There’s something uniquely charming about dogs with long snouts. Whether it’s their elegant profile, keen sense of smell, or endearing expressions, these breeds often stand out for more than just their looks. Long-nosed dogs have captured the hearts of pet lovers for generations, not only because of their distinctive features but also due to their intelligence, loyalty, and diverse personalities.
Beyond appearances, that extended snout serves a powerful purpose. Dogs with longer noses tend to have a heightened sense of smell, making them excellent trackers, hunters, or scent-based working dogs. From sniffing out snacks in the kitchen to detecting emotions in their humans, their olfactory abilities are truly something to admire. But let’s be honest, scientific facts aside, long-snouted pups also bring an extra dash of character to the home.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to a variety of long-snouted dog breeds, each with its own special charm. Whether you’re searching for an athletic hound or a graceful companion, these dogs are ready to impress with their looks, loyalty, and unmistakable noses.
Long Snout Dog Breeds
1. Afghan Hound
Regal, refined, and undeniably eye-catching, the Afghan Hound is a long-nosed breed that exudes grace and athleticism. Known for its noble demeanor and independent nature, this ancient breed once served as a swift hunting companion in the rugged mountains of Afghanistan.
The AKC describes the Afghan Hound as a breed that is both independent and sweet-natured. While their aloof attitude can make them appear reserved, Afghan Hounds are deeply loyal once they bond with their humans. Their strong prey drive means they thrive in fenced areas where they can run freely without chasing after smaller animals.
Appearance
With flowing, silky fur and a slim, elongated muzzle, the Afghan Hound is elegance in motion. Their long snout enhances their scenting and breathing capabilities, which once helped them track prey across vast landscapes.
Their narrow face and dark, almond-shaped eyes add to their aristocratic expression, while their sleek build allows them to move with incredible speed and agility. Grooming is a commitment, but their show-stopping coat is worth the effort for those who enjoy a bit of glamor.
Fact: That signature long snout not only contributes to their graceful silhouette but also makes Afghan Hounds prone to snoring, an amusing trait in such a dignified breed.
2. Greyhound
Graceful and streamlined, the Greyhound is one of the most iconic long-snouted dog breeds. Originally bred for speed and agility, this breed can reach an astonishing 45 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest dogs in the world. But while they shine on the track, Greyhounds are surprisingly gentle and relaxed at home, often enjoying long naps and quiet companionship over constant activity.
Britannica states that the Greyhound is not only the swiftest dog breed but also one of the oldest, long associated with nobility and high status. Their calm, affectionate temperament makes them ideal for families, singles, and even apartment dwellers, as long as they get regular opportunities to stretch their legs.
Appearance
The Greyhound’s long, narrow snout enhances its sleek, aerodynamic build, helping it cut through the air while sprinting. Their body is lean and muscular, with a deep chest and long legs built for power and speed.
Their short, smooth coat comes in a variety of shades, including white, black, fawn, and brindle. Despite their aristocratic look, Greyhounds are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, requiring only occasional brushing.
Fact: While known for their explosive speed, these affectionate dogs are often referred to as “45-mph couch potatoes” due to their love of lounging and calm nature indoors.
3. Whippet
Graceful, affectionate, and lightning-fast, the Whippet is a long-snouted breed built for both speed and snuggles. Originally developed in England by crossing Greyhounds with smaller terriers, Whippets were bred for hunting and sprinting. Though they possess impressive athleticism and can reach speeds up to 35 miles per hour, they are equally content lounging on the sofa after a burst of exercise.
Their gentle temperament and low-maintenance nature make them a favorite for families and first-time dog owners alike. PetMD notes that when a Whippet’s exercise and mental stimulation requirements are fulfilled, the dog is typically content, relaxed, and well-behaved.
Appearance
At 18–22 inches tall and weighing between 20 and 40 pounds, Whippets have an elegant, lean frame that resembles a scaled-down Greyhound. Their signature long snout contributes to their aerodynamic profile, while their deep chest, narrow waist, and long legs aid in their remarkable agility.
They have short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming, and their rose-shaped ears and expressive eyes complete their sleek, endearing appearance.
Fact: Often referred to as the “poor man’s racehorse,” Whippets are the fastest dog of their size and can change direction mid-sprint with astonishing ease, a trait rooted in their history as hunting dogs.
4. Borzoi
Known for their graceful build and noble demeanor, the Borzoi, also called the Russian Wolfhound, is a striking long-nosed breed with deep roots in aristocratic Russia. Though they appear calm and composed, these dogs are built for speed and can reach up to 40 miles per hour when in full sprint.
Despite their athleticism, Borzois are gentle and quiet companions who enjoy lounging just as much as they enjoy a brisk run or play session. Their calm, observant nature makes them well-suited for households that value peaceful companionship.
Appearance
The Borzoi’s appearance is instantly recognizable. Their elongated, narrow head flows into a slim, curving body, complemented by small ears, a deep yet narrow chest, and long, muscular hindquarters. The breed’s signature long snout gives them an air of refinement while also enhancing their tracking capabilities.
Their coats are silky, either flat, wavy, or lightly curled, and commonly white with contrasting markings in colors like cream, tan, or black. This elegant physique is paired with a long, feathery tail that adds to their poised silhouette.
Fact: While these gentle dogs may look regal and reserved, they are secretly swift athletes capable of reaching speeds up to 40 mph, making them one of the fastest long-snouted breeds.
5. Dachshund
Fearless, curious, and endlessly charming, the Dachshund is a small dog with a big personality and a nose to match. Originally bred in 17th-century Germany for hunting badgers and other burrowing animals, this little hound’s long snout and strong prey drive made it a natural underground tracker.
