For some dog lovers, beauty lives in every flowing strand of fur. Silky-coated dog breeds are admired for their luxurious texture, graceful appearance, and the way their coats shimmer when they move.
Whether long and elegant or short but smooth as satin, these dogs add a touch of refinement to any home. Beyond their stunning looks, many silky-coated breeds are affectionate, loyal, and deeply connected to their families.
Their gorgeous coats often reflect their gentle, warm personalities—making them irresistible to those who appreciate both beauty and companionship. But maintaining that silky shine requires the right grooming habits, nutrition, and care.
Thankfully, many owners find the grooming process enjoyable, a bonding ritual that enhances the relationship between human and dog. We’ll explore the top 10 long-haired dog breeds that boast the most enviable silky coats.
Whether you dream of a long-haired beauty or a smooth-coated charmer, these breeds will captivate your senses and fill your home with elegance, affection, and unmistakable softness.
Did you know? Silky-coated dog breeds have hair with a structure similar to human hair, growing continuously rather than shedding heavily. This makes their coats smooth and glossy—but also means regular brushing is key to keeping tangles and dullness away.
Top Ten Dog Breeds Choices for Lovers of Silky Coats
1. Silky Terrier
If silky smooth is your style, the Silky Terrier is basically the canine equivalent of a walking, wagging satin scarf. According to the AKC, the Silky Terrier, a delightful member of the AKC Toy Group with a sleek, shiny coat, embodies the lively and spirited nature typical of terriers.
Originating in Sydney, Australia, the Silky is slightly larger than its close relative, the Yorkshire Terrier. They’re playful, energetic, and surprisingly brave—so don’t be fooled by their delicate, glossy coat; underneath lies a fierce little hunter who historically chased down snakes in Australia.
Despite their courageous streak, Silky Terriers are also top-notch companions. They’ll stick to your side like Velcro, winning hearts with their loyalty and playful antics. Perfect for kids who can match their energy—or at least try to!
Their straight, blue-black, and tan coat is the hallmark of the breed, shining bright with minimal fuss since they only have one coat. That means fewer mats and tangles, but don’t get too relaxed—professional grooming will coat healthy and silky sheen, camera-ready.
Grooming Tip: Brush your Silky Terrier a few times a week using a soft bristle brush or a slicker brush to keep the coat smooth and tangle-free. A monthly professional trim keeps them looking polished, and don’t forget regular ear cleaning to prevent infections—those little ears can hide big trouble!
2. Papillon
Meet the Papillon, the ultimate aristocrat of the dog world—think tiny, fluffy royalty with ears shaped like delicate butterflies.
These little charmers were bred as lapdogs for European noblewomen, earning a place in history alongside famous French figures and other elite companions. Spoiler alert: they still act as they belong in a palace, but they’re happy to settle for your couch.
Their name, “Papillon,” literally means butterfly in French, and it’s a perfect description of their signature ears—fringed with long, flowing hair that flutters every time they shake their head (or get excited about treats).
Their silky coat, extending down the body and to the tail, gives them a graceful, show-stopping appearance—this is one pup who turns heads wherever they go.
Despite their elegant looks, Papillons are spirited, playful, and surprisingly athletic. Don’t be fooled by the dainty exterior—they love a good game of fetch or agility course, proving that a tiny body can hold a giant personality, as per Britannica.
Grooming Tip: Brush your Papillon’s long coat and feathered ears at least 2–3 times a week to prevent tangles and mats. Pay extra attention to the areas behind the ears and under the legs, where knots love to hide.
3. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is basically the royal cousin of the Maltese and Lhasa Apso—think tiny, elegant, and exuding sophistication like they just stepped out of a palace.
Often described as cat-like, these little fluffballs love lounging on laps, striking poses, and occasionally ignoring you… but always in the most dignified way.
Originating in Japan, there’s a fun mystery surrounding their arrival: some say they were brought from China, while others credit Buddhist monks. Either way, they arrived with style.
