Guard hairs are the longest, most coarse 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 water repellent and stick out above the rest of the coat. Guard hairs add the sheen to the coat of an animal.

The coat may be important in judging the animal, particularly at conformation dog shows, cat shows and horse shows.

See also

• Awn hair
• Coat (animal) for a general discussion of coats
• Coat (dog) for details about dog coats
• Down hair
• Fur