Dogs That Need Grooming: 6 High-Maintenance Breeds To Know
Discover dog breeds with high grooming needs and essential care tips to keep their coats healthy and beautiful.
Certain dog breeds stand out for their luxurious coats that demand dedicated grooming routines to prevent matting, tangles, and skin issues. These high-maintenance breeds, often featuring curly, long, or continuously growing hair, require daily brushing, frequent baths, and professional trims. While grooming takes time, it strengthens the bond with your pet and keeps them looking their best. Popular choices include Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Afghan Hounds, which shed minimally but need consistent care.
Why Some Dogs Need More Grooming
Dog grooming needs vary by breed coat type. Breeds with double coats, thick fur, or hair that grows like humans’ require intensive upkeep to avoid mats that can cause painful skin infections. For instance, curly-coated dogs like Poodles trap debris easily, while long-haired varieties like Yorkshire Terriers need detangling to stay comfortable. Regular grooming also promotes healthy skin, reduces shedding around the home, and allows early detection of health problems like lumps or parasites.
High-grooming breeds often have hypoallergenic qualities, making them ideal for allergy sufferers, but owners must commit to the routine. Neglect leads to overgrown fur, odor, and discomfort, so understanding breed-specific needs is key before adoption.
Top Dog Breeds That Require Frequent Grooming
Here are some of the most grooming-intensive breeds, known for their stunning but demanding coats. Each requires tailored care to thrive.
Poodle
Poodles (standard, miniature, toy) are iconic for their dense, curly coats that grow continuously and mat without daily brushing. Originating as hunting dogs, they are intelligent, active, and hypoallergenic, shedding little but needing professional clips every 4-6 weeks to maintain stylish cuts like the puppy clip or continental. Homeowners should use a slicker brush and comb daily, bathe bi-weekly with moisture-rich shampoo, and check ears for infections due to their floppy structure. Poodles excel in sports and make rewarding family companions when groomed properly.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise boasts a fluffy, double-layered coat that puffs out like a cotton ball, requiring brushing 3-4 times weekly to prevent tangles. This cheerful, playful breed loves families and children, bonding closely with owners. Groom every 6-8 weeks for their signature rounded trim; at home, use a pin brush and bathe monthly. Their hair grows steadily, minimizing shed but demanding consistency to avoid matting around the face and paws.
Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds feature long, silky topknots and feathering that demand daily combing from head to tail. Dignified yet playful, they suit active owners who can provide space for their independent nature. Professional grooming quarterly keeps their glamorous coat knot-free; use a wide-tooth comb and conditioner. They shed moderately but benefit from baths every 4-6 weeks.
Portuguese Water Dog
With a dense, curly or wavy coat that grows nonstop, Portuguese Water Dogs need brushing several times weekly and trims every two months. Intelligent and energetic, they thrive with active families, excelling in swimming and agility. Low-shedding and somewhat hypoallergenic, use a detangling spray and undercoat rake. Dry them thoroughly post-water play to prevent mildew.
Puli
Pulis develop signature corded coats resembling dreadlocks, forming naturally if brushed daily in puppyhood. Extremely active and smart, they love outdoor adventures and dog sports. Once corded (around 1-2 years), maintenance involves separating cords and bathing sparingly to avoid residue buildup. Professional help is advised for full cord maintenance.
Komondor
Komondors’ heavy, corded coat serves as natural armor, requiring separation of cords weekly once mature. Loyal livestock guardians, they are gentle with family but protective. Bathe rarely with high-quality shampoo; air-dry to prevent mildew. Full grooming sessions monthly keep them clean and odor-free.
Other Notable High-Maintenance Breeds
- Shih Tzu: Long, flowing hair needs daily brushing; often kept in topknots.
- Yorkshire Terrier: Silky coat prone to tangles; clippers for short styles.
- Siberian Husky: Thick double coat sheds heavily twice yearly; brush frequently.
- Cocker Spaniel: Feathered ears and body demand combing to avoid mats.
- Old English Sheepdog: Shaggy fur requires daily de-matting.
- Lhasa Apso: Long coat needs parting and brushing.
These breeds share traits like low shedding but high care demands.
Grooming Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Invest in quality tools for efficient at-home grooming:
- Slicker brush for curly coats (Poodles, Bichons).
- Pin brush for long hair (Afghans, Shih Tzus).
- Undercoat rake for double coats (Huskies).
- Wide-tooth comb for detangling.
- Clippers and scissors for trims.
- Moisturizing shampoo, conditioner, detangler spray.
- Nail clippers, ear cleaner, toothbrush.
Start puppies early for tolerance; sessions should be positive with treats.
How Often Should You Groom High-Maintenance Dogs?
| Breed | Brushing | Bathing | Professional Groom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Poodle | Daily | Every 3-4 weeks | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Bichon Frise | 3-4x/week | Monthly | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Afghan Hound | Daily | Every 4-6 weeks | Quarterly |
| Portuguese Water Dog | 4-5x/week | Every 4 weeks | Every 8 weeks |
| Puli/Komondor | Daily (cords) | Every 2-3 months | As needed |
Adjust based on lifestyle; more active dogs may need extras.
Tips for Managing Your Dog’s Grooming Needs
- Daily brushing: Prevents mats; focus on armpits, belly, paws.
- Regular baths: Use dog-specific products; rinse thoroughly.
- Ear care: Clean weekly to prevent infections in floppy-eared breeds.
- Nail trimming: Monthly or as needed; use grinder if anxious.
- Teeth brushing: 2-3x/week with enzymatic paste.
- Professional help: Every 6-8 weeks for clips; find certified groomers.
- Diet matters: Omega-rich food supports coat health.
- Introduce grooming gradually; make it fun.
These habits reduce vet visits and keep dogs comfortable.
Low-Maintenance Alternatives
If high grooming overwhelms, consider short-coated breeds:
- Beagle, Boxer, Chihuahua, Dachshund, French Bulldog, Great Dane.
These need weekly brushes and occasional baths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dog breeds need the most grooming?
Poodles, Bichon Frises, Afghan Hounds, Portuguese Water Dogs, Pulis, and Komondors top the list due to curly, long, or corded coats.
Are high-grooming dogs hypoallergenic?
Many like Poodles and Bichons shed little, trapping dander, but no breed is 100% hypoallergenic; grooming reduces allergens.
How much does professional dog grooming cost?
Typically $50-$100 per session, depending on breed size and location.
Can I groom my high-maintenance dog at home?
Yes, with proper tools, but combine with pro visits for best results.
Do all fluffy dogs need lots of grooming?
No; some like certain terriers need less, but check breed specifics.
References
- Highest and Lowest Maintenance Dog Breeds in Terms of Grooming — Smoochie Pooch. Accessed 2026. https://smoochie-pooch.com/highest-lowest-maintenance-breeds-grooming/
- 6 Dog Breeds That Require a Lot of Grooming — American Kennel Club. 2023-05-15. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/dog-breeds-that-require-a-lot-of-grooming/
- Dog Grooming Needs by Breed — TrainPetDog. Accessed 2026. https://www.trainpetdog.com/dog-grooming-needs/
- 18 of Our Favorite Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds — Pumpkin Pet Insurance. 2024-08-20. https://www.pumpkin.care/post/low-maintenance-pets
- Common Dog Breeds and Their Grooming Styles — Pet Paradise. Accessed 2026. https://www.petparadise.com/blog/common-dog-breeds-and-their-grooming-styles/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
