Curly-Coated Retriever
Complete Breed Guide
"I love kids, especially when they drop food!"
Quick Facts About Curly-Coated Retrievers
Sporting
60–95 lbs
23–27"
No
Overview
The Curly-Coated Retriever is a unique, family-friendly dog. They love exercise, especially playing in water, hunting, or retrieving anything you’re willing to throw their way. Curly-Coated Retrievers can be a little headstrong, but if you’re patient and can provide them with good ways to channel their energy, they’re wonderful companions.
The Curly-Coated Retriever is a dog with a plan. They are very intelligent and always thinking of ways to get what they want, so they require an owner who is willing to be firm and patient. The breed is highly affectionate toward their families, and they especially love children - although sometimes this love can be a bit much for a toddler. Curly-Coated retrievers enjoy anything that has to do with retrieving something for you. They especially enjoy water retrievals and make good hunting dogs on the land or the water. Curly-Coated Retrievers can be a bit mischievous, so it’s important that you give them at least a moderate amount of daily exercise. This breed’s not for everyone, but their unique looks, retrieval skills, and hilarious antics make them perfect for an active family with a bright sense of humor.
Temperament and Behavior
Curly-Coated Retrievers love people and become very attached to their owners. In fact, you may find that you have a new, dog-shaped shadow that follows you wherever you go! If you raise your Curly-Coated Retriever around other animals, they will usually get along fine together, sometimes even becoming good buddies. They are known to be sensitive but can also be headstrong, which makes training them a little tricky. A delicate combination of sensitivity and strong leadership is the best way to raise a well-behaved Curly-Coated Retriever.
Coat & Grooming
In keeping with their moniker, the Curly-Coated Retriever’s coat consists of small, tight curls that won't comb out when brushed. You’ll want to brush them before you give them a bath, which only needs to be done about once a month or less, depending on how much outdoor fun they've been having.
Lifestyle & Living Conditions
Curly-Coated Retrievers fit best in families who will be able to spend plenty of time taking them out for daily exercise and are willing to be patient with a somewhat headstrong dog. They usually don’t do too well with being left alone in the house when they're younger, so you’ll need a plan to for them if you work during the day. They fit best in a home with a yard but can live without one if you are diligent about taking them out to play every day.
Exercise & Activity
Curly-Coated Retrievers need daily exercise, which will help them burn off energy they may otherwise spend chewing on your couch cushion! A daily walk, hike, or game of fetch will keep your Curly-Coated Retriever happy and tired enough to curl up in your lap for a snuggle at the end of the day.
Characteristics at-a-glance
Ratings are on a scale of 1–10, based on breed standards and typical temperament.
Curly-Coated Retriever FAQs
Common questions about the Curly-Coated Retriever breed, answered by our editorial team.
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