Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly Coated Retriever ranks among the oldest retriever breeds, with records dating back to the late 1700s. This breed towers above other retrievers and sports a remarkable water dog’s coat with crisp, tight, small, waterproof curls. The Curly Coated and Wavy Coated (now the Flat-Coated Retriever) became the first recognized retriever breeds back in 1860.
The breed’s ancestry traces to the 16th century English Water Spaniel, Retrieving Setter, and Irish Water Spaniel. These relaxed and steady dogs first arrived in the United States in 1907, and the AKC officially recognized them in 1924. Males stand 25 to 27 inches at the withers, while females measure 23 to 25 inches. Their weight ranges from 60-95 pounds, and they live 10-12 years on average. A newer study, published in 2024 by UK researchers, shows a life expectancy of 12.2 years.
This detailed guide walks you through everything about the Curly Coated Retriever—from their unique physical traits and temperament to grooming needs, health issues, and training requirements. You’ll learn why these remarkable dogs have remained beloved companions for centuries, whether you want to bring one home or just want to know more about the breed.
Understanding the Curly Coated Retriever Breed Standard
Image Source: Sims United Retriever Club
The Curly Coated Retriever’s breed standard gives clear guidelines that make this sporting dog stand out. Kennel clubs worldwide recognize these standards that help keep the breed’s special traits while making sure they can still do their original work.
Height and weight expectations
The breed standards tell us exactly how tall a Curly should be. Male Curlies should stand between 25 to 27 inches tall at the withers (shoulder). Females are a bit smaller, reaching 23 to 25 inches at the withers. These measurements make Curlies the tallest among all retriever breeds.
A Curly’s weight should match its height to look well-balanced. Adult dogs usually weigh between 60 and 95 pounds, with males weighing more than females. This weight helps them work well in tough conditions without slowing them down.
The breed’s body shape is more rectangular than square. A Curly’s length from prosternum to buttocks is slightly more than its height from withers to ground. This shape lets them move smoothly and stay athletic in the field.
Recognized coat colors and textures
You’ll find Curly Coated Retrievers in just two colors: solid black or liver (dark brown). The breed standards won’t accept any other colors or mixes. Both these colors are equally good for the breed.
The coat gives this breed its name. It should be “a thick mass of small, tight, crisp curls lying close to the skin”. These curls need to cover everything from the occiput (back of the skull) to the tail’s tip. A coat without undercoat or with bare spots is a serious problem.
A few white hairs won’t hurt if the dog is great otherwise, but white patches are not good. The curly coat does more than look good—it keeps water out and protects the dog from thorns while working.
Distinctive features of the breed
Curlies look different from other retrievers in several ways. Their tapered, wedge-shaped head stands out the most, and you can see this shape from any angle. This head shape makes it easy to spot a Curly.
These dogs have small ears that sit just above their eyes and stay close to the head. The ears have small curls that might be looser than the body curls. Smooth, short hair covers the face, forehead, lower forelegs, and feet, which looks different from the curly body.
A Curly should have large but not bulging eyes with an oval shape, set at an angle. Black dogs need dark brown eyes, while liver dogs should have brown eyes that match their coat. Yellow eyes don’t look right on these dogs.
A good Curly Coated Retriever mixes strength with grace. The breed standard wants a dog that’s “sturdy and elegant” with “a strong, upstanding appearance with a degree of elegance”. This balance gives them enough power and stamina for fieldwork without looking heavy or clumsy.
The Curly’s special coat comes from hundreds of years of careful breeding. Those tight curls keep water away and protect them from thorny bushes, so they can work in places where other dogs might struggle.
Physical Traits That Set the Curly Apart
Image Source: Lancaster Puppies
Curly Coated Retrievers stand out from other retrievers with physical traits that make them easy to spot. Their trademark coat and powerful yet elegant build sets them apart from their retriever relatives.
