19 Long-Haired Dog Breeds – Charm Of Dogs With Long Hair

Long, flowing fur adds an undeniable touch of elegance and majesty to our canine companions. From the regal Afghan Hound to the playful Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, long-haired dog breeds captivate us with their luxurious coats. But beyond the aesthetic appeal, choosing a long-haired breed comes with a commitment to grooming. This exploration of 19 popular breeds unveils their unique personalities and the essential care required to keep their magnificent manes healthy and beautiful. Prepare to be charmed by the world of dogs with long hair.

Have you ever looked at a dog and thought, ‘I wish I had all that long hair?’ Or maybe that’s just me. We want to tell you about 19 dog breeds that have long, luxurious hair. There’s something about a dog with locks that blow in the wind that makes us go, “Wow!”

How did they get all that long hair? Is it genetics or pure luck? The answers are here, plus lots of other interesting tidbits. 

An Afghan hound has the kind of hair that could make a terrier jealous. I can only imagine the conversations they have in grooming salons. Short-haired dogs are just as cute, but there’s something about a Maltese trotting across the show floor with his hair bouncing that gets everyone’s attention.     

So the next time you go to the salon, you might be saying, “Make it look like my dog’s.”

Long-Haired Breeds Characteristics

(In general or for most of them. Dogs are unique, so some may not have a certain characteristic.)

1. Friendly
2. Flowing, silky hair
3. Double-coated
4. Different sizes, temperaments, and coat types
5. Easy to train
6. Most of the low-shedders are called “Hypoallergenic,” but just remember, all dogs produce dander; it’s just that some are less triggering to those with allergies than others.
7. Most of these dogs need fairly intense grooming schedules since they have lots of long hair.

Dogs With Long Hair

Let’s unravel the world of canine elegance as we dive into 19 breeds that flaunt their long, luxurious coats with unparalleled grace.

1. Afghan Hound

Group	Hound
Height	25”-27”
Weight	50-60 lbs.
Coat and color	Single-coated; 9 possible colors or color mixtures
Life expectancy	12-18 yrs.
Grooming level	High
Shedding level	Low

Boy, this breed got me working, for sure. When I began researching their coat types, I noticed there were conflicting answers. I called several vet’s offices who were dumbfounded as well, so I tried the veterinary college near me, which basically blew me off.

I finally went to the horse’s (dog’s?) mouth and jumped on an Afghan dog group on Facebook. To put it lightly, it was a lively conversation.

This breed was initially bred to be single-coated. Over the years, with lots of breeding, they’ve developed much thicker hair, and sometimes people consider that to be a double coat. 

They do have a short, close-laying smooth coat, like a Saluki or Greyhound, and then the “outer coat” is the long, silky fine hair. However, since they don’t “blow” (shed) their coats like other double-coated dogs, technically they’re not double-coated.

I also spoke to a couple of seasoned Afghan hound breeders who said they’ve seen double-coated Afghan hounds. In my expert (on dogs) opinion, some are, and some aren’t. So there. I’ve earned my keep.

2. Puli 

Group	Herding
Height	16”-17”
Weight	25-35 lbs.
Coat and color	Double-coated; Corded (“Dreadlocks”); Black, silver, white, rust, brindle, cream, brown
Life expectancy	10-15 yrs.
Grooming level	High
Shedding level	Low

This breed with long hair is incredibly intelligent and quite playful. They need lots of exercise, physically and mentally, to expel their energy. Pulik (plural of “Puli”) are the much smaller version of their relatives, the Komondors (which we describe next).

According to The Kennel Club (UK), these Hungarian, long-haired dogs were companions of the Magyars.

The Puli’s coat cords naturally as they grow from puppies into adults, and their coats provide insulation as well as protection from predators. 

3. Komondor

Group	Working
Height	25.5”-27.5”
Weight	80-100 lbs.
Coat and color	Double-coated, Corded, White
Life expectancy	10-12 yrs.
Grooming level	High
Shedding level	Low

Although this breed looks like they couldn’t walk down the street, much less run, they are fast and agile. Their coats cord naturally at around 6-months-old.

They are highly devoted to their guardian(s) but suspicious of strangers, so if you have one as a companion animal, you’ll want to socialize them early. (Today, they are mostly companions and show dogs but still guard, not herd, flocks as well.)

As a watchdog, he does do some barking, which comes naturally. You’ll need to train them early with positive reinforcement since they are so independent. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1937.    

4. Lhasa Apso

Group	Non-sporting
Height	10”-11” (males; females are slightly smaller)
Weight	12-18 lbs.
Coat and color	Single-coated; 13 possible colors or color mixtures
Life expectancy	12-15 yrs.
Grooming level	Medium
Shedding level	Low

When not trimmed, this dog with long hair looks like a super-model with its floor-length hair billowing. Originating in Tibet to guard monasteries/monks, these adorable beauties will let it be known if someone pulls in the driveway.

