What kind of dog has hair instead of fur? - briefly
The Poodle is known for having hair rather than fur. This breed's coat continues to grow throughout its life, requiring regular grooming.
What kind of dog has hair instead of fur? - in detail
The question "What kind of dog has hair instead of fur?" delves into the fascinating world of canine genetics and coat types. To understand this, it's essential to distinguish between hair and fur, as they differ significantly in structure, texture, and growth patterns.
Fur is the more common type of coat found among dogs. It typically consists of two layers: a dense undercoat for insulation and a topcoat for protection against the elements. Fur sheds seasonally to accommodate temperature changes, with some breeds experiencing heavy shedding periods. Examples of dogs with fur include Golden Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, and German Shepherds.
On the other hand, hair is a distinct type of coat found in certain dog breeds. Unlike fur, which grows to a specific length and then sheds, hair continues to grow throughout the dog's life. It does not have an undercoat and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Dogs with hair coats include Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Portuguese Water Dogs.
The primary difference between hair and fur lies in their genetic makeup. Fur-bearing dogs carry the dominant allele (K), while hair-bearing dogs have the recessive allele (k). Therefore, a dog must inherit two recessive genes (kk) to have a hair coat. This genetic variation results in different grooming needs and characteristics for each type of coat.
In conclusion, dogs with hair instead of fur are those that carry the recessive gene (k), leading to continuous hair growth throughout their lives. Examples include Poodles and Bichon Frises, which require regular grooming to maintain their unique coats.