A Comprehensive Guide to Long-Haired Dog Breeds and Their Grooming Needs

Long-haired dog breeds are admired for their elegant, flowing coats, which add extra charm and character.

These Royal Kennel Club–recognised breeds need extra attention to keep their coats healthy and looking their best.

This guide introduces popular long-haired breeds, essential grooming techniques, and practical tips to help keep your dog comfortable and looking good.

It's useful for both new and experienced dog owners.

Below is a list of popular long-haired dog breeds with brief descriptions:

• Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound stuns with a lavish, floor-length coat that shimmers in the light and flows dramatically as it moves.

This glamorous, silky fur requires intensive daily brushing and grooming to prevent tangles and maintain its breathtaking beauty.

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is graced with a silky, feathered coat that flows elegantly over its body and ears, lending the breed its royal charm.

To keep this beautiful coat tangle-free and gleaming, gentle brushing two to three times a week is recommended.

• Cocker Spaniel (American and English)

The American and English Cocker Spaniel is adorned with luxuriously silky ears and flowing feathering on its legs and chest, creating a look of timeless elegance.

This beautiful coat is prone to matting, so moderate grooming—brushing at least two to three times a week—is needed to keep it tangle-free and looking its best.

• Collie (Bearded)

The Bearded Collie features a lush, weatherproof double coat with a dense, insulating underlayer and a flat, shaggy outer layer that gives the breed its iconic, tousled look.

To keep this beautiful coat free from tangles and mats, intensive daily brushing and grooming are essential.

• Collie (Rough coat)

The Rough Coated Collie is draped in a sweeping, luxuriant mane of long, dense fur that flows gracefully along its body and forms a dramatic ruff around the neck.

To keep this iconic coat free from tangles and looking its best, thorough brushing at least three to four times per week is essential.

• Chihuahua (long-haired)

The long-haired Chihuahua has a soft, light coat that gently frames its small body.

It only needs light brushing once or twice a week, making it easier to care for than many other long-haired breeds.

• Chow Chow

The Chow Chow has a thick, lion-like mane of long fur around its face, giving it a regal look.

This coat needs thorough brushing at least three to four times a week to prevent matting and keep it looking great.

• Dachshund (long-haired)

The long-haired Dachshund sports a smooth, flowing coat and feathered ears, giving it a graceful look.

To avoid tangles and mats, brush it thoroughly two to three times per week.

• Havanese

The Havanese has a silky, wavy coat that gives it a charming look.

This low-shedding coat needs gentle brushing three to four times a week to stay tangle-free and looking good.

• Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso has a dense, long coat that originally protected it from the cold Himalayan weather.

This coat can tangle and stain easily, so it needs careful brushing and grooming three to four times a week to stay healthy.

• Maltese

The Maltese has a long, white, silky coat that gives it an elegant look.

Although it is hypoallergenic and low-shedding, this coat needs gentle daily brushing to prevent tangles and keep it shiny.

• Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog has a very shaggy, double-layered coat that looks like it's from a storybook.

It needs regular professional grooming to keep its famous, fluffy look.

• Papillon

The Papillon has a silky coat and butterfly-shaped ears with delicate feathering, giving it a unique and charming look.

Papillons require brushing 3 times a week to prevent tangles and maintain their coat.

• Pomeranian

Boasting a plush, voluminous double coat that gives the Pomeranian its signature puffball look, this breed sheds abundantly—leaving a little cloud of fluff wherever it goes.

Therefore, daily brushing is recommended to help reduce shedding and prevent matting.

• Saluki

The Saluki has a slim, graceful body with a fine, smooth coat and feathering on its ears and tail.

To keep it looking its best, brush gently two to three times a week.

• Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu flaunts a luxurious, densely layered double coat that cascades in silky waves, but it comes with high maintenance.

Prone to tangles and tear staining, this glamorous coat requires thorough brushing and daily grooming to stay smooth and healthy.

• Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)

The Shetland Sheepdog sports a magnificent, thick double coat that forms a regal mane around the neck and flows in soft waves across the body.

To keep this show-stopping coat tangle-free and looking its best, thorough brushing at least twice a week is essential, especially during heavy seasonal shedding.

