'''Guard hairs''' are the longest, thickest hairs in a
mammal's coat, forming the
topcoat (or
outer coat). They taper to a point and protect the
undercoat from the elements. They are often waterproof and stick out above the rest of the coat.
In the
hobby of
animal fancy, the
Coat is an important
conformation point in
shows, particularly
dog and
cat and
horse shows.
See also