Owning a beautiful dog often comes with a commitment to maintenance, and some breeds demand grooming that’s nothing short of a full-time hobby. Long coats, delicate hair types, and intricate fur patterns require regular brushing, trimming, and sometimes professional care to stay healthy and tangle-free.
These dogs reward patience and dedication with elegance, style, and charm. Grooming isn’t just about aesthetics—it keeps dogs comfortable, prevents skin issues, and strengthens the bond between pet and owner.
If you love the idea of a glamorous, high-maintenance companion, these breeds offer the perfect combination of beauty, personality, and grooming challenges.
Today, we’ll explore dog breeds with complex grooming needs, giving insights into the time, tools, and techniques required to maintain these stunning companions.
Dog Breeds with Lengthy & Complex Grooming Routines
1. Afghan Hound
If elegance had a four-legged spokesperson, it would undoubtedly be the Afghan Hound. With a coat so long, silky, and flowing it could rival a Hollywood starlet’s red carpet gown, this breed doesn’t just walk—it glides, WebMD says. But behind all that glamour lies a serious grooming commitment.
Afghans need regular baths and careful brushing—preferably when their hair is damp—to prevent tangles and mats that could rival a spaghetti disaster. Skipping even one grooming session can quickly turn their luxurious mane into a bird’s nest of chaos.
Imagine trying to brush wet spaghetti strands without making a mess—yep, that’s pretty much Afghan Hound basic grooming in a nutshell. These regal dogs attract attention wherever they go.
Strangers will stop you in the street to admire their flowing locks, and you’ll find yourself explaining for the hundredth time that yes, your dog does own more hair products than you do.
Brushing: Daily or at least several times a week when hair is slightly damp to prevent mats.
Bathing: Frequent, with gentle shampoos to keep their coat silky and shiny.
Trimming: Minimal, usually around the feet and sanitary areas, but some owners opt for a light trim to manage length.
Owning an Afghan Hound isn’t just having a pet—it’s having a four-legged superstar whose beauty routine demands patience, dedication, and a little bit of humor. After all, keeping that mane perfect is a full-time job… and worth every strand.
2. Maltese
Don’t let their petite size fool you—the Maltese is basically a tiny, four-legged fashion icon. Known for their luxurious, floor-length white coat and playful personalities, these little dogs are the perfect mix of elegance and energy.
Originating from the sunny Mediterranean island of Malta, Maltese dogs have been pampered companions for centuries. Today, they continue to charm with their affectionate, adaptable, and sometimes mischievous personalities.
They’re friendly, generally healthy, and even labeled “hypoallergenic” (though no dog is truly allergen-free), PetMD noted. Their charm more than makes up for the grooming time, and their loyalty and affection will make you forget all about the hours spent brushing.
Brushing: Daily is ideal to prevent tangles and mats in their long, silky hair.
Bathing: Frequent baths help maintain that signature white shine.
Trimming: Hair around the eyes, ears, and paws should be trimmed regularly for hygiene and comfort.
But with great beauty comes great responsibility. That stunning, silky coat doesn’t maintain itself. Maltese require near-daily grooming to keep their hair tangle-free, shiny, and oh-so-soft. Skipping a day can quickly turn their pristine coat into a knotty mess that even a cat would envy.
Owning a Maltese is like having a tiny, fluffy companion who demands attention—and rewards it with endless cuddles and charm. Just be prepared to embrace the brush, the shampoo, and the occasional “oops, I stepped on my own hair” moments.
3. Bichon Frise
Meet the Bichon Frise dog, the ultimate lapdog with a personality as bright as its fluffy white coat. These little clouds on legs are cheerful, playful, and endlessly affectionate—basically a walking cuddle machine that insists on being the center of attention.
But behind all that charm lies a grooming routine that demands dedication. Unlike many dogs, the Bichon’s coat is made of hair, not fur. That means it doesn’t shed much, but it tangles and mats easily if neglected.
These sociable pups thrive on human interaction. Whether it’s playtime with kids, hanging out at the park, or accompanying you on a mini-vacation, the Bichon wants to be wherever the action is. Their energy, charm, and loyalty make them perfect companions for families or anyone looking for a cheerful, four-legged sidekick.
Brushing/Combing: At least once a week to prevent painful tangles and mats.
Bathing: Monthly baths keep their coat clean, soft, and fluffy.
Trimming: Frequent grooming sessions (about twice a month) help maintain the classic rounded “teddy bear” look.
Owning a Bichon Frise is a bit like adopting a tiny, happy, fluffy friend who comes with a side of daily brushing, monthly grooming, and endless love. They’re small in size but huge in personality—and worth every bit of grooming effort.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
Looking for a furry family member who can keep up with your high-energy household? Meet the Portuguese Water Dog—an enthusiastic, athletic, and endlessly playful pup that thrives on action. These dogs aren’t just adorable; they’re practical too, especially for families with active kids or allergy concerns, thanks to their low-shedding, hair-like coat.
But don’t let that manageable shedding fool you—their coat requires regular grooming. Since their hair grows continuously, frequent brushing, trimming, and bathing are essential to prevent mats and tangles.