The unique curly coat
The Curly Coated Retriever’s most striking feature is its distinctive coat. This isn’t your average curly coat – it’s a thick mass of small, tight, crisp curls that stays close to the skin. The coat acts as nature’s waterproof gear and protects the dog from thorns while working through thick bramble and icy waters. This breed handles tough hunting conditions better thanks to its special coat.
The curls spread from the back of the skull to the tail tip. They run up the neck, down the thighs, and cover the back legs at least to the hock. The dog’s face, forehead, front legs, and feet stay smooth with short hair instead of curls.
A proper Curly coat has these key features:
Special fat that keeps the dog warm in water and helps it dry fast
No undercoat, which makes it different from other retrievers
Different curl patterns – some dogs have loose curls while others have tight ones
Curly Coated Retriever owners should avoid brushing since it makes the coat frizzy. Female Curlies shed their winter coats in spring, and some might lose lots of fur in certain spots.
Body structure and movement
These dogs have an elegant yet powerful build. They look “slightly leggy” but their length exceeds their height. This creates a balanced, agile look that shows endurance, strength, and grace.
Their chest is oval-shaped and deep rather than wide, with the brisket reaching down to the elbow. Well-sprung ribs – neither barrel-shaped nor flat-sided – extend into a deep, powerful loin with a moderate tuck-up. The topline stays strong and level.
These dogs move with power and agility. Their stride covers ground without effort, showing a perfect mix of grace and strength. The front reach matches perfectly with rear action. The legs tend to move toward a centerline as speed picks up. This quick movement pattern helps the breed excel at retrieving waterfowl and hunting upland game.
Black vs. brown curly coated retrievers
You’ll find Curly Coated Retrievers in just two colors: black and liver (brown). Breed standards accept both colors equally. Black and liver Curlies differ in subtle ways beyond their coat color.
The nose matches the coat – black dogs have black noses while liver dogs have brown ones. Eye color changes with coat color too. Black Curlies should have dark brown eyes, but liver-coated dogs sport brown or amber eyes that match their coats.
Coat quality matters most regardless of color. Dogs should have dense, tight curls without an undercoat or bare spots. Uncurled patches behind the withers or bald spots anywhere count as serious faults.
A few white hairs won’t hurt an otherwise excellent dog, but large white patches aren’t desirable. Both black and liver varieties share the same elegant structure, special coat texture, and working abilities that make this breed unique.
Temperament and Personality of the Curly Coated Retriever
Curly Coated Retrievers stand out from other retrievers with their unique looks and temperament. These dogs started as gamekeepers’ gun dogs, and their personality shows this working background while making them great family pets.
Affectionate but independent
Curly Coated Retrievers blend affection and independence beautifully. These dogs are charming, gentle, and loyal companions that form deep bonds with their human pack. They’d rather spend time with their family than stay outside alone.
Unlike their Labrador and Golden cousins, Curlies don’t need constant attention and can handle things on their own. This self-reliance comes from their history as working dogs that had to make field decisions. New Curly owners quickly notice this trait—these dogs love their people deeply but stay confident and independent.
Their smarts play a big role in their independent nature. People describe them as “intelligent, balanced, reliable, brave, friendly, self-assured and independent”. Curlies take a thoughtful approach to life. This mix of love and independence creates a dog that enjoys family time but handles alone time well too.
Behavior with children and other pets
These dogs make great family pets and get along well with kids. Their patient and playful nature fits perfectly in homes with children. All the same, like any big, energetic breed, you should watch them around very small children—their excitement can sometimes be too much.
The breed’s playfulness stands out. Curlies keep their puppy-like spirit even as adults, which makes them fun to be around. But new owners should know a few things:
These dogs take their time growing up and might stay bouncy in their early years
They just need good socialization as puppies to learn proper manners
With good social skills, they usually get along fine with other pets
Curlies have lots of energy to burn. Without enough exercise and mental stimulation, these smart dogs might find their own ways to stay busy—sometimes causing trouble. Swimming, retrieving, and hiking are great ways to use their natural skills and keep them happy.
