The Curly Coated Retriever is one of the oldest retriever breeds and makes an excellent hunting partner owing to its gentle mouth and outstanding hunting and retrieving abilities.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: England
Used for: Hunting, retrieving, tracking, watchdog, guarding
Average Life Span: 8-12 years
Color: Black or liver, a white patch may be present
Coat: Water-resistant with distinct small curls
Average Height: 25-27 inches
Average Weight: 65-80 pounds
Group: Gun Dog
History and Domestication
The curly coated Retriever is one of the oldest retriever breeds and has been used for retrieving from the 18the century in England, where it originated.
The breed is said to be descended from the Water Spaniel, the retrieving setter, the Irish water Spaniel, Labrador and probably the Poodle.
This breed is excellent for hunting ducks and quails and makes and a good hunting partner with its gentle mouth. The breed is rare in the USA but quite popular in Australia and New Zealand.
Standard Physical Characteristics
This is a large and hardy dog with a body slightly longer than its tail. The head is longer than it’s wide with a level top line. The neck is slightly arched but strong. It has a wedge-shaped and tapered muzzle which is rounded at the bottom. Black dogs have a black nose while liver dogs have a brown nose. The ears are hanging and small. Curlies have a deep but not too wide chest. The eyes are almond-shaped and black or brown in color. The coat is water-resistant and has distinct small curls and protects the dog from ice waters or brambles.
Care, Grooming and Health
This breed is easy to take care of and groom. Bathe only when necessary. Do not brush or comb too much as it makes the coat frizzy. In case it does happen, wet the coat again and let it dry naturally. Sometimes trimming may be required. Regular combing is needed during its shedding period. Curlies are average shedders.
This is a high-energy with equally high intelligence levels and needs lots of physical and mental exercise. Exercise may include swimming and retrieving along with a long daily walk or a jog.
Curly coated retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems and epilepsy.
Living Conditions
This dog is not recommended for an apartment life. It does better with a large yard as this is fairly inactive indoors. Curlies need to be a part of the family and shouldn’t be left outdoors all day long.
Temperament
This is a loyal and eager to please and hence easy to get along with. Curlies are proud and confident, intelligent and highly trainable but make sure you train them in obedience from puppyhood. They do not fully mature until they are three old and can be whimsical with meek owners. Hence, this breed is not suggested for everyone. They are excellent with children and are loving and affectionate. Enough mental and physical exercise will ensure a calm behavior.
