What is considered ‘Long Hair’?
Any dog that has hair extending from it’s body in a long, free flowing fashion. That’s what this list is all about.
Technically, we could say that dog’s such as a Husky or German Shepherd have long hair. But I want to see the dogs that have hair like Fabio on a windy day.
Surprisingly, long hair does not equal more allergies. In fact, quite of few of these dogs don’t shed and are hypoallergenic.
Maintenance, Haircuts, and Grooming
Beauty comes at a price. While those gorgeous flowing locks will certainly turn heads at the park, you are committing yourself to a lifetime of daily brushing and grooming.
Typically these long hair styles are called Show Grooms. That means they’re being prepared for the show ring and must appear immaculate.
If you want the look of the show groom, but with a little less daily maintenance, I recommend asking your groomer about a Breed Trim.
This is a modified version of the Show Groom but styled in a way that’s easier for the everyday owner.
Of course, your results may vary. These grooms are only achieved by expert groomers with years of experience AND if your specific dog has the right kind of coat.
If constant grooming isn’t your style then check out some low maintenance dogs.
Long-Haired Dogs
1. Afghan Hound
We’ll start with most luxurious and exotic of ‘hair-do’s’.
Their personality is just as unique as their looks. Afghans are also considered highly independent, yet emotionally and physically sensitive. Socialization is not one of their strong points.
Their unique coat is often admired by onlookers, if you can keep up with maintenance. Brushing is a daily requirement. And you’ll need to seek out a skilled groomer for the perfect trim.
Afghan’s are an acquired taste and only for owners who are just as unique as them.
2. Chinese Crested
It’s important to remember that Chinese Crested come in two very distinct categories of coat type – Hairless and Full Coat.
As you may have surmised, hairless types are completely hair-free except for their head, tail, and feet. Meanwhile the full coat can flaunt long, silky hairs that drape all the way to the floor.
3. Cocker Spaniel
The real star of the show is the Cocker Spaniel.
This breed was quite literally bred for companionship. Friendliness is baked into their very being. Cockers are sweet, kind, loving dogs that are incredibly loyal.
Stunning show trims (like in the picture above) are difficult to achieve and manage. A very skilled groomer will be able to assist you achieving this look. We recommend a breed trim, which is a modified show trim but easier to maintain.
In 2017, Striker took home top prize at AKC, which is a beautiful example of a show trim.
4. Coton de Tulear
Cotons are somewhere between a long coat and a fluffy coat, but we feel they should be included on the list.
Again, when growing this coat out long, you will need to keep up with daily brushing and regular grooming. Especially if your Coton is running and playing outside.
Quite simply, these are wonderful dogs. They’re gentle, sweet, calm, and very good with training. They do tend to become overly attached to their owners, so it’s best to bring them to work or wherever your day takes you.
5. Dachshund (Long Haired)
Dachshunds come in a wide variety of colors, coat types, and patterns. For our list we must feature the gorgeous Long-Haired Dachshund.
Dachshunds are fun and mischievous dogs that love a good blanket and nap. While they still enjoy a little playtime, a day in the sun sounds far more appealing.
Doxies may get possessive of their owners, and nip or bite other family members who get too close. Potty training and barking are other habits that are difficult to overcome. We recommend training and socialization at an early age to curb bad behaviors.
Learn more about Dachsund colors and coat types.
6. English Setter
Similar to their cousins (Irish Setter), the English Setter are also bird and hunting dogs with a very enthusiastic personality. But the most obvious difference is the white spotted coat.
When it comes to these beautiful coats the Setter can be placed in 2 distinct categories: Field and Show. Field Setters will have a shorter coat meant for working out in the field. While the Show Setters will grow into their beautiful long feathering.
Whenever you see “Setter” in the name you know you’re getting a lovable, high-energy companion. They excel in active sports and agility, or any sort of training challenge. But patience isn’t their strong suit and you may find them getting bored and mischievous.
7. Havanese
Havanese are incredibly kind and good-hearted companions. They quickly become infatuated with their owner and will have difficulty letting go (even just for a few minutes).
They are very adaptable to your lifestyle, as long as they’re included in your family activities. Havanese are content to nap all day or go for a lively adventure. Whatever is on your agenda they’re ready to be a part of it.
To maintain that beautiful long hair you’ll need to exercise regular brushing and grooming habits. Proper brushing is essential to avoid matting.
