There are three things that dogs are crazy about, being around their owners all the time, eating, and being pet. And usually, they get all that they need. It’s great to pet a dog, but there is something about long-haired dogs that makes them extra pettable. They are cuddly and soft, which makes them super pettable.
Moreover, they have that royal vibe with long hair and still posture. But, this beauty comes with a certain level of maintenance that’s mostly seen in grooming.
So, if you are looking to adopt a long-haired dog we understand why. Again, they are soft, jolly and pettable. However, if you are not sure what breed is right for you, check this 15 long haired breeds, both small and large breeds, and find your perfect match.
1. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hound has a history as an aristocratic dog. This breed is covered with thick and fine hair, and it comes in all colors. Regardless of their aristocratic and gentle look, this breed is known as an exceptional hound. There are great as companion dogs, and they are often seen in dog shows.
Afghan Hound prefers family life and surprisingly, they are found of apartments. However, they need regular exercise. In addition, be prepared to spend a lot of time grooming this beautiful breed.
2. Bergamasco
This is one ancient breed. Some believe that this breed is even 2,000 years old. Originally, these dogs were developed to guard and herd livestock. However, today they are known as great family members. They thrive on human attention, and they don’t like to be left alone for a long period of time. Bergamasco can weight 57-87 pounds and up to 2 feet in height. That being said, make sure that you make him some space.
Interestingly, their unusual coat doesn’s require a lot of grooming, just occasional bathing. In addition, his coat is considerably hypoallergenic. Moreover, their coat protects this breed both from cold and hot temperature.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese was known as a working dog on Swiss farms. Therefore, their coat is made to protect them during the harsh Swiss winter and long-lasting snow days. Their fur is always black with a white chest and scattered brown fur. Moreover, their coat consists of two layers of fur, one containing long fur and the bottom layer that is thicker and serves as protective fur. Bernese needs to be groomed on a regular basis.
Also, this breed requires moderate exercise. They have calm and confident temperament and desire to be near the family all the time. This dog is breed from cold climates, so pay additional attention to him in warm climates, to avoid heat stroke and similar conditions.
4. Bearded Collie
Bearded Collie is one of Britain’s oldest breeds, and it’s one of the most loved breeds on the island. This breed is known as a strong, herding dog, with a shaggy coat. Even his name comes from the long hair or ‘beard’ under the skin. Beardie is an intelligent, active, and devoted companion. Moreover, they are known for being extremely playful so be prepared to spend a significant amount of time outside.
This active breed requires extensive grooming, due to his unique fur and strong undercoat. His hair goes over his nose, while the rest of the fur flows downward, giving that famous shaggy look. In general, Bearded Collies are white with shades of brown, gray, and black. In addition, with the right amount of treats, this will be the best family dog ever.
5. Briard
Briard spends centuries in rural France. Primarily, this dog was bred to guard and herd sheep. Ever since they developed a strong protective instinct and surprisingly an excellent memory. No wonder that this breed is one of the top dog choices when it comes to police and military work. In addition, this breed is also known for being great in search and rescue. They have a memorable look with their bushy eyebrows, deluxe wavy coat, and a shaggy beard.
The Briard has a double coat. The outer coat is long and doesn’t shed usually, while the undercoat is softer and sheds periodically. Therefore, it’s extremely important to groom your Briard regularly, especially if you don’t want his coat to become felted or matted. Simply said, expect daily brushing. In addition, this dog is easy to train and he is more than eager to please.
6. Maltese
This lap dog requires a lot of work when it comes to maintaining their long and silky white hair. Their coat is what makes them so glamorous. Despite its toy size, this breed is known for being playful, lively, and fearless.
Originally, they are from Malta and ever since they are known as royal dogs across the globe for even centuries. Maltese is mostly indoor dog. However, it doesn’t mean that they don’t need regular exercise. They do, they just don’t need heavy exercise. So, make sure to keep regular short walks and early socialization.
All in, Maltese was bred to be a companion dog, but it won’t stop him to be a reliable watchdog. In addition, this breed is eager to learn new tricks and it will be easily done with the proper amount of treats. Again, brush your Maltese daily to prevent matting.
7. Rough Collie
This breed originates from Scotland and England. For centuries, this breed served as a shepherd dog. They are known as intelligent, protective and affectionate toward people, especially children. They are great family dogs. If you ever watched ‘Lassie’ you know how affectionate they actually are.
The Rough-Coated Collie has a beautiful and long coat that surprisingly requires minimal-brushing once a week, and bathing once a month. Collie comes with two varieties: The Rough Collie (long coat) and the Smooth-Coated Collie (short and dense coat). Collie is ranked among the top 50 most popular dog breeds by the American Kennel Club. Until this day, Collie continues to be popular for his loving, loyal, and protective attitude.
8. Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdog is an old breed. This breed is old for about 150 years. This breed was originally developed in western England. In addition, they were bred as a shepherd dog. That’s why they have learned to deal with people so good and to learn from. Therefore, they are known as being highly intelligent and even-tempered dogs. Moreover, they are great when it comes to living in an apartment or in a house. However, this puff dog requires regular exercise, while his beautiful coat requires regular grooming.