The Abso Seng Kye, which is what the Tibetans call him, means the ‘Bearded Lion Dog.’

An ancient dog from as far back as 800 BC, the Lhasa got its name from the city of Lhasa. The AKC initially classified them as “Terriers” in 1935 but moved them to the non-sporting group in 1959.

This breed is brave, loyal, and protective but needs to be watched around small children (as with any other dog breed).    

5. Maltese

Group	Toy
Height	7”-9”
Weight	Under 7 lbs
Coat and color	Single-coated; White, white & lemon, white & tan
Life expectancy	12-15 yrs.
Grooming level	High
Shedding level	Low

The Maltese is the quintessential lap dog. They don’t need vigorous exercise but do enjoy walks and playtime with the family daily. Obedience and agility work is high on their list of fun things to do, so you might set up a small obstacle course in the backyard for a treat.

This breed originated in Malta in the Mediterranean and has existed for centuries. There is proof in ancient Greek and Roman literature.

They’re highly adaptable (city, country, apartment) and fit in just about anywhere. Socialize them as puppies with other dogs, children, and adults. 

6. Shih Tzu

Group	Toy
Height	9”-10.5”
Weight	9-16 lbs.
Coat and color	Double-coated; Black, blue, red, brindle, liver, silver, gold, or color mixtures
Life expectancy	10-18 yrs.
Grooming level	High
Shedding level	Low

Among the most popular dog breeds of 2022, as listed by the AKC, the Shih Tzu ranked #20 out of 199. Their pronounced underbite and floppy ears make them one of the cutest dog breeds there are.   

This long-haired dog breed is brachycephalic, meaning its skull is shortened, and they have a pushed-in muzzle/face. They should mostly be kept inside since dogs with this condition could find it difficult to breathe in the heat. 

Shih Tzus don’t like to be alone and might develop separation anxiety if left alone for only a few hours. This could result in excessive barking or even digging or deeper issues. 

7. Yorkshire Terrier

Group	Toy
Height	7”-8”
Weight	7 lbs.
Coat and color	Single-coated; Liver & Tan, Blue & Gold, Blue & Tan, Black & Tan, Black & Gol
Life expectancy	11-15 yr
Grooming level	High
Shedding level	Low

Loving, loyal, and protective, this silky, long-haired dog breed was once a working dog used as ratters in northern England. Today, they mostly just make their guardian extremely happy by being cute. 

In the 1870s, they came to North American shores and were recognized by the AKC in 1885. The breed is sensitive to cold weather, so make sure to keep them inside and bundle them in a sweater if they go out in cold temperatures. 

Don’t think this sweetie doesn’t need a dog leash. They’re known to chase small animals (remember, they were ratters).

Yorkies should have their teeth brushed at least twice a week, if not more, since they’re susceptible to serious dental problems. 

8. Pekingese

Group	Toy
Height	6”-9”
Weight	Up to 14 lbs.
Coat and color	Double-coated; 14 possible colors or color mixtures
Life expectancy	12-14 yrs.
Grooming level	Medium
Shedding level	Medium

The Pekingese originated in Peking, China, to be accessories for royalty. You heard me right. Depending on their style of dress for the day, royals wanted to be matchy-matchy with their dogs. Enter the Pekingnese. And no one else could even “own” one.

British soldiers came across the little dogs during the Opium Wars in the 1800s and took them back to the UK. They eventually made their way to the US, where celebrities scooped them up like shells. 

At the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Pekes have won Best In Show five times. This Chinese breed is quite protective and will bark at unusual sounds or perceived threats. 

9. Bearded Collie

Group	Herding
Height	20”-22”
Weight	45-55 lbs.
Coat and color	Single-coated; Black, blue, brown, fawn – Mixed
Life expectancy	12-14 yrs.
Grooming level	High
Shedding level	Medium

The bearded collie has long hair under its bottom lip, hence the name, and has been called the Highland collie and mountain collie.

Centuries ago, they originated in the Scottish Highlands to herd flocks of sheep and herds of cattle. Since they’re innately territorial, they make excellent watchdogs.

These dogs with long hair are intelligent, energetic, and loving and need lots of exercise. This might include hiking, bicycling, or running with their guardian, as well as mental stimulation like interactive puzzles. 

10. Bolognese

Group	Foundation stock service
Height	10”-12”
Weight	6-10 lbs.
Coat and color	Single-coated; White
Life expectancy	12-14 yrs
Grooming level	Medium
Shedding level	Low

The Bolognese belongs to the Bichon family, which includes:

1. Coton de Tulear
2. Bichon Frise
3. Havanese
4. Lowchen
5. Maltese

These long-haired dogs are an ancient dog breed with their origin going back to Italian aristocracy. Although no one knows their entire story, they’re named after Bologna, Italy, and we know they’ve existed since at least the year 1200.

