Ever wanted a dog that doubles as a floor rug? You’re in luck. These extended-length coat breeds come with beauty, fluff, and a personal invitation to a lifetime of grooming.
In a world obsessed with minimalism, these dogs scream extra. Their coats are long, luscious, and they laugh in the face of low-maintenance. They’re not just pets—they’re lifestyle choices.
Yes, they’re affectionate and loyal. But they also leave behind more hair than your ex’s hoodie. Owning one means surrendering to fur tumbleweeds and mystery knots.
Still, it’s not all combs and chaos. These breeds have history, charm, and enough personality to outshine their shine. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you.
So grab a brush, a sense of humor, and dive into our guide to these gloriously high-maintenance companions. Spoiler alert: You’ll fall in love—and maybe into a grooming schedule, too.
9 Extended Length Coat Dog Breeds
1. Afghan Hound
Elegant? Absolutely. Low-maintenance? Not even close. The Afghan Hound’s flowing coat looks like it belongs in a shampoo commercial—and acts like it, too. Get ready for a beauty routine longer than yours.
AKC claims that originally bred in the mountains of Afghanistan, this ancient hunting dog is all grace and aloof attitude. They’re dignified, independent, and not exactly people pleasers.
The silky coat? Gorgeous but demanding. Expect frequent brushing, detangling sessions, and possibly a therapist after bath time. The silky hair can mat if you even think about skipping a day.
It’s not just hair—it’s a long double coat that requires commitment. Pet owners often turn to professional groomers unless they enjoy daily battles with tangle-free ambitions.
Training? Let’s just say they prefer doing things their way. Intelligence: High. Obedience: situational.
Afghans enjoy long walks, but don’t expect fetch. They’ll run, then judge you.
Underneath the glamour lies a devoted companion, if you can keep up with the maintenance—and the attitude.
2. Komondor
Imagine a mop with opinions. The Komondor’s corded coat is so distinct, strangers might ask if your dog is wearing a costume. Spoiler: It’s not.
Initially bred to guard livestock in Hungary, these dogs are all about protection, loyalty, and an unmistakable white fur aesthetic. That coat? It’s not just for looks—it’s armor.
Their fluffy coat naturally forms cords by adulthood, which means no brushing. Sounds great, right? Until you realize those cords still need separating, drying (for several hours), and constant checking for debris.
Despite looking like a shaggy recluse, they’re intelligent, stubborn, and suspicious of other pets or strangers. Socializing early is non-negotiable.
Training isn’t hard—they’re smart—but convincing them you’re the boss? That’s the trick. Consistency is key.
Exercise needs are moderate, but mental stimulation is a must. Herding shadows counts, right?
Health-wise, watch for skin issues hidden beneath the long coat. Out of sight doesn’t mean out of trouble.
3. Puli
Take the Komondor, shrink it a bit, and add more bounce—voilà, the Puli. This long-haired breed is a spring-loaded mop with attitude.
Originally bred as a herding dog in Hungary, the Puli’s compact size and agility made it a perfect sheep wrangler. Today? They’re wrangling hearts—and dust bunnies.
PetMD notes that the iconic corded coat starts forming around 9 months and demands dedication. No frequent brushing needed, but separating cords? Welcome to your new hobby.
Pulis are high-energy, playful, and thrive on mental stimulation. If not given tasks, they will invent some, usually involving your furniture.
They’re whip-smart, but training needs creativity. Repetition bores them. They like to be challenged—or they’ll challenge you.
With a double coat that’s weather-resistant, they can handle outdoor play, but don’t skimp on drying time. Wet Puli equals indoor disaster.
They’re great with other dogs, lively with families, and pretty much the most fun mess you’ll ever love.
4. Briard
The Briard is like that rugged French artist who looks effortlessly cool but secretly spends hours styling his wavy coat. Don’t be fooled—this dog’s tousled look takes work.
Initially bred as a herding dog in France, the Briard is strong, loyal, and fiercely protective. Think sheepdog with a flair for drama and a coat to match.
That long double coat? Thick, textured, and loves to trap everything from twigs to yesterday’s lunch. It requires brushing several times a week to prevent matting.
Underneath that mess of fluff is a sharp, responsive mind. They’re obedient—if you earn their respect. Treats help. So does pretending you’re not completely overwhelmed by the grooming.
They need daily mental and physical workouts. Without them, they’ll invent games, like “Hide the Sock.”
Health-wise, watch out for hip dysplasia and loose undercoat issues that cause knots and hotspots.
Great guard dog, loyal friend—just don’t skimp on the daily brushing.
5. Tibetan Terrier
Don’t let the name fool you—this is not a terrier. The Tibetan Terrier is more like a stylish monk with a flowing coat, calm vibes, and a secret rebellious streak.
Originally bred in the Himalayas, they were companions and watchdogs in monasteries, proving you can be spiritual and sassy.