Old English Sheepdog has more than interesting appearance. They are kind of bear-like, thanks to their long-haired coat. Their eyes (when you can see them, actually) are blue or dark brown, or one of each. If you are looking for a long-haired breed with qualities seen in courage, watchfulness, and intelligence, then Old English Sheepdog just might be the dog for you. They are great with families, especially children.
Moreover, they will act as patient and protective playmates when it comes to playing with children. But, bear in mind that Old English Sheepdog is a watchdog, so you can expect a loud, ringing bark. Interestingly, Old English Sheepdog is born without a tail.
9. Yorkshire Terrier
Although Yorkshire Terrier is a small breed, they’re kind of fearless. Regardless of their size, they are adventurous, determined, and extremely brave. Yorkshire Terrier is known as a great companion.
In addition, this breed was known as a companion animal of high European society. Ever since, these dogs for appreciated due to their long, tan and silky coat. They can be extremely stubborn and assertive to small or unfamiliar dogs. Their coat is prone to tangles, so it should be combed or brushed every other day to stay tangle-free.
This breed may be challenging to house train, as they are extremely energetic all the time. They are best kept inside, but they should have regular walks and early socialization. Interestingly, they are named for the English city where they originated. Yorkshire Terrier is a great travel companion.
10. Havanese
Havanese is the only native breed of Cuba. Overall, this breed is known for being outgoing, extremely friendly, and happy. Originally, they were bred as a pampered dog of the high society circles. This breed went a long way from being aristocracy dog to a family companion, children’s playmate, and a watchdog. Havanese is a perfect family dog. They are intelligent, affectionate, and non-aggressive.
Moreover, their coat is hypoallergenic and does not shed. Also, their coat is soft and silky, so grooming won’t take too much of your time. Their coat comes in many colors, and its usually a mix of brown, white, and black. This breed is best suited for indoor life, with active daily moments and training from day one.
In addition to training this breed, it can be more than challenging to potty train your Havanese. Also, they are known for being prone to developing separation anxiety easily.
11. Komondor
Komondor is mostly known due to its giant mop appearance. This large and muscular, Hungarian dog was bred to guard cattle and sheep. Moreover, this breed is extremely loyal and territorial.
Furthermore, Komondor thrives on having a responsibility. So, you should keep this dog active and busy. Komondor is known as a breed that’s extremely easy to train when young. In addition, Komondor will easily adapt to your lifestyle.
Make sure to keep routine for a short period of time when it comes to outdoor and playful activities. You go simple changes regularly, like changing a walking routine. Be careful when it comes to taking care of Komondor’s coat, especially when it comes to bathing , as you need to make sure to dry him out with a towel, as it can take two or three days for their coat to dry. Their coats require detailed attention, including separating the cords by hand to prevent matting.
12. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apso is a small breed that originates from Himalayan Mountains for hundreds of years. They were initially bred as an indoor guard dog. They are highly intelligent, with a strong instinct for difference stranger from a friend. For a small breed, they are extremely independent. Therefore, they enjoy long walks and thrives on human attention. Lhasa Apso had a wonderful coat that needs to be groomed often.
In general, Lhasa Apso is similar to Shih Tzu. In general, this breed can weight up to 15 pounds and grow to between 9-11 inches. Their fur will drag on the ground. This breed is best suited for small spaces and prefers an indoor environment. Moreover, they are extremely devoted to their family members, but it doesn’t mean that they won’t show some resistance when it comes to training. So, make sure that you train this breed properly.
13. Newfoundland
Newfoundland is a strong and multipurpose working dog. Moreover, Newfoundland is sweet when it comes to his temperament. This breed can weigh up to 150 pounds, and low as 100 pounds. They can grow up to 29 inches, and that’s why so many people find it hard to handle them.
Therefore, this breed is for someone with an experience of having a dog. Newfoundland is a great swimmer, and they have a very thick coat that’s known for being water resistant. In addition, his coat needs to be brushed regularly. In many cases, this breed is used as a rescue dog.
Their coat is mostly black, although it can be seen in brown, or a mixture of black and white. This breed is known for its rapid growth during puppy-hood. Newfoundland is great with kids, as they simply love Newfoundland’s sweet temperament. Just like many large breeds, this is a breed that shouldn’t be left alone for a longer period of time. Also, this dog asks for family and active setting.
14. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu is recognized by their dense coat, size, and long hair. Moreover, they are recognizable due to their willingness for adventure and being happy and outgoing. They are perfect for city life and apartment living, or even as elderly companions. In addition, they require minimal exercise.
They are great both with younger and older children, but they should be watched once they are left alone as younger children have a tendency of being rough when playing with smaller dogs.
This is a small breed with a notably big personality. They are trusting, outgoing, and affectionate, which makes them truly great companions. Their coat color is a mix of colors such as black, rust, white, blonde, and brown. Interestingly, this breed is known for its jumping abilities, so make sure that heights are well protected. Bear in mind, that you should be extra patient when it comes to potty training.
15. English Setter
English Setter is a breed developed in England 400 years ago. They are described as friendly, gentle, and affectionate. English Setter is a hunting dog and thanks to his intelligence, this breed is known as being extremely strategic when it comes to hunting.
In addition, they are athletic and energetic, so you can expect days full of physical activities with this breed. In addition, long daily walks are a must. English Setter is a great family dog. He loves his family and he is not happy if he is isolated for a long period of time. Setter’s beautiful coat requires regular grooming.
