In the diverse world of dog breeds, one of the most attractive features is undoubtedly their hair. From luxurious, flowing coats to dense, curly fur, each breed has a unique type of hair that not only serves a functional purpose but also enhances their aesthetic appeal. This article celebrates the top 10 dog breeds renowned for having the best hair. These breeds have been selected not only for their magnificent appearance, but also for the uniqueness and distinctive qualities of their coats, which require varying levels of care and attention. Whether it’s for show or simply for the pleasure of having a beautiful canine companion, these breeds stand out for their impressive hair.
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is renowned for its beautiful, flowing coat, one of the most distinctive and beautiful in the dog world. Their long, silky hair, which can be found all over their bodies, is of fine texture and can grow to considerable lengths. The breed’s hair is comparable to human hair in its softness and requires regular grooming to maintain its shine and prevent tangles. The majestic coat of the Afghan Hound is the hallmark of the breed and a testament to their aristocratic roots, having been originally bred for hunting in the mountains of Afghanistan, where their luxurious coat protected them from the harsh climate.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, have beautiful, fine, silky hair that mimics that of humans. Their hair is straight and thin, often long enough to reach the ground. Yorkies typically have a steel blue and gray coat that is split over the face and from the base of the skull to the end of the tail. Keeping your hair in good condition requires regular grooming, including daily brushing and regular trimming. This breed’s luxurious hair not only enhances their adorable appearance but also explains their history as fashionable lapdogs for Victorian women.
3. Maltese
The Maltese is celebrated for its luxurious, pure white, silky hair. Unlike other breeds, the Maltese has hair similar to human hair that grows continuously, and has no undercoat. This means that their coat requires regular grooming to keep it from becoming tangled and matted. The hair is soft and can grow long if not cut regularly. The breed’s beautiful hair is a defining characteristic and requires dedicated care, making them a popular choice for dog shows and a favorite pet for those who enjoy grooming.
4. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus have a luxurious double coat that is dense, long and flows beautifully to the ground. Their hair, which is more like human hair than typical dog fur, requires daily care to keep it from getting tangled and matted. The topcoat is soft and slightly wavy, while the undercoat is slightly coarser. Shih Tzus often adopt a variety of hairstyles, from the practical “puppy cut” to the show-stopping “top knot.” Their beautiful hair is a hallmark of the breed and reflects their history as a beloved companion to Chinese royalty.
5. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are known for their fluffy, heavy double coats. Their hair has a soft, dense undercoat and a long, textured outer coat, giving them a distinctive, fluffy appearance. The breed’s hair comes in a variety of colors and requires regular grooming to maintain its shape and prevent tangles. The luxurious coat of Pomeranians makes them appear larger than they are and adds to their appeal as a lively and adventurous companion.
6. Samoyed
Samoyeds are renowned for their luxurious, dense, white double coats. Their hair is long, straight and weather-resistant with a soft, thick undercoat. The Samoyed’s coat is functional, having evolved to protect them from the harsh Arctic climate. Despite its thickness, the coat has a silky texture, and the breed is known for its “Samoyed smile” – the upturned corners of their mouths prevent them from drooling, keeping their coat clean. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat, especially during their shedding season.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog boasts a gorgeous, tri-colored, thick double coat. Their long, silky hair is deep black, dark rust and clear white. The coat is medium long with a shiny natural shine. The breed’s hair is designed to protect against the harsh conditions of the Swiss Alps, where they were originally bred as farm dogs. Their coat requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty and health, especially during the shedding season.
8. Irish Setter
Irish Setters are admired for their beautiful, shiny, mahogany or dark chestnut colored hair. Their coat is of medium length, silky and of fine texture. The hair on the head and front legs is short but flows gracefully over the body and tail. Regular grooming is essential to keep their coat shiny and free of tangles. The Irish Setter’s luxurious hair complements his graceful, athletic build, making him a favorite in both the field and the show ring.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog has a unique, hypoallergenic coat that comes in two varieties: curly and wavy. Their hair is thick and waterproof, which served a functional purpose when they served as companions to fishermen in Portugal. The curly variety has compact, cylindrical curls, while the wavy type is loose and flowing. Regular care, including trimming, is essential to keep their coat in good condition and maintain its distinctive look.
10. coli
Collies have a beautiful, abundant double coat that is both dense and soft. Their outer coat is straight and hard to the touch, while the undercoat is softer and stiffer. Collies require regular grooming to maintain the health and appearance of their coat, particularly to prevent matting around their ears, chest and legs. Their majestic coat enhances their beautiful appearance and reflects their history as hard-working herding dogs.
In conclusion, each of these breeds has a unique and beautiful type of hair that sets them apart in the dog world. From the silky, wavy hair of the Afghan Hound to the thick, fluffy coat of the Pomeranian, these breeds are not only a joy to look at but also reflect a fascinating aspect of their breed’s history and purpose. While their luxurious coats may require regular grooming and care, the reward is a visually stunning and loyal companion. Whether for show or as beloved pets, these breeds continue to fascinate and charm dog lovers around the world with their extraordinary hair.