That luxurious, long coat isn’t just for show—it’s functional, keeping them warm in the snow. But for modern pet owners, it means regular brushing and salon-grade maintenance.
They’ve got a square build, a charming personality, and a coat that can mimic human hair. Yes, you may share shampoo. No, it won’t be weird.
Tibetan Terriers are gentle, playful, and surprisingly athletic. But training them? Expect the occasional “nah” moment.
Purina suggests that they enjoy long walks, moderate play, and an audience, preferably admiring their hair flip.
Skin issues and allergies can hide beneath that fluff, so check often. Zen doesn’t mean zero effort.
6. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is the little dog that thinks it’s royalty—and to be fair, with that silky coat, it kind of is. Dignified? Yes. Demanding? Also yes.
Initially bred to guard Tibetan palaces, this small dog has a big personality and zero tolerance for disrespect or skipped grooming.
Its thick, double coat is floor-length drama, and keeping it tangle-free is a full-time job. You’ll need frequent brushing or a good professional groomer—or both.
Though tiny, they’re not lap dogs. They’re more like the grumpy doorman of the canine world —suspicious of strangers, loyal to their circle.
Training takes patience and humor. They’re intelligent, but you’ll negotiate every sit and stay like it’s a contract deal.
Exercise needs are moderate, but daily play is a must. Bonus: They excel at ignoring commands with flair.
Underneath all that luxurious fur is a bold, charming watchdog who doesn’t just want your attention—he demands it.
7. Havanese
The Havanese is the happy-go-lucky charmer of the long-haired dog breeds—always wagging, always fluffy, and always about five seconds away from turning into a walking tangle.
Originally bred in Cuba as a lapdog for the elite, this small dog lives for cuddles, compliments, and possibly couture.
Its silky coat grows long and can resemble human hair, which sounds chic until you realize it requires brushing. Daily. Or else the mats will stage a full takeover.
Don’t be fooled by the fluff—they’re surprisingly agile, trainable, and even-tempered. A little stubborn, yes, but also people-pleasing.
WebMD reveals that they’re great with other dogs, great family pets, and love games. Just don’t expect them to enjoy solitude or bad hair days.
Exercise needs are low, but stimulation is key. These extroverts love being the center of attention, preferably on a freshly cleaned couch.
Perfect for people who want affection, fluff, and a full-time grooming schedule.
8. Pekingese
The Pekingese is part dog, part drama queen, and fully convinced it outranks you. And with that flowing coat, it just might.
Originally bred to live in Chinese imperial courts, these little dogs carried themselves like royalty—and still do. They won’t fetch your slippers, but they’ll look fabulous ignoring you.
That long coat comes with an outer coat and woolly undercoat—translation: frequent brushing, detangling, and possibly a separate closet for dog brushes.
They’re loyal, bold, and charmingly aloof. Training is possible, but only if they feel like it. Motivation must include snacks or applause.
Short walks? Yes. Long hikes? Not a chance. They’re more throne room than trail-ready.
They’re prone to eye issues and breathing problems due to their flat faces, so careful grooming around the face is essential.
Perfect for pet owners who want a devoted companion with royal vibes—and a serious beauty routine.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
If the idea of a hypoallergenic fluffball who can swim better than you excites you, welcome to the Portuguese Water Dog fan club.
Initially bred to help fishermen off the Portuguese coast, this long-haired breed is the rugged adventurer of the grooming world.
Their curly or wavy coat doesn’t shed much, but that doesn’t mean low maintenance. It requires brushing to prevent tangles, especially after their frequent dives into mud, lakes, or your bathtub.
Smart and eager to please, they’re a dream to train—unless you forget to make it fun. These dogs hate being bored more than you hate surprise knots in their coat.
CKC notes that they have tons of energy and need to exercise daily. Swimming, running, puzzle toys—it’s all fair game.
Keep an eye out for ear infections and coat dryness if not properly dried post-adventure.
An athlete in disguise, this dog makes great pets—if you’re ready for daily grooming and daily cardio.
Conclusion
Still here? You must really love fur. Whether it’s cords, curls, or silky fur that sways like it’s headed to the show ring, one thing’s for sure—these breeds don’t do boring.
From the dramatic Puli’s coat to the imperial fluff of the Pekingese, each one brings its mix of grooming challenges and heart-melting charm. Sure, they’re time-consuming, but so is great art.
If you’re craving more fluff, don’t sleep on the Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier, or Bearded Collie—they’re small, sassy, and sporting long hair that rivals a shampoo ad.
And hey, even if you lean toward the Bernese Mountain Dog, Irish Setter, or Blue Merle beauties with two layers or crimped fluff, you’re still in good company. Not everyone has to go full top knot.
Whether you prefer coats trimmed short or trailing by a few inches, every dog deserves love—and probably a lint roller.
Now go find your next loyal companion (and maybe a better vacuum). Ready to bring the fluff home?
