Long Haired Dogs: 10 Essential Grooming Tips You Need

Long haired dogs are absolutely gorgeous—until they’re not. If you’ve ever owned a fluffy pup, you know exactly what I mean. That beautiful coat can transform into a matted nightmare faster than you can say “bath time,” and suddenly you’re wondering why you didn’t get a short-haired breed instead. But don’t panic! With the right grooming routine and a little patience, your long haired dogs can stay looking show-ready without requiring a second mortgage for professional grooming.

The truth is, long haired dogs demand more maintenance than their short-coated cousins, but the payoff is totally worth it. Whether you’ve got a Golden Retriever, Afghan Hound, Shih Tzu, or any other luxuriously coated companion, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep that mane in pristine condition.

Understanding Your Long Haired Dog’s Coat Type

Not all long haired dogs are created equal. Before you start grooming, you need to understand what you’re actually dealing with. Some long haired dogs have double coats (like Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds), while others have single coats (like Afghan Hounds and Maltese dogs). Double-coated breeds shed like they’re personally trying to knit a second dog, while single-coated dogs tend to shed less but mat more easily.

The texture matters too. Is your pup’s coat silky, wavy, curly, or wiry? Each type requires slightly different care approaches. Curly-coated long haired dogs, for instance, need more frequent brushing to prevent matting, while silky-coated breeds might get away with slightly less frequent sessions if you’re diligent.

Invest in Quality Brushing Tools—Seriously

This is where most people go wrong. They grab whatever brush is on sale at the pet store and wonder why their long haired dogs still look like they’ve been electrocuted. Quality matters here, and it’s worth spending a bit more upfront.

You’ll need a few different tools in your grooming arsenal: a slicker brush for removing mats and tangles, a undercoat rake for double-coated breeds, a metal comb for fine-tuning, and maybe a mat splitter for those stubborn tangles that refuse to cooperate. Don’t cheap out on these—good tools make the job infinitely easier and gentler on your dog’s skin.

Establish a Regular Brushing Schedule

Here’s the unsexy truth about long haired dogs: they need brushing. A lot. Most long haired dogs benefit from brushing at least 3-4 times per week, and double-coated breeds ideally need daily attention during shedding season. I know, I know—who has time? But trust me, spending 15 minutes every other day is way better than spending three hours untangling a matted mess once a month.

The key is consistency. Your long haired dogs’ coat will thank you for regular maintenance, and you’ll actually enjoy the process more when you’re not fighting against months of neglect. Plus, it’s a great bonding activity—most dogs genuinely enjoy the attention, even if they pretend not to.

Master the Art of Mat Removal

Mats are the arch-nemesis of long haired dogs everywhere. They form when loose hair tangles together, usually in high-friction areas like behind the ears, under the armpits, and around the rear end. Prevention is always better than cure, but when mats happen (and they will), you need to know how to handle them.

Start by spraying the mat lightly with a detangling spray or water. Then, using your slicker brush or mat splitter, gently work from the outside of the mat inward, never pulling harshly. If the mat is too tight, you might need to carefully cut it out with scissors—but be very careful not to nick the skin underneath. Some people swear by mat-breaking tools, which can be lifesavers for stubborn tangles in long haired dogs.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Bathing

Bathing is crucial for long haired dogs, but there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it. Most long haired dogs should be bathed every 4-8 weeks, depending on their lifestyle and coat condition. Before bathing, always brush out your dog thoroughly—bathing a matted coat will actually make the mats worse and tighter.

Use lukewarm water and a high-quality dog shampoo that won’t strip the natural oils from your pup’s coat. Work the shampoo in gently, paying special attention to the undercoat. Rinse thoroughly—any leftover shampoo residue can cause irritation and matting. For long haired dogs with double coats, consider using a conditioning treatment after shampooing to keep that coat silky and manageable.

Drying Techniques That Actually Work

This is where most people with long haired dogs really drop the ball. Improper drying can undo all your brushing work and create new mats faster than you can say “oops.” Never just let your long haired dogs air dry—that’s basically asking for a matted coat.

Instead, use a high-velocity dryer (also called a force dryer) to blow out the water and loose hair. These aren’t your regular hair dryers—they’re specifically designed for dogs and won’t overheat their skin. If you don’t have a force dryer, a regular dog dryer on low heat works too, but it takes longer. While drying, brush through the coat simultaneously to prevent matting. Yes, it’s a two-person job sometimes, but your long haired dogs’ coat will look infinitely better.

Trimming and Hand-Stripping for Show-Ready Coats

If you want your long haired dogs to look absolutely pristine, you might consider professional trimming or hand-stripping. Hand-stripping is a technique where loose hair is plucked out by hand (or with a special tool) rather than cut, which maintains the coat’s natural texture and color. It’s time-consuming and best left to professionals, but the results are stunning.

For regular maintenance, you can trim around the paws, face, and rear end with scissors or clippers. Just be careful—it’s easy to accidentally cut too much and ruin the aesthetic. If you’re not confident, definitely leave this to a professional groomer. They know how to maintain breed-specific styling while keeping your long haired dogs comfortable.

Address Nutritional Support for Coat Health

You can’t groom your way to a healthy coat if your dog isn’t getting proper nutrition. Long haired dogs need adequate protein, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and essential vitamins to maintain a lustrous coat. Check out our Pet Nutrition Advice guide for detailed information on what your pup should be eating.

