Canines are a diverse group that comes in all shapes and sizes. The purpose they were initially bred for often dictates how their physical characteristics present themselves, especially when it comes to the length of their fur. Dogs are often categorized into hairless, short-haired, medium-haired, and long-haired breeds. If long-haired breeds strike your fancy, you’re not alone. Countless dog lovers find themselves enchanted by long-haired dogs’ luxurious, sophisticated appearance.

In this article, we’ll examine 20 long-haired dog breeds and discuss the facts and history regarding each one. To learn more about these beautiful dogs, we will start by discussing how long-haired dog breeds are classified.

How Are Long Haired Dog Breeds Classified?

There are several categories a breed may fall into based on the length of their coat. Deciding how these breeds fit into each category can sometimes be confusing and highly subjective.

Some people suggest that anything longer than a short, smooth coat can be considered long, whereas others insist that the dog needs to look like a mop before being considered a long-haired dog. Generally, however, a long-haired dog’s coat is typically over a few inches long.

Additionally, the coat will likely come in one of the following subcategories:

The Top 20 Long Haired Dog Breeds

1. Tibetan Terrier

Tibetan Terriers are also called the “Holy Dogs of Tibet” due to their association with Buddhist monasteries. In addition to having long fur, this breed also has a wooly double coat designed to keep the dog warm even in freezing temperatures. These dogs may have curly and wavy coats, although some appear wiry or smooth and straight. Regardless of the Tibetan Terrier’s fur texture, they have a luxurious appearance that many find appealing.

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2. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers have been affectionately nicknamed “Yorkies” by devoted fans of the breed. Some Yorkshire Terrier owners keep their dog’s coat clipped short, while others allow it to grow long and free. Either way, the Yorkshire Terrier has a striking appearance that many have come to love. However, this little pup doesn’t have a double coat, so you’ll need to invest in a doggie jacket in the colder months.

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3. Shetland Sheepdog

Few breeds are as renowned for their beauty as the stunning Shetland Sheepdog. These fluffy dogs are closely related to the Collie, which is why they share a distinct appearance of tan, black, and white fur.

Since the Shetland Sheepdog is so agreeable with children, grooming their luxurious fur can be a family affair. They will surely love all the attention, and you will love to marvel over their dazzlingly long fur!

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4. Pyrenean Shepherd

The Pyrenean Shepherd is an affectionate and enthusiastic dog with boundless energy. They originated from ancient herding dogs that lived in the Pyrenees mountains. While their fur is slightly shorter than some other options on this list, many still consider them a long-haired breed. The Pyrenean Shepherd’s coat can be rough or smooth. Regardless, both versions of the Pyrenean Shepherd have a double coat, so brushing the dog once or twice weekly is necessary.

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5. Puli

Puli dogs have dense coats. If you’ve never seen a Puli, you may think you’re looking at a mop! Despite their appearance, the Puli’s coat can be brushed out. The end result is more of a crimped fluff. You can also trim or cord their coat. Due to the texture of their coats, they need to be bathed regularly. As a companion, they are known for being loyal and intelligent, making them excellent family dogs.

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6. Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog is adventurous and athletic. They are also another thick-furred, curly-coated dog. These dogs are considered hypoallergenic, making them great pets for people with mild dog allergies. Some pet owners enjoy giving them a clipped cut, while others like to let the curls grow out. If you let the curls grow out, it is best to brush them daily to avoid painful tangles and knots.

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7. Old English Sheepdog

When you talk about long-haired dogs, it is impossible not to mention the Old English Sheepdog! They have fluffy coats, and some even compare their appearance to a stuffed toy. Their personality suits the stuffed toy comparison well enough since they’re beloved for their affectionate nature and gentle disposition. The Old English Sheepdog’s coat requires a lot of upkeep, and you must brush them daily to keep their coat looking nice.

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8. Pekingese

Few dogs wear their long-haired coats with such dignity, but the Pekingese is one of them. This breed is known for being regal, with a mane-like coat similar to a lion. While trimming the Pekingese’s coat shorter is possible, many people prefer to let their coat grow to its fullest, most luxurious potential. Still, trimming their fur every so often is best to keep it looking nice.

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9. Newfoundland

As the name suggests, the Newfoundland originated from Newfoundland Island. These dogs are massive, fluffy creatures with sweet natures. They are loyal companions, affectionate with children, and great with other dogs. The main challenge with this breed is that grooming them can be time-consuming.

With their large bodies and long fur, brushing and bathing the Newfoundland is quite the event. However, the beauty of this breed makes the effort well worth it. They have been loved for decades, as the stunning paintings by Sir Edwin Landseer suggest.

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10. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is another dog that looks like a mop. This long-haired beauty is adored for their silky coat and the array of unique fur colors they can possess. While many Lhasa Apsos come in colors as typical as black or white, there are also dazzling shades like red, gold, or charcoal.