Think of it like maintaining a sporty, curly-haired athlete: lots of care, but totally worth it for the performance. Portuguese Water Dogs are natural swimmers, running partners, and adventure companions.
Brushing: Several times a week to prevent tangles and mats.
Trimming: Regular trims are needed to maintain coat shape and manage length.
Bathing: Frequent baths keep the coat clean and healthy, especially after water adventures.
They excel in agility and obedience competitions and are often stars in therapy programs thanks to their loving, loyal nature. Basically, this breed is like a four-legged Swiss Army knife: playful, hardworking, and always ready for fun.
Owning a Portuguese Water Dog is like having a personal trainer, swimming buddy, and loyal best friend all rolled into one. Just be ready for some serious grooming sessions and plenty of outdoor adventures—you’ll never run out of energy or love with this breed around.
5. Komondor
If you’ve ever seen a dog that looks like it wandered straight out of a wizarding world, it’s probably the Komondor. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), this massive Hungarian flock guardian is instantly recognizable thanks to its profuse, corded white coat that resembles a walking mop—or, as some like to joke, a fluffy cloud on legs.
Unlike most long-haired breeds, the Komondor’s cords don’t need brushing. Nature has done the work for you, giving them those iconic “dreadlocks.”
But don’t think that means zero maintenance! Regular bathing is essential to keep the cords clean, healthy, and free from debris. Owners also need to separate cords occasionally to prevent them from merging too much, ensuring that the majestic mop-like look stays intact.
Brushing: Not required—cords form naturally, but occasional cord separation is needed.
Bathing: Regular baths keep cords clean and prevent odor buildup.
Cord Care: Hands-on care is needed to keep cords well-formed and prevent matting of multiple cords.
Komondors aren’t just about appearances—they’re strong, loyal, and protective. Historically used to guard sheep in Hungary, these dogs are intelligent and independent, making them excellent watchdogs for those ready to handle a truly unique canine companion.
Owning a Komondor is like adopting a living, breathing work of art—majestic, unusual, and unforgettable. Just be ready for the occasional “dog mop” jokes, and make peace with the fact that bathing this fluffy guardian can be a serious workout!
6. Shih Tzu
Small in size but big in personality, the Shih Tzu is basically a tiny lion in a flowing coat. These adorable pups are known for their long, silky locks that require regular grooming to stay tangle-free and fabulous.
Just like their Afghan Hound cousins, Shih Tzus should be brushed when their fur is slightly damp, helping prevent mats and keeping their mane shiny and soft. Bathing every few weeks is also essential—because even royalty needs a spa day now and then.
Shih Tzus are playful, affectionate, and incredibly loyal. They love cuddles, short bursts of play, and being the center of attention. But behind all that cuteness lies a haircare routine that demands patience, dedication, and a good sense of humor.
Brushing: Daily or several times a week, preferably with damp fur, to prevent tangles and mats.
Bathing: Every few weeks to keep the coat clean, soft, and healthy.
Trimming: Occasional trimming around eyes, ears, and paws helps with comfort and hygiene.
Owning a Shih Tzu is like having a tiny, fluffy companion who doubles as a fashion icon. You’ll spend time brushing and bathing, sure—but the payoff is a happy, healthy pup with a mane worthy of admiration.
7. Poodle
The Poodle isn’t just smart—they’re basically the fashion icons of the dog world. With continuously growing hair instead of typical dog fur, Poodles require regular grooming to prevent mats, tangles, and the dreaded “wild mane” look.
Brushing and bathing are part of the routine, but the real star is the trim—because without it, that fluffy elegance can quickly turn into chaos.
Poodles are known for their intelligence, charm, and versatility. Whether you’re into obedience competitions, agility, or just want a stylish companion, this breed thrives when well-groomed and loved. In other words, a well-maintained Poodle isn’t just a dog—it’s a walking work of art.
Brushing: Frequent brushing keeps the coat smooth, tangle-free, and healthy.
Bathing: Regular baths maintain the shine and cleanliness of their coat.
Trimming: Essential to prevent overgrowth and maintain the breed’s iconic look.
Owning a Poodle means committing to an extensive grooming routine that’s practically part-time—but the payoff is a dog that’s as stylish as they are smart. And let’s be honest: nothing beats showing off a perfectly coiffed Poodle at the dog park.
Conclusion
Certain dog breeds with lengthy and complex grooming routines require far more attention than typical pets.
Breeds with a double coat, curly coat, or corded coat—such as the Yorkshire Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, Siberian Husky, and Golden Retrievers—demand professional grooming, weekly brushing, and even daily brushing to prevent matting and loose undercoat buildup.
Regular brushing, use of tools like an undercoat rake or slicker brush, and attention to ear cleaning, nail trimming, and tooth brushing are essential components of the grooming process.
These high-maintenance breeds require more frequent grooming sessions to distribute natural oils, prevent skin irritation, and avoid skin infections caused by dead hair or loose fur. Shedding seasons further complicate care, while dense undercoats and long hair necessitate occasional baths and constant attention to coat care.
