Are you also the type to get a little jealous when you see dogs with long, silky, flowing hair?
I mean, I’m right there with you—losing my hair day by day, while these pups strut around with coats that look like they stepped out of a shampoo commercial. It makes you wonder: is it genetics, luck, or just some secret doggy hair care magic?
Well, today we’re diving into the world of long-haired dog breeds with flowing, gorgeous coats. We’ll explore everything you need to know about these stunning pups—their unique coats, personalities, and the special care their hair requires.
Even new long-haired dogs need daily brushing to keep their coats tangle-free and shiny.
According to VCA Hospitals, regular grooming is key to preventing painful mats and maintaining their beautiful coats. And it’s not just about looks—without proper grooming, dogs can develop skin irritation, odor, and discomfort.
So, whether you’re a new dog owner or a seasoned pet parent, read on to discover the many long-haired breeds, learn how they keep their luxurious coats, and find out which ones might be the perfect addition to your family.
Long-Haired Dog Breeds with Flowing, Gorgeous Coats
1. Afghan Hound
Oh gosh, the Afghan Hound—just looking at that flowing, silky coat makes one stop in tracks. I mean, seriously, how do they keep it so perfect? It’s an ancient breed, with roots going back thousands of years in the mountains of Afghanistan.
Originally, these dogs were single-coated hunters, built to chase prey in harsh, rugged terrain. But over time, many Afghan Hounds developed what looks like a double coat, giving them that extra volume.
And let me tell you about that stunning mane—it’s like nature designed a crown just for them! Their long, silky hair flows gracefully as they move, making them look regal and almost magical.
Of course, keeping that mane gorgeous isn’t just about genetics; it takes regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats. You can spend hours just running fingers through it while admiring how elegant this breed truly is.
2. Bearded Collie
Okay, let’s talk about the Bearded Collie, or as some fans lovingly call them, the “Beardie.” They look like they’re wearing a shaggy, soft coat that begs you to come closer.
But don’t be fooled—it’s more than just cute fluff! Beardie’s thick double coat protects them from rain and cold while working, with a dense underlayer and longer, shaggy outer hairs.
This thick coat helped them with real jobs back in Scotland—herding sheep and staying comfortable in rough weather.
Today, many Beardies are beloved family pets, but their coats still need serious attention to stay healthy. Gentle brushing every day keeps loose hairs moving and stops those little knots before they become big tangles.
During shedding seasons, a longer grooming session once or twice a week helps keep the whole coat soft and smooth. Some owners even say brushing can be a great way to bond with these energetic pals!
Bearded Collies are known for being playful, smart, and full of energy—perfect for families who love active dogs that don’t mind a little fluff around the house.
3. Bolognese
The Bolognese is a charming Italian companion dog with a rich and elegant history that goes back centuries. This breed gets its name from the city of Bologna in Italy, where it was first cherished as a beloved lap dog and gift among nobility during the Renaissance era.
These little dogs were prized by royals and artists alike, often appearing in tapestry work and paintings from that time. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Bolognese is a small, calm, and faithful companion breed with a long, fluffy, pure‑white coat that gives it a delightfully soft appearance.
Its coat isn’t just about looks — the texture is woolly and dense, so it needs daily grooming to stay free from tangles and looking its best. This long‑haired dog is known for being playful yet gentle, easy‑going, and ideal for families who want a loyal companion that thrives on attention.
They generally do well in apartment living thanks to their smaller size and moderate energy level. Their affectionate nature makes them great family dogs for people of all ages.
For a broader view of connected small companion breeds and their history, Britannica highlights the Bichon family — which includes the Bolognese, Maltese, and Bichon Frisé — as a group of Mediterranean dogs known for their long, fluffy coats and friendly personalities.
4. Briard
The Briard is a historic French herding dog with a legacy that dates back hundreds of years. Known for its intelligence and bravery, this breed was originally used to guard livestock and protect herds from predators in the countryside.
Its long, flowing locks not only give it a majestic look but also serve a practical purpose, protecting the dog from harsh weather and rough terrain.
The Briard is known for its coat that gives it a striking and majestic appearance, though it requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
Beyond its looks, this breed is an excellent working dog, prized for herding and guarding livestock thanks to its alert nature and keen eyesight. Loyal, intelligent, and protective, the Briard makes a dependable companion for both families and farm life.
Maintaining a Briard’s coat involves daily brushing and occasional professional grooming to keep it healthy and tangle-free.
5. Komondor
How can anyone talk about long-haired dog breeds without mentioning the Komondor? This breed is truly unforgettable, thanks to its unique, corded coat that looks like a mop at first glance but has a very practical purpose.
The thick fur naturally forms long cords or “dreadlocks, which act as a shield against harsh weather, biting insects, and even predators while the dog is on duty guarding livestock. Each cord develops naturally over time, making the coat both protective and strikingly unusual.
The Komondor was primarily bred to guard livestock and protect property, a role it has performed for centuries in Hungary. Its keen instincts, intelligence, and alert nature make it a reliable guardian that can watch over sheep, cattle, and even homes.
Despite the intimidating appearance, this breed is known for its calm and loyal temperament with its family. Interestingly, the Komondor has minimal shedding, which can be a plus for some owners, but the cords do require careful attention to prevent mats.
