19 Dog Breeds With the Most Majestic Manes You’ll Want to Touch All Day
Is there anything more spectacular than a dog with a conspicuous mane that almost rivals that of a lion? We think not. That’s why we’re taking you on a journey to the world of small and big dogs with long hair and majestic manes that you can’t resist saying “OMG” to.
Some of these big, fluffy dog breeds featured in this list might be breeds you’ve heard about before, while some are lesser-known. All in all, these breeds have one thing in common: they are unbearably stunning!
Meet 14 dog breeds with oh-so-enviable manes that will have you doing a double-take on the streets just to be sure you’re looking at a real pet:
1. Chow Chow
With an instantly recognizable mane that covers its head, neck and shoulders, a how-dare-you-wake-me-up-from-my-sweet-nap facial expression, and a blue-black tongue, the Chow Chow is one of those dog breeds that you can’t mistake for another.
Originating from China, where they were kept for hunting and guarding purposes, Chow Chows have a downright intimidating appearance thanks to their glorious mane of fur. Deep down, though, these fluffy dogs are just big ol’ softies.
While Chow Chows aren’t exactly the biggest cuddling fans, they make incredible family pets as they form strong bonds with their immediate family members. This medium-sized breed is often described as the feline of the dog world because of how reserved and unbothered they can be, just like cats.
Chows are heavy shredders and thus require regular brushing to keep their coats in the best shape.
2. Tibetan Mastiff
It’s hard to think about big dogs with long hair and a striking resemblance to lions without the Tibetan Mastiff coming to mind. The first thing that will leave you awestruck about the Tibetan Mastiff is the thick fur around their head and neck that forms a regal-looking mane.
This ancient breed traces its origins to the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau of Asia, where thy were bred as guard dogs. Tibetan Mastiffs are a fluffy blend of imposing and cuddly. Protective yet loving and gentle, these big, fluffy dogs make exceptional family pets for assertive owners who have the time to remain consistent with obedience training.
3. Caucasian Shepherd
Admired for its confident personalityd and impressive livestock guarding abilities, the Caucasian Shepherd — particularly the long-haired one — turns heads with its pronounce mane that covers its cheeks and neck.
Caucasian Shepherds, also called Caucasian Ovcharkas, were originally bred in the mountainous region of Caucasus in Eastern Europe to guard livestock from predators. The Caucasian Shepherd is sweet, loving and dedicated to their families, and can either come in long or short double coats. 14 Long Haired Dog Breeds With More Luxurious Locks Than Rapunzel
4. Afghan Hound
Almost everyone will agree that Afghan Hounds exude elegance and unmatched beauty. As one of the oldest sight hounds breeds, the Afghan Hound captivates hearts with striking pose and silky flowing coat that sometimes forms a luxurious, runway-ready mane.
This glamorou-looking dog with long hair — originally bred as a hunting dog by hunters in the mountainous region of Afghanistan — is extremely loyal and often eager to please its family members. While they’re well known for their noble demeanor, these high-energy sight hounds never shy away from showing their playful side to those they love.
5. Leonberger
A giant dog breed named after the city of Leonberg in Germany, the Leonberger is famous for its sturdy build, athleticism, friendliness, calm demeanor, and stunning mane that drawn attention everywhere they go.
With their dense coats that come in different colors (reddish brown, lion golden, lion-yellow, and sand colored, among others), it’s easy to see why the Leonberger reminds everyone of the king of the jungle. This fluffy dog is ever ready for an adventure or any activity that will get them moving from, thanks to their high energy levels.
6. Newfoundland
What isn’t a duck but has webbed feet and makes an amazing swimmer? Yeah, you guessed right— the Newfoundland. Newfies trace their roots to the Newfoundland island of Northeast Canada, where they were kept as working dogs to assist fishermen in pulling nets and other related tasks.
It’s hard not to obsess over the Newfoundland’s luscious mane that looks so much like a lion’s. Classified as big dogs with a lot of hair, Newfoundlands are true gentle giants who get along pretty well with adults and children, making them wonderful family pets.
7. Pekingese
Love to own a small dog with hair like a mane? Then the Pekingese might be the canine of your dreams.
The Pekingese is an ancient Chinese breed admired for its resemblance to miniature lions thanks to their fluffy coats. Their hair is longest on the head, shoulders and neck, giving them a flowing mane that stands out from the rest of their physical features.
Described as little dogs with long coats, Pekingese were a favorite among Chinese royalties, who considered them the perfect lapdogs.
8. Mahidant Mastiff
Also called the Gaddi Kutta, Himalayan sheepdog, or Indian Panther Hound, the Mahidant Mastiff — indigenous to India — can make you go from “Whoa” to “WHOA!” in a wink. These ferocious-looking, thick-coated dogs are a conversation starter courtesy of their thick mane-like fur that grows out around its head and neck.
Mahidant Mastiffs — believed to be descendants of Tibetan Mastiffs — are widely used by Indian locals as livestock guard dogs due to their impressive guarding instincts.
9. Eurasier
Loved for its even-temperament and friendly, playful disposition, the Eurasier’s greatest goal in life is to maintain strong connections with its family members. This medium-sized, Spitz-type dog — with origins in Germany — has a thick double coat that grows a bit longer on the neck, chest, and on the sides of the face, forming what looks like a mane.
