Gundog Group
Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly Coated Retriever is one of the oldest retriever breeds, with a history stretching back to 18th century England where they were developed for…
π
Size
Large
πΎ
Coat
Tight Curls, Dense
β‘
Energy
High
βοΈ
Groom Every
8β10 weeks
Character
What is the Curly Coated Retriever like?
The Curly Coated Retriever is one of the oldest retriever breeds, with a history stretching back to 18th century England where they were developed for retrieving waterfowl and upland game. Their most distinctive feature is their coat β a mass of tight, crisp curls covering the entire body from head to tail, providing exceptional protection against icy water and harsh weather. Curly Coats are confident, independent, and somewhat reserved compared to other retrievers β they lack the eager-to-please sociability of the Labrador but compensate with intelligence, loyalty, and a certain dignified self-assurance. They are outstanding working dogs and devoted companions.
Social Skills
Curly Coated Retriever with Other Dogs
Curly Coated Retrievers are typically loyal to their family while being more reserved with strangers than other retriever breeds. This independence and reserve is a breed characteristic. They are generally good with other dogs and children they have been raised with. Early socialisation is important to ensure they develop appropriate confidence with new people and situations. Their prey drive means small animals should be introduced carefully.
Grooming Guide
How to Groom a Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly Coat’s tight, crisp curls are unique and require careful management. Unlike most coats, the Curly’s curls should not be brushed as this creates frizz. Instead, the coat should be dampened and the curls re-defined with the hands or a wide-tooth comb. Bathing every eight to ten weeks with a curl-enhancing shampoo maintains coat quality. Professional grooming for a bath, scissor trim of stray hairs, nail clip, and ear clean every eight to ten weeks is recommended. Their ears require weekly checking.
Free & Personalised
Get a personalised groom plan for your Curly Coated Retriever
Tell us about your dog and our AI builds a grooming plan β including personalised Magnesium treatment recommendations.
Pros
- βUnique, striking curly coat
- βVersatile working gundog
- βIndependent and self-assured character
- βGenerally good with other dogs
- βAthletic and capable
- βLoyal to their family
Cons
- !More reserved with strangers than other retrievers
- !Independent β less eager to please than Labrador or Golden
- !Coat requires specialist management β no brushing
- !High exercise requirements
- !Slow to mature
- !Not suited to owners wanting a demonstratively affectionate dog