Long hair and happy tails can turn any rough day around fast. Long-haired dogs are pure joy to watch. They look fancy, then act goofy five minutes later.
This blog will walk you through 7 long-haired dog breeds that are easy to adore. You will meet long-haired dogs that feel calm and long-haired dogs that live for laughs. But why bother with that? Because long hair comes with grooming needs, it helps to know the truth early.
Many long-haired breeds need regular brushing. Some long-haired breeds have a double coat, like herding dogs such as the rough collie. A good plan keeps your floors sane.
Magnificent Long-Haired Dog Breeds to Adore
1. Afghan Hound
Among long-haired dog breeds, the Afghan hound is a famous long-haired dog with a dramatic long coat and an elegant appearance. The long hair frames the face, and the silky coat swings with a flowing coat vibe.
It is often named among the most beautiful dog breeds, and people noticeit fast. Afghan hound fans often joke that this dog looks like it has a built-in hair dryer.
According to AKC, this dog breed was originally bred in the mountains of Afghanistan. That thick fur helped in cold weather. The breed is also a sighthound, which means it hunts with sharp eyes and speed.
So yes, it fits the vibe of hunting dogs, even if it now prefers a soft bed. This haired dog can be a little distant with strangers, but it bonds deeply at home. In everyday life, it acts calm, proud, and surprisingly sweet.
Here is the honest part. The coat requires steady care. Dry brushing can snap the hair, so many people use a light spray first. Daily brushing keeps knots away, and weekly brushing helps the hair stay smooth. The breed combines beauty with real effort, so plan for time.
Give this dog long walks, space to stretch, and calm praise. If you want long-haired dogs with less work, this may feel like a lot. But if you want long-haired magic, you will adore this one. If you want a short-haired dog, pick another buddy.
Best vibe: calm, graceful, and a little “model energy.”
Care must include brushing each day, plus regular grooming baths
Fun note: puppies start with shorter hair, then go full glam later
2. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso may look like a toy, but this hairy dog is bold. It comes from the Himalayan region and was valued as an indoor alarm dog. That is why the protective nature still shows up today. It will sit quietly, then bark like it just spotted a movie villain.
This dog breed carries long haired style with pride. The long hair can fall on both sides in full-length layers. Many have a double coat, with a slightly rough outer coat and softer hair underneath.
Even better, the breed often sheds lightly, so your clothes may not get covered. Still, a thick coat can trap dirt, so keep up with care.
Lhasa apso dogs love steady habits. They can be playful, but they also enjoy calm cuddles. Unlike large dogs, this one can nap in small corners.
Consistent grooming makes life easier for both you and your dog. Aim for regular brushing, and check behind the ears often. Keep your eyes clean, too. Do that, and this long-haired buddy stays neat and comfy.
Temper: confident, alert, and very loyal
Quick tip: Frequent brushing is faster than fixing mats later
Home fit: small dogs, spaces, and people who like a quiet friend
3. Shih Tzu
The shih tzu has a look that melts people fast. This long-haired pup has a round face, bright eyes, and a long coat that can look like a little cape. It is also called the lion dog, and yep, the name fits. With a lion-like mane and a proud little walk, it acts like royalty.
As per PetMD, this dog breed was loved in old royal homes, and it still expects attention. The long hair can be kept swept or trimmed for easier living. Either way, a coat requires care.
Many owners choose brushing each day when the hair is long, plus gentle wipes around the face. Skipping care can turn that soft coat into a knotty mess, and that is no fun for the dog.
The best part is the personality. This haired dog is friendly, feisty, and full of silly charm. It loves being cfit. It can be one of the fluffy dogs that fit apartment life, and it can also be one of the great family dogs when kids are kind.
Here’s the good part: it does not need endless exercise to be happy. A little play, a short stroll, and a warm lap often feel perfect.
Mood: sweet, confident, and always ready for attention
Care plan: brush once a week for trimmed styles, and a kind face cleaning
Did you know: the face fluff can look like tiny mustaches and beards
4. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire terrier is a silky-haired dog that surprises first-time fans. It has hair that grows more like human hair than typical fur. That single layer can get long and shiny, and it can even reach the floor if kept that way. No wonder people call Yorkies little stars.
Most Yorkies have a silky coat that feels smooth and fine, almost like silky fur. Some have a thicker texture that mats more easily, so pay attention to what your dog has. The long coat looks stunning, but it needs regular brushing. Keep it gentle and steady.