Watchdog instincts
You might not expect it from a retriever, but Curlies have strong watchdog instincts. These dogs are nowhere near as friendly with strangers as Goldens or Labradors. This cautious nature makes them good watchdogs without being aggressive.
Their protective side shows up more as alertness than aggression. They don’t bark too much but will let you know when something’s not right. It’s worth mentioning that this protective streak needs proper socialization from puppyhood to prevent them from becoming too shy or overly suspicious of strangers.
The breed’s watchdog traits come from their past as gamekeeper’s dogs—they had to retrieve and protect property. Today’s Curly owners can expect a dog that:
Creates strong protective bonds with family
Stays cautious around new people
Needs good socialization to handle new situations well
A Curly Coated Retriever gives you something special—a mix of retriever love and working dog independence. You get a loyal, smart companion that’s a bit more reserved than other retrievers.
Training a Curly Coated Retriever: What to Expect
Training a Curly Coated Retriever needs you to understand their unique temperament and intelligence. These dogs blend exceptional smarts with an independent streak. Their training approach differs from other retriever breeds.
Early socialization tips
Your Curly Coated Retriever puppy’s future behavior depends on their early experiences. The breed thrives with early and consistent socialization from day one at their new home. Start by taking your pup to parks, busy streets, and pet-friendly stores. This helps them get used to different settings.
Your Curly needs controlled interactions with people and other dogs. This builds appropriate social behaviors and minimizes anxiety in new situations. Their naturally reserved nature with strangers makes proper socialization vital. Without it, they might become too shy or suspicious of new people.
Positive reinforcement works best during socialization outings. Reward calm and friendly behaviors with treats and praise. Your Curly might seem more reserved than other retrievers. This natural trait needs careful handling through steady exposure to new experiences.
Obedience and field training
Success in training a Curly Coated Retriever comes from balancing firmness with kindness. Their intelligent yet independent nature demands an owner who stays firm without being harsh, clear without being soft. Rough handling makes them withdraw, while unclear or gentle approaches fail to hold their attention.
To make obedience training work:
Run short sessions (5-10 minutes) several times daily to keep their interest
Start with basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “lie down”
Use the same words and gestures to maintain consistent commands and expectations
Field training needs special attention. Look for a knowledgeable training group and watch their methods before joining. These dogs respond best to positive approaches, so avoid harsh methods.
Some Curlies shine in competitive obedience, while others lose interest in repetitive exercises. They excel at hunt tests, flyball, and agility trials. Their natural love for outdoor activities and working with people makes them perfect candidates.
Avoiding boredom in smart dogs
Your Curly Coated Retriever’s high intelligence brings both benefits and challenges. These dogs need mental engagement to avoid destructive behaviors. A bored Curly quickly becomes difficult to handle.
Ways to keep your Curly’s mind active:
Switch up training exercises often—they lose interest in repetitive tasks
Make training feel like fun games instead of strict drills
Get them puzzle toys and interactive challenges
Try dog sports that work both mind and body
Physical activity remains just as important as mental exercise. Your Curly needs about two hours of exercise daily. Lack of proper physical and mental outlets leads to unwanted behaviors like destruction or excessive barking.
Your Curly Coated Retriever matures slower than other breeds. You’ll see puppy-like energy and behavior longer than expected. Mix consistent training with mental challenges and physical exercise. This creates a well-behaved companion while respecting their intelligent, independent nature.
Grooming Needs and Coat Maintenance
Image Source: Dogs NSW
The Curly Coated Retriever’s unique coat needs special care that’s nowhere near what other retriever breeds need. These dogs can keep their signature tight curls with minimal effort from their owners. You could call it a low-maintenance breed despite their sophisticated looks.
