’ll always keep you entertained with personality to spare.
Grooming Needs
That beautiful long coat requires regular care to stay soft and tangle‑free. Weekly brushing helps prevent mats, while occasional baths keep the fur fresh and healthy.
Routine ear and eye checks, along with nail trims, ensure your Lhasa Apso stays comfortable and looking fabulous.
7. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is the little superstar of long‑haired dogs—part royal lap buddy, part flowing‑fur fashionista!
With a soft, silky coat that seems to whisper “look at me,” this pint‑sized pup turns every stroll into a parade.
Friendly, outgoing, and full of joy, the Shih Tzu loves attention and thrives on snuggles and playtime with its humans.
Despite its glamorous look, the Shih Tzu has a warm heart and a fun‑loving personality that fits perfectly in family life or solo‑pet homes.
They’re social, cheerful, and always ready to show off their adorable face with a wag and a wiggle.
Grooming Needs
That gorgeous long coat needs regular care to stay soft and tangle‑free. Daily brushing helps prevent mats, and routine baths keep the fur looking shiny and fresh.
Don’t forget eye care and gentle trims to keep this little fluff feeling comfy and fabulous!
8. Pekingese
Nicknamed the “little lion,” the Pekingese is a tiny dog with a big personality and a mane to match!
This compact, sturdy companion hails from ancient China and carries itself with calm dignity and royal flair.
With a stocky body and thick coat framing its face like a miniature lion’s mane, it’s impossible not to be charmed.
As per Purina, despite its small size, the Pekingese is affectionate, loyal, and makes a surprisingly good watchdog.
They love being near their pet owners, enjoying quiet companionship while occasionally showing their playful side. This breed blends courage, charm, and elegance into one adorable package.
Grooming Needs
The Pekingese’s thick, coarse coat requires frequent weekly brushing to prevent tangles and mats.
Occasional baths and regular ear and eye care help keep this little lion looking regal and feeling comfortable, while maintaining the beauty of its iconic mane.
9. Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a stunning hunting dog with a shiny, flowing coat that seems to glow in the sun.
Originally bred in 18th‑century Ireland, this athletic breed was trained to locate birds and “set” them for hunters, combining intelligence, speed, and focus.
With its elegant red‑and‑white or chestnut coat, the Irish Setter is as eye‑catching in the field as it is in a family home.
Friendly, intelligent, and spirited, these dogs are great companions for active owners who can match their energy.
They love long runs, outdoor adventures, and dog sports like agility, obedience, and tracking. Without enough exercise, this large, energetic breed can become mischievous and restless, so daily activity is essential.
Grooming Needs
The Irish Setter’s straight feathered coat is fairly easy to maintain with weekly combing.
Occasional baths, trimming, ear checks, nail clipping, and teeth brushing keep this energetic dog healthy and looking its best.
Conclusion
Long-haired dog breeds are more than just a feast for the eyes—they’re loyal, loving, and full of personality.
From tiny fluffballs to majestic giants, each breed brings its own charm, energy, and quirks to a home.
While their luxurious coats require regular grooming and care, the joy, companionship, and beauty they offer make every minute spent brushing and pampering them worth it.
Whether you’re drawn to a playful little lapdog, a regal guardian, or an active outdoor companion, long-haired dogs have a way of stealing hearts and becoming treasured family members.
With love, attention, and proper care, these elegant pups can bring endless joy, laughter, and warmth into your life—proving that life truly is better with a little fur, fluff, and a lot of heart.
