The world record holder for the longest canine eyelash is Prince Albert, a Lhasa apso from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. On November 27, 2004, an eyelash on Prince Albert’s left side measured 5.35 inches. Lhasa apsos are genetically predisposed to long lashes to keep their long hair from falling into their eyes.
Why Do Some Dogs Have Longer Lashes?
Like you, a dog has eyelashes to protect his eyes from debris, particles and dust. Unlike you, a dog’s eyelash length is determined by the length of his fur. Most dogs have short lashes. For long-haired pups, long lashes keep the strands away from the delicate surfaces of the eyes.
Which Breeds Have the Longest Lashes?
No specific breed is known for having the absolute longest lashes. A number of long-haired breeds are genetically predisposed to long lashes. These breeds include large dogs, such as the Old English sheepdog and small dogs such as the Maltese. Cocker spaniels are widely known for long lashes. In fact, Buddy, a cocker spaniel from Michigan, held the world record for the longest eyelash before Prince Albert did.
Short Haired Breeds With Long Lashes
Very few short-haired dogs have long lashes, so if your pooch does, you can count yourself among the lucky. Sometimes a short-haired dog’s size and shape can cause the eyelashes to appear longer, even if they’re of average length. For example, English bulldogs have squishy, wrinkled faces that contributes to their lashes standing out.
Long Eyelash Care
Hair around your dog’s eyes should be regularly trimmed or styled, to prevent his long lashes from becoming caught and entangled in his hair. It’s essential to keep hair out of your dog’s eyes, even if they have long eyelashes, because a single hair can scratch the surface of the eye and cause pain to your pet. It’s up to you to decide whether you’ll trim your dog’s lashes or allow them to grow. Let a groomer or vet do it. Trimming eyelashes requires utmost care.