As beautiful as the Lhasa Apso’s long coat is, it can also be challenging to maintain. Some pet owners choose a short cut as a result. Regardless of the coat’s cut, regular brushing is still required to keep their fur from tangling.

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11. Keeshond

Keeshond dogs are Spitz dogs associated with German breeds. Their exact origin is unknown, but they were likely developed in Artic or sub-Artic regions. Their coats have two layers, making them exceptionally fluffy. Despite their fuzzy appearance, their coats do not require much maintenance. Brushing over the Keeshond’s fur once per week usually gets the job done. However, each brushing session should take around an hour to complete to ensure that you are brushing the dog’s fluffy coat thoroughly.

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12. Komondor

If you see a Komondor walking past on the sidewalk, you may think your eyes are playing a trick on you since they look more like a sheep than a canine. The Komondor has cord-like hairs that lay long across their body. Due to the texture of their hair, they don’t need their fur brushed, but they need to be washed regularly. Be ready for lots of doggy baths!

Komondors are biddable dogs with plenty of affection to give their families, so in addition to their unique appearance, they are steadfast friends.

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13. Irish Setter

Irish Setters are spirited, silky-coated dogs from Ireland. These outgoing dogs are active and sweet-natured and are ideal for active families with children. Their initial purpose was to be an energetic gundog with exceptional agility and grace, and as a result, they are athletic and biddable. Their long-haired mahogany coats are striking, but they are known to tangle easily. Therefore, it is important that the Irish Setter’s coat is brushed at least twice a week to prevent matting.

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14. Gordon Setter

Much like the Irish Setter, the Gordon Setter requires brushing once or twice weekly to prevent painful tangles. Their long, silky fur may also require trimming around the feet, ears, and tail to ensure that the areas don’t become overgrown. Rather than the stunning red of the Irish Setter, the Gordon Setter has a sleek coat of black and brown.

In terms of personality, the Gordon Setter is a bold, confident companion. They are also highly affectionate with their families and tolerant of other dogs.

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15. Collie

The beautiful Collie is a proud and graceful animal. The dog has luxurious fur in abundance, making it one of the most easily recognized breeds in the world. Their coats can be rough or smooth, but regardless of their fur’s texture, they should be brushed at least once weekly. Collies with rough coats are at a higher risk of developing mats, so it is especially important to be diligent about their grooming care.

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16. German Longhaired Pointer

The German Longhaired Pointer is a long-haired breed with a full tail and an overcoat packed with dense guard hairs. The density of the German Longhaired Pointer’s overcoat allows them to swim in colder waters so that they can fulfill one of their original tasks: duck hunting.

On the downside, twigs, leaves, and debris can easily tangle themselves in the German Longhaired Pointer’s long fur. Regardless, this hunting dog remains highly versatile and valuable to hunters today.

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17. Briard

The Briard is a bit less common than many of the dogs on this list, but it is no less remarkable. They have a long coat that is coarse and wavy, giving the Briard a shaggy appearance. Grooming them requires a good chunk of time since it requires about a 2-hour block several times weekly. Since grooming takes so much time, it is vital that you train your Briard to be comfortable with sitting and being touched for long periods. Otherwise, grooming them will be exceptionally difficult.

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18. Bergamasco Sheepdog

The Bergamasco Sheepdog is another breed with a unique, corded coat. This cord-like coat allowed the Bergamasco Sheepdog to endure the rough weather of the Italian Alps. Their coat is instrumental in regulating their body temperature, so the Bergamasco Sheepdog’s coat should never be trimmed.

To care for their coat, an owner must dedicate several hours (or evenings) to ripping the coat into mats. On the flip side, this dog never sheds and only needs to be bathed once or twice yearly.

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19. Barbet

The Barbet is a French dog breed that got their start as a water dog. However, with such a bright disposition, the Barbet soon became welcomed into homes as a family dog. Their coat ranges from wavy to curly, and it requires a lot of maintenance.

To properly care for the Barbet, you must brush them daily. To make this process more manageable, you can keep the Barbet’s coat clipped at 3–5 inches. On the plus side, the Barbet rarely sheds.

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20. Afghan Hound

With long hair that frames their slender face, they look more like a celebrity than a dog! The Afghan Hound’s silky, long coat and unique appearance make them a coveted breed among many canine aficionados, but by and large, the breed isn’t very common. The Afghan Hound appears fuzzy as a puppy and doesn’t require much grooming care. However, as an adult, the long fur grows out and requires frequent brushing to ensure it remains fabulous and tangle-free.

Conclusion

Long-haired dogs are glamorous animals, and it is no secret why they are so beloved by their owners. Even without their remarkable appearances, the breeds in this list have excellent dispositions and fascinating origins, giving their superficial outside an intriguing depth and character. We hope that this list has helped you learn more about the remarkable history of these incredible dogs.

Check out a few of our other popular dog breed lists:

• Black and White Dog Breeds (with Pictures)
• Korean Dog Breeds (with Pictures)
• French Dog Breeds (with Pictures)

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Featured Image Credit: Anna Tronova, Shutterstock