If your long haired dogs have dull, brittle, or excessively shedding coats despite good grooming, it might be worth discussing dietary supplements with your vet. Omega-3 supplements, in particular, can work wonders for coat quality. You might also explore Vet Approved Human Foods for Pets that support skin and coat health, and check out some Healthy Snack Alternatives for Dogs that provide nutritional benefits.

Managing Seasonal Shedding Like a Pro

Long haired dogs with double coats go through “blowing their coat” twice a year—usually in spring and fall. During these periods, your pup will shed enough hair to knit a whole new dog. It’s not pretty, but it’s normal, and there are ways to manage it.

During shedding season, increase brushing frequency to daily if possible. Use an undercoat rake or shedding blade to remove the loose undercoat before it ends up all over your furniture. Some people use de-shedding treatments or conditioners specifically designed for shedding season. If your long haired dogs’ shedding seems excessive year-round, it might indicate a health issue worth discussing with your vet, as excessive shedding can sometimes signal allergies or other concerns.

Professional Grooming: When to Call in the Experts

Even the most dedicated home groomer should take their long haired dogs to a professional groomer every 6-8 weeks. Professional groomers have the equipment, expertise, and patience to handle tasks like full baths, force drying, and breed-specific styling that are tough to manage at home.

When choosing a groomer for your long haired dogs, ask for recommendations from your vet or other dog owners. Make sure they’re experienced with your breed and have good reviews. A good groomer can spot potential skin issues, matting problems, or other concerns early on. According to the American Kennel Club, regular professional grooming is essential for maintaining breed standards and coat health.

Tackling Common Grooming Challenges

Long haired dogs present unique grooming challenges that short-haired breeds simply don’t have. Tear staining around the eyes, matting in the beard area, and tangling around the rear end are all common issues. For tear staining, keep the hair around the eyes trimmed short and wipe the area daily with a damp cloth.

Matting in the beard and face area requires gentle, frequent brushing. Consider using a leave-in conditioner spray to keep these areas more manageable. For rear-end matting (which is super common), trim the hair shorter in that area or use a sanitary trim to prevent feces from getting caught in the coat. It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary for hygiene and comfort.

Health Monitoring Through Grooming

One often-overlooked benefit of regular grooming is that you get to inspect your long haired dogs’ skin and overall health. While brushing and bathing, look for signs of skin issues like redness, flaking, unusual odors, or lumps. Check the ears for dirt or infection, and examine the paws for cuts or infections between the toes.

Regular grooming also helps you catch parasites early. If you notice excessive scratching or see fleas or ticks during grooming, you can address the issue immediately. Many skin problems in long haired dogs are easier to spot and treat early when you’re regularly handling and examining the coat. For more information on anti-inflammatory support for skin health, check out our guide on Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Pets.

Creating a Grooming Station at Home

If you’re going to be grooming your long haired dogs regularly at home, set up a dedicated grooming station. You’ll want a non-slip surface (a yoga mat works great), good lighting, all your tools organized and within reach, and ideally a grooming table or elevated surface so you’re not bending over constantly.

Having everything set up and ready makes grooming sessions faster and more enjoyable for both you and your pup. Your long haired dogs will also start associating the grooming station with a routine, which can help them stay calm and cooperative. Some people even play calming music during grooming sessions to keep their dogs relaxed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I bathe my long haired dog?

Most long haired dogs should be bathed every 4-8 weeks, depending on their lifestyle and coat condition. Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors or get dirty frequently might need more frequent baths, while indoor dogs might be fine with less frequent bathing. Always brush thoroughly before bathing to prevent matting.

What’s the best brush for long haired dogs?

A slicker brush is typically the best all-purpose tool for long haired dogs, as it removes tangles and mats effectively. However, the best brush depends on your dog’s specific coat type. Double-coated breeds benefit from an undercoat rake, while curly-coated dogs might do better with a comb-style brush. It’s often worth having multiple tools in your grooming arsenal.

Can I use human shampoo on my long haired dog?

No, absolutely not. Human shampoo has a different pH balance than dog shampoo and can irritate your dog’s skin. Always use a quality dog shampoo formulated for your pup’s specific coat type. If your long haired dog has sensitive skin or allergies, ask your vet to recommend a hypoallergenic option.

Why does my long haired dog mat so easily?

Matting happens when loose hair tangles together, which is more common in long haired dogs because they have more hair to tangle. Mats form faster in areas with friction (like armpits and behind ears) and in dogs that aren’t brushed regularly. Proper nutrition, regular brushing, and appropriate bathing techniques all help prevent matting.

Is hand-stripping necessary for long haired dogs?

Hand-stripping isn’t necessary for pet long haired dogs, but it can help maintain coat quality and appearance for show dogs or certain breeds. For most pet owners, regular brushing, bathing, and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is sufficient to keep your long haired dog looking great.

What should I do if my dog has severe matting?

Severe matting sometimes requires professional intervention. If mats are too tight or extensive, a professional groomer might need to shave them out. To prevent this, brush regularly and address mats as soon as you notice them. If your long haired dog develops severe matting, see a groomer as soon as possible—matting can cause skin irritation and discomfort.

Conclusion

Owning long haired dogs is a commitment, but it’s absolutely worth it for those gorgeous flowing coats. The key to keeping your pup looking fabulous is consistency—regular brushing, proper bathing techniques, and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks will keep your long haired dogs in top condition. Remember that grooming isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also an opportunity to monitor your dog’s health and catch any issues early. With these 10 essential tips in your grooming toolkit, you’ll have a beautifully maintained companion that turns heads wherever you go. Your long haired dogs will thank you with those adorable happy eyes and that glorious, well-maintained coat.