20 Dog Breeds That Are a Nightmare to Groom: High-Maintenance Canines Revealed

Dog grooming is an essential aspect of pet care, but some breeds require significantly more effort and expertise than others.

From thick double coats to high-maintenance hairstyles, certain dogs pose unique challenges for even experienced groomers.

Some dog breeds demand extensive brushing, frequent bathing, and specialized trimming techniques to maintain their appearance and health.

These high-maintenance pups often need professional grooming services or dedicated owners willing to invest considerable time and resources into their care.

Understanding which breeds fall into this category can help potential dog owners make informed decisions about their furry companions.

1. Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are renowned for their luxurious, silky coats that require extensive grooming. These elegant dogs have long, flowing hair that can easily become tangled and matted without proper care.

Daily brushing is essential to keep their coats free of knots and debris. The process can take up to an hour, demanding patience and dedication from owners.

Professional grooming is often necessary every 6-8 weeks to maintain the Afghan Hound’s coat in top condition. This includes bathing, trimming, and styling their distinctive fur.

Their sensitive skin requires gentle handling and specialized grooming products. Afghan Hounds also need regular ear cleaning and nail trimming to prevent discomfort and potential health issues.

The breed’s high-maintenance grooming needs make it challenging for inexperienced dog owners or those with limited time. Proper coat care is crucial for the Afghan Hound’s health and appearance.

2. Komondor

The Komondor is a distinctive breed known for its long, corded coat that resembles dreadlocks. This unique fur requires extensive grooming to maintain its appearance and health.

Komondors have a double coat that naturally forms cords as they mature. These cords can grow up to 8 inches long and cover the entire body, including the face and legs.

Grooming a Komondor is a time-consuming process. The cords must be regularly separated by hand to prevent matting and remove dirt and debris. This task can take several hours and needs to be done frequently.

Bathing a Komondor is challenging due to its thick coat. The cords absorb water like a sponge, making them heavy and difficult to dry. Complete drying can take up to two days.

Regular grooming is essential to prevent skin infections and parasites from hiding in the dense coat. Professional grooming assistance is often necessary for Komondor owners to maintain their pet’s distinctive appearance.

3. Puli

The Puli is a unique dog breed known for its distinctive corded coat. This Hungarian herding dog’s fur naturally forms into tight, rope-like cords that resemble dreadlocks.

Grooming a Puli requires significant time and effort. The cords need regular attention to prevent matting and tangling. Owners must separate each cord by hand to ensure they don’t fuse together.

Bathing a Puli is a lengthy process. The thick cords absorb water like a sponge, making them heavy and difficult to dry. It can take up to two days for a Puli’s coat to dry completely after a bath.

Pulis shed minimally, but their coats still require consistent maintenance. Regular brushing is necessary to remove dirt and debris caught in the cords. This process can be time-consuming and challenging for owners.

4. Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog is renowned for its abundant, shaggy coat that requires extensive grooming. This breed’s thick double coat is prone to matting and tangling, necessitating daily brushing sessions.

Professional grooming is often recommended every six to eight weeks to maintain the coat’s health and appearance. The grooming process can be time-consuming, taking several hours to complete thoroughly.

Regular bathing is essential to keep the Old English Sheepdog’s coat clean and free from debris. Their long facial hair can become stained and requires frequent cleaning to prevent hygiene issues.

Trimming around the eyes and paws is necessary to ensure the dog’s comfort and visibility. The breed’s coat also sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes, adding to the grooming challenges.

5. Pekingese

Pekingese dogs present unique grooming challenges due to their distinctive coat. Their long, thick double coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling.

The Pekingese’s facial wrinkles need regular cleaning to avoid skin infections. Their prominent eyes also demand careful attention to prevent irritation and tear staining.

Bathing a Pekingese can be time-consuming, as their dense fur takes considerable effort to wash thoroughly and dry completely. Professional grooming is often recommended every 6-8 weeks to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.

Pekingese are prone to shedding, particularly during seasonal changes. This necessitates increased grooming efforts to manage loose fur and keep the home clean.

Their small size can make grooming tasks more delicate, requiring patience and gentle handling to ensure the dog’s comfort and safety.

6. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small, fluffy dog breed that requires extensive grooming. Their coat is dense, soft, and grows continuously, necessitating regular maintenance to prevent matting and tangling.

Bichon Frises need daily brushing to remove loose hair and debris. Their white coat easily shows dirt, making frequent baths essential to keep them looking clean and pristine.

Professional grooming is often recommended every 4-6 weeks. This typically includes a full haircut, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. The Bichon’s coat is prone to developing tear stains around the eyes, which require special attention.

