Charlie has two layers of fur. The outer, longer layer, called guard hairs, is the black and silver fur you see in pictures. It is somewhat coarse but not wirey – it’s similar to the texture of a black lab if a lab’s hair was three inches long. Then he has underfur, which is red and gray. It is shorter, denser, and thinner, and unbelievably soft. It’s as soft as puppy fur. That’s also the fur he has on the top of his head between his ears, and I am still blown away that it has remained so silky and soft. My face fits perfectly between his ears and it is the most delectable spot to nuzzle.