What is shaggy dough?

Shaggy dough refers to a dough that appears messy or rough before it has been fully kneaded or mixed. This type of dough typically has not yet reached the desired consistency and may feel sticky or crumbly. Many recipes call for starting with a shaggy dough before kneading it to develop the gluten and create a smoother, more elastic texture. Shaggy dough is common in bread-making and can be a normal part of the baking process.