How can I tell if my dog's heatstroke is serious
Let’s be real: It’s a sticky August morning in Los Angeles, and you took your 2-year-old Golden Retriever, Max, for a walk a little later than usual
How to tell if a puppy is going to be long haired?
Watching a tiny puppy explore the world makes you wonder about all the little details that will shape them—including whether their coat will grow into a fluffy, long-haired style.
Watching a tiny puppy explore the world makes you wonder about all the little details that will shape them—including whether their coat will grow into a fluffy, long-haired style. One of the first clues is in their ears and face; long-haired breeds often have softer, longer fur around the ear edges or muzzle even as young pups, not just the short, sleek fuzz you see on short-haired counterparts. It’s a subtle difference, but run your finger gently along their ears—if the fur feels thicker and extends past the ear leather a bit, that’s a good sign.
Another spot to check is their paws. Long-haired puppies usually have tufts of fur between their toes or around the ankles, almost like tiny boots. Short-haired pups tend to have smooth paws with minimal extra fur here. You’ll also notice the texture of their overall coat; long-haired varieties often have a denser undercoat even at a young age, making them feel softer and fuller when you pick them up, instead of thin or wiry.
Knowing the puppy’s parents or breed background helps too. Reputable breeders should share info about the dam and sire—if either has a long coat, the puppy has a higher chance of inheriting that trait. Just remember, even with mixed breeds, certain physical cues (like those ear and paw tufts) still hold. Always ask breeders for health clearances and compliance with local animal welfare laws, since responsible breeding practices matter as much as coat type.
As the puppy grows, usually around 3 to 6 months old, their coat will start to change more noticeably. Long-haired pups will develop longer guard hairs that extend beyond the undercoat, while short-haired ones will stay sleek. You might also notice more shedding during this time, which is normal—but long-haired breeds will need regular brushing to prevent mats, a habit that fits well with routines of folks who love keeping their pups tidy and comfortable at home.
Keep in mind that some breeds take longer to fully grow their long coats; for example, some herding or working breeds might not have their full fluffy coats until they’re a year old. Patience is key, but those early clues will help you prepare. And if you’re adopting from a shelter, staff can often share observations about the puppy’s coat growth so far, helping you plan for grooming and care that fits local rules—like keeping your pup’s fur trimmed enough to avoid tangles that could lead to discomfort.
Whether your puppy grows long hair or not, their personality will be what makes them special. But spotting those early signs lets you get ready—grabbing a good brush, learning gentle grooming techniques, and making sure you’re set up to keep their coat healthy. It’s just one small way to welcome them into your life, knowing you’re prepared for every fluffy step along the way.
Related Articles
What should I do if my dog has severe heatstroke
You're enjoying a summer afternoon at the park when you notice your dog has stopped panting and appears disoriented - their gums are bright red
What kind of exercise is best for a dog to lose weight
Let’s paint the picture: You’re in your Denver apartment, watching your 4-year-old Boston Terrier, Ruby, plop down mid-play session with her favorite toy
Does walking shorten a dog's nails?
Many dog owners notice their pets nails seem shorter after regular walks,but how much does this daily activity actually help?The answer depends on where you walk—concrete sidewalks or asphalt streets gently file nails as a dog's paws hit the ground
What happens if you don't express a dog's glands?
Most dog owners notice their pup scooting across the carpet at some point, but few connect it to impacted anal glands. These small sacs near a dog’s rectum secrete a scent for marking territory
How often do a dog's teeth need to be cleaned?
Most vets agree that regular dog teeth cleaning is key to avoiding painful dental issues later. For healthy adult dogs, a professional cleaning at the vet’s office every 12 to 18 months usually works well.