How to Tell If Your Dog Has Hair or Fur
Updated On: Thursday, June 29, 2023 15:10:16 PM America/Los_Angeles
Dogs with hair have gained popularity as a hypoallergenic option for would-be pet pawrents who may be allergic to fur but remain devoted to living with a canine companion. But how can you tell if a dog breed actually has fur or hair? In addition to learning which breeds have hair and which have fur, there are some notable differences that can be felt and seen between the two.
Photo by Fernanda Nuso
Spot the Difference Between Hair and Fur
What is the difference between hair and fur on dogs? be curly and short as with poodles or long and straight as with Afghan Hounds. Fur tends to be shorter, and is predisposed to a certain length. Hair on dogs, on the other hand, grows continuously as hair does for humans. A fur undercoat can also feel quite different from the outer coat, while hair generally feels the same throughout. Hair usually grows in a single layer and feels relatively thin, while fur – especially before coats are blown – can feel thick and heavy.
The undercoat is a major difference between hair and fur, and dogs with undercoats will blow their coats seasonally. This seasonal shedding is one thing to keep in mind for pet owners who have allergies, as thick, furry coats not only trap and hold more dander, they also lead to more allergens being shed around the home.
Which Dogs Have Hair and Which Dogs Have Fur?
Poodles have become one of the most well-known dog breeds with hair, but they’re not the only ones! Some other well-known breeds that have hair are:
- Yorkshire Terriers
- Maltese
- Afghan Hounds
- Collies
- Shih-tzus
- Havanese
- Bichon Frisés
Should Fur and Hair Be Groomed Differently?
While dog fur and hair have significant differences, all dogs should be groomed regularly to ensure a healthy skin and coat. Both fur and hair can become dirty, matted, and tangled if not brushed and washed.
For dogs with longer hair or coats, particular attention should be paid to the butt, as fur and hair in that area can easily get dirty and matted from going potty. Having an indoor dog bathroom can help pet pawrents keep a closer eye on their pups’ hygiene. A wee wee pad also minimizes the opportunity for twigs and grass to get tangled in the coat. Subscribe to DoggieLawn today for a pet potty that helps keep your dog fresh and clean, whether they have hair or fur!