Their coat is a luxurious affair, soft and flowing, often in striking black-and-white or black-and-tan patterns. The fur around their chest tends to puff out a little more than the rest of their body, giving them an almost regal silhouette—a miniature poof of elegance wherever they go.
These small dogs carry themselves with a grace that makes you wonder if you’re living with a pet or a tiny emperor.
Grooming Tip: Keep that lavish coat in tip-top shape by weekly brushing, paying special attention to the chest and feathering around the legs. Their silky fur is prone to mats in hidden spots, so regular combing is essential.
4. Havanese
The Havanese dog is like a little cloud of happiness with legs—a tiny pup wrapped in a flowing, silky coat that’s as soft as it looks.
Their luxurious fur seems almost ethereal, bouncing and shining as they prance around, full of playful energy. These little charmers aren’t just about looks—they crave human company, love cuddles, and have a cheerful, affectionate nature that makes them a joy to have around.
Their silky coat is a showstopper, but it does require a bit of dedication. Don’t be surprised if visitors linger a little longer just to pet that soft, enchanting fur!
Grooming Tip: Brush your Havanese’s coat at least 3–4 times a week to prevent mats and tangles, especially around the ears, legs, and underbelly.
5. Borzoi
If elegance had a canine form, it would probably be the Borzoi. These graceful giants move like liquid silk, their long, flowing coat catching the eye of anyone lucky enough to spot them in motion.
Despite their statuesque presence, Borzois are gentle, affectionate personalities, and surprisingly low-key—perfect for families who appreciate quiet snuggles as much as a sprint in the yard.
WebMD says a notable characteristic of the Borzoi’s coat is the dense, slightly wavy fur around its neck, which historically helped shield the dog’s neck from injury during attacks.
Their coat is nothing short of breathtaking: silky, soft, and almost hypnotically smooth. Running your hand through it is like touching liquid velvet—though be prepared, because maintaining that luxurious appearance does take some work.
But for a companion this refined and light on their feet, the effort is more than worth it.
Grooming Tip: Brush your Borzoi’s coat at least 2–3 times a week, focusing on areas behind the ears, under the legs, and along the tail where tangles like to hide.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie,” may be small in size, but they’re big in personality. These pint-sized pups are confident, spirited, and packed with charm, making them the perfect combination of sassy and sweet.
With their long, silky coat that flows like a glossy curtain, Yorkies are basically tiny divas who demand attention wherever they go.
Their signature coat is what really sets them apart—it’s fine, silky, and usually straight, often reaching the floor if left untrimmed.
But don’t be fooled by their glamorous appearance; underneath that flowing fur is a feisty little pup ready to show off their bold, adventurous side. Yorkies are also surprisingly adaptable, making them great companions in both cozy apartments and bustling homes.
Grooming Tip: To keep a Yorkie’s coat looking its best, daily brushing is ideal to prevent tangles and mats. Use a soft bristle or pin brush, and pay special attention to the ears and underbelly. Regular baths and trims help maintain that signature silky shine and keep your little diva comfortable and camera-ready.
7. Irish Setter
Meet the Irish Setter, the elegant athlete of the dog world. Originally bred in Ireland as a bird and game hunting companion, these dogs earned their name from the way they “set”—laying low to the ground—to alert their humans when prey was in sight.
Their long legs, graceful stride, and keen nose made them invaluable hunting partners for over 200 years. Irish Setters are famous for their stunning mahogany-red coat, though some lucky pups still sport charming white patches.
That flowing, silky fur is part of what makes them so striking—like a red wave rippling as they sprint across fields.
Beyond their beauty, they’re friendly, energetic, and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their families while still retaining that playful, hunting-driven spirit.
Grooming Tip: Brush your Irish Setter’s coat 2–3 times a week to prevent tangles, especially behind the ears, under the chest, and along the feathered legs. Regular baths and trimming of the feathering keep their coat smooth and healthy, while highlighting that iconic red shine.