• Tibetan Terrier

The Tibetan Terrier's lavish, waterfall-like coat cascades in long, fine waves, providing natural insulation against the bitter cold of Himalayan winters.

This eye-catching coat requires thorough brushing and attentive grooming two to three times per week to prevent tangles and preserve its stunning, protective qualities.

• Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier flaunts a glossy, flowing coat of fine, silky hair that rivals the texture and beauty of human locks.

Although this breed sheds very little, its high-maintenance coat needs daily brushing and frequent grooming to stay silky, tangle-free, and beautifully smooth.

Essential Grooming Techniques for Long-Haired Dogs

1. Brushing and Trimming (Tools & Products).

Why It Matters

Brushing is the foundation of grooming for long-haired dogs.

Daily brushing prevents tangles, mats, and skin issues while distributing natural oils.

Recommended Tools

• Slicker brush (removes tangles)

• Metal comb (detangling)

• De-matting tool

• Pin brush

• Grooming scissors & clippers

• Detangling spray

Technique

• Brush daily or at least 3–5 times per week.

• Start from roots → move to ends.

• Focus on high-friction areas (ears, armpits, collar zone)

Trimming Tips

• Trim every 6–8 weeks.

• Focus on paws, sanitary areas, and the area around the eyes.

• Avoid shaving double-coated breeds completely.

Recommended Products

• Detangling Spray

Helps loosen knots and makes brushing easier.

• Coat Conditioner

Applied after shampooing to keep hair soft and manageable.

Brushing should be done gently to avoid hurting your dog.

Start at the head and work downwards.

Focus on spots where tangles commonly develop, including behind the ears, beneath the legs, and around the collar.

2. Bathing Your Long-Haired Dog

Choosing the Right Shampoo

• Hypoallergenic Shampoo  

  Suitable for dogs with sensitive skin.

• Moisturising Shampoo  

  Keeps the coat hydrated and prevents brittleness.

• Oatmeal-Based Shampoo  

  Soothes irritated skin and adds softness.

Avoid shampoos with strong fragrances or harsh chemicals that can irritate your dog's skin.

Conditioner Use:

Conditioners help detangle and add shine.

Use a conditioner designed for dogs, applying it mainly to the mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the skin to prevent greasiness.

Detangle coat before bathing to prevent worse matting.

Steps

1. Wet coat thoroughly

2. Apply shampoo (avoid eyes/ears)

3. Rinse completely

4. Apply conditioner (recommended for long coats)

5. Bathing long-haired dogs requires care to avoid drying out the skin or damaging the coat.

Bathing Tips

• Use lukewarm water to keep your dog comfortable.

• Rinse thoroughly to remove all shampoo and conditioner.

• Avoid getting water in the ears and eyes.

  
  

Bathing frequency depends on the breed and lifestyle, but generally ranges from once a month to every six weeks.

3. Drying Methods (Post-Bath Care)

• Towel dry first to remove excess water

• Use a low-heat dog dryer to prevent overheating.

• Brush while drying to avoid tangles.

• Make sure that the coat is completely dry to prevent skin infections.

• After drying, brush the coat again to prevent mats from forming as the hair settles.

4. Ear Cleaning and Eye Care

Long-haired breeds often have hair around their ears and eyes that can trap dirt and moisture, leading to infections.

Ear Cleaning

• Use a vet-approved ear cleaner.

• Apply the cleaner to a cotton pad.

• Carefully clean the inner ear and the opening of the ear canal.

• Do not place any objects far inside the ear canal.

• Check ears weekly for redness, odour, or discharge.

  
  

Eye Bathing

• Use sterile saline solution or pet-safe eye wipes.

• Remove tear stains gently.

• Avoid touching the eyeball directly.

• Avoid direct water or shampoo contact.

• Regular cleaning helps prevent tear stains and infections.

  
  

5. Nail Trimming Guide

Nail care is vital for your dog’s comfort and mobility.

How to Trim Safely

• Use dog nail clippers or grinders.

• Trim small amounts at a time.

Avoiding the Quick

    The “quick” is the sensitive blood vessel that runs through the nail.

• Visible as a pink area in light-colored nails.

• Hard to see on dark-coloured nails; therefore, EXTRA care is required.

• If unsure, trim only the tip or ask a groomer or vet for guidance.