A consistent grooming routine, along with regular inspections, gentle separation of cords when needed, and occasional professional grooming keep the coat healthy while maintaining its natural protective qualities.
Though it may seem high-maintenance at first, the results are worth it—the Komondor’s coat is one of the most distinctive and functional in the canine world.
6. Lhasa Apso
Oh man, look at all that silky, flowing hair—how can anyone ignore the Lhasa Apso? This small but dignified breed has a royal history in Tibet that stretches back centuries.
Originally, Lhasa Apsos were a royal dog, bred as palace companions for Chinese royalty, living in temples and royal courts where they were cherished for both their elegance and alert nature.
These dogs were even considered sacred by Tibetan monks and held in high regard for their protective instincts, often associated with the Dalai Lama.
Despite their noble heritage, Lhasa Apsos are ideally suited for modern families. Their small dogs’ size and affectionate temperament make them ideal for apartment living or cozy homes, while their confident and alert nature keeps them attentive and responsive.
Classified in the terrier group, they retain a spirited intelligence that makes them excellent companions for people who appreciate a dog with both charm and character. Their long coat maintains a silky texture, giving them that unmistakable, elegant appearance.
According to Royal Canin, this breed’s coat is not only beautiful but also designed to withstand cold, high-altitude climates, reflecting its heritage as a guardian in Tibetan palaces.
Beyond beauty, Lhasa Apsos are often considered hypoallergenic, making them ideal for households with allergy concerns while still offering a loyal and loving companion.
7. Shih Tzu
This is one of the most popular long-haired breeds, and it’s easy to see why. With a cute face, big expressive eyes, and floppy ears, the Shih Tzu captures hearts instantly. These little dogs are affectionate, lively, and outgoing, always ready to play or snuggle.
Their flowing coat is soft and luxurious, giving them a royal look that requires frequent brushing and professional grooming to stay in top condition. While they love being around family, they can sometimes develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Shih Tzus are excellent companions for families and do well with other breeds thanks to their friendly, gentle personalities. Their playful nature keeps everyone entertained, and they thrive when given attention, toys, and opportunities for interactive play.
Shih Tzus are true companion dogs that thrive on human interaction and dislike being left alone for long periods. While they can handle short stretches of independence, extended isolation may lead to separation anxiety. Highly social by nature, they need regular companionship to feel secure and happy.
8. Maltese
Oh man, these tiny dogs are just adorable—those big dark eyes, perky little bodies, and that long, pure white coat make Maltese impossible to ignore.
The Maltese is an ancient toy dog breed whose history goes back more than 2,500 years to the Mediterranean region, where it was once a beloved companion of the wealthy and aristocratic classes, treasured for both its beauty and gentle nature.
According to WebMD, the Maltese has a single coat without an undercoat, which means it sheds very little and can be a good match for people with allergies who prefer a hypoallergenic furry friend.
This breed’s coat has a silky texture that often gets compared to human hair, hanging gracefully along the body in a way that makes it look almost like a soft, floating mantle.
Along with that lovely, long hair, Maltese dogs have floppy ears, a compact frame, and an alert yet affectionate expression that makes them so endearing to families, seniors, and apartment dwellers alike.
Their loving personality shines through in everything they do—whether they’re being playful with toys, enjoying cuddles in a lap, or happily trotting beside their favorite person. Maltese thrive on attention and affection.
They aren’t just pretty faces—their lively, playful nature keeps life fun and active, and they bond deeply with their families. Because of that strong attachment, they can sometimes become anxious when left alone for too long, which means early socialization and companionship help them stay happy and secure.
9. Sheltland Sheepdog
Oh wow, the Sheltie is one of those dogs that instantly makes you smile! With a long, flowing coat and expressive eyes, this breed looks like a miniature Rough Collie, carrying all the charm in a smaller, more compact frame.
Originally bred from the Shetland Islands of Scotland, Shelties were bred to herd sheep and protect livestock, making them intelligent, alert, and incredibly hardworking.
Their double coat consists of a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat, which gives them that beautiful, flowing look. Their coat requires regular brushing to maintain its silky texture and keep it healthy.
Shelties are also known for their dignified appearance, with feathered legs and a lush mane that almost seems regal. These dogs are affectionate and loyal, forming strong bonds with their families, yet they are active and playful, always ready for a game or a walk.
Because of their high intelligence, they respond well to training and enjoy mentally challenging tasks. They also need regular exercise and tend to be good with children and other pets, making them excellent family companions.
Conclusion
These long-haired dogs aren’t just beautiful; they bring love, companionship, and charm to any family. From the majestic Afghan Hound with its stunning mane to the tiny, affectionate Maltese, each breed has something unique to offer.
Remember, keeping their luxurious fur healthy takes care, but the joy they bring is more than worth it. Whether it’s cuddles, playful moments, or gentle walks, these-haired dog breeds can brighten every day.
So, which one will steal your heart first?
Could it be a Lhasa Apso, a playful Shih Tzu, or a noble Komondor?
Whatever you choose, these great family pets are ready to charm their way into your life with their silky fur and loving nature.
