Dog Hair vs Fur: What Is the Difference?

Do you know the difference between dog hair and fur? Many people consider them to be the same, but there are actually some important distinctions to keep in mind. Dog hair and fur have different properties, textures, and colors. Plus, each requires a different approach for grooming and maintenance.

In this post, we’ll explain the differences between dog hair and fur, and how to identify which one your dog has. We’ll also discuss the best ways to take care of each type, as well as the products that can help you on your way to a well-groomed pup.

Hair vs. Fur

The first thing that you should know is that dogs possess both kinds of body covering: hair and fur. Hair is made of proteins such as keratin and grows from follicles in the skin. Fur, on the other hand, is composed of multiple short and dense layers that are designed to keep the animal warm. 

Some dogs, like golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, and beagles, have double layers of fur, including the “undercoat” — the part that sheds a lot. Other dogs like boxers, greyhounds, and Dalmatians only have one layer of fur and do not shed as much as their double-coated counterparts. Typically smaller dogs like Yorkshire terriers, Malteses, and shih tzus will have hair over fur (it can be double-coated or single-coated). 

Different Breeds, Different Hair and Fur 

Not all breeds of dogs possess hair and fur but for those that do, it’s important to understand how each type should be groomed. Dogs with long coats typically have long hairs that require brushing to keep them from tangling or matting up while short-haired breeds may only need an occasional brushing. Those breeds with double coats have a thick undercoat that needs to be maintained by regularly brushing out shed hairs before they become matted or tangled during shedding season. A dog fur rake is recommended for double-coated breeds as it can reach through the top layer of fur to remove underlying dead fur in a much more efficient manner than a regular brush can.

Grooming Each Type of Dog Hair 

Grooming your pet depends on the type of body covering they have. If they have long hairs, then regular brushing will keep their coat looking its best, while short-haired dogs may just need an occasional brushing session here and there. Double-coated breeds need to be groomed even more regularly as shed hairs often get matted down and stuck, making it uncomfortable and difficult for the pup. Once again, a dog fur rake is a great tool for grooming these types of breeds, as it can really get deep into the coat and remove all that pesky undercoat fluff quickly and efficiently.  

Conclusion

There are several important differences between dog hair and fur, and understanding them can help pet owners better care for their canine friends. By following these grooming tips and using the right products, pet owners can ensure their pup is always looking and feeling their best.