Sporting Group · Purebred · The oldest and tallest retriever — a self-confident, elegant gun dog with a distinctive mass of tight curls, built for cold-water retrieves and quiet, steadfast devotion
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Curly Coated Retriever — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The Curly-Coated Retriever is the oldest of all retriever breeds, with origins traceable to 18th-century England. Its distinctive coat — a mass of tight, crisp, small curls covering the entire body except the face and forelegs — is both unique among retrievers and functional: it insulates against cold water, resists burrs and briars, and sheds water rapidly after a swim. The breed was developed by crossing now-extinct retriever-type dogs with the Irish Water Spaniel and possibly the Poodle, both of which contributed the curly coat genetics. The Curly was the premier waterfowl retriever in England during the 1800s, widely used by English gamekeepers and hunters.
Unlike the famously eager-to-please Labrador and Golden Retrievers, the Curly-Coated Retriever is notably independent and self-confident. It tends to be reserved with strangers — a trait that can read as aloofness but is actually a characteristic of the breed's more serious, thoughtful temperament. Curlies are deeply loyal to their families and excellent with children, but they mature slowly and need early socialization to develop the full warmth their owners come to appreciate. The AKC recognized the Curly-Coated Retriever in 1924. Today it is rare in America and remains primarily a hunting and working dog breed, highly regarded by serious waterfowl hunters for its stamina and intelligence.
Real Curly-Coated Retrievers — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
Curly-Coated Retrievers are known for being energetic and loyal. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. As a high-energy breed, they are best matched with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to regular exercise.
Training is generally a pleasure with Curly-Coated Retrievers — they are responsive, motivated, and pick up commands quickly. They are typically gentle and patient with children, making them a reliable family companion.
Curly-Coated Retrievers are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate activity they can become restless, vocal, or destructive. They are happiest with owners who genuinely enjoy an active lifestyle.
Curly-Coated Retrievers have a short, low-maintenance coat that requires minimal grooming compared to longer-haired breeds. A consistent basic routine keeps them clean, comfortable, and healthy.
Curly-Coated Retrievers are moderately trainable and respond well to patient, consistent positive reinforcement. They benefit from clear expectations and a calm, confident trainer who establishes routines early.
Keep sessions short — 10 to 15 minutes — and always end on a success. Enrolling in a puppy or adult obedience class provides structured learning and valuable socialization.
Curly-Coated Retrievers are generally robust dogs but like all breeds they carry some genetic predispositions. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for the most common conditions, significantly reducing risk in puppies from health-tested parents.
A Curly-Coated Retriever is ideal for active families or individuals who genuinely enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to daily vigorous exercise. Their trainability makes them approachable for first-time owners who are prepared for an engaged lifestyle. Not the right fit for sedentary households or those with very limited time for exercise.
Curly-Coated Retrievers need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a giant-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Giant-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your Curly-Coated Retriever's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a Curly-Coated Retriever is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a Curly-Coated Retriever costs between $200–$400 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 7–10 year lifespan, a Curly-Coated Retriever typically costs between $18,000–$35,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because Curly-Coated Retrievers have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — Curly-Coated Retriever crosses.
Combining the Curly's unique coat and independent thinking with the Labrador's universal friendliness and trainability — a large, water-loving sporting companion with great character.
A curly-coated double — two intelligent sporting dogs with water-resistant coats, likely producing a highly trainable, low-shedding, athletic companion of remarkable intelligence.
Back to the Curly's own ancestry — combining two distinctive curly-coated water dogs into an enthusiastic, athletic, and characterful retrieving companion.
The Curly's independence and unique coat with the Golden's legendary warmth — a large, curly-to-wavy, devoted sporting dog beloved by active families who hunt or hike.
Curly-Coated Retrievers are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.