Large, long-haired dog breeds are captivating with their majestic appearance, often combining strength, elegance and presence. With their long coats and impressive physiques, these breeds are more than just eye-catching; they also have a history of working alongside humans in a variety of capacities, from herding and guarding to companionship. The luxurious coats of these dogs may require more grooming, but the beauty and warmth they provide are unmatched. This article explores nine large, long-haired dog breeds, highlighting what makes each one unique and why they are beloved by dog enthusiasts around the world.
9. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a dog breed that exudes elegance and grace, thanks in part to its long, silky coat. Originating in the mountains of Afghanistan, the breed was bred to hunt game in harsh terrain, and its coat provides protection from the cold. The Afghan Hound is a large dog, typically weighing between 50 and 60 pounds, with a distinctive appearance marked by its long coat, narrow face, and high tail. Its long coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and maintain its luxurious texture. Known for its independent and aloof personality, the Afghan Hound is often described as having a cat-like personality. Despite their dignified appearance, they are also known for their speed and agility, making them both beautiful and powerful.
8. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is a large, shaggy dog breed known for its distinctive fur that covers its entire body, including its eyes. Weighing between 60 and 100 pounds, this breed has a sturdy build and a coat that was originally developed to protect them from harsh weather conditions while herding sheep. The Old English Sheepdog’s long, thick coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats, and many owners opt for a “puppy cut” to make care easier. The breed is known for its gentle and affectionate nature, making them a great family dog. Despite their large size, Old English Sheepdogs are playful and active, although they also enjoy relaxing with their families. Their long coat and loving personality make them one of the most recognizable and popular large long-haired dog breeds.
7. Fern
The Briard is a little-known but highly regarded large, long-haired dog breed that was originally bred in France for herding and guarding livestock. The breed is known for its long, wavy coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, gray, and fawn. Weighing between 55 and 100 pounds, the Briard has a muscular build and a powerful presence, with a distinctive beard and eyebrows that add to its expressive appearance. The Briard’s coat requires regular grooming to keep it tangle-free and maintain its natural texture. The breed is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and protective instincts, making them excellent family guardians. Despite their origins as serious working dogs, the Briard is also affectionate and forms a strong bond with their family, making them excellent companions and guardians.
6. Rough Collie
The Rough Collie is a breed that has captured the hearts of many, thanks in part to its association with the beloved character Lassie. This large breed is known for its long, flowing double coat that comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, tri-color, and blue. Weighing between 50 and 75 pounds, the Rough Collie is elegant and sturdy, with a long, wedge-shaped head and an intelligent expression. The Rough Collie’s coat requires regular grooming to avoid tangles and maintain a beautiful appearance. Known for its gentle and loyal nature, the Rough Collie makes a great family dog, especially with children. The breed’s intelligence and trainability make them a lovable companion, whether it’s for obedience work, herding, or as a loving companion.
5. Leonberger
The Leonberger is a large dog with a long, thick coat that gives it a majestic and impressive appearance. Originating in Germany, the breed was developed as a working dog, often used for tasks such as pulling sleds and water rescue. Weighing between 90 and 170 pounds, the Leonberger is known for its strength and power, combined with a calm and gentle temperament. Their long coat is water-resistant and requires regular grooming to keep them in good condition. Despite their large size, Leonbergers are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, especially with children, making them great family dogs. Their impressive size and luxurious coat make them stand out wherever they go, but it is their loving personalities that truly endear them to their owners.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, sturdy dog with a long, thick coat that is both beautiful and useful. Originating in the Swiss Alps, the breed was developed for farm work, including herding cattle and pulling carts. Weighing between 70 and 115 pounds, the Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its tri-colored coat, which is a striking combination of black, white, and rust. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and keep it looking its best. The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its gentle and affectionate nature, making it a great family pet. They are especially good with children and are known for their calm and patient demeanor. Despite their large size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle giants and devoted to their families.
3. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a giant dog breed known for its long, thick coat and exceptional swimming ability. Originating in Newfoundland, Canada, the breed was developed as a working dog, especially for water rescue. Weighing between 100 and 150 pounds, the Newfoundland has a muscular body and a thick, water-resistant coat that requires regular grooming to avoid tangles. Their coats come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, gray, and Landseer (white with black markings). Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and sweet nature, often described as “nanny dogs” because of their patience and instinct to protect children. Despite their large size, they are extremely gentle and affectionate, making them great family companions. Their long coat and impressive size give them a majestic appearance, but it is their loving and patient personalities that truly set them apart.
2. Greater Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a large, majestic dog breed known for its long, thick, white coat that is both beautiful and useful. Originating in the Pyrenees Mountains of France and Spain, the breed was bred to guard livestock, and their coat helps protect them from the harsh mountain weather. Weighing between 85 and 115 pounds, the Great Pyrenees is a strong, sturdy dog with a calm and gentle temperament. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and keep them looking their best. The Great Pyrenees is known for its independent nature and strong protective instincts, making them excellent guardians of the home. Despite their protective nature, they are also known to be gentle and affectionate with their families, especially children.
1. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed of dog known for its massive size, strength, and luxurious long coat. Originating in the Himalayas, the breed was traditionally used by nomadic herders and monks to protect livestock and property. Weighing between 85 and 160 pounds, the Tibetan Mastiff has a thick, double coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, and gold. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and maintain a dignified appearance. Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their independence, intelligence, and strong protective instincts, making them excellent guardians. However, they are also known to be affectionate and loyal to their families, especially when well socialized. The Tibetan Mastiff’s combination of strength, beauty, and loyalty makes them one of the most revered large long-haired dog breeds in the world.
Large long-haired dog breeds are admired not only for their striking looks, but also for the strength, intelligence and loyalty they bring to their families. From the majestic Tibetan Mastiff to the gentle Bernese Mountain Dog, each of these breeds offers something unique, whether as a working dog, guard dog or loving companion. Their luxurious coats, while requiring regular grooming, add to their charm and presence, making them stand out wherever they go. Whether you are looking for a devoted family pet, a capable working dog or simply a majestic companion, these large long-haired dog breeds are special in their own right. Their combination of beauty, strength and loyalty ensures that they will continue to be loved by dog lovers around the world.
