Dogs With Dreadlocks

Dogs can come with all sorts of different hairstyles, but did you know that they can come with dreadlocks, too? If you want a dog that looks totally unique from all the other canines out there, then a dog with dreadlocks just might be the pooch for you. With that being said, here are the top dog breeds with dreadlocks!

Caring For Dogs With Dreadlocks

“Dreadlocks” on dogs are actually referred to as cords, mats, or flocks. A few breeds have coats that form them naturally (especially those with coats that have very tight curls). Other breeds with curly coats can be given dreads by a professional groomer.

This is known as cording and is a tedious process that starts with separating the dog’s fur into clumps and then maintaining them over time until they form dreads on their own. Because it looks more attractive and uniform, dogs with natural dreadlocks may have their coats corded as well particularly when they compete in dog shows.

Caring for a dog with dreads requires a lot of work and time. They must be specially bathed, and their dreads can take days to dry! Their coats can get mildew, attract dust, and easily become entangled with twigs, leaves, and just about anything else. This can affect how and where you exercise your dog as well and where you allow it to go.

Diet for these dogs is highly important too since they need to have the proper nutrition to produce not just a healthy coat but to keep the skin underneath all of those dreads healthy as well. If you’ve got your eye on a dog breed with natural dreadlocks, but are worried that it might be too much work, don’t worry!

You can simply keep your pet’s coat clipped short year-round to prevent any cords from forming or periodically trim your dog’s coat to remove the cords. You can also partially clip your dog’s coat so there are only cords in a few manageable areas.

Puli

The Puli is a Hungarian dog with dreadlocks that was bred to herd flocks of sheep. This is a medium-sized canine with a lot of energy! They’re also surprisingly agile despite that dense double-coated mop of fur, and their proclivity for jumping around has earned them the beloved nickname “acrobat of the dog world.”

The Puli’s dreadlocks are naturally occurring and dense. They are made up of hairs from both the dog’s top coat and its undercoat. This sturdy breed also makes a dedicated and loving family dog, and they are especially good with children.

Havanese

The Havanese is not usually thought of as a small dog breed with dreadlocks, because its coat is naturally silky. However, their coat can be corded by expert groomers, and many proud owners love to show off their corded Havanese at dog shows!

Havanese are elegant dogs that were created centuries ago to sit on the laps of royalty. They still have an aristocratic nature, although they can be surprisingly playful and mischievous if the mood strikes them.

Komondor

The Komondor is a large dog with dreadlocks that are naturally occurring. This dog breed looks like a mop, but has a huge personality! Like the Puli, the Komondor was bred to herd sheep, and as such, they have an energetic and hard-working personality. They require lots of exercise from a dedicated owner.

The Komondor’s dreads are also not for the faint of heart, because they require plenty of care and maintenance. Still, this breed’s strong and dependable nature makes them a favorite among many owners.

Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo, is an Italian breed with a short curly coat that has a texture similar to human hair. This is a very special breed of dog that was developed to find truffles, a mushroom delicacy, with their excellent noses! These dogs look exactly like fluffy, lovable teddy bears, but they are amazingly strong and athletic. This is an especially intelligent breed that is both eager to please as well as easy to train.

Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog, true to its name, absolutely adores water! This hunting companion was bred to fetch waterfowl such as ducks and geese. They are also excellent herders and retrievers. This medium-sized dreadlock dog breed can form dreads naturally.

Although because it has a single coat the Spanish Water Dog’s dreadlocks are light, narrow, and less dense than those of double-coated dogs like the Komondor and Puli. This is a charming yet rugged breed that requires plenty of exercise to stay entertained. While they are loving and affectionate to all family members, they tend to become most attached to one person.

Bergamasco

The Bergamasco is a sheepdog with dreads that originated in Italy. This is a dog with natural dreadlocks, so its coat will require quite a bit of care and maintenance. The Bergamasco is an incredibly strong and sturdy breed that was built for a hard day’s work.

This active breed has a thick, heavy, rug-like coat for a reason. Not only do this breed’s dreads (also known as flocks) keep out the cold, but they also protect the Bergamasco from the bite of any fierce predators when defending livestock.

Poodle

Believe it or not, poodles with dreadlocks are actually quite popular. Although this breed has a naturally curly coat it needs to be corded to form those stylish dreads. A lot of people imagine poodles to be prim and proper, but this is actually a very athletic and sturdy breed.

They are also incredibly popular for their intelligence and trainability. Poodles are all-around rock stars because, not only do they look gorgeous, but they are clever, affectionate, and strong.

Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle, which is a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, is a pretty new hybrid breed. It has a thick, curly coat that will need regular brushing and grooming to prevent it from matting. It can also be corded by a professional to create dreads if you so desire. This crossbreed is rapidly growing in popularity because of its adorable looks and affectionate temperament.

Labradoodle

The Labradoodle was created by crossing a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever. Just like the Goldendoodle, this breed’s curly coat means you can give your Labradoodle dreadlocks. A corded coat looks especially stylish on this already handsome breed.

The Labradoodle wasn’t so popular when it was first developed, but is growing on a lot of dog owners all over the world. This is an intelligent breed that is especially favored as a guide dog.

Neglected Dogs

Unfortunately, not all dogs with dreadlocks have a healthy coat. Stray or neglected dogs of any breed or mixed breed can suffer greatly when they are without an owner who takes care of their needs. Those with long or curly coats can develop dreads when their coats are not properly cared for.

They may become dirty, tangled, and matted. And this can cause a lack of airflow to the skin which in turn can cause painful skin infections.

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