Why brushing is discouraged
Most new owners might not expect this, but regular brushing isn’t good for Curly Coated Retrievers. This unusual approach exists because brushing disrupts the natural tight curl pattern. The coat becomes frizzy and loses its distinctive appearance. The breed’s crisp curls protect the dog during fieldwork, and too much brushing damages this feature.
Brushing makes the tight curls break apart and lose their texture. Groomers call this the “frizzy effect.” The dog looks unkempt and the coat loses its water-resistant properties. New owners often brush their dogs too much, thinking all dogs need regular brushing. The truth is, the less you touch a Curly Coated Retriever’s coat, the better its natural texture develops.
The best approach is to wet down the coat now and then. This simple trick helps keep and improve the natural curl pattern. Many experienced owners use a spray bottle with water to refresh curls between baths. Some even add a tiny bit of Listerine to the mix.
Bathing and drying tips
Curly Coated Retrievers don’t need frequent baths—once every 4-8 weeks works well, or whenever they get really dirty. Too much bathing removes natural oils that keep curl definition. Of course, if your Curly loves swimming, that’s often enough cleaning without formal baths.
Here are the steps you need for bathing:
Pick dog-specific shampoos to keep proper pH balance (6.2-7.4 for dogs versus 5.5-5.6 for humans)
Put conditioner on after shampooing to keep the coat and skin moisturized
Rinse until the coat “squeaks” between your fingers
The way you dry your Curly makes a big difference in keeping proper curl formation. Don’t rub with towels or use hot blow dryers – these destroy the curl pattern. Let your Curly shake off extra water naturally, then air-dry. Some owners put their dogs in crates with a fan to speed up drying without hurting the curls.
Managing seasonal shedding
These retrievers shed seasonally despite their curly coats. Males lose coat once yearly, while females shed twice—usually in spring and fall. The Curly’s shedding process stands out because dead hair stays trapped in the remaining coat instead of falling out like straight-coated breeds.
The tight curls trap shed hair within the coat. This can create mats and make the dog look messy if not managed well. During heavy shedding times, a metal-pronged rake-type tool helps remove dead hair gently. This is one of the rare times when any kind of brushing makes sense.
Female Curlies shed more than males, and some spots might look almost bare during peak shedding. This might worry new owners, but it’s normal. A bath with shampoo helps get rid of trapped dead hair by cutting down the oil that holds it in place.
Ear and nail care essentials
Curly Coated Retrievers need regular ear care because they love water and have floppy ears. Clean their ears every 2-3 weeks with a drying solution, especially after swims or baths. This helps stop moisture buildup that often causes ear infections.
Good nail care helps your dog’s feet stay healthy and movement comfortable. Your dog needs regular nail trims unless they walk on hard surfaces often. Most Curlies need weekly or bi-weekly nail care. Use treats and praise to make it a good experience.
Start handling your puppy’s feet early to make nail trimming normal rather than stressful. Use proper dog nail clippers with guards to avoid cutting the quick. Keep styptic powder handy for small cuts, especially with dark nails where the quick is hard to see.
Common Health Problems in Curly Coated Retrievers
Image Source: WebMD
Curly Coated Retrievers are generally healthy dogs, but they can develop certain health conditions that need monitoring throughout their lives. Your vet’s regular care plays a key role to spot and treat potential risks early.
Eye conditions to watch for
These dogs can face several eye-related problems that need attention. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) shows up when dogs are 3-5 years old and leads to vision loss that starts with night blindness. Doctors haven’t found a cure for this inherited condition yet, but genetic tests can tell if a dog carries it.
Entropion makes the eyelid roll inward so the lashes rub against the cornea, and Curlies often get this problem. Without treatment, this painful condition can create corneal ulcers and lead to blindness. The good news is that early surgery usually fixes it.
Among other issues, these dogs can get distichiasis (extra eyelashes growing in wrong spots) and cataracts. Your vet can catch these problems early through regular eye checks before they hurt your dog’s vision or comfort.
