Read About Curly-Coated Retriever

Smart, attractive dogs, the Curly-Coated Retreivers are happy in the hunt or at home. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Large dogs

2. Weight:

   65-80 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Curly all over except on face

4. Shedding:

   Low-shedding dogs

5. Temperament:

   Curly-Coated Retrievers are incredibly smart, very loyal, and friendly.

6. Obedience:

   Can be very obedient, but they need early training. In addition, training needs to be varied and interesting to appeal to this smart, independent dog.

7. Ease of Training:

   Whip-smart, so training is easy but needed.

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with children.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Sporting Group/1924

2. Size & Weight:

   23-27"; 65-80 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Curly all over except on face

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Nice wide head with a well-formed muzzle

5. Body:

   Well-balanced, nearly rectangular body. Ideally, the Curly-Coated retriever will display both grace and strength.

6. Colors:

   black or liver

7. Life Expectancy:

   8-10 years

8. Popularity:

   Not very popular in the U.S., but well-represented in Australia and New Zealand.

9. Habitat:

   Curly-Coated Retrievers will do well with a backyard in which to run around.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   England

2. Historical Information:

   Developed in the late 18th C. for water retrieval, especially of duck and quail. The breed was developed with a very "soft" mouth.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Curly-Coated Retrievers are incredibly smart, very loyal, and friendly.

2. Behavior:

   Well-behaved, happy, loyal dogs that can sometimes need a lot of different things to do -- these dogs are smart enough that they get bored otherwise.

3. Habits:

   Can be very independent, and can sometimes be stand-offish with strangers.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Generally, Curly-Coated Retrievers are healthy dogs; their only major ills are a potential for epilepsy and hip dysplasia.

2. Exercise Needs:

   A long walk, plus some retrieving games and an occasional swim are all good for this dog.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Very low-maintenance dog, needing only occasional brushing.

4. Travel Needs:

   The Curly-Coated Retriever is a wonderful traveler.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Excellent with other pets and children.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, good coats, and tons of energy.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy. Be sure to start training this breed early and play lots of games.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.