Quick Stats for the Curly Coated Retriever
- Height (at the shoulders): 25 – 27 inches (63 – 69 cm)
- Weight: 65 – 80 pounds (29 – 36 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 8 – 12 years
- AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1924
- Shedding: average shedder
- Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; best with a large sized yard
Personality of the Curly Coated Retriever
This retriever is easy going, loyal, and eager to please its owner. They are proud dogs that are very intelligent, which makes them easy to train. They are also loving, gentle, and excellent with children.
It is not a breed that is recommended for everyone. They are slow to mature, usually reaching maturity somewhere around three years of age. They can be strong willed if they sense a weak owner.
These dogs make great companions for individuals and families who maintain an active lifestyle. They are good watchdogs and will guard and protect their families should the need arise.
They are excellent at hunting and make great waterfowl retrievers.
History of the Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly Coated Retriever is believed to be on of the oldest of all retriever breeds. Their history goes as far back as the early 18th Century England. However, where the breed actually came from is no quite known.
Some dog enthusiasts believe that the Curly Coated Retriever are descendants of crosses between a smaller Newfoundland type dog, Old English Water Dog, and the Irish Water Spaniel.
Later on, the Poodle was introduced into the mix. This is what is thought to have contributed to the distinct curly coat of this retriever.
By the mid 1800s, the breed became the most popular retriever in England. It was treasured for its ability to retrieve, as well as desired for being a trusted companion. It was one of the first dog breeds to enter the show ring in English dog shows.
They eventually made their way to New Zealand, Australia, and to the United States around 1907.
The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1924 as a member of the Sporting Group.
The Curly Coated Retriever Care and Grooming
The Curly Coated Retriever is not meant to live in a small place like an apartment. They do much better when they ample space to run and play outdoors. These dogs have lot of energy and will require sufficient mental and physical stimulation. They require daily exercise. When possible, get them involved in activities that involves swimming or retrieving.
Their curly coats require little grooming and are pretty easy to maintain. Give them a bath when necessary. You may want to consider using a shampoo like the Chris Christensen White on White.
For this breed, combing and brushing the coat is not recommended. Doing so may cause the coat to become frizzy. If this happens all you need to do is to give the dog another bath and then allow their coat to air dry.
This breed is an average shedder and should be brushed regularly during its shedding seasons. Consider using a high quality brush like the Chris Christensen T Brush.
Health Problems of the Curly Coated Retriever
The average life expectancy of the Curly Coated Retriever is about eight to twelve years.
There are no major health concerns for this breed. These dogs are some of the healthiest you will encounter.
Minor health issues include:
- CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:
- cataracts
- distichiasis
- epilepsy
Veterinarians recommend having the Curly Coated Retriever tested specifically for hip problems.
Image courtesy of Wikipedia
Best,
Omar Reyes
For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:
First, you would use a BLACK shampoo on a black 9or even liver) dog not white. Secondly, I’ve had curlies for 25 years and we do not brush them.
Hi Diann,
Thanks for pointing out those two issues. Since you have owned the breed I do appreciate your input. However, there are several places that I visited when researching this breed summary and they talk about brushing the coat during the shedding season. Like this one for example, http://www.curlycoat.org/id10.html.
About the shampoo, the manufacturer claims that their shampoo contains no bleach and is safe to be used on all coat colors, not just white coats.
Best,
Omar