5 Dog Breeds That Require a Lot of Grooming

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Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and they all have different needs and requirements. Some dog owners love grooming their dogs, and if you are one of them, you might want to consider getting a dog breed that requires a lot of grooming. Many of us think of dog grooming as a relaxing activity, and if you agree with that, check out these amazing dogs that need a lot of grooming but are worth the effort.

1. Poodle

The obvious choice for the start of this list is the Poodle. When you hear the term “show dog,” most of us go directly to Poodles. They are a high-maintenance breed, but you are getting so much more than that. These dogs are intelligent, active, well-mannered, and friendly. Poodles of all sizes make fantastic family pets. However, Toy Poodles are a bit more fragile than their larger counterparts.

One thing all Poodles have in common is their higher needs for grooming. Poodles have curly coats that are very attractive to dog owners because they don’t shed. Their coat keeps the loose dead hair curled in it, but that means you have to carefully brush it out. Many Poodle owners decide to ask for professional grooming help.

2. Afghan Hound

When mentioning dogs that need a lot of grooming, most of us think of small, pampered dogs like Yorkies. However, one of the breeds that require a lot of grooming is the Afghan Hound. It is a fairly large dog breed with one of the best-looking coats in all of the canine kingdom. Their silky soft hair needs a lot of attention, and their coats are something you will surely notice if you ever see an Afghan Hound walking.

These dogs are incredibly impressive, but Afghan Hounds can be challenging to raise, train, and socialize. They were initially kept as hunting dogs, and their prey drive is still strong to this day. These dogs are not the best choice for owners with other small pets. Afghans can be stubborn, so you will need a lot of patience and grooming skills to keep your Afghan Hound in the best possible shape.

3. Puli

If you never heard of a Puli, you might be interested to know this is a Hungarian shepherding breed that has dreadlocks. Pulis look really cool, but one thing that comes with such a cool look is grooming needs. If you want to get one of these dogs, you should know that keeping their dreadlocks clean and unmatted requires quite a bit of work.

Dogs that naturally develop dreadlocks is not some sort of fashion statement. It is an evolutionary adaptation. Pulis guarded livestock against large predators, primarily wolves. When a wolf attacked the flock, Puli would alarm the shepherd and try to grab the wolf’s attention. Dreadlocks protected the Puli from the sharp fangs and claws. There is no way a wolf could bite down and get to the Puli’s skin.

4. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs make great active family companions. That is why the Obama family had two of them as pets. Portuguese Water Dogs have amazing curly coats, and curly coats require a lot of attention. 

Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent, friendly, and absolutely amazing with kids. Their playful nature makes them great playing partners to older kids, and their high levels of energy allow them to play for hours. If you decide to get one of these dogs, you can be sure there will be no dull moments in your home.

5. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is another example of a natural show dog. These adorable little companions have thick coats that barely shed. Mind you, they still release dead hair, but that loose hair stays in their coat. That trait means you have to brush your Bichon Frise daily. They are one of the high-maintenance breeds, but you will get an amazing family companion if you are willing to invest time.

Bichon Frise is intelligent, loyal, and energetic. If you want a show dog, you will get a naturally talented dog that will love competing. However, if you want a family companion that enjoys an active lifestyle and a great cuddle session, the Bichon Frise might be the ideal choice for you and your family.

World Dog Finder team