Dog Fur Types Guide

There are many different breeds of dogs, each with their own unique appearance and personality.

But did you know that there are also different types of dog coats? In this article, we will explore the six main coat types in dogs and how they affect their grooming needs.

Double coat

A double coat consists of a soft undercoat and a harsher top coat. This type of coat provides insulation and protection from the elements. Dogs with double coats usually shed once or twice a year, and their coats will look thinner when they do.

Some examples of breeds with double coats are Bernese Mountain Dogs, Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, Shetland Sheepdogs, Rough Collies, and Australian Shepherds.

Drop coat

A drop coat is long and flowing. The outer coat is typically single-coated, and there may be a shorter, denser coat underneath.

This type of coat requires regular brushing and combing to prevent mats and tangles.

Some examples of breeds with drop coats are Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, and Afghan Hounds.

Scissored coat

A scissored coat continuously grows and needs to be trimmed or cut to maintain its shape. Poodles are the most common example of a breed with a scissored coat.

This type of coat can be styled in various ways, such as the classic poodle clip or the teddy bear cut.

Setter spaniel

A setter spaniel coat has two layers: a double coat on the body and a drop coat on the furnishings (ears, legs, and tail). This type of coat requires regular brushing and trimming to keep it neat and healthy.

Some examples of breeds with setter spaniel coats are Irish Setters, English Setters, Gordon Setters, Red and White Setters, English Cocker Spaniels, and English Springer Spaniels.

Smooth coat

A smooth coat is short and easy to care for. This type of coat does not need much grooming, except for occasional brushing and bathing.

Examples of breeds with smooth coats are: Italian Greyhounds, Boston Terriers, Rottweilers. and Smooth Collies.

Wire coat

A wire coat is harsh and wiry. Terriers are the most common type of dog with a wire coat, but there are a few outliers in other groups, such as Schnauzer in the working group, wire-haired dachshunds, and Wirehaired Pointing Griffons and German Wirehaired Pointers in the sporting group.

This type of coat needs regular stripping or clipping to remove dead hair and maintain its texture.

Hairless Dogs

These dogs, such as Chinese Cresteds and Mexican Hairless dogs, have specific needs for caring for their skin. You might find our guide on how to bathe your dog with coconut oil helpful!

We hope you enjoyed learning about the different types of dog coats and how they affect their grooming needs. We’ve also written up about how long it takes for dog fur to grow back.