5 Things You Should Know About Long-Haired Dog Breeds Before Adopting One
Long-haired dog breeds can provide you with endless companionship, love, and laughs, but before you decide to bring one into your home, there are a few things you need to know. From grooming and feeding requirements to exercise and health needs, these pooches have unique needs that require special care.
In this post, we’ll discuss five things you should know before adopting a long-haired dog breed. We’ll share tips on how to care for your new pup and look at the most common long-haired breeds available. Once you’ve read through this piece, you can decide if a long-haired breed is right for you.
1. Shedding and Grooming Requirements
Long-haired dogs have amazingly soft coats. This is why most people are drawn to them in the first place. Their beautiful locks come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, making them one of the most popular dog types you can find.
Unfortunately, their thicker coats often require regular grooming and haircuts, something that many dog owners don’t anticipate. While some long-haired pups only need brushing occasionally, others will require regular haircuts or trips to the groomer. Additionally, these breeds tend to shed more than other dogs, so having a few extra lint rollers around the house is highly recommended.
2. Common Long-Haired Breeds:
Before you make your decision about adopting a long-haired dog, take a few moments to familiarize yourself with the different breeds available and their temperaments:
Afghan Hound
This ancient breed is often described as intelligent, independent, and dignified. Afghan Hound‘s hair is known for its silky texture and its elegant appearance.
Bearded Collie
For many years this breed has been prized for its intelligence and affectionate personality but also for its long ears and flowing topcoat that covers its back like an elegant shawl or “beard.”
Shih Tzu
These small pooches have playful personalities that typically require minimal grooming; however, their coats can become matted if not brushed frequently enough. This might include trimming with dog thinning shears every now and then.
Maltese
This breed has a white coat that is extremely fine in texture and grows quite quickly, which requires regular brushing and grooming sessions with a professional groomer or at home with clippers or scissors.
Mutts
Chances are that if you’re planning on adopting a dog, you’re most likely going to find a mutt. Long-hared mutts come in all different sizes, shapes, and temperaments. Plus, they may be less likely to suffer from diseases than their purebred counterparts.
3. Considerations When Adopting a Long-Haired Dog
There are several factors to consider before bringing one home, such as exercise needs, size of the home environment, and health issues.
Since these breeds need frequent haircuts and grooming sessions by professionals or at home by their owners, some may find it difficult to find time to keep up with these tasks if they have busy schedules or limited space in their homes for grooming equipment. It’s important to consider whether or not you have the necessary space required for these activities before adopting a long-haired pup since it can take up quite a bit of time out of your day!
4. Finding a Long-Haired Dog
If you have done your research on long-haired breeds and have decided that one would be the perfect addition to your family, there are several options available for finding your new four-legged friend. You can search for rescues that specialize in these types of dogs, visit the local pound, or contact reputable breeders who specialize in these canine companions.
5. Caring for a Long-Haired Dog
Once you’ve found your new companion, it’s important to understand how best to care for them properly so they stay healthy and happy. Here’s what you need to know about taking care of your new pup:
Bathing
How often you bathe your pup depends on many factors, such as skin type, lifestyle/activity level, AKC breed standard (if applicable), and more. But as a general rule, it’s recommended that you give them a bath every month or two using mild shampoos specifically designed for canine use only — never human shampoo!
Brushing
How often you brush your pup depends on the type of coat they have. Generally speaking, most should get brushed at least once per week using appropriate brushes or combs made specifically for their breed’s hair type. Additionally, de-shedding tools should also be used regularly, depending on how much they shed throughout the year!
Trimming
If your pup has long hair, they will likely require frequent trips to a groomer (or occasional at-home trims) so they stay looking neat and tidy. This might include using dog thinning shears every now and then, depending on how thick or dense their coat is.
Conclusion
Long-haired dog breeds have a lot to offer any family. From their fluffy, cuddly coats to their playful personalities, they can provide love and companionship for years to come. And with the right knowledge, you can ensure that you and your new pup will stay healthy and happy for years to come.