The longhaired coat is soft, slightly wavy and longest behind the legs, on the underside of the body, the ears and the underside of the tail, where it forms a flag. The effect is elegant and a little spaniel-like, which is no accident — spaniel crosses are the most cited explanation for how the coat entered the breed in the 19th century.
A true longhair coat lies flat and follows the body. Excessively profuse, cottony or curly coat is a fault in the show ring because it mats and holds dirt.
The grooming commitment
Plan on a thorough brush and comb two or three times a week, working through the feathering behind the ears, in the armpits and around the back end where mats form first. A steel comb that reaches the skin is the key tool.
The ear fringes need checking after every walk in long grass, and the feathering around the rear needs keeping clean and sometimes lightly trimmed for hygiene. Full baths every few weeks keep the coat from going greasy.
The temperament reputation
Longhair owners and breeders widely describe the variety as the mellowest — quieter, more biddable, more of a lap dog. Whether that is genetic (riding in on the spaniel blood) or simply selection by people who wanted a softer dog is an open question.
It is a tendency, not a rule. A longhair from working lines can be every bit as driven and vocal as a wirehair. Meet the parents rather than trusting the coat.