Despite their short stature, Dachshunds are bold and energetic, often forgetting just how small they are. Their devotion to their families and playful spirit have made them one of the most beloved breeds around the world.
Appearance
Dachshunds are instantly recognizable by their elongated bodies, stubby legs, and distinctive, tapered snouts. That long nose isn’t just for looks, it was designed for digging, sniffing, and hunting. They come in two sizes (standard and miniature) and three coat types: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired, with a wide variety of color combinations and patterns.
Their alert expression, floppy ears, and sturdy frame give them a unique and lovable look that never fails to turn heads.
Fact: The breed’s name literally means “badger dog” in German, highlighting its original purpose, using that long snout and agile body to chase down burrowing prey like badgers and foxes.
6. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a petite, elegant version of the classic Greyhound, sharing the same sighthound heritage in a more compact frame. Bred for speed and companionship, these affectionate dogs thrive on human connection and love curling up in laps just as much as they enjoy quick bursts of play.
Despite their slim build and athletic abilities, they’re surprisingly low-key indoors, making them excellent apartment companions.
Appearance
This breed’s long, slender snout is a defining feature, giving their face a graceful, elongated profile. Their refined head tapers into a delicate muzzle, while their large, expressive eyes add to their gentle charm.
Standing 13 to 15 inches tall and weighing just 7 to 14 pounds, Italian Greyhounds have sleek, fine coats and lean, muscular bodies built for agility and speed. Their narrow frame and long limbs give them a statuesque elegance, while their pronounced snout adds both beauty and function to their streamlined silhouette.
Fact: Although built for speed, Italian Greyhounds are just as happy lounging on the sofa, making them one of the most affectionate and cuddle-loving sighthounds around.
7. Pharaoh Hound
With a noble lineage dating back to ancient Egypt, the Pharaoh Hound is as striking as it is athletic. Originally bred to hunt small game, this ancient sighthound has retained its enthusiasm for movement and adventure.
Known for their affectionate and playful nature, Pharaoh Hounds are loving family companions that do well with other dogs and sometimes even cats, if properly socialized. However, due to their strong prey drive, they may not be suited for homes with small animals like birds or rodents.
Appearance
Gracefully built and statuesque, the Pharaoh Hound boasts a lean frame, long legs, and, of course, a narrow, elongated snout that enhances its refined silhouette. These dogs stand 21–25 inches tall and typically weigh between 45–55 pounds.
Their large, upright ears and expressive amber eyes give them a perpetually alert look, while their smooth, short coat comes in warm hues of tan and chestnut. One of their most endearing features? They literally blush, turning pink around their nose and ears when they’re excited or happy.
Fact: The Pharaoh Hound is one of the oldest known dog breeds, with depictions dating as far back as 4400 B.C. in Egyptian art.
8. Saluki
Graceful and dignified, the Saluki is one of the most ancient and visually striking long-snouted dog breeds. Once revered by Egyptian royalty, this elegant sighthound was bred for speed and endurance across vast desert landscapes.
Known for its loyalty and independence, the Saluki thrives in active households that can provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Their quiet, reserved nature may make them seem aloof, but they form strong bonds with their families and enjoy interactive play and outdoor adventures. They become great family pets.
Appearance
The Saluki’s slender silhouette is unmistakable, marked by long legs, a deep chest, a narrow waist, and its signature elongated snout. Their smooth, straight coat may be short or slightly feathered on the ears, tail, and legs, and comes in a wide range of colors including white, cream, golden, red, black, and tan, or tricolor.
Their fine-boned build and feathered features give them a refined, almost aristocratic look, while their athletic frame enables bursts of impressive speed.
Fact: Salukis are capable of sprinting up to 43 miles per hour, making them not only one of the most elegant dogs in appearance, but also one of the fastest in the canine world.
9. Bloodhound
Renowned for its unparalleled tracking abilities, the Bloodhound is the ultimate scent hound, and its long snout plays a vital role in that talent. This breed was developed to follow scent trails across vast distances, often used in search and rescue or tracking down fugitives.
Despite their serious working background, Bloodhounds are affectionate, easygoing, and patient, making them wonderful companions for families who can meet their daily exercise needs and don’t mind a bit of drool.
Appearance
The Bloodhound’s long, droopy face is unmistakable. Its signature elongated snout, deep wrinkles, and expressive, drooping eyes create a look of constant contemplation. Their large, velvety ears frame the face, enhancing their charm while helping funnel scents toward their powerful nose.
Built for endurance, these dogs have a sturdy, muscular body designed for long treks and serious sniffing. Their mournful expression and floppy features only add to their irresistible appeal.
Fact: A Bloodhound’s long snout is so powerful that their scent-tracking ability has been used in court as reliable evidence, testament to just how extraordinary their nose truly is.
Conclusion
From the graceful Afghan Hound to the scent-savvy Bloodhound, long-snouted dog breeds are a remarkable group known for their distinctive facial features and exceptional abilities. Their extended muzzles not only give them a refined appearance but also play a crucial role in tasks like scent tracking, cooling, and communication. These breeds are often prized by pet parents for their beauty, intelligence, and one-of-a-kind personalities.
Long-nosed dogs, such as the athletic racing dog breeds or highly skilled working breeds like the German Shepherd, often thrive in active homes where their instincts and energy can be put to good use. Unlike flat-faced dogs, which can struggle with breathing issues, long-snouted breeds generally enjoy better airflow and endurance, making them excellent companions for outdoor adventures and performance tasks.
Even unique breeds like the Bull Terrier, with its distinct egg-shaped head and elongated snout, bring charm and character to the category. No matter the size or temperament, these breeds continue to impress with their combination of function and form, making them favorites among dog lovers who appreciate both beauty and brains.
