Curly-Coated Retriever Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Curly-Coated Retriever is one of the oldest retriever breeds, a tall, elegant dog with tight curls all over its body. It is independent, intelligent and loyal, and often described as the thinking retriever.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in England from water spaniels and retrievers, and was used for retrieving game. Curlies are tall and athletic, with a long head, a deep chest, a coat of tight, crisp curls in black or liver, and a long tail that tapers.

Temperament

They are loyal, intelligent and dignified. They bond with family and can be reserved or aloof with strangers. They are independent and sometimes stubborn. They are generally good with children in their family. They mature slowly and keep some puppy exuberance for years.

Exercise

They need one to two hours of daily exercise, with walks, swimming and fetch. They enjoy retrieving and scent work. Mental work matters. They are strong swimmers.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive methods and variety. Early socialization helps with reserve. Teach a reliable recall and a calm greeting. See also how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The curly coat needs little brushing, because brushing can create frizz. Wet the coat and rub, and trim lightly. See curly coat dog grooming guide. Clean ears after swimming, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Cancer. See signs of cancer in dogs
• Eye conditions, such as cataracts and entropion
• Gastrointestinal disease

Living with a Curly-Coated Retriever

They suit active families with space and access to water. They do best with company and tasks.

A typical day

A Curly wants a morning outing, training, a rest, a swim or play and an evening walk. Many follow family around.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are slow to mature and bouncy. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food for a large dog, training and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

Curlies tolerate cold water well, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include brushing the curls into frizz, underexercising, skipping socialization and ignoring bloat risk.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, eye and thyroid tests, and the parents' temperaments. The breed is uncommon, so expect a wait.

Caring for the curls

Skip frequent brushing. A damp rub-down, a light trim and an occasional bath preserve the tight curl. Dry the ears after swimming.

The thinking retriever

Curlies are often described as the most independent of the retrievers. They think things through, and may ask why. Training with respect and rewards builds a good partnership.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Curly suits active owners who want a loyal, independent retriever and accept reserve with strangers. It may not suit those wanting a very outgoing dog. For a more common retriever, see the Labrador Retriever.

A late bloomer

Curlies often take three years to mature fully, both physically and mentally. In adolescence they may test boundaries and seem aloof, but steady training, regular exercise and calm handling pay off. Avoid pushing hard exercise on a young dog's joints, and keep classes fun. Many owners say their Curly becomes a quiet, confident shadow by age four, content to lie at their feet after a morning of work.

Finding a Curly

The breed is relatively rare, so contact national breed clubs, ask about health testing and expect to wait for a litter. Meet adult dogs and talk to owners about reserve with strangers, activity levels and coat care.

The takeaway

Curly-Coated Retrievers are tall, tight-curled and independent, and they need exercise, training and water.