Many people love dogs that have long hair because they look soft, fluffy, and beautiful. If you are thinking about getting a long haired dog, it is important to understand what you are signing up for. Many long haired breeds need regular brushing, and some even need daily brushing to stay tangle free. This guide will help you explore long haired dog breeds, understand their coat types, and decide which dog breed is suitable for your home and lifestyle in the UK.
What Counts as a Long Haired Dog?
A long haired dog is not just about having long hair. It also depends on coat type, texture, and growth pattern. Some dogs have long silky hair that grows like human hair, while others have a thick double coat made of two layers. The top layer, called guard hair, protects the dog from dirt and weather. The undercoat is soft and dense, helping to keep the dog warm.
There are many coat types in long haired breeds:
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Silky and straight
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Thick and fluffy
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Wavy or fine
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Dense double coat
These differences matter because each coat requires different care. Some dogs shed a lot, while others need to be combed frequently with a pet comb to prevent tangles.The Blue Cross explains that regular grooming helps keep a dog’s coat healthy and reduces shedding.
Top 15 Dogs That Have Long Hair
Below are 15 popular long haired dog breeds, from small lap dogs with silky hair to large dogs with a thick double coat. Each breed has different grooming needs, energy levels, and personalities.
1. Afghan Hound
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Group: Hound
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Height: 63–74 cm
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Weight: 20–27 kg
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Size: Large dog
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Lifespan: 12–15 years
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Temperament: Independent, gentle, calm
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Energy Level: Medium
The Afghan Hound is famous for its long silky flowing coat. This ancient breed has a fine, human hair-like coat that needs daily brushing to prevent tangles. While elegant in the show ring, it can be reserved at home.
2. Shih Tzu
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Group: Toy
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Height: 20–28 cm
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Weight: 4–7 kg
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Size: Small dog
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Lifespan: 10–16 years
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Temperament: Friendly, playful, affectionate
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Energy Level: Low to medium
The Shih Tzu has a long silky coat that often forms a top knot. Originally linked to royal families and even the Dalai Lama, this breed is gentle and great for families but needs constant grooming.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
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Group: Toy
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Height: 18–23 cm
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Weight: Up to 3.2 kg
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Size: Small dog
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Lifespan: 13–16 years
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Temperament: Bold, lively, confident
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Energy Level: Medium
The Yorkshire Terrier has long straight silky hair that grows like human hair. It sheds less than many breeds but needs regular brushing to stay tangle free.
4. Lhasa Apso
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Group: Utility
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Height: 25–28 cm
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Weight: 6–8 kg
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Size: Small dog
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Lifespan: 12–15 years
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Temperament: Loyal, alert, independent
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Energy Level: Low to medium
The Lhasa Apso has a long dense coat that once protected it in mountain climates. This ancient breed needs frequent brushing and trimming to prevent tangles.
5. Maltese
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Group: Toy
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Height: 20–25 cm
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Weight: 3–4 kg
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Size: Small dog
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Lifespan: 12–15 years
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Temperament: Gentle, playful, loving
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Energy Level: Low
The Maltese is known for its long silky white coat. It does not shed much, but the coat requires daily brushing to stay clean and smooth.
6. Havanese
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Group: Toy
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Height: 23–27 cm
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Weight: 4–7 kg
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Size: Small dog
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Lifespan: 14–16 years
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Temperament: Friendly, social, cheerful
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Energy Level: Medium
The Havanese has a soft, long wavy coat. It is great with families and other pets but needs regular grooming to keep the coat in good condition.
7. Cocker Spaniel
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Group: Gundog
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Height: 38–41 cm
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Weight: 13–15 kg
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Size: Medium dog
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Lifespan: 12–15 years
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Temperament: Gentle, playful, affectionate
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Energy Level: Medium to high
The Cocker Spaniel has a feathered long coat, especially on the ears and tail. Regular brushing helps prevent tangles and keeps the coat looking fluffy and healthy.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Group: Toy
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Height: 30–33 cm
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Weight: 5–8 kg
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Size: Small dog
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Lifespan: 9–14 years
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Temperament: Gentle, friendly, calm
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Energy Level: Medium
The Cavalier has a soft silky coat with feathering. It is one of the most suitable long haired breeds for families and first-time owners.
9. Golden Retriever
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Group: Gundog
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Height: 51–61 cm
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Weight: 25–34 kg
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Size: Large dog
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Lifespan: 10–12 years
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Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, loyal
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Energy Level: High
The Golden Retriever has a thick double coat that sheds throughout the year. Regular brushing helps control loose fur and keeps the coat healthy.
10. Rough Collie
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Group: Herding dogs
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Height: 51–66 cm
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Weight: 18–29 kg
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Size: Medium to large
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Lifespan: 12–14 years
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Temperament: Loyal, gentle, intelligent
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Energy Level: Medium
The Rough Collie has a long, thick coat with two layers. It needs regular brushing but is known for being a gentle family dog.
11. Old English Sheepdog
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Group: Pastoral
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Height: 56–61 cm
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Weight: 27–45 kg
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Size: Large dog
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Lifespan: 10–12 years
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Temperament: Friendly, adaptable, playful
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Energy Level: Medium
This breed has a dense, fluffy coat that requires constant grooming. Without care, the coat can quickly form tangles.
