One of the things that differentiate breeds is the different types of dog hair coats. In this article, we’re going to describe those dog coats and what to expect from each.

Single and Double Coats

All dogs will have either a single coat or double coat. With a double coat, dogs have long, course hair (aka ‘guard coat’) that covers softer, downier hair. If a dog comes from a colder geographical area, the soft undercoat will be thicker. Single coated dogs bear only a guard coat. Both single and double coats can vary in length and texture.

Coat Length

A dog coat is considered long if it reaches at least three inches when allowed to grow. Some example long-coat dogs are collies, Afghan hounds, and Pekingese. A coat is considered medium length when it’s no shorter than two inches, but no longer than three inches. German shepherds and golden retrievers are two examples of medium coat canines. Short coats are only ½ to 2 inches long, and they’re common on dogs like labs and beagles. Dobermans, boxers, and greyhounds are canines that have smooth dog coats that are even shorter than short coats!

Coat Texture

If you’re familiar with the Yorkshire terrier, then you’re familiar with the silky, fine coat. Dachshunds demonstrate wiry dog hair coats. The Chinese Shar-peis demonstrates the northern coat that’s thicker and denser than most coats, and this is a coat that can be short or long. Poodles demonstrate the curly coat that looks like little ringlets, while the Komondor demonstrates the corded coat. Corded coats are actually curly coats – only the curls have grown long enough to wrap around each other and form cords (aka, “locks” as in dreadlocks).

Coat Style and Grooming

Unless you participate in dog shows, you’re generally free to style your dog’s coat anyway that you see fit. If you do participate in shows however, you’ll want to style your dog’s coat in a way that conforms to AKC (American Kennel Club) or UKC (United Kennel Club) standards. The way that a dog’s coat is styled helps identify the dog’s breed and the dog’s history. And it brings out a breed’s characteristics to the fullest as well.