When choosing a dog, many potential owners focus on factors such as size, temperament and exercise needs, but grooming is often overlooked. Some breeds have coats that require extensive grooming to stay healthy and look their best. Regular grooming isn’t just about appearance; it’s important to prevent matting, skin problems and other health issues. While all dogs need grooming, some breeds require a lot more attention due to their unique coat types. These breeds need a committed owner who is willing to put the time and effort into maintaining their dog’s coat.
8. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is known for its luxurious, wavy coat, which is one of the most distinctive features of this breed. The breed’s coat is long, fine, and silky, requiring a considerable amount of grooming to keep it in excellent condition. Afghan Hounds need to be brushed several times a week to prevent tangling and matting, and they should be bathed regularly to keep their coat clean and healthy. Due to the delicate nature of their coat, special shampoos and conditioners are often recommended. Grooming an Afghan Hound can be a time-consuming process, and many owners prefer to take their dogs to a professional groomer for regular maintenance. The effort required to maintain an Afghan Hound’s coat is well worth it for those who appreciate the breed’s elegant and regal look.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful breed known for its white fluffy coat, which resembles cotton balls. While the Bichon Frise’s coat is undeniably adorable, it does require extensive grooming to keep it looking its best. This breed’s curly, dense coat needs daily brushing to prevent tangling and regular bathing is essential to keep the coat clean and white. The Bichon Frise also requires regular trimming to maintain its distinctive rounded look. Their coat doesn’t shed much, which is a bonus for allergy sufferers, but it also means that dead hair needs to be manually removed by brushing. Many Bichon owners prefer to take their dogs to professional groomers for regular haircuts and maintenance
6. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is a large, shaggy breed known for its thick, double hair that covers its entire body, including the eyes. The coat of this breed is thick and abundant, requiring extensive grooming to avoid tangling and matting. Old English Sheepdogs need to be brushed several times a week, if not daily, to keep their coat in good condition. They also need regular baths, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors, as dirt and debris can easily accumulate on their coat. In addition to brushing and bathing, Old English Sheepdogs may require regular trimming to keep their coats manageable. Grooming this breed can be quite time consuming, but it is a labor of love for those who love this breed’s charming look and playful personality.
5. Poodles (Standard, Miniature and Toy)
Poodles, no matter the size – standard, miniature or toy – are known for their curly, dense coats that require extensive grooming to maintain. The Poodle’s coat is unique in that it is made up of dense, curly hair that can easily become tangled if not properly cared for. Poodles require regular, often daily, brushing to prevent tangling and matting. Regular haircuts are also necessary to keep the coat manageable, and many Poodle owners opt for the traditional “Poodle cut,” which requires a skilled groomer. In addition to brushing and trimming, Poodles require regular bathing to keep their coats clean and free of dirt and debris
4. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate breed known for its long, flowing coat, which requires a considerable amount of grooming to keep it looking its best. The Shih Tzu’s coat is dense and can grow quite long, often reaching the ground if not trimmed. To prevent matting and tangling, Shih Tzus need daily brushing, and regular bathing is necessary to keep their coat clean and healthy. Many Shih Tzu owners choose to keep their dogs in a short “puppy cut” to reduce the amount of grooming required, but regular maintenance is necessary even with a short coat. In addition to brushing and bathing, Shih Tzus require regular trimming around the face to keep their hair out of their eyes
3. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is another small breed with long, wavy hair that requires extensive grooming. Originally bred as a watchdog in Tibetan monasteries, the Lhasa Apso’s hair is thick and dense, providing protection from harsh climates. To keep the hair in good condition, the Lhasa Apso needs to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and matting. Regular bathing is also necessary to keep the hair clean and free of debris. Many Lhasa Apso owners opt for regular professional grooming to keep their dog’s hair manageable, and some choose to keep their Lhasa Apso cut short to reduce grooming time. In addition to hair care, the Lhasa Apso also needs regular attention to its ears and eyes to prevent infections. The Lhasa Apso’s grooming demands are significant, but his loyal and protective nature makes him a beloved companion for those willing to put in the work.
2. Komondor
The Komondor is a large, impressive breed known for its distinctive corded coat, which resembles long dreadlocks. This unique coat requires a considerable amount of grooming to maintain its appearance and health. The Komondor’s coat naturally forms cords as the dog grows older, and these cords need to be detangled regularly to prevent them from becoming tangled and to ensure that the dog’s skin can breathe. Grooming a Komondor can be a time-consuming process, as the cords need to be carefully maintained to prevent dirt and debris from becoming trapped. Regular bathing is also necessary, but drying a Komondor’s coat can take several hours due to the thickness of the cords. Despite the grooming demands, the Komondor’s protective nature and attractive appearance make it a popular choice for those who appreciate its unique look and are willing to invest time in caring for it.
1. Puli
The Puli is a medium-sized Hungarian shepherding breed known for its distinctive corded coat, similar to that of the Komondor but on a smaller scale. The Puli’s coat naturally forms tight cords that need to be carefully maintained to prevent tangling and ensure the dog’s comfort. Grooming the Puli is a labor-intensive process that requires regular attention to keep the cords clean, free of debris, and properly separated. Bathing the Puli can be particularly challenging, as the cords take a long time to dry and require careful handling to prevent mildew or mold from developing. Despite the grooming challenges, the Puli is known for its agility, intelligence, and lively personality, making it a beloved companion to those who are dedicated to its care.
Each of these dog breeds has unique coat types that require significant grooming to keep them healthy and looking their best. While grooming demands can be high, the reward of owning one of these beautiful and loyal breeds is well worth the effort for those who are willing to put in the work. Regular grooming is essential not only to maintain the dog’s appearance but also to prevent health problems and ensure their overall well-being. If you are considering one of these breeds, be prepared to invest time, effort, and possibly professional grooming services to keep your dog in top condition. With the right care, these breeds can bring immense joy and companionship to your life.