8. Maltese
The Maltese is the epitome of elegance in miniature form—think tiny royalty wrapped in a flowing, white cotton-like coat.
This breed has been dazzling humans since ancient times, waltzing its way through history as a beloved companion for women of high status and royalty alike. Unlike some of their hunting cousins, Maltese dogs were all about cuddles, companionship, and looking fabulous while doing it.
Their coat is nothing short of dramatic: long, silky, and pure white, often flowing past their paws and sweeping the floor like a miniature wedding gown in motion. That striking white coat paired with a tiny black button nose makes them instantly recognizable and utterly adorable.
Don’t be fooled by their delicate appearance, though—these little fluffballs have plenty of personality and a surprisingly playful streak.
Grooming Tip: A Maltese’s luxurious coat needs daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles, especially around the ears and underbelly. Regular baths, conditioning treatments, and occasional trimming around the face and paws will keep them looking pristine and ready for their royal close-up.
9. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is the ultimate palace pup—a dignified companion with centuries of royal history tucked into its flowing coat.
Originating from the Himalayas, these dogs were often found in monasteries and palaces, serving as loyal guardians and cherished companions. These lap dogs are known for their quiet, reserved nature, but make no mistake: once you earn their trust, they are fiercely loyal and devoted to their humans.
Their luxurious, thick double coat flows straight to the floor, similar to the Maltese, but with a splash of variety—think soft tans, golden yellows, and crisp whites, sometimes all in one striking combination.
Watching a Lhasa Apso walk across a room is like seeing a miniature silk curtain glide gracefully in motion, a visual delight for any dog lover.
Grooming Tip: Brush your Lhasa Apso’s coat at least 3–4 times a week to prevent tangles and mats, especially around the ears, chest, and underbelly. Regular baths and trims will keep their flowing coat manageable while maintaining that elegant, palace-ready appearance.
10. Afghan Hound
If elegance had a supermodel alter ego, it would be the Afghan Hound. These glamorous dogs hail from the rugged mountains of Afghanistan, where their thick, flowing coat was designed to withstand harsh climates—not just to turn heads at dog shows.
Despite their luxurious appearance, Afghan Hounds are hunters at heart, historically chasing big game like leopards and gazelles with incredible speed and grace.
Their long, silky coat cascades like liquid gold, making every stride look like a runway walk. Combined with their aristocratic expression and aloof charm, Afghan Hounds are truly a spectacle of canine beauty and athleticism.
Beneath that glamorous exterior lies a loyal companion who enjoys affection but often marches to the beat of their own drum—a dog with elegance and independence in equal measure.
Grooming Tip: Afghan Hounds need brushing several times a week—ideally daily—to keep their flowing coat tangle-free and healthy. Pay special attention to the ears, underbelly, and feathered legs.
Conclusion
Dog Breed Choices for Lovers of Silky Coats highlights how wonderfully diverse long-haired dog breeds can be—from Shih Tzus, Bichon Frise, and Coton de Tulles to larger beauties like the Bernese Mountain Dog and Bearded Collie. These dogs often feature a thick coat, silky hair, dense double coat, curly coat, outer coat, woolly undercoat, dense undercoat, or even a rough double coat, making them irresistible to anyone who adores beautiful coats and a soft, fluffy dog as their furry friend.
Because these long coats and coat types require frequent brushing, a consistent grooming routine, and sometimes a professional groomer, pet parents should be ready for occasional baths, several hours of maintenance per week, and plenty of human interaction.
Whether you’re drawn to an ancient breed or a royal dog with an outgoing nature, these pups make excellent family pets, excellent companions, and fit beautifully into homes with other pets, regular exercise, and a love of the long hair look. For silky-coat enthusiasts, each of these long-haired breeds offers charm, elegance, and playful nature—proving that with the right care, they’re not only gorgeous but also truly great family pets.
