Some dogs are easy to maintain, their loose hair needing an occasional bath and a quick brush. Others? They practically demand a personal stylist! If you’re drawn to fluffy, elegant, or uniquely coated dogs, be prepared—high-maintenance fur means high-maintenance care. These frequently groomed dog breeds are not for the faint of heart. Their coats tangle, mat, and require meticulous upkeep to stay healthy and beautiful.
But don’t let the extra effort scare you off! Regular pet grooming isn’t just about looks—it’s essential for preventing skin issues, reducing shedding, and keeping your furry friend comfortable.
Whether it’s silky, curly, or corded fur, these dogs require dedicated attention to maintain their signature appearance. So, if you love pampering your pet and don’t mind spending extra time with a brush in hand, these breeds might be your perfect match. Ready to meet the most luxurious, high-maintenance pups in the dog world? Let’s dive in!
Frequent Grooming Required Dog Breeds
1. Afghan Hound
With its flowing, silky coat and regal posture, the Afghan Hound is the epitome of canine sophistication. Originally bred in the harsh mountains of Afghanistan, this breed’s thick fur isn’t just for show—it provides insulation against extreme temperatures. Their slender physique and long limbs make them exceptionally fast runners, often reaching speeds of up to 40 mph.
Caring for an Afghan Hound’s coat is a commitment, requiring meticulous brushing multiple times a week to prevent knots and tangles. Regular baths with high-quality shampoos are necessary to maintain coat health and signature sheen. Unlike many breeds, their fine-textured fur demands patience and precision when grooming.
Despite their aloof appearance, Afghan Hounds are known for their playful and clownish personalities. They form deep bonds with their families but may seem distant to strangers. Their independent nature can make training a challenge, requiring consistency and positive reinforcement.
One fascinating trait of this breed is its ability to outrun many competitors, thanks to its unique, springy gait. Historically, they were used for hunting leopards and gazelles, showcasing their agility and endurance. Even today, they excel in lure coursing, a sport designed to simulate hunting prey.
For those willing to invest time in coat maintenance, the Afghan Hound is a breathtakingly beautiful and affectionate companion. Their distinctive look and captivating personality make them an unforgettable presence in any home.
2. Poodle
The Poodle, known for its trademark curls, is one of the most intelligent and versatile dog breeds. Originally bred as a water retriever in Germany, this breed comes in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Despite their glamorous reputation, Poodles are athletic dogs with a history of excelling in hunting and agility sports.
Unlike breeds with shedding fur, Poodles possess dense, curly hair that continuously grows. This requires frequent trims and professional grooming to prevent matting. Without regular brushing, their coat can develop knots, which can cause discomfort and skin issues. Owners often opt for stylish clips, such as the classic “continental” cut, which historically protected vital joints while allowing for agility in the water.
Poodles are not just looks—they’re brilliant problem solvers. Ranked among the smartest breeds, they excel in obedience training and can master complex commands with ease. Their eagerness to learn makes them excellent candidates for service and therapy work.
A fun fact about Poodles is their reputation as exceptional swimmers. Their name derives from the German word “Pudel,” meaning “to splash.” Their webbed feet and strong legs make them natural water retrievers, a skill that remains evident in modern dock-diving competitions.
The Poodle is an ideal choice for individuals seeking an intelligent, affectionate, and hypoallergenic pet. Their charming personality, combined with their iconic curls, ensures they stand out in both appearance and ability.
3. Shih Tzu
Once the cherished companion of Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu is a breed that carries an air of nobility. Their long, flowing mane resembles a lion, a symbol of strength in Chinese culture. Despite their regal history, these small dogs are playful, affectionate, and deeply devoted to their families.
The Shih Tzu’s luxurious double coat requires careful maintenance. Without daily brushing, their fur can easily tangle and trap debris. Many owners opt for shorter trims, known as “puppy cuts,” to make upkeep more manageable. Their facial hair needs special attention, as tear stains and food particles can accumulate around their eyes and mouth.
Unlike high-energy working breeds, Shih Tzus thrive on companionship rather than rigorous exercise. They enjoy short walks but prefer lounging with their owners. Their affectionate nature makes them excellent lap dogs, a trait that has persisted for centuries.