Owners must be prepared to invest significant time and effort into grooming their Bichon Frise. Without proper care, their coat can quickly become unmanageable, leading to skin issues and discomfort for the dog.

7. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are known for their long, silky coats that require extensive grooming. Their hair grows continuously and can easily become tangled or matted without proper care.

Daily brushing is essential to prevent knots and keep their coat in good condition. Regular bathing, usually every three to four weeks, is necessary to maintain cleanliness and coat health.

Shih Tzus often need professional grooming every six to eight weeks. This typically includes a haircut, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. Their facial hair requires special attention to prevent eye irritation.

The breed’s long coat can trap debris and moisture, leading to skin issues if not properly maintained. Owners must be vigilant about checking for any signs of skin problems or parasites.

8. Maltese

The Maltese is a small, elegant dog breed known for its long, silky white coat. This luxurious hair requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling.

Maltese dogs need regular baths to keep their coats clean and white. Their hair grows continuously, necessitating frequent trims to maintain a manageable length.

Eye stains are a common issue for Maltese dogs. The area around their eyes often needs extra attention and cleaning to prevent discoloration.

Professional grooming is often recommended for Maltese owners. Groomers can help maintain the breed’s signature look and address any coat-related issues.

Maltese dogs are prone to dental problems, so regular teeth brushing is essential. This adds another layer of complexity to their grooming routine.

9. Chow Chow

Chow Chows possess a thick, dense double coat that requires extensive grooming. Their fur is prone to matting and tangling, necessitating daily brushing sessions.

Professional grooming is often recommended for Chow Chows every 4-8 weeks. Their distinctive lion-like mane demands particular attention to prevent knots and skin issues.

Chow Chows shed heavily twice a year, creating a challenging cleanup process for owners. Regular bathing is crucial to maintain their coat’s health, but their thick fur can take hours to dry completely.

Their small, deep-set eyes need frequent cleaning to prevent infections. Chow Chows also require regular nail trims and ear cleanings as part of their grooming routine.

10. Samoyed

Samoyeds are known for their fluffy white coats that require extensive grooming. These dogs have a thick double coat that sheds heavily twice a year, demanding daily brushing during these periods.

Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. Samoyeds also need frequent baths to maintain their pristine white appearance, which can be time-consuming and challenging.

Their dense undercoat often traps dirt and debris, making thorough cleaning essential. Professional grooming may be required to manage their coat properly, especially during shedding seasons.

Samoyeds’ ears need regular cleaning to prevent infections, and their nails should be trimmed frequently. Their coat also requires occasional trimming around the paws and ears for neatness.

11. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs have a thick, curly coat that requires extensive grooming. Their hair grows continuously, necessitating regular trimming to maintain a manageable length.

These dogs shed minimally, but their coat can become matted without proper care. Daily brushing is essential to prevent tangles and remove loose hair.

Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended to keep their coat in optimal condition. This breed often needs baths more frequently than other dogs due to their love of water and outdoor activities.

Owners must pay special attention to the hair around the eyes and ears, which can easily become dirty or tangled. Trimming the hair in these areas helps prevent irritation and infection.

12. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are known for their beautiful, silky coats that require regular maintenance. Their fur grows quickly and can become tangled or matted if not properly cared for.

Daily brushing is essential to prevent knots and keep their coat looking its best. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is recommended to maintain the Cocker Spaniel’s signature look.

Their long, floppy ears are prone to collecting dirt and debris, necessitating frequent cleaning to prevent infections. The hair around their eyes and face also needs regular trimming to avoid irritation.

Cocker Spaniels shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. This adds to the grooming challenges faced by owners of this breed.

Their coat requires regular bathing to keep it clean and healthy, but over-bathing can strip the natural oils from their skin, leading to dryness and irritation.

13. Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apsos are known for their long, luxurious coats that require extensive grooming. These small Tibetan dogs have dense, straight hair that grows continuously, reaching the ground if left untrimmed.

Daily brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles in their fur. Without regular maintenance, their coat can quickly become a tangled mess, leading to discomfort and potential skin issues.

Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is recommended for Lhasa Apsos. This typically involves a full bath, haircut, and nail trim. Many owners opt for a “puppy cut” to keep the coat more manageable.

Lhasa Apsos are prone to eye discharge, which can stain the fur around their eyes. Regular cleaning of this area is necessary to prevent irritation and maintain hygiene.

14. Tibetan Terrier

Tibetan Terriers possess a dense double coat that requires extensive grooming. Their long, thick hair grows continuously, making regular maintenance crucial to prevent matting and tangling.

These dogs need daily brushing to keep their coats in good condition. Without proper care, their fur can quickly become a tangled mess, leading to discomfort and potential skin issues.