Weekly brushing helps too, especially when the hair is medium to long. If you want short hair instead, trims can be cute and simple.
Yorkies also bring a big personality. They are brave, sharp, and often a bit bossy. They make noise when something seems off, which is handy for a tiny watchdog. But wait, there’s more! They also love cuddles and can be wonderful companions when they feel safe.
Give them calm training, soft handling, and a routine. Then you get confident, long-haired dogs in a tiny body.
Style choices: full long hair, or a tidy short hair trim
Smart move: start grooming early so it feels normal
Play note: watch rough play, these small dogs are delicate
5. Coton De Tulear
Coton de Tulear dogs are fluffy dogs with a white, cotton-like look. These long-haired dogs love being near you. This dog breed comes from Madagascar and was made to be close to people.
These are cute dog breeds that love cuddles. A Coton follows you around like your funniest little shadow.
Their fluffy coat feels light and soft, almost like a cloud, and it is adorable. Many Cotons do not shed heavily, which is great for your sofa and your black shirts.
Still, loose fur can hide in the hair and form tangles. So yes, a coat requires a plan. Good grooming helps, and regular brushing keeps the fluff pretty. You do not need to stress. You just need a steady routine.
This haired dog is smart, sweet, and eager to please. It often loves kids, other pets, and friendly visitors.
The playful vibe makes them feel like little teddy bears with real feelings. If you want a bright, silly pal with long-haired charm, this one is hard to beat.
Personality: charming, gentle, and a bit of a show-off
Alone time: do not leave them solo too long, they bond deeply
Care tip: A quick comb after outdoor play saves time later
6. Maltese
The Maltese is a beautiful breed with a bright, happy face and long hair. These long-haired dogs often act like tiny comfort blankets. Its long coat is often pure white and very smooth.
That luxurious coat can look like it belongs on a tiny movie star, but the dog itself is usually down-to-earth and loving. Many people love its classic look for good reason.
This dog breed is gentle, smart, and sweet, with an affectionate nature that feels calming. It enjoys lap time, but it can also enjoy play. A little walk and a few games can be enough. The long hair can be kept full length for a showy look, or trimmed for a simpler life.
Either way, grooming needs still matter. Regular brushing helps prevent tangles, and proper grooming keeps the face clean. A plush coat look is possible with gentle trims.
Maltese dogs can live long lives, often into the teen years. Many aretheir healthy, but dog owners should still watch teeth, eyes, and knees.
When cared for well, this long-haired friend feels like a warm hug with paws. And here’s the best part! You can keep the look fancy without making life stressful, as long as you stay consistent.
Best match: calm homes that want a loving lap buddy
Care routine: steady brushing and gentle wipes around the eyes
Fun fact: some people keep a topknot so the hair stays out of sight
7. Havanese
Havanese dogs are long-haired dogs with a sunny attitude. WebMD notes that this dog breed is the only one native to Cuba, and it has a friendly, people-first style.
These dog breeds love being part of the action. This dog breed thrives on friendly attention. Trips, visits, and simple errands can feel like a party to them.
Their coat can look wavy and bouncy, and it often feels like fluffy fur. Many have a dense coat that can tangle if ignored. So, yes, grooming needs are real.
A gentle brush each day helps when the hair is long, and weekly brushing helps keep it smooth. If you want to keep things easier, trims work too. Just stay kind and steady, and the hair stays happy.
Havanese are lively without being too wild. They enjoy games, training, and little adventures. They can be great family dogs, and they often do well with kids who treat them gently.
Everyone loves how they can play hard, then flop down like a sleepy noodle. Owners prefer them when they want long-haired dogs that feel warm, silly, and loving all in one.
Energy: playful and social, an energetic dog that still settles down
Care note: consistent grooming keeps tangles from turning into drama
Best life: lots of people time and short daily walks
Conclusion
Long-haired dogs can feel like living art, but they are still just a dog who wants love. These long-haired dog breeds shine in different ways, from the Tibetan Mastiff’s calm glam to the Alaskan Malamute’s silly hops.
The Shih Tzu brings tiny-lion confidence, and the Yorkshire Terrier brings hair like human hair. If you love long-haired dogs, pick the dog breed that fits your time and energy. Plan for regular grooming, a quick brush, and kind handling.
Even rough collie fans know, brushing saves your floors. Treat them well and your furry friends become the sweetest companion dogs.
Start today, pick your favorite, and enjoy the hair flips and the love.