One intriguing characteristic of the Shih Tzu is its distinctive underbite, which adds to its charming expression. This feature and their expressive round eyes make them one of the most recognizable toy breeds.
For those who adore small dogs with a grand personality, the Shih Tzu is an unbeatable choice. Their affectionate demeanor and majestic coat make them a treasured member of any household.
4. Old English Sheepdog
With its iconic shaggy coat and bear-like appearance, the Old English Sheepdog is a breed that turns heads. Developed in England for herding cattle and sheep, this large, muscular dog is surprisingly agile despite its thick fur. Their playful and friendly disposition makes them fantastic family pets.
Maintaining an Old English Sheepdog’s coat requires dedication. Their dense double-layer fur is prone to matting, so frequent brushing is necessary to keep it manageable. During harsh and dry seasons, more intensive grooming is required to manage shedding and prevent excess hair buildup.
Beyond their striking appearance, these dogs are highly intelligent and capable workers. Historically, they played a vital role in driving livestock to market, relying on their problem-solving skills to manage herds effectively. Today, they excel in obedience and herding trials.
A fascinating fact about this breed is their distinctive “bobtail.” While some are naturally born without tails, others have them docked, a tradition dating back to their early working days. This feature gave them their nickname, “Bobtail.”
The Old English Sheepdog is a top contender for families looking for a loving, energetic dog with a unique coat. Their affectionate nature and distinctive shaggy look make them an unforgettable addition to any home.
5. Bichon Frise
Small, sturdy, and endlessly charming, the Bichon Frise is a breed that radiates happiness. With origins in the Mediterranean, these little dogs were once favored by European nobility and traveling performers alike. Their fluffy, white coats and dark, expressive eyes give them a perpetually joyful expression.
Despite their compact size, Bichons require significant coat care. Their soft, curly fur grows continuously and needs regular trimming to prevent matting. Frequent brushing helps maintain their signature round, plush appearance. Because their hair is hypoallergenic, they’re often chosen by allergy-sensitive owners.
Bichons are known for their sociable and affectionate personalities. They thrive on human interaction and dislike being left alone for long periods. Their friendly nature makes them great companions for families, seniors, and even other pets.
An interesting trait of the Bichon Frise is its talent for entertaining. Historically, they were circus performers due to their trainability and love of attention. Even today, they excel in tricks and obedience competitions, eager to impress their audience.
The Bichon Frise is an excellent choice for anyone searching for a playful and affectionate dog with a cloud-like coat. Their upbeat attitude and signature fluff make them a delightful presence in any home.
6. Komondor
Few breeds are as visually striking as the Komondor, known for its long, corded coat that resembles a mop. Originally bred in Hungary as a livestock guardian, this breed is powerful and deeply loyal. Their distinctive fur isn’t just for aesthetics—it protects against harsh weather and potential predators.
Caring for a Komondor’s coat is unlike any other dog’s grooming requirements or routine. Instead of brushing, their dense, woolly hair naturally forms cords, which must be separated by hand to prevent matting. These cords develop over time, giving the breed its signature dreadlocked look. Bathing them is lengthy, as their thick coat takes hours—sometimes days—to fully dry.
Despite their heavy coat, Komondors are surprisingly agile. Their guarding instincts remain strong, making them excellent watchdogs. They are naturally wary of strangers and require early socialization to ensure they remain well-mannered companions.
One of the most fascinating facts about this breed is its historical role in protecting Hungarian flocks from wolves and thieves. Their white coat helped them blend in with sheep, allowing them to ambush threats without being noticed. Even today, they retain their fearless and independent nature.
For those seeking a rare and eye-catching breed with strong protective instincts, the Komondor is a standout choice. Their unique appearance and unwavering loyalty make them truly one of a kind.
7. Maltese
Graceful and charming, the Maltese has captivated dog lovers for centuries. This ancient toy breed, known for its silky, floor-length coat, was once a prized companion of European aristocrats. Despite their delicate appearance, these dogs are lively and full of personality.
