The 10 most high-maintenance dog breeds revealed

The most high-maintenance dog breeds in the UK have been announced.

According to a new study by Yell, English Springer Spaniels have the highest grooming needs, requiring their coats to be cleaned every two weeks (costing owners a whopping £1,222 a year).

Currently the sixth most popular dog breed in the UK, English Springer Spaniels have a smooth, medium-length coat that is feathered on the legs, tail and ears.

Second place went to Labrador Retrievers, who also need to be groomed every two weeks (£1,014 on average). Third place went to French Bulldogs, who need to be brushed and bathed every 2-4 weeks and cost an average of £503.

Depending on the breed you choose, the amount of grooming required may vary. Some breeds need to go to the groomer every 4-6 weeks, while short-haired dogs can go longer without trimming.

Andrew Montgomery / Country Life

Other dogs on the list include miniature schnauzers, cocker spaniels, golden retrievers and Staffordshire bull terriers. Bulldogs, on the other hand, came in last place because they only need a visit every 8-12 weeks.

Check out the full list below…

The 10 most care-intensive dog breeds

English Springer Spaniel (grooming required every 2 weeks)
Labrador Retriever (every 2 weeks)
French Bulldog (every 2-4 weeks)
Miniature Schnauzer (every 4-6 weeks)
Golden Retriever (every 8-10 weeks)
Cocker Spaniel (every 6-8 weeks)
German Shepherd (every 4-8 weeks)
Dachshunds (every 4-6 weeks)
Staffordshire Bull Terrier (every 4-8 weeks)
Bulldog (every 8-12 weeks)

To prevent your dog’s coat from becoming matted, grooming is essential. Shirelle Moore, a grooming expert, says, “Dog owners need to make sure they regularly comb breeds with longer coats, as their coats can easily become tangled and knotted.”

“If the breed has long hair but wears a harness, this can also lead to friction knots under the dog’s arms. Removing these knots can take a lot of grooming time, resulting in no time for a full groom.

“If owners feel confident about trimming their dog’s nails, cleaning their ears and grooming their coat, that’s great. However, groomers are there for those owners who don’t feel confident about grooming their beloved pet for fear of hurting it.”