Professional grooming is often necessary for Tibetan Terriers. Groomers typically recommend visits every 6-8 weeks for thorough coat care, including trimming and shaping.

Bathing a Tibetan Terrier can be challenging due to their thick coats. It takes time and patience to thoroughly wet, shampoo, and rinse their fur. Drying is equally time-consuming, often requiring a high-powered dryer to reach the undercoat.

15. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers possess long, silky coats that require extensive grooming. Their fine hair grows continuously, demanding regular trimming to maintain a manageable length.

Daily brushing is essential to prevent tangles and mats from forming in their delicate fur. Without proper care, their coats can quickly become knotted and uncomfortable.

Yorkies need frequent baths to keep their coats clean and healthy. Their facial hair often requires special attention, as it can become dirty or matted easily.

Professional grooming is often necessary for Yorkshire Terriers, especially for intricate haircuts or show-style grooming. This breed’s high-maintenance coat makes it challenging for inexperienced owners to groom effectively.

Eye and ear cleaning are also important aspects of Yorkie grooming. Their small size and delicate features require gentle handling during these processes.

16. English Setter

English Setters are known for their elegant appearance and distinctive speckled coat. This breed requires regular grooming to maintain its beautiful feathered fur.

Their long, silky hair tends to mat and tangle easily, necessitating daily brushing sessions. The feathering on their ears, chest, legs, and tail demands extra attention to prevent knots.

English Setters shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. This means frequent vacuuming and lint-rolling for owners.

Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is recommended to keep their coat in top condition. This typically includes trimming, bathing, and thorough brushing.

Their floppy ears are prone to infections and require regular cleaning. Owners must also pay attention to the hair between their paw pads, which can become matted and uncomfortable if left untrimmed.

17. Border Collie

Border Collies are known for their intelligence and agility, but their grooming needs can be challenging. These dogs have a double coat that sheds heavily twice a year.

Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and remove loose fur. Their coat requires attention at least 2-3 times a week, increasing to daily during shedding seasons.

Border Collies often enjoy outdoor activities, which can lead to dirt and debris becoming trapped in their fur. This necessitates frequent baths and thorough brushing to maintain coat health.

Their ears need regular cleaning to prevent infections, and their nails should be trimmed regularly. Dental care is also important for these active dogs.

The time commitment for grooming a Border Collie can be significant, making them a demanding breed in terms of coat maintenance.

18. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are beloved family dogs known for their friendly nature and beautiful coats. Their dense double coat requires regular grooming to keep it in top condition.

These dogs shed consistently throughout the year, with heavy shedding periods occurring twice annually. Daily brushing is necessary to remove loose fur and prevent matting.

Bathing a Golden Retriever can be challenging due to their size and water-loving nature. Their coat absorbs water quickly, making thorough rinsing essential to avoid skin irritation.

Trimming is needed around the ears, feet, and tail to maintain a neat appearance. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps manage their coat effectively.

Golden Retrievers are prone to ear infections, so regular ear cleaning is crucial. Their nails also grow quickly and require frequent trimming to prevent discomfort.

19. Rough Collie

Rough Collies are known for their stunning, long double coats that require extensive grooming. These dogs shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes, necessitating daily brushing to prevent matting and tangles.

Their thick undercoat and long outer coat demand regular attention to maintain cleanliness and health. Bathing a Rough Collie can be time-consuming due to the volume of fur that needs thorough washing and drying.

Professional grooming may be necessary every 6-8 weeks to keep the coat in top condition. Trimming around the ears, feet, and tail helps maintain a neat appearance and prevents hygiene issues.

Rough Collies also need regular teeth cleaning, nail trimming, and ear checks. Their facial fur, particularly around the eyes and muzzle, requires frequent cleaning to prevent staining and irritation.

20. Bearded Collie

Bearded Collies are known for their long, shaggy coats that require extensive grooming. Their double coat consists of a soft, furry undercoat and a harsh, straight outer coat that can easily become matted without proper care.

Daily brushing is necessary to prevent tangles and remove debris. The breed’s facial hair, or “beard,” needs extra attention to keep it clean and free from food particles.

Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps maintain the Bearded Collie’s coat. This typically includes a full bath, blow-dry, and trim. The process can be time-consuming due to the abundance of hair.

Bearded Collies shed seasonally, which increases grooming demands during these periods. Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are also essential parts of their grooming routine.

Challenges in Grooming Certain Breeds

Some dog breeds present unique grooming challenges due to their coat types and temperaments. These factors can make regular maintenance time-consuming and difficult for owners.

