Want to learn about the different coat types that dogs have? We have created a huge variety of different dogs and they can all be categorised into different coat types. Each coat type is very distinctive and can be recognised by individual characteristics. Here is a bit of information about each of the different coat types.
Smooth
Smooth coats are very short coats where the hair is close to the body. If you own a dog with a smooth coat then you are in luck, because they don't need much grooming. However, regular grooming is good for removing their dead coat and it gives them a lovely shiny, glossy finish. Examples of smooth coated dogs include the Weimaraner, Doberman and Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Double
A double coat is characterised by a thick undercoat which is hidden under a longer top coat. Double coated breeds will require a fair amount of grooming as they can malt a lot and produce a lot of dead excess hair. This coat needs to be brushed out regularly to remove the dead undercoat. Some double coats do not require trimming at all and can be left virtually untouched, whereas other longer ones are regularly trimmed to keep them shorter. Examples of double coated dogs include the Old English Sheepdog, Husky and German Shepherd.
Silky
Silky coats are a lot like human hair; they have a distinctive texture and can tangle very easily. These coats have a softer, silky texture and can look fantastic when groomed. Some silky coats need a lot more grooming, whereas others just need an occasional trim. Examples of silky coats include the Cocker Spaniel, Afghan Hound and Yorkshire Terrier.
Wool
Wool coats have a cotton wool like texture and have very specific grooming requirements. Wool coats need to be 'fluff dried' so that their coat can be straightened and when they are finished they look very fluffy. Wool coats need to be groomed regularly as they require trimming and a good brush out. Examples of wool coats include the Bichon Frise and the Poodle.
Wire
Wire coats have a much harsher feel than most other coat types, they feel a little rough. They have a distinctive harsh wire texture and this type of coat is best hand stripped. It has a softer undercoat and a rough topcoat. All show dogs with wire coats should be hand stripped, but this is often too difficult for pet owners to maintain so some wire coats are clipped. Examples of wire coats include the Fox Terrier, Border Terrier and Mini Schnauzer.
Combination
Due to many different types of dogs being bred together we are seeing many more combination coats these days. If your dog is a cross breed and doesn't fall into any of the above categories then it probably has a combination coat. Examples include the Cavapoo and Labradoodle.