Breed guide

Curly-Coated Retriever

If you're searching for a loyal and intelligent companion, the Curly-Coated Retriever might just be the perfect match for you. This breed hails from England, where it gained…

Large breed Monthly grooming
Curly-Coated Retriever

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At a glance

Curly-Coated Retriever quick facts

50–75 lbs Weight
20–25 in Height
10–12 yrs Life expectancy
Large Size
Personality & needs

Is a Curly-Coated Retriever right for you?

Energy & exercise

  • Energy Level
  • Mental Stimulation Needs
  • Playfulness

Living environment

  • Apartment Friendly
  • Tolerates Being Alone
  • Cold Tolerance
  • Heat Tolerance
  • Barking Tendency

Family & social

  • Good With Young Kids
  • Good With Older Kids
  • Good With Other Dogs
  • Good With Cats
  • Good With Strangers
  • Affection Level

Care & grooming

  • Shedding Level
  • Drooling Level
Monthly grooming

Trainability

  • Trainability
  • Intelligence
  • Independence (vs Clinginess)
  • Prey Drive
  • Stubbornness
  • Territorial

Great for

  • Protection Aptitude
  • Therapy Aptitude
  • Running Partner Aptitude
  • Hiking Aptitude
  • First-Time Owner Friendly
  • Senior Owner Friendly
Get to know them

About the Curly-Coated Retriever

If you’re searching for a loyal and intelligent companion, the Curly-Coated Retriever might just be the perfect match for you. This breed hails from England, where it gained recognition as one of the oldest retrieving breeds. With its distinctive tight and water-resistant curly coat, the Curly-Coated Retriever not only stands out in appearance but also boasts a strong history as a resilient and versatile gundog.

Curly-Coated Retrievers are well-suited to active families, making them a wonderful choice for a household that enjoys outdoor adventures. Their energy level is moderately high, so they thrive with ample opportunities to participate in stimulating activities such as fetch sessions or long hikes. While they may not be the best option for apartment living due to their size and energy, they integrate beautifully into homes with ample space to roam and play. They are known for their affectionate nature and do exceptionally well around young kids and other pets, including dogs and cats.

When it comes to grooming, Curly-Coated Retrievers are relatively low-maintenance. Their shedding level is minor compared to some other breeds, largely thanks to their curly locks. Monthly grooming helps manage their coat and keeps them looking their best with minimal effort. Their signature curls do not shed excessively and their grooming needs suit those who prefer a low-shedding companion.

Smart and eager to please, Curly-Coated Retrievers show a marked ability in training, responding well to positive reinforcement techniques. While they may not be the most vocal dogs, their deep loyalty and intelligence make them excellent learners of commands and behaviors. Energetic yet reserved with strangers, these retrievers strike a harmonious balance between alertness and friendliness, proving to be devoted and reliable family members. If you’ve got the space to let them stretch their legs, the Curly-Coated Retriever may just become your new best friend.

Good to know

Curly-Coated Retriever FAQs

Curly-Coated Retrievers are considered a large breed, typically weighing between 60 to 95 pounds. Their sturdy and athletic build makes them great companions for active families.

These dogs have a moderate energy level, requiring regular exercise about 1 to 1.5 hours a day. Daily walks, playtime, and swimming are wonderful activities to keep them happy and healthy.

Yes, they tend to get along well with young kids, especially if they grow up together. However, supervision is always recommended to ensure respectful play and interactions from both the dog and the children.

Curly-Coated Retrievers usually get along well with other dogs and cats, especially if socialized at a young age. Their friendly nature makes them great multi-pet household companions.

Their unique curly coat requires grooming about once a month to keep it in good shape. Regular brushing helps control shedding and keeps their coat looking great, so you can enjoy snuggling with your furry friend!

Dig deeper

Learn more about the Curly-Coated Retriever

The Curly-Coated Retriever is a delightful and friendly breed that thrives on family companionship. With a good nature around kids and a gentle demeanor, they make wonderful family pets, especially in homes with older children. Their easy-going attitude also lends itself to getting along with other dogs and even some feline friends!

This breed has a moderate energy level, requiring a good amount of playtime and exercise to stay happy and healthy. Regular walks, swimming, or engaging in fun fetch games are essential to keep their spirits high. Yet, they're also perfectly content to relax with the family after a solid romp outdoors.

With their unique curly coat, Curly-Coated Retrievers have specific grooming needs that are quite manageable. A thorough grooming session once a month is usually sufficient to keep their coat in great shape while controlling shedding levels. They'll appreciate the time spent with you, and it helps to strengthen your bond!

Curly-Coated Retrievers are intelligent and eager to please, making them fairly easy to train. Their high trainability translates into a willingness to learn commands and tricks, which can be a lot of fun for both the dog and the owner. Consistent, positive reinforcement works wonders, setting the stage for a well-behaved family member who loves to show off their skills!

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