Fluffy doesn’t always mean fabulous—at least not without a fight.
Some dogs look like they belong on the cover of a luxury pet magazine. But behind that silky shine or cloud-like coat? Hours of brushing, detangling, trimming… and possibly a trail of fur leading from your bathroom to the backyard.
These breeds aren’t just “a little high-maintenance.” They’re the divas of the dog world.
Gorgeous? Yes.
Easy to manage? Not a chance.
Whether you’re wrangling dreadlock-prone fur, stubborn curls, or a double coat that never stops shedding, these pups will keep your grooming game on its toes.
Ready to meet the canine royalty of brushing and blowouts?
Let’s dive into the 16 dog breeds that make grooming feel like a full-time job.
Komondor
The Komondor, with its eye-catching dreadlock-like cords, is a distinctive breed originating from Hungary. These majestic dogs are known for their protective nature and distinctive coat, which serves as a natural shield against predators. While their appearance is striking, maintaining those cords is labor-intensive.
Grooming a Komondor requires meticulous attention to prevent matting and maintain the integrity of the cords. Regular bathing is essential, followed by a lengthy drying process. Each cord must be separated manually to ensure cleanliness.
It’s a demanding task, but the reward is a beautifully groomed Komondor!
Poodle
Known for their intelligence and grace, Poodles are a favorite among dog lovers. However, their thick, curly coat demands frequent grooming to keep it in pristine condition. Regular trims are necessary to prevent matting and tangling, especially around the ears and tail.
A Poodle’s coat can be styled in various creative cuts, each requiring skill and precision. The famous “Poodle Cut” is not just for aesthetics; it also helps in maintaining hygiene and comfort.
Despite the grooming challenges, their elegance and charm make every effort worthwhile.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is often admired for its fluffy, cloud-like appearance. With a joyful personality and a coat that resembles cotton, they are delightful companions. However, maintaining that soft, white coat is no small feat.
Regular grooming is essential to avoid matting and discoloration. Their coat requires frequent brushing and monthly grooming sessions. A well-groomed Bichon Frise is a sight to behold, but achieving that look requires dedication.
Their playful nature and affectionate demeanor make the grooming effort rewarding for any dog lover.
Old English Sheepdog
With a coat as fluffy as a cotton ball, the Old English Sheepdog is both charming and challenging to groom. Their dense, double-layered coat is prone to matting and requires regular brushing to prevent tangles.
Grooming sessions often involve de-shedding tools to manage their thick undercoat. Regular trims around the face and paws are essential to maintain a neat appearance.
Their affectionate nature and unique look make them a joy to have around, despite the grooming demands they present.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is elegance personified, with a silky, flowing coat that turns heads wherever it goes. Hailing from the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, this breed’s coat has adapted to cold climates, necessitating regular grooming.
To maintain its luxurious appearance, the Afghan Hound requires frequent brushing and bathing. The long strands can easily tangle, especially after outdoor adventures.
Their regal presence and aloof nature are captivating, and dedicated grooming keeps them looking like royalty.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels, with their soulful eyes and wavy coats, are a favorite for many families. Those luscious locks, however, need constant attention to stay beautiful. Regular brushing helps prevent matting, especially in their feathered areas.
Besides brushing, Cocker Spaniels need regular ear cleaning and grooming to keep their coat and skin healthy. Their ears are prone to infections if not properly maintained.
The effort pays off with a Cocker Spaniel that looks and feels great, making them the perfect companions for any adventure.
Maltese
The Maltese is a vision of elegance with its long, silky white coat and bright, expressive eyes. Originating from the Mediterranean, this breed is known for its loving nature and graceful appearance.
To maintain its signature look, regular grooming is essential. Their hair can grow long and is prone to tangling, requiring frequent brushing and trimming. Bathing is also necessary to keep their coat shiny and clean.
Despite the grooming demands, the Maltese is a devoted companion, making every grooming session a bonding experience.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are little dogs with big personalities. Their long, flowing coat is their crowning glory, reminiscent of fine silk.
Grooming a Yorkie requires a gentle touch and regular maintenance to prevent tangling and matting. Frequent brushing and occasional trims keep their coat looking its best.
With their adventurous spirit and charming antics, Yorkies are a delight to have around, making the grooming effort a small price to pay for such a joyful companion.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, with its royal lineage, boasts a luxurious, flowing coat that requires diligent care. Known for their affectionate nature, these dogs have a history of living in palaces.
Their coat demands regular grooming to prevent tangles and maintain its beauty. Frequent baths and daily brushing are essential for keeping their coat in top condition.
With their regal appearance and loving demeanor, Shih Tzus bring joy and companionship to any home, making the grooming commitment worthwhile for their dedicated owners.
Bearded Collie
Bearded Collies, affectionately known as Beardies, are energetic and intelligent herding dogs with a distinctive shaggy coat. Their double-layered coat provides protection but requires regular grooming to stay neat.
Frequent brushing is necessary to prevent matting, especially around the beard and legs. Their playful nature often leads to tangles, making grooming an essential routine.
The combination of their endearing personality and unique look makes grooming a rewarding task for any Beardie owner.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small yet regal breed with a rich history as a sentinel in Tibetan monasteries. Its long, flowing coat is a hallmark of the breed, demanding meticulous grooming to maintain its splendor.
Regular brushing and trimming are crucial to prevent tangles and matting. Their coat requires bathing and conditioning to preserve its shine and softness.
Despite the grooming challenges, the Lhasa Apso remains a devoted companion, offering loyalty and affection in abundance, making the effort truly rewarding.
Samoyed
The Samoyed, with its iconic “Sammy smile,” is a breed known for its friendly demeanor and fluffy, white coat. Originally bred for herding reindeer, their thick double coat is designed for harsh environments.
Grooming a Samoyed involves regular brushing to prevent matting and control shedding. Their coat requires special care during seasonal changes when shedding is at its peak.
Their cheerful disposition and striking appearance make them a joy to groom, rewarding owners with a happy and healthy companion.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are known for their lion-like appearance and aloof demeanor. Their dense double coat, including a distinctive mane, requires regular grooming to maintain its majestic look.
Frequent brushing is necessary to prevent matting and manage shedding. Special attention is needed around the neck and chest areas, where tangles are common.
Despite their grooming needs, Chow Chows are loyal and dignified companions, offering a unique presence in any home.
Pekingese
The Pekingese, with its royal heritage, is a breed that exudes elegance and charm. Known for its long, flowing coat, this breed’s grooming requirements are as noble as its demeanor.
Regular brushing and occasional trims are essential to prevent tangles and maintain their coat’s luxurious appearance. Their coat requires special care to stay clean and silky.
With their dignified presence and affectionate nature, Pekingese dogs are cherished companions, making the grooming commitment worthwhile.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, affectionate breed known for its striking tri-colored coat and gentle temperament. Originating from the Swiss Alps, their coat is designed to withstand cold climates.
Grooming a Bernese Mountain Dog involves regular brushing to manage shedding and prevent matting. Special care is needed during seasonal changes when they shed profusely.
Their friendly nature and impressive appearance make them a delight to groom, offering companionship and loyalty to their owners.
Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier, despite its name, is not a true terrier but a companion dog with a long, flowing coat. Known for their agile and playful nature, they were historically kept as good luck charms.
Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat’s beauty and prevent matting. Frequent brushing and occasional trims are necessary to keep their coat manageable.
Their affectionate nature and unique look make the grooming process a rewarding experience for any owner.