12. Bearded Collie
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Group: Pastoral
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Height: 51–56 cm
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Weight: 18–27 kg
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Size: Medium dog
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Lifespan: 12–14 years
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Temperament: Energetic, playful, intelligent
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Energy Level: High
The Bearded Collie has a long, shaggy coat with a thick undercoat. As an active herding dog, it needs both exercise and regular grooming.
13. Briard
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Group: Pastoral
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Height: 58–69 cm
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Weight: 25–40 kg
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Size: Large dog
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Lifespan: 10–12 years
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Temperament: Loyal, protective, confident
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Energy Level: High
The Briard has a long coarse coat that protects it outdoors. It needs frequent brushing to prevent tangles and dirt build-up.
14. Tibetan Terrier
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Group: Utility
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Height: 35–41 cm
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Weight: 8–14 kg
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Size: Medium dog
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Lifespan: 12–15 years
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Temperament: Friendly, alert, affectionate
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Energy Level: Medium
This breed has a long protective coat that helped it survive harsh climates. It needs regular brushing to stay clean and tangle free.
15. Bernese Mountain Dog
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Group: Working
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Height: 58–70 cm
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Weight: 35–55 kg
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Size: Large dog
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Lifespan: 7–10 years
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Temperament: Gentle, calm, loyal
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Energy Level: Medium
The Bernese Mountain Dog has a thick double coat designed for cold weather. It sheds heavily, so regular brushing is needed to manage loose fur.
What Purpose Do Long Haired Coats on Dogs Serve?
A long coat is not just about beauty. It also plays an important role in a dog’s health and survival. Many long haired breeds were developed in cold regions, where a thick double coat helped protect them from harsh weather.
The outer coat acts as a guard layer. It keeps out dirt, rain, and even small debris. The inner layer provides insulation, helping the dog stay warm in winter and cool in summer. Long hair can also protect the skin from sun exposure and minor injuries. For working dogs, especially herding dogs, this protection was essential in rough outdoor environments.
However, long coats also come with challenges. If not properly cared for, they can trap dirt and moisture, leading to skin problems. The Royal Veterinary College notes that regular coat care helps prevent skin issues and keeps pets in optimal condition.
Which Long Haired Dog Is Right for You?
Choosing the right long haired dog depends on your lifestyle, home, and how much time you can spend on grooming. Not all long haired breeds are the same, and some are much easier to manage than others.
If you live in a flat or smaller home, small dogs like the Shih Tzu, Maltese, or Yorkshire Terrier may be more suitable. They are compact, gentle, and often good with kids, but they still need daily brushing to prevent tangles.
For active owners, breeds like the Bearded Collie or Irish Setter are a better fit. These dogs need space to move and exercise daily. Their coats also need regular care, especially after outdoor activities.
Families often choose breeds like the Golden Retriever or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These dogs are friendly, playful, and good with other pets and children. Their coats are easier to manage compared to some long silky breeds, but they still shed and need grooming.
How to Care for a Long Haired Dog
Caring for a long haired dog takes time, but it becomes easier with the right routine. Many long haired breeds need regular brushing to keep their coat clean, healthy, and tangle free.
Brush often to prevent tangles
Most dogs that have long hair need brushing at least a few times a week. Some, like the Afghan Hound or Lhasa Apso, may need daily brushing because their long silky coat can tangle quickly. Focus on areas like the neck, tail, legs, and behind the ears, where knots form easily.
Keep the coat clean
Bathing helps remove dirt and oil, but do not overdo it. Washing too often can dry out the skin. Use a gentle dog shampoo and always wipe dry with a pet towel and then blow dry.
Trim when needed
Some long haired dog breeds need regular trimming. For example, small dogs like the Shih Tzu or Maltese often have their coat trimmed shorter for easier care. In the show ring, they may keep a long flowing coat with a top knot, but this takes constant grooming.
Check skin and ears
A thick coat can hide problems. Always check your dog’s skin, ears, and paws. The Blue Cross advises that grooming is also a good time to spot health issues early.
Use the right tools
A good brush and comb help keep the coat in optimal condition. For a thick double coat, like on a Bernese Mountain Dog, use tools that reach both layers.
Are Long Haired Dogs Good for First Time Owners?
Long haired dogs can be a great choice for first-time owners—but only if you are ready for the grooming work.
When they are a good choice
Some long haired breeds are gentle, friendly, and easy to train. Dogs like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Golden Retriever, and Havanese are popular with families and first-time owners. They are playful, good with kids, and usually get along well with other pets.
When they may be challenging
Other breeds, like the Afghan Hound or Bearded Collie, need more effort. Their coat requires constant grooming, and they often need more exercise daily. This can be hard for beginners who are not used to caring for a long coat.
What first-time owners should expect
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More brushing than short coat dogs
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More cleaning at home due to shedding
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Regular grooming costs
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Time spent keeping the coat tangle free
From experience, many new dog owners underestimate how much time grooming takes. A long haired dog may need 15–30 minutes of brushing several times a week. Over time, this becomes part of your routine.
Conclusion
Dogs that have long hair are loved for their beauty, soft coats, and unique look. But a long coat is more than just appearance. It requires time, effort, and regular care. Brushing, trimming, and keeping the coat clean are all part of responsible dog ownership. If you can commit to grooming, enjoy caring for pets, and want a loyal companion, a long haired dog can be a wonderful choice.
