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Coat Type Guide

Long Hair Dog Grooming

Long-haired breeds like Shih Tzus, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, and Afghan Hounds have gorgeous flowing coats — that require daily commitment. Without regular maintenance, long coats quickly become matted, uncomfortable, and prone to skin issues. The payoff? A stunning, silky companion who turns heads.

🪥
Daily
Brushing frequency
✂️
4-6 weeks
Professional grooming cycle
💵
$50-100+
Per grooming session
⚠️
High
Maintenance level

🐾 Common long hair Dog Breeds

Shih TzuMalteseYorkshire TerrierAfghan HoundLhasa ApsoHavaneseCavalier King Charles Spaniel

🧰Tools You'll Need

Slicker brushMetal combDetangling sprayScissors

📋 Step-by-Step Guide

1

Mist coat lightly with detangling spray

2

Work through tangles gently with a slicker brush, starting at the ends

3

Use a metal comb to check for remaining mats

4

Pay extra attention to armpits, behind ears, and rear end

5

Trim around eyes, paws, and sanitary areas as needed

6

Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks recommended

💡 Expert Advice

Daily Brushing is Non-Negotiable

Skip a day, mats form. Skip a week, they're painful to remove. Daily brushing (even 5 minutes) prevents 90% of long-coat problems.

Line Brushing Technique

Part the hair in sections and brush layer by layer down to the skin. Surface brushing misses mats forming underneath.

Mist Before Brushing

Never brush a completely dry long coat — it causes breakage. A light misting of detangling spray or water protects the hair.

Professional Maintenance

Even dedicated home groomers benefit from professional grooming every 4-6 weeks for thorough dematting, trimming, and sanitary areas.

📅Grooming Schedule

Recommended Frequency: Daily brushing

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent mats in long-haired dogs?▼
Daily brushing is the only reliable prevention. Focus on friction areas: behind ears, armpits, collar line, and rear. Use a slicker brush followed by a metal comb to catch any tangles. Detangling spray helps. If mats form, address them immediately before they tighten.
Can I cut mats out myself?▼
Carefully, yes — but it's risky. Mats pull skin tight, making it easy to cut skin accidentally. Use a mat splitter or seam ripper working away from skin, never scissors pointed at the mat. For severe matting, a professional grooming may be the humane choice (possibly requiring a short haircut).
Is a "puppy cut" easier to maintain?▼
Yes! A short "puppy cut" (1-2 inches all over) dramatically reduces daily maintenance. You'll still need regular brushing, but it's faster and mats are less likely. Many owners choose this practical style over the breed's traditional long coat.
How often should long-haired dogs be bathed?▼
Every 2-4 weeks, depending on lifestyle. NEVER bathe a matted dog — water tightens mats and makes them worse. Always brush thoroughly before bathing. Use conditioner to keep the coat manageable.

Need More Grooming Advice?

Our AI can help with specific grooming questions for your dog's breed and coat type.

Ask AI Grooming Questions →← All Dog Grooming Guides