Coat Types and Their Maintenance

Double-coated breeds like Huskies and German Shepherds shed heavily twice a year. This process, called “blowing coat,” requires frequent brushing to remove loose fur.

Long-haired breeds such as Afghan Hounds and Yorkshire Terriers need daily brushing to prevent matting. Their coats tangle easily, leading to painful knots if not properly maintained.

Curly-coated breeds like Poodles and Bichon Frises require regular trimming to keep their fur manageable. Without consistent grooming, their coats can become dense and difficult to brush.

Breeds with corded coats, such as Komondors and Pulis, need special attention. Their unique fur forms rope-like cords that must be separated regularly to prevent matting and skin issues.

Behavioral Issues During Grooming

Some dogs become anxious or aggressive during grooming sessions. This can make routine tasks like nail trimming or ear cleaning challenging and potentially dangerous.

Highly energetic breeds may struggle to stay still during grooming. This restlessness can lead to accidental injuries or incomplete grooming sessions.

Fearful dogs might resist touch or certain grooming tools. Owners may need to invest time in desensitization training to make grooming less stressful for these pets.

Breeds prone to resource guarding may become protective of their space during grooming. This behavior can make it difficult for groomers or owners to safely complete necessary tasks.

Essential Grooming Tools and Techniques

Proper tools and methods are crucial for effectively grooming challenging dog breeds. Regular maintenance helps prevent matting and keeps coats healthy.

High-Quality Brushes and Combs

Slicker brushes are essential for removing loose fur and detangling mats. Their fine, bent wire bristles work well on long-haired breeds. Pin brushes suit dogs with medium to long coats, gently removing tangles without irritating the skin.

Metal combs with wide and narrow teeth help detangle and remove debris. Undercoat rakes are useful for double-coated breeds, removing loose undercoat fur to prevent matting.

Dematting tools feature sharp blades to cut through severe tangles. These should be used carefully to avoid skin irritation.

Effective Detangling Methods

Start by gently working through tangles with fingers to loosen them. Use a detangling spray to make the process easier and reduce breakage.

Work in small sections, starting from the ends of the hair and moving towards the skin. Hold the base of the hair to prevent pulling on the skin while detangling.

For stubborn mats, use a dematting tool or scissors as a last resort. Cut parallel to the skin to avoid nicks.

Regularly brush and comb the coat to prevent future tangles. This is especially important for long-haired and double-coated breeds.

Handling Sensitive Areas

Extra care is needed when grooming sensitive areas like the face, ears, and paws. Use smaller, softer brushes for these delicate regions.

Trim hair around the eyes to improve visibility and prevent irritation. Clean ears regularly with a gentle ear cleaner and soft cloth to prevent infections.

For paw pads, carefully trim excess hair to reduce matting and improve traction. Use blunt-tipped scissors to avoid accidental cuts.

When grooming the tail and sanitary areas, be extra gentle and patient. These spots can be particularly sensitive for many dogs.

Professional Grooming Services

Professional groomers offer specialized care for dogs with challenging coats. Their expertise can save time and ensure proper maintenance, especially for breeds that require extensive grooming.

Benefits of Professional Groomers

Professional groomers possess the skills and tools to handle complex grooming needs. They can efficiently detangle matted fur and address skin issues. Groomers also trim nails safely, clean ears, and express anal glands when necessary.

These experts use high-quality products tailored to different coat types. They can spot early signs of skin problems or parasites. Regular visits to a groomer can help maintain a dog’s overall health and appearance.

Professional grooming reduces stress for both dogs and owners. It eliminates the need for struggling with uncooperative pets at home. Groomers can also teach owners proper brushing techniques for at-home care between appointments.

Choosing the Right Groomer

Selecting a qualified groomer is crucial for a positive experience. Look for groomers with certifications from recognized organizations. Ask about their experience with specific breeds, especially those with demanding grooming needs.

Visit the grooming facility to assess cleanliness and safety measures. Observe how staff interact with dogs in their care. A good groomer should be patient and gentle with animals.

Inquire about the services included in each grooming package. Some groomers offer add-ons like de-shedding treatments or specialty shampoos. Discuss any health concerns or special requirements your dog may have.

Frequency of Professional Grooming

The ideal frequency of professional grooming depends on the dog’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Dogs with long, thick, or curly coats often need grooming every 4-6 weeks. Short-haired breeds may only require professional care every few months.

Active dogs or those prone to getting dirty may need more frequent grooming. Seasonal changes can also affect grooming needs. Many dogs shed more in spring and fall, necessitating extra care during these times.

Regular brushing at home can extend the time between professional appointments. This helps prevent matting and reduces shedding. Consult with your groomer to establish an optimal schedule for your dog’s specific needs.