One of the oldest retriever breeds, Curly-Coated Retrievers are smart, hardworking dogs who live to swim. They were originally bred to retrieve waterfowl and hunt game birds. These days, though, many Curly-Coated Retrievers also compete in field trials and keep their families company.
Originally from England, this medium-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 60-95 pounds and lives an average of 10-12 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Sporting group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Swimming |
| Origin | England |
| Breed group | Sporting |
| Average lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 137 |
| Family | Gundog, spaniel |
| Date of origin | 1700s |
| Original function | Water retrieving |
| Today's function | Water retrieving |
| Average size of male | Height: 25-27 Weight: 60-70 |
| Average size of female | Height: 25-27 Weight: 60-70 |
| OTHER NAME | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Moderately easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Moderately maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | High tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A CURLY-COATED RETRIEVER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
They might come off as too cool for school, but the aloof-seeming Curly-Coated Retriever loves people and wants to make them happy. With their families, Curlies are mischievous and playful. These dogs are charming, gentle, and affectionate, but not as needy as some other retrievers we could mention (ahem, Goldens and Labs).
Curly-Coated Retrievers are usually friendly toward other dogs and pets. They can enjoy children but tend to be aloof with strangers.
WHAT IS CURLY-COATED RETRIEVER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is an active breed who will run and jump and swim and play as long as you'll let them.
Curly-Coated Retrievers make for vigilant watchdogs, though they're not especially protective. They can be somewhat prone to barking.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A CURLY-COATED RETRIEVER?
This is a very biddable breed — these dogs are quick and willing students. Be sure to keep your Curly-Coated Retriever busy, though — a bored retriever is just mischief waiting to happen.
Curly-Coated Retrievers respond best to reward-based reinforcement using food, play, or praise.
These dogs excel at tracking, rally, hunt tests, agility, flyball, lure coursing, dock diving, herding, and scent hurdle racing. At least one Curly has even worked as a sled dog!
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO CURLY-COATED RETRIEVERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Curly-Coated Retrievers have a distinctive single coat made up of tiny, crisp, tight curls (you might have guessed that from the name). Their fur is short and waterproof, helping them swim in the iciest water.
This breed doesn't shed much and requires only an occasional bath. Their unusual looking coats are surprisingly easy to maintain.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO CURLY-COATED RETRIEVERS HAVE?
Curly-Coated Retrievers are generally a robust breed. Some are prone to heart or eye disease and hip dysplasia.