  
  

If You Cut the Quick

• Stay calm to keep your dog calm and to reassure it.

• Use styptic powder or a small amount of cornstarch to halt any bleeding.

• Apply gentle pressure.

• If bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes, seek veterinary help.

  
  

Regular trimming every 3-4 weeks prevents nails from becoming too long and uncomfortable.

6. Dental Care: Best Toothpaste and Toothbrush Options.

Why It’s Important

Dental hygiene prevents gum disease, bad breath, and infections.

Best Tools

• Dog-specific toothbrush (soft bristles, angled head)

• Finger brushes are a good option for small breeds or dogs new to brushing.

• Enzymatic dog toothpaste.

Why Human Toothpaste Is Unsafe

• Contains fluoride and xylitol, which are toxic to dogs

• Dogs swallow toothpaste, increasing the risk.

Routine

Begin gradually, giving your dog time to become comfortable with the routine.

• Brush teeth 2–3 times per week.

• Provide dental chews for support.

• Regular dental care helps prevent bad breath, gum disease, and tooth loss.

Pro Grooming Tips for Long-Haired Dogs

• Start grooming at an early age to build tolerance.

• Maintain a consistent grooming schedule.

• Use high-quality grooming tools.

• Check skin regularly for hidden issues under thick coats.

Here are some commonly asked questions and answers to help you care for and groom your long-haired dog.

QUESTION:

What should I do if my dog's coat is already badly matted?

ANSWER:

If your dog's coat is already badly matted, it's important to act carefully and promptly to prevent pain, skin damage, or infection.

Severe matting can pull tightly on the skin, restrict movement, and even hide wounds or parasites.

Here's what you should do:

1. Assess the Severity of the Matting.

Start by gently examining your dog's coat.

Light tangles can often be brushed out at home, but severely matted dog fur (tight, thick clumps close to the skin) may require professional help.

If the mats are hard, widespread, or causing discomfort, avoid pulling or cutting them yourself.

2. Avoid Using Scissors

It may be tempting to cut mats out, but this is risky.

Mats sit very close to the skin, and it's easy to accidentally cut your dog.

This is one of the most common grooming injuries.

Instead, use dog grooming tools for matted hair, such as:

• Dematting combs

• Slicker brushes

• Mat splitters

3. Apply a Detangling Product

Use a dog-safe detangling spray or conditioner to soften the mats. Work it in with your fingers and let it sit for a few minutes.

This can help loosen the tangles and reduce discomfort when brushing.

4. Gently Work Through the Mats

Hold the base of the mat near the skin to avoid pulling, then slowly work from the ends outward using a comb or brush.

Be patient—removing matted dog hair safely takes time and should never be rushed.

5. Do Not Bathe Before Removing Mats

Bathing a matted coat can make the problem worse.

Water tightens mats, making them harder to remove.

Always remove mats before bathing your dog whenever possible.

6. Consider Professional Grooming

If the matting is severe, the safest option is to visit a professional groomer or veterinarian.

They may recommend a full shave-down to safely remove the mats. While this might not look ideal, it prevents pain and allows the coat to grow back healthy.

7. Check for Skin Issues

After removing mats, inspect your dog's skin for:

• Redness or irritation

• Sores or infections

• Parasites

 Consult a vet's advice right away if you observe anything out of the ordinary.

8. Prevent Future Matting

Once your dog’s coat is restored, maintain it with a regular grooming routine:

• Brush your dog several times a week (daily for long-haired breeds)

• Use the best brushes for long-haired dogs suited to their coat type.

• Schedule routine grooming appointments

• Keep the coat clean and properly conditioned.

Dealing with badly matted dog hair requires patience, the right tools, and sometimes professional help.

Never pull or cut mats aggressively, as this can harm your dog.

A consistent grooming routine is the best way to prevent future matting and keep your dog's coat healthy and comfortable.

Step-by-Step: Removing Matted Dog Hair (By Coat Type)

1. Curly or Poodle-Type Coats

(e.g., Poodles, Cockapoos, Labradoodles)

These coats mat very tightly and close to the skin.

Tools You Need:

• Slicker brush (fine, angled pins).

• Steel comb (medium + fine teeth).

• Dematting tool or rake.

• Dog detangling spray.