Hip dysplasia and joint issues
Large breeds often face joint problems, and Curlies are no different. Hip dysplasia makes the hip joints form incorrectly, causing pain and movement problems. The breed’s average hip score sits at 10.2. Dogs show signs like limping, trouble getting up, and avoiding stairs.
Elbow dysplasia also affects these dogs and limits their movement. You can help manage both conditions with proper weight control, the right exercise, and pain medications. Severe cases might need surgery.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
Curlies have deep chests that put them at higher risk for gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), or bloat. This emergency happens when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow. Watch for these warning signs:
Dry heaving without throwing up
Restlessness and distress
Enlarged abdomen
“Prayer position” with front legs down and rear lifted
Your dog could die within 30 minutes from this condition, so rush to the vet immediately. You can help prevent it by feeding smaller meals throughout the day, avoiding exercise around meal times, and asking about preventive surgery to secure the stomach.
Cancer risks in older dogs
Cancer kills more Curlies than any other disease. They don’t get one specific type more than others, but lymphoma, mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma, and osteosarcoma show up more often than in other breeds.
Hemangiosarcoma usually starts in the spleen but can spread to other organs. Dogs often don’t show symptoms until the tumor grows by a lot. Lymphoma affects white blood cells but responds well to chemotherapy. Vets need to remove mast cell tumors quickly, while osteosarcoma mainly hits middle-aged dogs and first shows up as limping and leg pain.
Regular checkups become crucial as your Curly gets older. Take them to the vet right away if you notice unusual lumps, behavior changes, or unexplained pain.
Feeding and Nutrition Guidelines
Good nutrition and proper feeding are the foundations of a Curly Coated Retriever’s health and longevity. Owners can support their dog’s active lifestyle and reduce health issues by paying attention to changing nutritional needs.
Puppy vs. adult food needs
Curly Coated Retriever puppies under 1 year old need high-quality puppy food specifically formulated for large breeds. This special nutrition gives them extra calories they need to grow and develop well. The dogs should switch to a large-breed adult formula with fewer calories as they mature to avoid excess weight gain. Food packages should display the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) statement at all life stages to confirm the diet meets nutritional standards.
Feeding frequency and portion control
Adult Curly Coated Retrievers thrive on twice-daily feeding schedules – morning and evening. Many Curlies eat faster, so slow-feeding bowls help regulate their food intake and prevent digestive problems. Puppies need adjusted portion sizes during growth spurts. The right portions come from both package guidelines and your vet’s advice to keep your dog’s body condition ideal.
Supplements for joint health
Joint supplements can help Curly Coated Retrievers since they often develop joint problems with age. These supplements might prevent arthritis when started early. Helpful supplements include:
Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to reduce inflammation
Glucosamine and chondroitin for cartilage support
Green mussel, MSM, and turmeric as natural anti-inflammatories
Your vet should approve any supplements based on your dog’s specific needs.
Exercise and Activity Requirements
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Curly Coated Retrievers run on vigorous activity and just need substantial physical and mental exercise to stay healthy and happy. Their exercise requirements come from their heritage as working dogs bred for long hunting sessions.
Daily physical needs
These energetic dogs just need about two hours of exercise daily. A simple walk around the block won’t cut it—Curlies must have active walks combined with off-leash activities. Dogs that don’t get proper exercise outlets might develop problems from frustration or boredom. Their high energy levels make structured physical activity essential to keep them balanced and well-behaved.
Fun activities: swimming, hiking, retrieving
Curlies shine at many outdoor activities that tap into their natural abilities:
Swimming is their top choice—their waterproof coat works perfectly in water
Retrieving games fulfill their natural drive to carry objects
Hiking gives them both mental and physical stimulation
Field trials showcase their hunting skills
These dogs love to carry items during walks and call it their rewarding job. Their enthusiasm really shows when play combines physical activity with human interaction.