Here an expert groomer explains the 6 Havanese Haircuts and Styles.
8. Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is an active hunting dog with a rich-red coat. If you’re looking for the most gorgeous hair then look no further.
Irish Setter’s are incredibly enthusiastic about life, and you may even find them ‘bouncing off the walls’ with all that energy. Seeing as how this breed was meant for active duty (such as bird retrieval and hunting) they do well in active environments and when presented with daily challenges.
They’re also incredibly intelligent. This makes training easy, but they can also get into trouble if left to their own devices.
9. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso has a magnificent long silky coat. And of course, more coat will mean more grooming. It’s imperative you brush your Lhasa two or three times per week.
Regular bathing, detangling, and blow drying is required to maintain that beautiful flowing hair.
Most owners eventually go for a short trim (especially during summer) to keep their sanity.
But what is this breed like? Well, the Lhasa Apso were once used to Tibetan protect royalty. They still carry their protective nature like a badge of honor.
That, unfortunately, makes them difficult to train. The Lhasa is strong willed and strong headed, and will require a strong leader for them to take heed.
10. Maltese
Maltese are energetic and intelligent little companions.
Despite their long beautiful coat, these dogs have minimal shedding. But beauty comes at a price, and that white elegant hair needs regular upkeep and maintenance. You’ll be brushing your Maltese out daily, ensuring there are no mats or tangles, and visiting the groomer regularly for upkeep.
11. Pekingese
Pekingese is a unique breed originating from ancient China, but even more unique is their coat which can be grooming in multiple different fashions.
For show rings this breed is fashioned to be incredibly thick and fluffy. Just take a look at Wasabi, the AKC winning dog of 2021.
The Pekingese have an independent spirit that make their own rules, so they can be very stubborn with training and potty training.
Also, they can be very loud, and tend to bark at just about everything. With that in mind, the Pekingese are not well suited for families with small children, other dogs, or first time dog owners.
12. Rough Collie
Just like you’d expect from Lassie, Rough Collie’s are loyal, intelligent, and always on the lookout for potential danger. They’re protective, but not aggressive, making them a great family watch dog.
Despite their guarding duty, Rough Collies are quite emotionally sensitive and sometimes shy. You’ll quickly find they’re attuned to your emotions, and respond according to how you’re feeling, which makes them especially good therapy dogs. It goes without saying, Rough Collies win the award for most family friendly dog.
13. Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers have a unique grooming style in that they are left with a long skirt, beard, and furnishings, while the top line is hand stripped. Their coat texture is coarse and wiry, with a soft undercoat.
Scottish Terriers confident, proud, and strong willed. While they’re a loving and affectionate breed, they can be difficult to train. It’s best to keep training interesting and ever-changing to hold their attention.
14. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu grooming styles come in a wide variety. Most owners tend to go short for easier maintenance. However, the longer styles are gorgeous and are perfect for the show ring.
Most owners can opt for the breed trim, which is a modified show trim that is easier to manage.
Shih Tzus are lovely companions that just want to spend their day with you. Friendliness is in their genetics, that’s because the Shih Tzu were bred for companionship.
However, they can be overly energetic, and sometimes difficult to manage. Some families say the best way to keep them happy and occupied is to actually adopt two so they have a constant play-friend.
15. Shetland Sheepdog
“Shelties” are farm dogs meant to stand guard and herd. They’re fiercely intelligent and loyal, making them an excellent companion. Not to mention, they are especially adept at dog sports and agility.
While they need a good daily run and mental stimulation, you won’t find their energy “off the charts” like some other working breeds. Shelties excel when given a daily job that challenges them mentally and physically.
16. Tibetan Terrier
While they may look similar to their Lhasa Apso cousins (both originating from Tibet) the Tibetan Terrier is much larger and sturdier.
What they do share in common is their layered coat – with a thick, wooly coat underneath, and silky hairs on the top coat.
These dogs are especially good family pets, as they’re affection, loyal, and excellent with children. As long as you accommodate their daily exercise needs that is. Since the Tibetan Terriers are natural watch dogs, they tend to bark at whatever catches their interest.
17. Yorkshire Terrier
“Yorkies” are the star of their own show, and they want to make sure everyone is watching.
These are lovable little lap-dogs that love to play and explore, and are perfect for singles. Because of their tendency to be aggressive, these dogs are not recommended for families with small children.
But why stop here? You can check out all 28 Fluffy Dog Breeds if that’s more your style.
