Shaggy dogs are extremely adorable with their often long, rough, and unkempt-looking coats. While their fur can often require a bit more maintenance and grooming than other dog breeds, most owners agree they’re well worth the extra work! So, here are the most popular shaggy dog breeds, and what you’ll want to know about them.
Picardy Shepherd
The Picardy Shepherd is an intelligent herding dog that was developed in France. They are easy to train but require plenty of exercise. Still, it’s possible for a Picardy Shepherd to enjoy life in the city, provided they receive regular walks. Sadly, after World War I and World War II, the breed nearly faced extinction.
While some efforts have been made to bring it back, it is extremely rare. In fact, it’s estimated that there are only around 400 Picardy Shepherds in the United States and Canada!
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Like many other shaggy-haired dog breeds, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has a rough, yet attractive coat. This medium-sized dog is incredibly active, and needs a large, fenced-in backyard, as well as regular walks, in order to stay happy and healthy. Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are very affectionate, but they’re also known to be a bit clingy. This breed does best in a family where they are sure to get lots of attention.
Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie has a beautiful, medium-length coat that is silky soft. While they are known to shed quite a bit, and also require more grooming than the average dog, that gorgeous coat is well worth the extra work!
Bearded Collies are far more than just their looks, though. These herding dogs are famous for their hard-working nature and extreme intelligence. They’re eager to please, which means they are highly obedient and easy to train.
Briard
The Briard is an ancient French herding dog that was revered for its ability to both guard and herd flocks of sheep. This dog is quite wary of strangers, so early socialization is important. Once they get to know you, though, the Briard is a fiercely protective and affectionate dog. While their intelligence means they are quick to learn, they require an owner with strong leadership skills.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is one of the most popular shaggy terrier breeds. This dog has an irresistibly fluffy coat that makes them resemble a teddy bear!
Their history dates back to Ireland, where they were kept by poor farmers who weren’t legally allowed to own dogs like Beagles, hounds, or spaniels. As a result, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier became famous for its versatility in farm work, including ratting, guarding, and hunting.
Bergamasco
The Bergamasco is a large Italian breed that was bred over 2,000 years ago to both herd and guard flocks of sheep. They’re one of the most intelligent herding breeds, because they can learn to herd without commands or cues, and are even able to solve complex problems on their own.
The Bergamasco is also unusual in comparison to other herding dogs, because they are known for being incredibly affectionate and loving towards their owners. It is one of the few breeds in the world that has a coat that naturally forms dreadlocks.
Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is a large, powerful dog that was bred to hunt deer in Scotland. This is a courageous and athletic breed that requires large amounts of exercise, as well as a big, fenced-in backyard to stretch its long legs. Although loving and affectionate, the Scottish Deerhound requires an experienced owner who can keep up with its high activity level.
Irish Wolfhound
Similar to the Scottish Deerhound, this is one of the huge shaggy dog breeds. In fact, the Irish Wolfhound is so large that it is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world! This dog was originally bred to hunt game, as well as guard against wolves. Today, however, their extreme intelligence and athletic ability make the Irish Wolfhound a popular choice for competing in obedience training and agility courses.
Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd, like other herding dogs, is known for its intelligence. However, this breed also has a mischievous side that can get it into trouble sometimes.
This breed does best with an owner who has a good sense of humor that can appreciate all of their silly antics. Pyrenean Shepherds descended from herding dogs in the Pyrenees Mountains, so their long, shaggy coat is perfect for protecting them against the cold.
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a medium-sized breed with a long, shaggy coat. While their extreme intelligence makes them perfect for herding and guarding, they have a bit of a stubborn side, and do best with an owner who has experience raising dogs, as well as strong leadership skills. While they’re wonderful with children, they require early socialization, as they can be wary of strangers.
Otterhound
True to its name, the Otterhound is one of the shaggy dog breeds that was bred to hunt otter. It even has webbed feet to help it swim! They are known for their deep, powerful bark that can almost sound like music. Despite its size, this is a gentle and affectionate breed that does particularly well with children as well as other dogs.
Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is a classic shaggy dog with a long, rough coat that often covers its eyes! In fact in the well-known 1959 Disney film The Shaggy Dog, this was the breed that was used for the main role (in the 2006 remake of the movie however a Tibetan Terrier was used).
This is a mellow dog that is exceptionally good in a family setting, particularly when children are involved. While gentle most of the time, this dog becomes fiercely protective if it senses that its beloved family is in danger. This breed is also a famously good watchdog.
Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier is one of the medium-sized shaggy dog breeds. This is an ancient breed with a gorgeously long, silky coat. It is a sensitive yet intelligent breed that was once used to guard ancient Buddhist monasteries. While they make great watchdogs, they are also amazing companion pets who are highly affectionate towards their family.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Serbian Dog Breeds
While the Republic of Serbia was part of Yugoslavia for most of the 20th century, today it is an independent state. And as such, it has three official Serbian dog breeds to call its very own. So here are the dog breeds from Serbia and what you’ll want to know about...
