Dogs That Look Like a Horse: Dogs have been our faithful companions for thousands of years, but did you know that some dog breeds bear a striking resemblance to horses? From their graceful stature to their flowing manes, these canine counterparts share several physical characteristics with their equine friends. In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 dog breeds that look remarkably like horses and delve into what makes them unique.
As we delve into this fascinating comparison, you’ll discover that these dog breeds are more than just look-alikes; they often share similar temperaments, characteristics, and even historical roles with horses. Whether you’re a dog lover, a horse enthusiast, or simply someone intrigued by the diversity of the animal kingdom, you’ll find these horse-like dog breeds captivating and unique.
So, let’s embark on this journey through the world of dogs that look like horses and uncover what makes them so special. From elegant sighthounds to gentle giants, these breeds are sure to leave you amazed by the incredible diversity of the canine world.
Dogs That Look Like a Horse
12 Long Hair Dog Breeds With Gorgeous Locks
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan hound’s long, silky, flowing coat is one of the breed’s hallmark characteristics. The thick coat protects the dogs from the cold climate in Afghanistan’s eastern mountains. This ancient breed—thousands of years old—is among the oldest of all dog breeds. As a sighthound, it hunts prey using its keen eyesight and swift speed. The dog’s long coat requires considerable care to maintain. Prepare for several hours of brushing a week, plus routine bathing using both shampoo and conditioner. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
2. Bearded Collie
The bearded collie features not just a profuse beard, but also a long shaggy coat. The bearded collie originated hundreds of years ago in Scotland, where it was valued as a sheepherder and cattle drover. Bearded collies are bouncy, athletic, and full of energy. Their coat has two layers: a straight, harsh, and shaggy outer coat and a soft, furry, and close-lying undercoat.
The coat requires significant grooming to prevent mats and tangles, including daily brushing and combing, weekly deep brushing with an undercoat rake, and occasional baths. On the upside, the beardie doesn’t shed much. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
Read more: What breed of horse is your dog?
3. Bolognese
The Bolognese’s crowning glory is a long, fluffy white coat that envelops its body like a soft cloud. Named for its birthplace of Bologna, Italy, it was a favorite of the ruling royals for many centuries. This Italian dog breed has long been prized as a calm, sweet-tempered lapdog and faithful companion. They nearly went extinct in the 20th century, but a few dedicated breed fanciers worked tirelessly to preserve them.
The Bolognese’s long, cottony coat does not shed, but it needs daily brushing to prevent it from becoming tangled if kept long. Many Bolognese owners opt for shorter pet clips for ease of maintenance. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
4. Briard
The Briard dog is a large herding breed from France with either floppy or pointed ears, a sturdy body, wavy fur, and shaggy facial hair. These quick and fearless dogs are well-known for their athleticism when it comes to herding, but it’s their smart and friendly personalities that have made them such a well-loved breed.
Briards are unmistakably loving toward their humans. They do best in homes with active families that plan to spend plenty of time with their dog, and the Briard’s warm spirit and good nature are a perfect match for affectionate owners. Their unique looks and herding prowess have given these dogs a special place in breed enthusiasts’ hearts for centuries. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
5. Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small, charming companion dog known for its fluffy, cotton-like coat and friendly demeanor. Originating from Madagascar, this breed was historically favored by the island’s aristocracy and has since become a beloved pet around the world. The Coton de Tulear is named after the city of Tulear in Madagascar and its cotton-like coat, which is soft, dense, and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for allergy sufferers. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
Read more: Top 10 Dogs Look Like Horses
In addition to their distinctive coat, Cotons are characterized by their cheerful and affectionate nature. They are known for their playful personality and love to be around people, making them excellent family pets. Cotons are also intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train.
They are social dogs that get along well with children, other pets, and strangers, making them an excellent choice for families and individuals alike. However, they may be reserved with strangers at first, but they quickly warm up once they feel comfortable. Additionally, they require regular grooming to keep their coat free from mats and tangles, but their friendly disposition and low-shedding coat make them a popular choice for many dog lovers.
