A dog’s coat type may be a prominent trait, but its purpose is so much more than just for looks.. Their coats serve multiple functions, from acting as insulation against extreme temperatures, to repelling water or protecting their skin from scratches. However, not all coats are the same.
Different coat types developed over time as dogs adapted to specific environments, e.g., icy cold conditions in the Arctic or dry, hot conditions in Africa. As dogs began assisting humans with herding, hunting, and other jobs, people began selecting for coat traits when breeding that enhanced the dog’s ability to perform under specific conditions.
To better understand your dog’s coat, let’s dive into the different types.
Understanding coat types
Dog coats vary in length, texture, and density. Some hair follicles are able to produce multiple hair types per follicle. Some coats shed more than others. That means when it comes to a dog’s coat, there are a lot of variables to understand. Following are common coat types and some of the breeds known for each one.
Short coats
Short-coated dogs have fur that lies close to the skin. It’s often smooth and glossy and, if it’s a single coat, typically requires less grooming than other coats. Short coated breeds can have soft or hard coat characteristics, and can sometimes be curly, but this is more commonly seen with longer coat lengths. This coat type offers some natural protection and is a must for hot weather climates, but it doesn’t provide much insulation in colder weather. Short coatedness is a dominant trait, so it is more commonly seen in mixes than long coats.
Breeds with this coat length include:
Long coats
Long-coated dogs have fur that can range from straight and silky to wavy and thick and can vary in length. Long-coated dogs can also be curly-coated, and some dogs have a prominent fringe on the backs of their legs, belly, and tail, called “feathering.” While often striking in appearance, these coats require more frequent grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Breeds with this coat length include:
Double coats
A double coat consists of a dense undercoat beneath a topcoat, offering superior insulation and protection against harsh weather conditions, so this coat type is common in Northern breeds. However, dogs with double coats may have heavy periods of shedding that require thorough grooming, particularly when they blow their coats in spring and fall.
Breeds with this coat type include:
Wire coats
Wire-haired coats have a stiff, coarse texture that helps repel dirt and debris. Many breeds with this coat type also show furnishings (the appearance of eyebrows, beards, etc.) Dogs with this coat type may shed less, but may require specialized grooming called “stripping” rather than use of clippers or scissors to remove dead hair and allow new hair to grow in with proper texture, unlike long-coated breeds.
Breeds with this coat type include:
Curly coats
The appearance of curly-coated dogs ranges from tight curls to waves. This coat type, which often offers water-resistance benefits, tends to be low-shedding but requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Alternatively, some curly-coated breeds sport doggie “dreadlocks” or cords as a traditional way to reduce the need for grooming in working dogs.
Breeds with this coat type include:
Hairless dogs
Hairless breeds have little to no fur, making them a potentially better choice for people who suffer from allergies. However, they require extra care to protect their skin from sunburn, cold weather, and other risks. Interestingly, the genes for hairlessness are in addition to genes for curl, wire, or coat length. That means in some breeds all varieties of coat type can be seen. One example of this is the Xoloitzcuintli. In all but the American Hairless Terrier, hairlessness is a dominant trait that can’t be inherited in two copy (homozygous) form, so haired versions of the breed are common. In the Chinese Crested, the long-coated, fully haired version of the breed is called “powderpuff” and is expected to occur as ⅓ of the puppies of hairless parents.
Breeds with this coat type include:
General dog coat care tips
Regardless of coat type, all dogs benefit from proper care. Here are some basic tips to guide your grooming routines:
- Regular brushing: Brushing removes loose hair, distributes natural oils, and prevents tangles.
- Bathing: Bathing to remove dirt and debris will keep your pup’s coat looking its best. However, over-bathing can strip essential oils, so tailor bath frequency and shampoo to your dog’s coat type.
- Balanced diet: A high-quality diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supports a shiny, healthy coat.
- Flea and tick prevention: Parasites can lead to coat issues, so regular prevention is recommended.
Grooming recommendations based on coat type
- Short coats: Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or soft-bristle brush.
- Long coats: Daily brushing with a slicker brush and detangling comb to prevent mats.
- Double coats: Use an undercoat rake during shedding season to remove loose fur. (Have a vacuum standing by for clean-up)
- Wire coats: Hand-stripping to remove old hair, allow new hair to grow, and maintain texture.
- Curly coats: Regular trimming and brushing to prevent matting.
- Hairless dogs: Dog-safe sunscreen and moisturizing lotion to protect skin.
Seasonal considerations
Your dog’s coat needs may change with the season — and the care you give them should change too.
- Winter: Long-haired and double-coated breeds are better equipped for cold weather, while short-coated dogs may need sweaters for warmth.
- Summer: Frequent brushing helps remove excess undercoat to keep dogs cool. Hairless breeds require sun protection.
- Spring and fall: These are shedding seasons for double-coated breeds. You can use deshedding tools regularly to remove undercoats and keep them comfortable.
Common coat problems
Dull coats
If your pup has a dull or brittle coat, poor nutrition, dehydration, or inadequate grooming may be to blame. Understanding the cause is important for determining the best course of action. Possible solutions include:
- Ensure a diet rich in essential fatty acids
- Regularly brush to distribute natural oils.
- Provide plenty of fresh, clean water
There are also many health conditions that may cause a dull coat, which is not a surprise, as the skin is the dog’s largest organ. These may include Cushing’s disease, hypothyroidism, and diabetes. If you suspect an underlying illness, partner with your veterinarian to determine the best next steps.
Matting
Matting occurs when fur becomes tangled around itself and dead and live hair clump together. Over time, these clumps move close to the dog’s skin, causing irritation and impacting airflow to the skin. Areas of friction are particularly prone to mats, such as behind the ears, in the armpit and crotch areas, and under the collar. You can prevent mats by:
- Daily brushing with appropriate grooming tools.
- Using dog-safe detangling sprays.
- Taking your pup to a professional groomer for severe mats.
Excessive shedding
Shedding is normal, but excessive hair loss may indicate stress, allergies, or health issues. Your veterinarian can examine your dog and diagnose any underlying issues. Possible treatment will depend on your dog’s condition but may include:
- Consistent brushing, especially for double-coated breeds.
- A change in diet, if a food allergy is suspected.
- Treatment for underlying health conditions.
The main genes responsible for coat type
A dog’s coat type is determined by their genetics. Specific genes influence whether a dog has a short, long, curly, or wire-haired coat, and the degree to which they shed.
- The FGF5 gene largely controls whether a dog has long or short hair, though there are exceptions in certain breeds. Long hair is a recessive trait, so dogs need two copies of the FGF5 gene to display the trait.
- The KRT71 gene is responsible for curly hair and mutations in the gene can lead to different coat textures.
- The RSPO2 gene influences the presence of furnishings. This is a dominant trait so only one copy of the gene is needed for furnishings to be present.
- The MC5R gene impacts how much a dog’s coat sheds.
Wisdom Panel’s dog DNA tests can reveal insights into your dog’s coat type and shedding tendencies so you can tailor care accordingly.
Final thoughts
A healthy coat is critical to your dog’s health and well-being. Understanding different coat types and how to care for them helps ensure that your dog stays comfortable, clean, and looking their best. For specific questions about your dog’s unique needs, talk with your veterinarian and work together on an at-home care plan that makes sense for your pup.
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