Curly Coated Retriever

• Large and athletic, the Curly Coated Retriever dog breed is easily recognizable by its thick coat of tight black or liver-colored curls. The curls cover the entire body, even the wedge-shaped head, small pendant ears, and tapering tail, providing protection from icy water and brambles.

• Curlies are graceful, agile, and elegant dogs with a hardy build and muscular legs.

• Tireless land and water retrievers, Curly Coated Retrievers have endless energy during outdoor work and play, but tend to be calm companions once indoors.

———————— Temperament ————————

• Curly Coated Retrievers are known for loyalty and affection. They are eager to please, extremely intelligent, clever, mischievous, and sensitive.

• Curlies are highly trainable, but require firm but gentle obedience training early in life. When Curlies are socialized early they are excellent with children and other pets; however, they have a tendency to become timid with strangers if socialization is not done properly.

• These retrievers are superior watchdogs who will protect their families from danger.

• The Curly Coated Retriever dog breed is perfect for owners who are active and are looking for an outdoor companion.

———————— Height and Weight ————————

• Adult males and females tend to be 25-27 inches tall and weigh around 65-80 pounds.

———————— Living Conditions and Exercise ————————

• Curlies are not well-suited for apartment life; they are recommended for families with a large yard.

• High-energy dogs, Curlies should not be left alone all day. They require lots of mental stimulation and physical exercise, including swimming, retrieving, long walks, and jogs.

———————— Life Expectancy ————————

• Well-cared for Curly Coated Retrievers can be expected to live 8-12 years.

———————— Grooming ————————

• The curly coat should be washed occasionally.

• Curlies are average shedders, and need regular brushing during the warmer seasons. Brushing may make the curls frizz; owners should wet the coat after grooming.

———————— History ————————

• The Curly Coated Retriever dog breed was developed as early as the late eighteenth century in England, making it one of the oldest retriever dog breeds.

• The breed is most likely a cross between the Close Curled English Water Dog, the Old Water Spaniel, and the St. John's Newfoundland.

• Curlies are water retrievers with gentle mouths, bred to fetch duck and quail.

• Curlies are most popular in New Zealand and Australia.

———————— Group and Recognition ————————

• Grouping: AKC Sporting Group, Gun Dog

• Recognition: CKC, NZKC, ACR, UKC, NKC, APRI, FCI, CCRCA, KCGB, AKC, ANKC

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