How to Groom a Long Haired Dog

Long-haired dogs are stunning — but their coats require consistent, careful grooming to stay healthy and tangle-free. Without regular maintenance, long coats mat quickly, causing discomfort and skin problems. Here's how to groom a long-haired dog at home.

Breeds This Guide Covers

Afghan Hound, Maltese, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Lhasa Apso, Cocker Spaniel, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Collie, and other long-coated breeds.

Essential Tools for Long-Haired Dogs

• Slicker brush: Swihauk Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush — daily brushing essential
• Double-sided brush: 2PCS Double-Sided Pet Brush — long hair side for detangling, short side for finishing
• Detangling spray: We Love Doodles Dog Detangler Spray — essential for long coats before brushing
• Dematting comb: Poodle Dematting Fur Rake Comb — for working through tangles without pulling
• Grooming scissors: GLADOG 5-in-1 Scissors Set — for trimming around face, paws, and sanitary areas
• Dog dryer: Jellyfish Handheld Dog Dryer — essential for drying long coats fully

Step-by-Step: Grooming a Long-Haired Dog

1. Spray with detangler. Mist the coat lightly with We Love Doodles Detangler Spray before brushing. Never brush a completely dry long coat — it causes breakage and static.
2. Section and brush. Work in sections from the bottom of the coat upward. Use the slicker brush in short strokes, working from the tips toward the roots to avoid pulling.
3. Work through tangles with the dematting comb. For stubborn tangles, use the Poodle Dematting Rake to gently work through knots. Hold the base of the mat to protect the skin.
4. Bathe. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Long coats need conditioning to stay manageable.
5. Dry completely. Use the Jellyfish dryer while brushing simultaneously — this straightens the coat and prevents it from drying wavy or tangled.
6. Trim as needed. Use the GLADOG scissors to trim around the eyes (so your dog can see), around the paws (to prevent slipping and debris collection), and the sanitary area.

How Often to Groom Long-Haired Dogs

• Brushing: Daily — non-negotiable for most long-coated breeds
• Full bath and groom: Every 4–6 weeks
• Trimming: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed

Preventing Mats in Long Coats

• Never skip daily brushing — mats form within days in neglected long coats
• Always use detangler spray before brushing
• Pay extra attention to friction areas: behind the ears, armpits, collar area, and between the legs
• Keep the coat trimmed to a manageable length if daily brushing isn't realistic

Final Thoughts

Long-haired dogs are a grooming commitment — but with the right tools and a daily brushing habit, their coats stay beautiful and mat-free. The investment in quality tools pays off every single day.