Maintaining a Maltese’s luxurious fur requires diligent care. Daily brushing prevents tangles, and regular trims help manage their length. Many owners choose to keep them in a shorter “puppy cut” for easier maintenance. Their white coat is prone to tear stains, requiring special attention around the eyes.
Maltese dogs are known for their affectionate and playful nature. They thrive on companionship and love being the center of attention, says AKC. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living, though they still enjoy playtime and short walks.
One intriguing fact about the Maltese is its ancient lineage—this breed dates back over 2,000 years. It was revered by Roman nobility and even depicted in artwork from ancient civilizations. Their regal bearing and confidence reflect their long history as pampered lapdogs.
For those who desire a small yet spirited dog with an elegant coat, the Maltese is a timeless favorite. Their affectionate nature and glamorous fur make them an irresistible companion.
8. Chow Chow
With its thick mane and dignified stance, the Chow Chow is often compared to a lion, as described by PetMD. This ancient Chinese breed is instantly recognizable due to its dense double coat, deep-set eyes, and unique blue-black tongue. Originally bred as a multipurpose working dog, it excels as both a guardian and a companion.
The Chow Chow’s plush fur demands regular upkeep. Their thick undercoat sheds heavily, requiring frequent brushing to prevent matting and excess shedding. They are known to “blow” their coat seasonally, meaning an intense shedding period occurs twice a year. Proper grooming helps keep their fur clean and tangle-free.
Despite their cuddly appearance, Chows are independent and reserved. They are not overly affectionate but form deep bonds with their families. Their aloof nature makes them natural watchdogs, as they are highly protective of their home.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this breed is its unusual tongue color. Unlike most dogs, which have pink tongues, the Chow Chow has a distinctive blue-black tongue—a trait that sets them apart from certain breeds in the canine world.
For those who admire a dignified and low-maintenance companion with a striking coat, the Chow Chow is an exceptional choice. Their quiet strength and unique appearance make them truly unforgettable.
9. Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a breed renowned for its soulful eyes, luxurious ears, and cheerful personality. Originally bred for hunting game birds, this medium-sized dog is known for its affectionate and playful nature, says Britannica.
Their silky coat requires dedicated grooming to maintain its soft texture. Their fur can become tangled without regular brushing, particularly around the ears and legs. Many owners prefer professional grooming to keep their coats neat and prevent matting. Additionally, their floppy ears need frequent cleaning to avoid infections.
Cocker Spaniels are highly social and thrive on human interaction. They enjoy outdoor activities and are known for their energetic and eager-to-please temperament. Their intelligence makes them easy to train, whether for obedience, agility, or simply as loving companions.
A fun fact about the Cocker Spaniel is its connection to Disney—this breed inspired Lady in Lady and the Tramp. Their expressive eyes and gentle demeanor make them one of the most endearing breeds in the canine world.
For those looking for a lively, affectionate dog with a gorgeous coat, the Cocker Spaniel is a fantastic choice. Their playful spirit and unwavering loyalty ensure they bring joy to any household.
Conclusion
Choosing from frequent grooming required dog breeds means embracing a long-term commitment to their care. Unlike short-haired breeds like the Golden Retriever or Portuguese Water Dogs, these high-maintenance breeds require regular grooming sessions to keep their coats healthy, prevent matting, and minimize shedding. Whether the Shih Tzu with its flowing locks or the Afghan Hound with its silky fur, each requires consistent grooming appointments to maintain their signature appearance.
For pet owners willing to invest time and effort, these long-haired breeds offer unmatched elegance and charm. Their dense undercoats, curly coats, and luxurious fur demand professional grooming sessions, frequent brushing, and occasional baths. Without a structured grooming routine, their coats can tangle, leading to discomfort and skin issues. Tools like a slicker brush or an undercoat rake help distribute natural oils and remove dead hair, ensuring their coats stay shiny.
From the Yorkshire Terrier to the Bichon Frise, these high-maintenance breeds need more than just love—they need commitment. If you’re ready for extensive dog grooming, regular haircuts, and dedicated care, these coated breeds will reward you with beauty, loyalty, and an undeniable presence. Investing in professional groomers or mastering grooming techniques will ensure your furry friend’s well-being while keeping their coat in top condition.