Method:

1. Lightly mist the coat with detangling spray.

2. Gently massage with your fingers to separate large mats.

3. Hold the base of the hair (near the skin) to reduce pulling.

4. Use a slicker brush in short strokes from the ends inward.

5. Follow with a steel comb to check for remaining tangles.

Important Note:

If mats are dense or feel like felt, do not force brushing—these coats often need to be clipped by a groomer.

2. Long, Silky Coats

(e.g., Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Afghan Hound)

These coats tangle easily but are usually easier to detangle than curly coats.

Tools You Need:

• Pin brush.

• Detangling spray or leave-in conditioner.

• Wide-tooth comb.

Method:

1. Spray lightly to soften tangles.

2. Begin by brushing from the tips of the hair.

3. Gradually work upward toward the roots.

4. Use a comb to gently tease apart smaller knots.

TIP:

Always brush in layers (lift the coat and work section by section).

3. Double Coats (Thick Undercoat)

(e.g., Golden Retriever, Border Collie, Husky)

Mats often form in the undercoat near the skin.

Tools You Need:

• Undercoat rake.

• Slicker brush.

• Dematting comb.

Method:

1. Use an undercoat rake to loosen packed fur.

2. Work slowly through dense areas (behind ears, legs, tail).

3. Use a slicker brush to smooth the topcoat.

4. Finish with a comb.

NOTE:

Avoid shaving unless necessary, as it can damage coat regrowth.

When to Stop and Get Help

You should go to a professional groomer or vet if:

• Mats are very tight or widespread.

• Your dog shows pain or stress.

• There's skin redness, sores, or a smell.

• Mats are close to sensitive areas (ears, groin, tail).

NOTE:

A safe shave-down is often the kindest option in severe cases.

Aftercare (VERY Important)

Once the mats are removed:

Bathing:

• Use a moisturising dog shampoo.

• Follow with conditioner to prevent future tangles.

  
  

Drying:

• Towel dry, then use a cool/low-heat dryer.

• Brush while drying to prevent new mats from forming.

Ongoing Prevention Routine (prevent matted dog hair)

To avoid this happening again:

• Brush daily or at least 3–4 times a week.

• Always brush before and after bathing.

• Focus on high-friction areas:

• Behind ears.

• Under collar.

• Armpits.

• Tail base.

Quick Summary

The safest way to handle severely matted dog fur is:

• Use the right dog grooming tools for matted hair.

• Work slowly with detangling products.

• Never pull or cut blindly.

• Seek professional grooming for severe cases.

QUESTION:

Do some long-haired breeds need professional grooming more often?

ANSWER:

Absolutely. While all long-haired dogs need regular maintenance, coat type, texture, and growth pattern determine how often a professional groomer is needed.

• The Kennel Club explains that long-coated breeds often require very frequent grooming—sometimes daily brushing—to prevent matting.

• General guidance also indicates that some dogs may need professional grooming every 4–6 weeks, while others may only require occasional visits.

This means not all long-haired breeds have the same grooming demands.

High-maintenance long-haired breeds (frequent professional grooming)

These breeds typically appear on UK breed lists and are known for continuous hair growth, dense coats, or complex textures.

They often need regular trimming, clipping, or specialist care.

Examples:

• Afghan Hound – Fine, silky coat prone to tangles; often requires intensive brushing and regular salon grooming.

• Old English Sheepdog – Thick, shaggy coat that mats easily; professional grooming every 4–6 weeks is common.

• Lhasa Apso – Hair grows continuously like human hair; needs routine trimming and grooming schedules.

• Shih Tzu – High-maintenance coat; typically requires frequent clipping and eye/face care.

• Poodle (Standard) – Non-shedding curly coat; requires regular professional clipping and styling.

Why do these need more grooming:

• Hair grows continuously (like human hair)

• Prone to matting close to the skin

• Require clipping styles (not just brushing)

Moderate-maintenance long-haired breeds (occasional professional grooming)

These breeds still need regular home grooming but less frequent professional visits.

Examples:

• Golden Retriever

• Border Collie

• Newfoundland

• Rough Collie

Why do they need less professional grooming?

• Double coats shed naturally rather than continuously growing.

• Usually don't require clipping (only trimming/tidy-ups).

• Maintenance can often be managed at home with proper brushing.

