Curly-Coated Retriever
Description
The Curly-Coated Retriever is one of the oldest retriever breeds, originating in early 19th-century England. Bred for waterfowl hunting, it excels in swimming and retrieving in harsh weather and rough waters. Its distinctive tight, waterproof curls protect it from brambles and cold water, a trait enhanced by crossing with Poodles in the 1880s. This breed comes in solid black or liver colors, with a short, dense double coat that sets it apart from other retrievers. Curlies tend to be reserved yet friendly, often calm indoors but lively outdoors with strong retrieving instincts. They mature slowly, keeping a playful attitude well into adulthood. While aloof with strangers, they generally get along with children and other pets. Their quiet nature means they rarely bark, making them suitable for owners seeking a less vocal dog. Expect a dog that combines rugged working ability with a unique, curly coat and a steady temperament.
Grooming
The Curly-Coated Retriever’s short, double coat requires regular maintenance to stay healthy and functional. Brush your dog twice a week to prevent mats, increasing to daily during heavy shedding in spring and fall. Use an undercoat rake on dense areas to remove loose fur effectively without damaging the curls. Bathe every 6 to 8 weeks, ensuring thorough drying to avoid skin issues. Avoid shaving the coat; its curls provide natural protection against weather and debris. Black and liver coats need no special stain care but do benefit from occasional conditioning to maintain curl integrity. - Brush 2× weekly; daily in shedding seasons - Use undercoat rake on thick patches - Bathe every 6–8 weeks; dry thoroughly - Never shave the double coat - Condition curls to keep them resilient Pro tip: Schedule a professional de-shed treatment every 6 to 8 weeks to manage the seasonal undercoat blow effectively.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Curly-Coated Retrievers need about 80 minutes of exercise daily, split into two sessions to keep them mentally and physically satisfied. These dogs thrive on swimming and retrieving games, which tap into their natural instincts and help burn off energy. A morning walk might include a brisk 40-minute jog or swim, while an evening session can focus on interactive fetch or scent games to engage their minds. Example routine: - Morning: 40-minute swim and retrieve session at a local lake - Evening: 40-minute walk with fetch and scent tracking in the yard Consistent, varied exercise prevents boredom and supports their well-being. Curlies enjoy challenges, so mixing walking with play and training is ideal.
Boarding
When boarding a Curly-Coated Retriever, provide a crate at least 48 inches long to accommodate their size comfortably. These dogs benefit from a predictable routine with slow, calm staff introductions to build trust. Their playstyle is active but controlled; they enjoy two play blocks daily combined with scent and brain games to keep their minds sharp. Staff should monitor interactions carefully, as Curlies can be reserved around new dogs but warm up with time. Enrichment should include water-based activities if possible, as swimming is a favorite pastime. Quiet downtime in a secure crate helps them recharge between play sessions. Keeping their environment consistent and engaging reduces stress and supports a positive boarding experience.