6. Havanese
The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog with a lively and affectionate personality. Originating from Cuba, they are the national dog of the country and have a long history as beloved companions. Havanese dogs are known for their silky, long coat that comes in a variety of colors, including white, cream, black, silver, and chocolate. Their coat is hypoallergenic and non-shedding, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
In addition to their charming appearance, Havanese dogs are intelligent, trainable, and eager to please. They thrive on human companionship and are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. Havanese dogs are highly social and get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats. They are adaptable to various living situations, whether it’s a small apartment in the city or a spacious home in the suburbs, as long as they receive enough love, attention, and exercise.
Despite their small size, Havanese dogs are surprisingly athletic and enjoy activities such as walking, playing, and learning new tricks. They are quick learners and excel in obedience and agility training. Havanese dogs are also known for their playful and mischievous nature, often entertaining their families with their antics. With their combination of intelligence, affection, and charm, it’s no wonder that Havanese dogs are cherished members of many households around the world. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
7. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small, sturdy dog breed known for its long, flowing coat and confident demeanor. Originating from Tibet, where they were bred to guard monasteries and palaces, Lhasa Apsos are independent and spirited dogs with a strong sense of loyalty to their families. Despite their small size, they are known for their fearless nature and make excellent watchdogs.
One of the most distinctive features of the Lhasa Apso is its luxurious double coat, which consists of a dense, soft undercoat and a long, straight outer coat. This dense, weather-resistant coat helped protect the breed from the harsh mountain climate of Tibet. While their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, many owners appreciate the breed’s elegant appearance and the opportunity for creative grooming styles.
Lhasa Apsos are intelligent and affectionate dogs that form strong bonds with their families. While they can be aloof with strangers, they are generally good-natured and enjoy spending time with their loved ones. With proper socialization and training, Lhasa Apsos can get along well with children and other pets, making them a popular choice for families looking for a small, yet confident companion. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
8. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, often affectionately referred to as the “Yorkie,” is a small and lively breed known for its long silky coat and confident personality. Despite their small size, Yorkies are brave, bold, and full of energy. Originally bred in England to catch rats in clothing mills, they are now primarily companion dogs cherished for their loyalty and affectionate nature.
One of the most distinctive features of the Yorkshire Terrier is its luxurious coat, which is long, silky, and perfectly straight. Their coat is typically blue and tan, with the blue color extending from the back of the head to the base of the tail, and the tan color appearing on the head, chest, and legs. While beautiful, their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Read more: 10 Dog Breeds with Chestnut Coats
Yorkies are known for their big personalities despite their small stature. They are intelligent, curious, and often fearless, making them excellent watchdogs. Despite their small size, they have a confident demeanor and are not afraid to stand up to much larger dogs. Yorkies thrive on companionship and love to be the center of attention, making them beloved pets for families and individuals alike. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
9. Polish Lowland Sheepdog
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, also known as the PON (Polish: Polski Owczarek Nizinny), is a medium-sized, herding dog breed native to Poland. Renowned for their shaggy coat and lively personality, Polish Lowland Sheepdogs are intelligent, agile, and highly trainable. Their distinctive double coat consists of a soft, dense undercoat and a long, shaggy outer coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
Originally bred to herd and guard livestock, Polish Lowland Sheepdogs are natural working dogs with strong herding instincts. They are known for their alertness, agility, and ability to think independently, making them excellent herding and watchdogs. Despite their energetic nature, Polish Lowland Sheepdogs are also affectionate and loyal companions, forming strong bonds with their families and being especially gentle and patient with children. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
With proper training and socialization, Polish Lowland Sheepdogs make excellent family pets and thrive in an active household where they have plenty of opportunities to exercise both their bodies and minds. They are versatile dogs that excel in various canine sports and activities, including obedience, agility, and herding trials. Their keen intelligence, coupled with their playful and affectionate nature, makes them a beloved breed among dog enthusiasts worldwide.
10. Collie
The Collie is a beloved and iconic dog breed known for its intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance. Originating from Scotland, Collies were initially bred as herding dogs, prized for their ability to work tirelessly alongside shepherds to manage and protect livestock. Their keen intelligence and gentle disposition make them highly trainable and excellent family pets. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
One of the most recognizable features of the Collie is its beautiful, flowing coat, which comes in two varieties: rough and smooth. The rough-coated Collie has a long, dense, and abundant double coat with a luxurious mane around the neck and chest, while the smooth-coated Collie has a shorter, sleeker coat. Both varieties come in a variety of colors, including sable and white, tricolor, blue merle, and white.