Which dogs need groomers the most?

Among long-haired breeds recognised by the UK Kennel Club:

 Most frequent professional grooming:

• Poodles

• Shih Tzus

• Lhasa Apsos

• Old English Sheepdogs

• Afghan Hounds

Less frequent (but still high maintenance at home):

• Golden Retrievers

• Border Collies

• Newfoundlands

• Rough Collies

QUESTION:

How do I choose the best shampoo or grooming tools for my specific breed?

ANSWER:

Choosing the best dog shampoo and grooming tools for your specific breed depends on coat type, skin sensitivity, and grooming needs.

Choosing unsuitable products can cause skin irritation, tangles, or a dull coat, so it’s essential to tailor your dog's grooming routine to its specific needs.

How to Choose the Best Dog Shampoo for Your Breed

1. Match the shampoo to the coat type

Different breeds have different coat structures, so selecting the right formula is key.

• Long-haired breeds (e.g., Afghan Hounds, Shih Tzus)

  Choose a moisturising dog shampoo with conditioning properties to prevent tangles and dryness.

• Double-coated breeds (e.g., Golden Retrievers, Border Collies)

Use a de-shedding or undercoat-friendly shampoo that supports natural shedding without stripping oils.

• Curly or non-shedding breeds (e.g., Poodles)

  Opt for a hydrating, anti-matting shampoo designed to maintain curl definition.

2. Consider skin sensitivity

Some dogs are prone to irritation or allergies.

• Look for hypoallergenic dog shampoo.

• Avoid harsh chemicals like sulphates and artificial fragrances.

• Oatmeal-based shampoos are ideal for itchy or dry skin.

3. Check pH balance

A dog's skin has a different pH level from a human's, so it's best to use shampoo made specifically for dogs instead of human products.

This helps protect the skin's natural barrier and keeps the coat in good condition.

4. Choose purpose-driven formulas

Pick shampoos based on your dog’s needs:

• Anti-flea and tick shampoo (if recommended)

• Whitening shampoo for light coats

• Odour-control shampoo for active dogs

How to Choose the Right Grooming Tools

1. Select tools based on coat type

Long-haired breeds

• Slicker brush – removes tangles and prevents matting.

• Wide-tooth comb – detangles gently

• De-matting tool – for stubborn knots

Double-coated breeds

• Undercoat rake – removes loose undercoat hair.

• De-shedding tool – reduces shedding.

• Pin brush – maintains topcoat

Curly or non-shedding breeds

• Slicker brush – essential for preventing mats

• Professional clippers – needed for regular trims

• Steel comb – ensures coat is tangle-free down to the skin.

2. Invest in quality tools

Cheap grooming tools can pull hair or break easily. Look for:

• Stainless steel blades or teeth

• Ergonomic handles

• Trusted pet grooming brands

3. Don't forget essential extras

• Nail clippers or grinders

• Ear cleaning solution

• Microfibre towels or a pet dryer

These are vital for a complete grooming routine.

Tips for Choosing the Best Products

• Always consider your dog’s breed, coat type, and skin condition.

• When in doubt, ask a professional dog groomer or vet

• Test new products on a small area first to check for reactions.

Final Thoughts

Long-haired dog breeds make wonderful companions, but their beautiful coats require dedicated grooming and care.

To choose the best shampoo and grooming tools for your specific dog breed, focus on coat type, skin sensitivity, and grooming requirements.

Long-haired and curly breeds benefit from moisturising and anti-matting shampoos, while double-coated dogs need de-shedding formulas.

Pair this with the right grooming tools—such as slicker brushes, undercoat rakes, and professional clippers—to maintain a healthy coat.

Using high-quality dog grooming products in the UK ensures better results, improves coat condition, and keeps your dog comfortable and mat-free.

Breeds with continuously growing or highly textured coats (such as Poodles and Shih Tzus) typically need grooming every 4–6 weeks, while double-coated long-haired breeds (such as Golden Retrievers) may only need occasional professional grooming in addition to regular home maintenance.

Maintaining your dog's cleanliness is important for their overall health and comfort.

Responsibilities include daily brushing, regular baths, dental care, nail trimming, and ear cleaning.

By following these grooming steps, you'll help your dog stay healthy, comfortable, and looking their best.