Have you ever thought of adopting the canines who are living works of art, carrying a waterfall of silky strands flowing with every step? We have enlisted the breeds that have an undeniable charm and elevate the homes just by their presence.
These long-haired dog breeds’ coats not only look beautiful, but also feel like warm velvet during cuddles, and sway like soft cotton when they play.
You definitely will experience their presence as a tiny four-legged prince or princess, who is capable of adding a sense of calmness and grace to your daily life.
With their striking looks, these pals are affectionate, expressive, and surprisingly playful, yet snuggle balls, a living example that beauty and fun coexist.
Fun Facts: In puppyhood, canines often start with soft, fluffy coats, while in adulting, their coats transform into silkier or coarser hair.
Long Haired Dog Breeds Discover Their Luxurious Appeal and Beauty
1. Afghan Hound
Charming and elegant Afghan Hounds are celebrated for their long, silky coat and athleticism. This long-haired dog breed is a real show stopper, and its thick fur gives protection against the harsh conditions of Afghanistan. They are powerful and large sight hounds.
Afghan Hounds are affectionate dogs towards their family members, and stay reserved around strangers. Their high energy levels should be channeled via proper ways, such as lure coursing and other dog sports. They are best suited to active families only.
Afghan Hounds’ maintenance is time-consuming, and their long coat needs regular brushing and monthly bathing. These dogs are independent thinkers, which is why positive reinforcement methods, along with patience and consistency, work best for their training.
2. Shih Tzu
The flowing coat of the Shih Tzu is appealing, which comes in different colors, including black, gray, and red. These little dogs were originally bred for watching over the homes and to look like lions. To keep the texture alive and prevent tangles, regular grooming is crucial for these dogs.
You have to visit a professional groomer once a month for a trim, as they have straight, long hair that grows fast. According to PetMD, these hypoallergenic dogs shed minimally and are the best option for those who are suffering from dog allergies, as well as for apartment dwellers.
Shih Tzus are often called little dogs and make perfect lap dogs, thanks to their low-shedding coats and less exercise demands. Loving and friendly Shih Tzus are excellent family pets as they love to form strong bonds with their humans and carve out their interactions.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Spunky and entertaining Yorkshire Terriers have also been blessed by a silky coat, ranking them high among the long-haired dog breeds. These small dogs are best suited for closed space living and for dog allergy sufferers.
Yorkshire Terriers are affectionately called Yorkies, and their easy-going temperament makes them great family pets, especially for new pet parents. However, these toy dogs have a coat that resembles human hair, and in shedding seasons, they barely shed.
These fluffy dogs need high maintenance to look their best, via various styles and haircuts. Regular brushing is very necessary to keep their fur tangle-free. Moreover, they are intolerant of cold weather, so if you are going outside with your pooch in winter, protect him with dog coats or sweaters.
4. Lhasa Apso
Hailing from Tibetan Monasteries, the Lhasa Apso is another well-known long-haired dog breed. These dogs have a long double coat, which helps them from freezing temperatures. They were originally bred to as working dogs to watch over.
Their flat and floor-length coat should be brushed daily, and can be given a puppy cut style, which still demands proper care and maintenance. They are brachycephalic dogs, which is why pet parents must be aware of their health issues, including overheating and breathing problems.
Lhasa Apsos are loving companions for their owners, and due to their protective instincts, they do not warmly welcome new people and surroundings. They might develop destructive behaviors if proper mental stimulation is not provided to these energetic, fluffy partners, says WebMD.
5. Maltese
Maltese is an ancient breed, with flowing hair and weighing only seven pounds. Their white fluffy coats, lively nature, and smart brains make them famous in the dog world and among families. Maltese dogs were bred for companionship and have a worldwide fan base with a magnificent history.
These tiny pups have long hair that resembles humans, which is why their shedding is minimal. Owners can make their grooming requirements easier by giving them a shorter haircut. After trimming, this long-haired dog breed has a curly coat, but when it gets a certain length, they become straight.
Maltese have moderate energy levels, and to prevent destructive behaviors, they need regular exercise that can be met in small apartments as well. A socialized and trained Maltese gets along with other pets in the house. They crave constant human interaction the most, and make ideal lap dogs.
6. Old English Sheepdog
Shaggy-coated Old English Sheepdogs were primarily bred as herding dogs. These doggies are famous for their luxurious coats, adaptable nature, and characteristic bear-like gait, as mentioned by the AKC. Old English Sheepdogs are also irresistible at first glance due to their dark brown or blue eyes, or one of each.
They are relatively low-maintenance dogs in terms of exercise. However, this long-haired breed needs daily brushing and has frequent grooming requirements as well as, including a short cut, regular bathing, and nail trimming. Patient and kind large dogs get along well with children, and make good watchdogs.
Old English Sheepdogs are exceptionally smart canines, as once they learn something, they do not forget. Fun training sessions should be introduced at puppyhood since these gentle giants become bored due to repetition.
7. Shetland Sheepdog
High-energy Shetland Sheepdogs have beautiful coats with a silky texture with lots of color combinations. They make popular dogs among families in the USA because of their eager-to-please personalities. Shelties were bred for herding sheep in the islands of Scotland.
Shelties are moderate shedders, so to keep their double coat healthy, daily and consistent grooming requirements are vital. To prevent matting, daily brushing is not necessary, but twice a week can lower the burden of owners without creating any mess.
To combat mental challenges, Shelties should be engaged with various playing activities, such as herding, agility, fetching, and other dog sports. They are vocal dogs, when excited or meet new people, socialization at a young age can train them to be well-mannered in new situations.
Conclusion
Long-haired dog breeds are dramatic and glamorous pooches who come in all sizes and temperaments. Though dog lovers are attracted mostly due to their beauty rather than their characteristics.
But if you are bringing a new cute pup into your home, you should know about the breed’s behavior to avoid future problems.
With the right choice and decision, you can enjoy an irresistible and long-lasting devoted companionship with your four-legged partner. The list includes other breeds as well, such as, Bearded Collie and the Skye Terrier.