Collies are known for their loyalty and devotion to their families, making them excellent companions and watchdogs. They are gentle and affectionate with children and get along well with other pets when properly socialized. Collies are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations,
from rural farms to urban apartments, as long as they receive plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Overall, the Collie’s combination of intelligence, beauty, and loyalty has made it a cherished breed for centuries. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
11. Sheltland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, often referred to as the Sheltie, is a small to medium-sized herding dog that originated in the Shetland Islands of Scotland. Despite its small size, the Sheltie is an excellent herding dog, known for its intelligence, agility, and strong work ethic. With its long, flowing coat and striking appearance, the Sheltie is often considered one of the most beautiful dog breeds.
One of the most distinctive features of the Sheltie is its luxurious double coat, which consists of a dense, water-resistant undercoat and a long, straight outer coat. This coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles, but it helps to keep the Sheltie warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather. The Sheltie’s coat comes in a variety of colors, including sable, tricolor, blue merle, and bi-blue, with or without white markings.
In addition to its beauty, the Sheltie is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. It is a highly trainable breed that excels in obedience, agility, and herding trials. The Sheltie is also known for its strong bond with its family and its gentle and friendly demeanor, making it an excellent companion for families with children and other pets. With its combination of beauty, intelligence, and loyalty, it’s no wonder that the Shetland Sheepdog is such a beloved breed. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
12. Maltese
The Maltese is a small, toy breed known for its long, flowing white coat and gentle demeanor. Despite its small size, the Maltese is a confident and spirited dog with a playful personality. They are known for their affectionate nature and love to be around people, making them excellent companion dogs. Maltese dogs are often referred to as “Maltese Velcro” because they form strong bonds with their owners and love to be by their side at all times.
One of the most distinctive features of the Maltese is its long, silky coat, which requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. Many owners choose to keep their Maltese in a short “puppy cut” to make grooming more manageable. Despite their glamorous appearance, Maltese dogs are relatively low maintenance when it comes to exercise, making them well-suited to apartment living or for families with small yards. However, they do enjoy short walks and play sessions to help burn off energy and keep them mentally stimulated.
In addition to their affectionate nature and stunning good looks, Maltese dogs are also known for their intelligence and trainability. They excel in obedience training and enjoy learning new tricks. With the right training and socialization, Maltese dogs can get along well with children and other pets, making them a popular choice for families. Overall, the Maltese is a delightful and charming breed that brings joy and companionship to households around the world. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
Conclusion
In conclusion, while dogs and horses are two very different animals, it’s fascinating to see how certain dog breeds can bear a striking resemblance to their equine counterparts. From the elegant Afghan Hound to the majestic Irish Wolfhound, these dog breeds share similar physical characteristics, such as long legs, graceful movements, and flowing coats, that give them a horse-like appearance.
Whether you’re a dog lover, a horse enthusiast, or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, these horse-like dog breeds are sure to capture your heart with their unique charm and grace.
While the resemblance between these dog breeds and horses is primarily physical, there are also similarities in temperament and behavior. Many of these breeds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and gentle nature, much like horses. Additionally, their athletic abilities and strong work ethic make them well-suited for a variety of activities, from agility and obedience competitions to therapy work and service roles.
Whether you’re considering adding one of these horse-like dog breeds to your family or simply admire them from afar, it’s clear that they bring a special kind of beauty and grace into our lives. With their regal appearance, gentle demeanor, and loyal companionship, these dog breeds are truly a testament to the remarkable diversity of the canine world. (Dogs That Look Like a Horse)
FAQ
What breeds of dogs look like horses?
Some dog breeds that resemble horses include Afghan Hound, Saluki, Borzoi, Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, Weimaraner, Doberman Pinscher, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Boxer, and Standard Poodle.
Why do some dogs look like horses?
Certain dog breeds have physical characteristics such as long legs, slender bodies, and flowing coats that give them a horse-like appearance.
Which dog breed looks the most like a horse?
The Afghan Hound is often considered to be the dog breed that looks the most like a horse due to its long, flowing coat and slender build.