Mental stimulation for intelligent dogs
Physical exercise isn’t enough—Curlies just need mental challenges to avoid destructive behaviors. Their intelligence runs on variety, and many excel at competitive events like agility, rally, and obedience trials. Once they learn simple activities, they need new challenges to stay involved. Interactive toys and puzzle feeders help with mental stimulation between active sessions.
Conclusion
Curly Coated Retrievers stand out as unique dogs in the retriever family. These elegant dogs blend working skills and companion qualities that have lasted for centuries. Their tight curls protect them from water and create a distinct profile that dog lovers recognize right away.
Like other retrievers, Curlies share many great traits but show a more independent spirit and stay reserved with strangers. Their smart, thoughtful nature makes them great partners for active owners who want a dog that balances love with self-reliance. They also stay naturally alert without barking too much or showing aggression.
New owners should think over if they can handle this breed’s high exercise needs. These dogs do best with plenty of chances to swim, retrieve and solve problems. Curlies might develop bad habits from boredom if they don’t get enough physical and mental activity.
Taking care of these beautiful dogs is easier than you’d expect, given their sophisticated looks. Their special coat needs less brushing than other breeds, but their ears and nails need regular care. Owners who know about potential health risks, especially when you have joint problems and eye conditions, can work with vets to prevent issues early.
Curly Coated Retrievers fit perfectly with active families looking for a smart, devoted companion ready for outdoor adventures. They shine in everything from competitive sports to casual hiking while keeping their independent nature. Families who put time into training and socializing will find a loving partner with a personality unlike any other retriever.
Key Takeaways
The Curly Coated Retriever is a unique breed that combines working heritage with distinctive characteristics, making them ideal for active families who appreciate an independent yet loyal companion.
• Distinctive coat requires minimal brushing – Their tight curls should never be brushed as it causes frizzing; instead, allow natural air-drying to maintain waterproof protection.
• Independent yet affectionate temperament – Unlike other retrievers, Curlies are more self-sufficient and reserved with strangers while remaining deeply loyal to family.
• High exercise demands are non-negotiable – These dogs need approximately two hours of daily activity including swimming, retrieving, and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors.
• Early socialization prevents shyness – Their naturally reserved nature requires consistent exposure to new people and situations from puppyhood to develop appropriate social responses.
• Health monitoring focuses on joints and eyes – Watch for hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and bloat, which are common in this deep-chested breed.
The Curly Coated Retriever rewards dedicated owners with a sophisticated, capable companion that excels in outdoor activities while maintaining an elegant, independent spirit that sets them apart from other retriever breeds.
FAQs
Q1. How much exercise does a Curly Coated Retriever require daily? Curly Coated Retrievers are energetic dogs that need about two hours of exercise daily. This should include active walks and off-leash activities like swimming or retrieving games to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
Q2. What’s unique about grooming a Curly Coated Retriever? Unlike many breeds, Curly Coated Retrievers should not be brushed regularly as it causes their coat to frizz. Instead, occasional wetting down and air-drying helps maintain their natural curl pattern. Bathing should be limited to every 4-8 weeks to preserve natural oils.
Q3. Are Curly Coated Retrievers good family dogs? Yes, Curly Coated Retrievers make excellent family companions. They’re affectionate with their families and generally good with children. However, they’re more independent than some other retriever breeds and may be reserved with strangers, requiring proper socialization.
Q4. What health issues are common in Curly Coated Retrievers? Common health concerns for Curly Coated Retrievers include hip dysplasia, eye conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy, and a risk of bloat. They may also be prone to certain cancers in their later years. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and management.
Q5. Do Curly Coated Retrievers shed a lot? Curly Coated Retrievers are considered moderate shedders. They typically shed seasonally, with males shedding once a year and females twice yearly. Their tight curls can trap loose hair, so during shedding seasons, extra care may be needed to remove dead hair and prevent matting.