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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly-Coated Retriever has a thick black or liver coat that is covered with
tight curls everywhere except the face, hocks and the front legs. The wedge-shaped
head is slightly broad with a tapered muzzle and a slight stop. The oval-shaped
eyes are large and the color is either dark brown/black or lighter shades of brown.
The nose will also be black or brown depending on the color of the coat. The pendant
ears are small and set slightly above eye level. The jaw should be strong and the
teeth should meet in a scissor-like bite. The slightly arched neck is strong and
flows into muscular, well laid back shoulders. The back is well-developed with a
level topline and the chest should be deep with well-sprung ribs. The legs should
be straight with strong pasterns and well let down hocks. The tail should be level
with the topline and carried straight.
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Temperament
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Curly-Coated Retrievers are affectionate, friendly, loyal, clever and mischievous.
They are excellent with children and devoted to their families; however they should
be supervised around toddlers since they can easily knock the child over. This breed
also gets along with other dogs and household pets if raised with them. Curly-Coated
Retrievers may be reserved and timid towards strangers if not properly socialized.
They love to swim and are excellent therapy dogs. This breed also does not fully
mature until they are three years old.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 25-27" ; Weight: 65-80 lbs.
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Health Problems
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As with larger breed dogs, the Curly is prone to hip dysplasia. They are also prone
to epilepsy, bloat and eye problems.
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Living Conditions
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Curlys should not live in an apartment. A large yard near water is better for this
breed. They should not be left alone as they need to be with their families.
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Exercise
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This high energy breed needs lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation.
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Life Expectancy
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About 8-12 years
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Grooming
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This breed requires special grooming. Bathe when necessary but do not comb or brush
the coat. Let it dry to its natural curliness. This breed is an average shedder
with heavier seasonal shedding.
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Origin
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Known to be one of the oldest retriever breeds, the Curly-Coated Retriever was developed
in England. Records have shown that the breed dates back to the early 1800s and
was probably resulted from crosses of the English Water Dog, the old Water Spaniel,
the St. John's Newfoundland dog, Irish Water Spaniel, the Labrador and the Poodle.
The Curly-Coated Retriever is a great water retriever, gun dog and an excellent
hunting companion. The breed was first imported to the United States in 1907 and
although they are not well known, the breed was recognized by the AKC in 1924 and
by the UKC in 1960. Curly-Coated Retrievers have become extremely popular in Australia
and New Zealand due to their abilities in hunting, tracking, retrieving, watch dogging,
guarding, agility, and competitive obedience.
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Group
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AKC Sporting, UKC Gun Dog
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