Long-Haired Dog Breeds
There's a certain elegance and beauty when it comes to dogs with long hair. While these breeds do require extra maintenance and patience, they're well worth it not just for their stunning coats but of course for the companionship they provide as well. So here are some...
Swiss Mountain Dog Breeds
The Swiss Sennenhunds or Swiss mountain dogs are a unique group of dogs with tricolor coats from the Swiss Alps. And while experts may disagree on their exact origins, one thing is for sure these canines are a special bunch. So here are the four types of Swiss...
Setter Dog Breeds
The setter breeds are known for their top-notch bird hunting abilities, intelligence, love for their family, and of course their long and attractive coats. While they may be similar, each of them is uniquely different. So here are all four of the setter dog breeds and...
Finnish Dog Breeds
Prague Ratter Facts And Information
The Prague Ratter is a rare dog from the Czech Republic. These small yet feisty dogs make wonderful companions and are also very popular for keeping away rats and other vermin. Keep reading to find out more amazing Prague Ratter facts and information! The Prague...
Brazilian Terrier Facts
True to its name, the Brazilian Terrier is a Brazilian dog breed that was initially bred for chasing down rats and other vermin. And there is a lot you’ll want to know about these amazing little dogs. So keep reading to find out more amazing Brazilian Terrier facts...
Alaskan Dog Breeds
Alaska is considered by many to be the “Last Frontier.” It’s a state that is well-known for its majestic natural beauty and at the same time for being a place that is wild and unforgiving. So it’s no surprise that the dog breeds from Alaska were developed not only to...
Rough Collie Facts And Information
The Rough Collie is a large, courageous dog breed that excels in hard work. These dogs are also highly affectionate and make great family pets. Read on to find out more Rough Collie facts and information! They Originated In Scotland And Wales Two Collie dogs...
Romanian Miortic Shepherd Dog Facts
True to its name, the Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog is a Romanian dog breed that specializes in protecting livestock. These gentle giants also make wonderful family companions. Read on to find out more amazing Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog facts and information! The...
Fila Brasileiro Facts
The Fila Brasileiro is a Brazilian breed known for its strength, tenacity, and occasional aggressiveness. These dogs are highly protective of their owners and are not at all suitable for novice owners. Read on to find out more amazing Fila Brasileiro facts and...
Old English Sheepdog Facts
The Old English Sheepdog is the most classic of the shaggy-looking dogs. These intelligent and athletic dogs are hard workers, but they also make loving family companions. Read on to find out more amazing Old English Sheepdog facts and information! The Old English...
Cesky Fousek Facts
The Cesky Fousek, also known as the Bohemian Wire-Haired Pointing Griffon, or the Bohemian Wirehaired Pointer, is a versatile hunting breed. These dogs make excellent hunting companions, but they are also a popular choice as guard dogs. Read on to find out more Cesky...
Cesky Terrier Facts
The Cesky Terrier, also known sometimes as the Bohemian Terrier or Czech Terrier, is a lively dog breed with a penchant for playfulness. These dogs can be wary with strangers, but are incredibly affectionate to their family members. Read on to find out more amazing...
Russian Spaniel Facts And Information
The Russian Spaniel is a versatile gundog, watchdog, and even a loving family companion. These small dogs are strong and athletic, as well as devoted to their owners. Read on to find out more amazing Russian Spaniel facts and information! The Russian Spaniel Is A New...
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Facts
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a small dog with a big name and an even bigger heart. These dogs were bred to hunt rabbits, but also make energetic and loving companions. Read on to find out more amazing Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen facts and information! The...
Short-Legged Hounds
Hounds with short legs aren’t just adorable, but they have many advantages over their long-legged counterparts. While each specific breed is different typically shorter dogs can get into areas where bigger canines can’t and they’re also slower, which allows them to be...
Dogs With Yellow Eyes
There’s no doubt that dogs with yellow eyes make quite an impression. And there are quite a few special canines that have this unique and recessive trait. So here are some of the top dog breeds with yellow eyes and what you’ll want to know about each of them....
Sled Dog Breeds
Sled dogs have been used for centuries to carry important goods across frigid and difficult terrain. These hard-working dogs also make amazing pets! The following are the best sled dog breeds and what you'll want to know about each of them. What Makes a Great Sled...
Finnish Lapphund Facts
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized dog that was bred to herd reindeer in its native country, Finland. These intelligent and energetic dogs are extremely popular in the Nordic countries, but can be difficult to find in other places. Read on to find out more amazing...