Do Afghan Hounds really look like horses?
Yes, Afghan Hounds have a horse-like appearance due to their long, flowing coats, slender bodies, and graceful movements.
What other dog breeds resemble horses?
Other dog breeds that resemble horses include Saluki, Borzoi, Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, Weimaraner, Doberman Pinscher, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Boxer, and Standard Poodle.
Are there small dog breeds that look like horses?
While most horse-like dog breeds are medium to large in size, some smaller breeds such as the Standard Poodle also have a horse-like appearance due to their graceful build and elegant demeanor.
Do horse-like dog breeds make good pets?
Yes, horse-like dog breeds can make excellent pets. They are often intelligent, loyal, and gentle, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.
Do horse-like dog breeds require a lot of exercise?
Many horse-like dog breeds are active and energetic, so they do require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Are horse-like dog breeds good with children?
Yes, many horse-like dog breeds are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them good companions for children.
Do horse-like dog breeds shed a lot?
Some horse-like dog breeds, such as the Afghan Hound and Standard Poodle, have coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Are there any health issues associated with horse-like dog breeds?
Some horse-like dog breeds, such as the Great Dane and Irish Wolfhound, are prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia and bloat.
Do horse-like dog breeds get along with other pets?
While it depends on the individual dog, many horse-like dog breeds can get along well with other pets if they are socialized from a young age.
Are horse-like dog breeds easy to train?
Many horse-like dog breeds are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement techniques. (dogs that look like a horse)
Do horse-like dog breeds need a lot of grooming?
Some horse-like dog breeds, such as the Afghan Hound and Standard Poodle, have coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking their best.
Do horse-like dog breeds make good guard dogs?
While they may not be as protective as some other breeds, many horse-like dog breeds are alert and vigilant, making them effective watchdogs.
Are horse-like dog breeds good for first-time dog owners?
While they may require some extra care and attention due to their grooming needs and exercise requirements, many horse-like dog breeds can make good pets for first-time dog owners.
Do horse-like dog breeds have a lot of energy?
Many horse-like dog breeds are active and energetic, so they do require regular exercise to burn off excess energy.
Are horse-like dog breeds good for apartment living?
While they may require some extra space to stretch their legs, many horse-like dog breeds can adapt well to apartment living with enough exercise and mental stimulation.
Do horse-like dog breeds have a lot of health problems?
Like all breeds, horse-like dog breeds are prone to certain health issues, but with proper care and regular veterinary check-ups, many of these health problems can be managed or prevented.
Are horse-like dog breeds good for families?
Yes, many horse-like dog breeds are gentle and affectionate, making them great companions for families with children.
Do horse-like dog breeds need a lot of space?
While they may enjoy having a yard to run around in, many horse-like dog breeds can adapt well to living in smaller spaces as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
Do horse-like dog breeds bark a lot?
Some horse-like dog breeds, such as the Afghan Hound and Saluki, are known for their quiet and reserved nature, while others, like the Standard Poodle, can be more vocal.
Do horse-like dog breeds need a lot of grooming?
Some horse-like dog breeds, such as the Afghan Hound and Standard Poodle, have coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking their best.
Do horse-like dog breeds need a lot of exercise?
Many horse-like dog breeds are active and energetic, so they do require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Are horse-like dog breeds good with children?
Yes, many horse-like dog breeds are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them good companions for children.
Do horse-like dog breeds shed a lot?
Some horse-like dog breeds, such as the Afghan Hound and Standard Poodle, have coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Are horse-like dog breeds prone to health problems?
Like all breeds, horse-like dog breeds are prone to certain health issues, but with proper care and regular veterinary check-ups, many of these health problems can be managed or prevented.
Do horse-like dog breeds make good guard dogs?
While they may not be as protective as some other breeds, many horse-like dog breeds are alert and vigilant, making them effective watchdogs.
Do horse-like dog breeds need a lot of space?
While they may enjoy having a yard to run around in, many horse-like dog breeds can adapt well to living in smaller spaces as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
Do horse-like dog breeds need a lot of grooming?
Some horse-like dog breeds, such as the Afghan Hound and Standard Poodle, have coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking their best.