Playful, easy-going, and calm, these fluffy-like-cotton dogs will make you want to stay at home just to be with them.

They do well with apartment living since they’re not high-energy but still need daily exercise like a walk, some “rough-and-tumble” on the floor, or a game of fetch. They would be a great companion for a retired or senior person.  

11. Coton de Tulear

Group	Non-sporting
Height	9”-11”
Weight	8-15 lbs.
Coat and color	Double-coated; White, black – Mixture
Life expectancy	15-19 yrs.
Grooming level	High
Shedding level	Between low to medium

Talk about cute dogs; this one is a walking cloud. Also, “Coton” is the French word for “cotton,” so there’s that. The “Royal Dog of Madagascar” has been honored with appearing on a postage stamp, so don’t let yours get a big head.

Good with cats, dogs, and families, this breed is a delight and not persnickety like some other small breeds.

Although they’ve been around for centuries on the island of Tula, they were only first recognized by The Kennel Club (UK) in 1990. During the 70s, they came to France, Belgium, and then to the US, so you could say they’re well-traveled.  

12. Havanese

Group	Toy
Height	8.5”-11.5”
Weight	7-13 lbs.
Coat and color	Double; 25 possible colors or color mixtures
Life expectancy	14-16 yrs.
Grooming level	Medium
Shedding level	Between low to medium

Originating in Havana, Cuba, in the 1500s, these gorgeous dogs with long hair could be used as (well-socialized) therapy dogs since they’re so good-natured and affectionate.

They only need about ½ hour a day of playtime, which should be in the form of a long walk or a rowdy game of fetch. 

They’re favorites at dog shows, highly trainable, and super intelligent. They don’t like being alone, so if you need to leave them for a couple of hours, be sure to leave a puzzle toy behind to keep their minds busy.  

13. Tibetan Terrier

Group	Non-sporting
Height	14”-17”
Weight	18-30 lbs. (Females slightly smaller)
Coat and color	Double-coated; 30 possible colors or color mixtures
Life expectancy	15-16 yrs.
Grooming level	Medium
Shedding level	Medium

Let’s get clear: These dogs are not terriers. So why are they called that? English travelers in Tibet named them “Terrier” since they saw some similarities between them.

This long-haired dog is called the Luck Bringer and Holy Dog by some Tibetans.

These dogs guarded their herdmen’s tents and were often raised by Tibetan Buddhist monks. Their double coats and large, flat feet/paws gave them the ability to weather through the harsh climate.  

14. Newfoundland

Group	Working
Height	26”-28”
Weight	100-150 lbs.
Coat and color	Double-coated; Black, brown, gray, white & black, beige, black & tan, white & brown
Life expectancy	9-10 yrs.
Grooming level	Between low to medium
Shedding level	Medium

Newfies adore swimming and are ancestors of today’s Labrador and Chesapeake Bay retrievers (also big swimmers). They were used in the Canadian province of Newfoundland as working dogs to pull up fishermen’s nets and carry forest wood.

This breed was named around 1775. They were popular as ship dogs in England, and in the 18th and 19th centuries, many ships carried Newfies on board as lifesavers.  

Today’s breed still haul loads, and many work in water rescue. All that hair protects them from the elements.

15. Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Group	Herding
Height	17”-20”
Weight	30-50 lbs.
Coat and color	Double; 25 possible colors or color mixtures
Life expectancy	12-14 yrs.
Grooming level	High
Shedding level	Between low to medium

Intelligent, territorial, and great with families, this sheepdog makes a wonderful guard dog. They thrive on heavy exercise and hard work… Lots of energy. So think about the following activities:

1. Long walks/Hikes
2. Herding
3. Obedience courses
4. Agility courses 
5. Dock diving (A competition where dogs run the length of a dock or platform and jump into the pool/water to retrieve a toy. The jump is measured based on height and distance.) 

PONs, which is the acronym that stands for the Polish breed name Polski Owczarek Nizinny, were bred to guard flocks of animals during the day and people at night. 

16. Collie

Group	Herding
Height	22”-26”
Weight	50-75 lbs
Coat and color	Double-coated; 10 possible colors or color mixtures
Life expectancy	12-14 yrs.
Grooming level	Medium
Shedding level	Medium

There are two coat varieties on collies: Smooth (short) and rough (long). That famous dog, Lassie, is a rough collie with all that flowing hair. These intelligent dogs are easily trained and enjoy children and pets.

Thousands of years ago, the collie’s ancestors originated in Scotland. When Queen Victoria took a liking to them, they became popular in the UK during the 1800s when they also appeared in the US.

The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1885. 