Originally bred as a companion dog, these eager-to-please, people-oriented dogs are not the kind to be kept in a kennel or left alone for prolonged periods.
10. Keeshond
Previously named Dutch Barge Dogs, Keeshonds — Holland’s national dog breed — win hearts with their smiling, fox-like face and extra, fluffy coats that give them a noticeable mane. Interestingly, these manes are more pronounced in male Keeshonds compared to the females.
Keeshonds were originally kept in the Netherlands as watchdogs for barges traversing the waterways. These medium-sized, easy-going dogs are certified attention seekers and love to make friends with everyone, be it people or other pets.
11. Rough Collie
Have a soft spot for dogs with thick coats? Then you’ll instantly be smitten with the Rough Collide. From their expressive almond-shaped eyes, elongated faces, and erect ears that fold forward at the tip, the Rough Collie is truly a beauty.
Rough Collies are also known for their long, rough-textured double coat and distinctive thick mane that flows from the sides of their face all the way down to below their neck. Rough Collies trace their origins to Scotland, where they were bred for herding, a role that they execute perfectly to date.
This intelligent, vigilant breed is treasured for its calm demeanor, affectionate disposition, and patience with kids, traits that make it the ideal family dog for a household with children.
12. Briard
Ever looked at certain long-haired dog breeds and wondered how they’re able to see? Best believe, this is the first thought that will come to your mind when you come across the Briard for the first time. Briards are covered in long hair everywhere, including on their face, making it hard to spot their eyes.
Originating from the Brie region of France, Briards are famous for their long, thick double coats that form a fluffy mane around their neck and head.
Briards were considered invaluable companions for farmers and shepherds in France, thanks to their strong herding and guarding abilities. The Briard’s loyalty, intelligence, trainability, gentleness, loving nature, and protectiveness makes this breed a worthy addition to family.
13. Icelandic Sheepdog
Native to Iceland, Icelandic Sheepdogs were originally bred to drive and locate sheep in the snowy region of Iceland. Their thick double coat — which is fluffier on the cheeks, neck, and shoulders, creating a noticeable mane — enabled them to withstand the brutally cold weather.
Icelandic sheepdogs are described as intelligent, cheerful, and alert dogs with a hardworking attitude that wins the hearts of farmers and families alike.
14. Great Pyrenees
Haling from the Pyrenees mountains of Europe where they were kept as herding dogs, the Great Pyrenees draw attention with its thick white or shaded double coat that’s more abundant around the neck and shoulders, giving off an eye-catching mane.
Great Pyrenees are livestock guardians at heart and make devoted canine companions.
15. Pomsky
A Pomsky is an adorable designer dog breed that has captured the hearts of many, thanks to its unique combination of two popular breeds: the Siberian Husky and Pomeranian.
This small-to-medium-sized canine wonder resembles a miniature wolf or husky, making it perfect for those who love these majestic creatures but don’t have space for their larger counterparts. Learn more about Pomsky Dogs
16. Lhasa Apso
Originally from the Himalaya Mountains in Tibet, these dogs have been around for thousands of years, and were employed in guarding palaces and secluded Buddhist monasteries. The Dalai Lama himself is said to be a fan of these dogs! Their long, dense double coats rarely shed, however they do require a lot of brushing and combing! Their floor-length hair also requires professional trimming to keep it maintained. While aloof around strangers, these dogs are smart and confident when you get to know them!
17. Keeshond
Native to Holland, these dogs are related to other spitz types, like the Pomeranian. Alert and intelligent, these dogs were used as watchdogs on barges and boats in the 17th and 18th centuries. They have a thick double coat, which makes them fluffy, fuzzy, and totally adorable. However, for a long-haired dog, these dogs are relatively low maintenance. This large long haired dog breed requires brushing only once a week, but it does take an hour! These dogs shed their coats twice a year, and it can take up to several weeks.
18. Maltese
Maltese dogs are cherished for their elegant, flowing white coats. However, maintaining long hair can be challenging, especially during the summer months. Thankfully, various Maltese haircuts offer both practicality and style, allowing you to keep your furry friend comfortable and looking fabulous. Another benefit is that Maltese dogs are often considered hypoallergenic. While no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, some breeds, including the Maltese, are known to produce fewer allergens compared to other breeds, making them a better option for people with allergies.
19. Poodle
The poodle is renowned for its elegant appearance and remarkably versatile coat. With a dense, curly texture that more closely resembles hair than fur, the poodle’s coat is often described as hypoallergenic and low-shedding. This luxurious coat can be styled in various eye-catching ways, from the classic “continental” clip to more modern, low-maintenance trims.
The poodle’s coat comes in a stunning array of colors, including black, white, apricot, and silver, allowing for a wide range of expression in grooming. This breed’s extraordinary coat isn’t just for show – it originally served a practical purpose, protecting vital areas of the body when poodles were used as water retrievers.
The poodle’s beauty and grace were on full display at the 2024 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, where Sage, a captivating miniature poodle, took home the prestigious Best in Show title. Sage’s impeccably groomed coat and regal bearing exemplified the breed’s enduring appeal and status as a favorite among dog enthusiasts and show judges alike.