Curly Coated Retriever Dog Breed Description
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