Bathing a long-haired dog is a labour of love—but drying them? That’s where things often go sideways. You’ve done the hard work, your dog’s fresh and clean, and yet within hours, their glorious coat looks clumpy, knotted, and anything but fresh. Why? Because drying isn’t just a finish—it’s a vital part of the grooming process.

If you skip the right steps or rush through, you risk wet matting, skin issues, and a frustrating grooming session later. For long-haired breeds, drying isn’t optional. It’s where comfort, coat health, and all your earlier efforts either shine or fall apart.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to dry long-haired dogs properly, without turning your bathroom into a tangle trap. Whether you’ve got a Collie, a Shih Tzu, or a glamorous Afghan Hound, this article has you covered with practical, real-world guidance that works.

Why Drying Matters More Than You Think

You might assume the bath is the big event. But for long-haired dogs, drying is where their coat either becomes glossy and manageable, or matted and messy.

Common Post-Bath Problems

A veterinarian examines a dog's paw while wearing blue gloves, with another person supporting the dog during the check-up.

  • Matting: Wet fur clumps together and tightens as it dries, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
  • Skin issues: Damp areas take longer to dry, leading to fungal or bacterial infections, particularly under thick coats.
  • Odour: Incompletely dried fur starts to smell musty quickly, no matter how good the shampoo was.

Drying properly isn’t just about the coat—it’s about preventing discomfort, skin irritation, and hours spent detangling later on.

Prepping Before You Dry

Don’t grab the hair dryer just yet. Proper drying starts before the towel even comes out.

Essential Prep Steps

  • Gently towel-blot your dog. Avoid rubbing. Instead, pat the coat dry with a super-absorbent microfibre towel.
  • Apply a light detangling spray. Especially important for long coats prone to friction knots.
  • Comb through lightly. Focus on friction-prone spots—behind ears, under armpits, and along the haunches.

If your dog’s coat was still slightly tangled when you started the bath, drying won’t magically fix it. For smoother results, consider reviewing your bathing approach in bathing long-haired dogs without tangles, which lays the groundwork for smooth drying.

Choosing the Right Dryer

Forget your everyday hairdryer—dog-specific dryers are better suited for thick or long coats.

Why It Matters

  • Adjustable temperature settings protect skin from heat damage.
  • Stronger airflow helps lift and separate layers of fur, getting moisture out efficiently.
  • Quieter operation makes the process less stressful for sensitive pets.

If you must use a human dryer, stick to a cool or low heat setting, and never hold it too close.

The Best Drying Technique for Long Hair

1. Start from the Top

Begin drying from your dog’s head, then work your way down the neck, back, and finally the legs and tail. This ensures you’re not pushing water back into already-dried areas.

2. Keep the Dryer Moving

Hold the dryer 10–12 inches away from your dog’s body, and always keep it in motion. Hovering over one spot can overheat both skin and fur.

3. Brush As You Go

Use a slicker brush while drying to lift and separate hair strands. Brushing during the process:

  • Reduces tangling
  • Distributes natural oils
  • Helps hair dry straighter and fluffier

Work in sections and be gentle, especially in areas where skin is thin or sensitive.

Post-Dry Final Touches

Once your dog is fully dry, you’ll want to check your work and polish off the coat.

What to Do

  • Use a pin brush or steel comb to detangle any areas that were missed during drying.
  • Trim any knots or wispy flyaways with blunt-tip scissors.
  • Check your dog’s undercoat to make sure it’s 100% dry—especially around the tail base and armpits.

This is also a great time to give your dog a treat and some praise—they’ve been patient, and you’ve both earned it.

Preventing Wet Matting Long-Term

Consistent grooming in between baths plays a huge role in reducing matting during drying.

Ongoing Prevention Tips

  • Brush every few days to stay ahead of knots and debris.
  • Use a light conditioning spray after walks or play sessions.
  • Avoid letting your dog air dry after baths, rainy walks, or swimming.

If you find yourself wrestling with tangles after every bath, it might be time to improve your setup. Having a dedicated space for grooming can change everything. Learn more in setting up a home grooming station for tips on tool storage, surface safety, and stress-free sessions.

Breed-Specific Drying Tips

Different coats, different rules. Here’s how to adjust depending on your dog’s breed:

Double-Coated Breeds (e.g., Collies, Golden Retrievers)

  • Use an undercoat rake during drying to lift dense fur and release moisture.
  • Avoid compacting the undercoat—work slowly, section by section.

Silky Coats (e.g., Maltese, Afghan Hounds)

  • Use a pin brush with extra care to prevent static and frizz.
  • Consider applying a finishing mist after drying for shine and smoothness.

Curly Coats (e.g., Poodles, Doodles)

A fluffy, apricot-colored poodle with gentle eyes stands outdoors, surrounded by a soft green background.

  • Blot thoroughly and brush while drying to stretch the curls and avoid tight mats.
  • A stand dryer can help if your dog is used to longer sessions.

Each coat type benefits from a slightly different approach, but all require consistency, patience, and the right tools.

Common Drying Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced owners slip up. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Letting dogs air dry: Encourages matting and mildew in thick coats.
  • Skipping brushing before drying: Sets knots in place.
  • Using high heat can damage both coat and skin.
  • Rubbing with towels: Causes friction and tangles.

It’s all avoidable with awareness and preparation. A few adjustments now can save you a tangled mess later.

Conclusion: Dry with Intention, Not Just Heat

Drying a long-haired dog is more than a final step—it’s part of the care ritual that defines coat health. With the right technique, tools, and timing, you can avoid wet matting, reduce grooming time, and leave your dog not just dry, but truly comfortable.

Remember, the goal isn’t just efficiency. It’s gentleness, effectiveness, and a coat your dog is proud to wag around. So next time you reach for that dryer, take a breath, take your time, and enjoy the process. It’s not just about the fur—it’s about the bond.