17. Bergamasco Sheepdog

Group	Herding
Height	22”-23.5”
Weight	57-84 lbs.
Coat and color	Double-coated; Gray, black
Life expectancy	13-15 yrs.
Grooming level	Low
Shedding level	Low

These ancient dogs, with their corded long hair, are highly intelligent and independent since they needed to take the lessons learned from their shepherd and go tend to the flock on their own.

From Persia (now Iran) to Europe, they herded flocks of sheep in inclement weather but were protected by the thick double coat.

Their coats are quite unique in that they have three types of hair: Undercoat, “goat hair,” and outer thick coat. The undercoat is waterproof, the “goat hair” is long, straight, and rough, and the outer coat is wooly and fine.

Each flock of their hair (“dreadlocks”) is from 1”-3” wide. (Talk about someone who deserves to be finicky at the salon.) 

18. Shetland Sheepdogs

Group	Herding
Height	13”-16
Weight	15-25 lbs.
Coat and color	Double-coated; 14 possible colors or color mixtures
Life expectancy	12-14 yrs.
Grooming level	Medium
Shedding level	Medium

Shetland sheepdogs are playful, affectionate, and vocal. You might even think you’re looking at a collie when you see a Sheltie, but they’re completely different breeds, even though they both have a long double coat.

They have a high energy level with a low prey drive, so playing with other pets shouldn’t be a problem as long as they’re well-socialized. 

Since most of us don’t have a flock of sheep in our backyards, make sure you run your sheltie for at least ½ hour or set up an agility course for him. 

19. Old English Sheepdog

Group	Herding
Height	21”-22”
Weight	60-100 lbs
Coat and color	Double-coated; 14 possible colors or color mixtures
Life expectancy	10-12 yrs.
Grooming level	High
Shedding level	Medium

Drover’s/Herder’s dogs had to be highly trainable, know how to take commands readily and be able to protect herds and people alike. The Old English sheepdog fits the bill nicely.

Bred to herd cattle and sheep and pull carts or wagons, they’re high-energy and need lots of daily exercises. 

They enjoy obedience and agility competitions, tracking, and, of course, herding. They’re fairly modern, having originated in England in the 1800s. In Disney’s 1959 comedy, The Shaggy Dog, the star was an Old English sheepdog.  

Varieties of Long-Haired Dog Coats

A double coat on a dog is a dense undercoat that is shorter and woolier than its outer coat. Most long-haired dogs have double coats. 

Dogs of any coat length and texture may have single or double coats. – Orvis

Here are varieties of long-haired dog coats: 

1. Silky (Ex: Afghan hound, Havanese, Shih Tzu)
2. Rough/Harsh (Ex: Collie, Old English sheepdog, Shetland sheepdog)
3. Corded (Ex: Komondor, Puli)

Caring for Long-haired Dog Beeds

• If you’re fortunate enough to become the guardian of a dog with a silky coat, roll up your sleeves. You’ll need regular trips to a professional groomer and regular, sometimes daily, brushing sessions between visits. If you have a corded dog, you’ll also need to learn how to keep their coat healthy, tangle-free, and top-notch.
• Twice yearly vet visits will serve them well to ensure their health, both mentally and physically, is up to par. You can have their nails trimmed, and teeth brushed there as well. They can also teach you how to clean your dog’s ears correctly.

Breeds to Avoid

If you have allergies, a long-haired dog may not be in the cards for you. Here are several that you should probably pass over:

• Polish Lowland Sheepdog 
• Collie
• Newfoundland 
• Tibetan terrier
• Coton de Tulear
• Pekingese
• Havanese
• Corded breeds like the Komondor and the Puli

These are double-coated dogs that require regular grooming: daily brushing or at least several times a week. They normally “blow” their undercoats twice a year, and that’s a lot of dander flying around, which is an allergy trigger.

Although they may not shed constantly, there are better choices of dogs for someone with allergies.

FAQs

Which Dog Has Very Long Hair?

The Afghan hound is probably one of the dogs people picture in their minds when they think of dogs with long coats. 

What Is the Cost of an Afghan Hound?

If you buy from a breeder, the cost could be anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000. The best thing to do is to adopt. Although it would be difficult to find this long-haired breed in most rescues, look for a breed-specific group country-wide. Or visit Petfinder to look up this breed. 

Wrap-up

So you’ve learned about long-haired dog breeds and now know there’s more to them than their long locks and silky coats. These canines will make you take a double glance, but it’s their loving, devoted hearts that make them so endearing.

Just remember, if you decide to get one, lock up your good shampoo. 

Long-haired dog breeds, with their flowing manes and captivating elegance, undoubtedly hold a special allure. From the regal Afghan Hound to the playful Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, these breeds offer diverse personalities to match their varied coats. While their luxurious fur requires dedicated grooming, the bond formed through this care, and the undeniable charm they exude, makes the effort worthwhile for many owners. Ultimately, the choice to welcome a long-haired dog into your life is a commitment to both beauty and responsibility.