Curly-Coated Retriever

Other names: Curly, CCR

Curly-Coated Retriever

The Curly-Coated Retriever was bred in England. It was used for retrieving game and waterbirds and is the tallest of the retriever breeds. The name comes from its distinctive curly coat. The tight curls repel water and burrs (dry seeds that have hooks or teeth) which are often found near lakes and ponds frequented by waterbirds. Like any retriever breed, the curly coated is a lively, friendly, soft-natured animal. They make excellent family pets.  

Key facts about the Curly-Coated Retriever

Life expectancy :

5

17

10

12

Temperament :

Intelligent Hunter

Size :

Origins and history

The Curly Coated is thought to be one of the oldest retriever breeds. Because of its curly coat, some experts believe it was cross-bred from the Poodle. There’s no definitive proof, but, given that the Poodle is also a water dog, such speculation is well within the bounds of possibility. Like many working dogs, its numbers dropped during the beginning of the 20th century as more rural settlements were swallowed up by waves of industrialisation. However, breeding groups were set up in the 1930s and the Curly Coated became a popular household pet in a range of countries including Sweden, Australia, and the USA. Despite being a British breed, the Curly Coated is a rare choice for UK dog owners. 

FCI breed nomenclature

FCI Group

Group 8 - Retrievers - Flushing Dogs - Water Dogs

Section

Section 1 : Retrievers

Physical characteristics of the Curly-Coated Retriever

    Adult size

    Female : Between 24 and 25 in

    Male : Between 26 and 27 in

    Weight

    Female : Between 53 and 66 lb

    Male : Between 62 and 75 lb

    Coat colour

    Black
    Brown

    Type of coat

    Short
    Wavy

    Eye colour

    Brown

    Description

    The Curly-coated Retriever is slightly taller and leaner than other retriever breeds. The most obvious feature is their curly coat. They have a robust, long, athletic body, and a well-balanced gait. They have well proportioned, flat and strong jaws, a medium length muzzle and short, flat ears. The tail is quite short, and covered with adorable little curls.

    Good to know

    These dogs have a very low tolerance for boredom. 

    Training should always be fun. Treat it like a game. 

    Unless well socialised, these dogs have an exceptionally high prey drive. 

    Temperament

    • 66%

      Affectionate

      This is a very affectionate dog, who is especially fond of small children. The Curly Coated Retriever is a naturally loving animal, who also maintains an independent character.

    • 66%

      Playful

      They love to play, especially with children. Training should always be based around fun, engaging games that mimic the Curly Coated Retriever’s natural instincts to chase and retrieve. 

    • 66%

      Calm

      They can be very excitable, and young pups have a tendency to be hyperactive. However, they know how to get on by themselves as long as their needs are met.

    • 100%

      Intelligent

      These dogs are very smart. They learn quickly and are capable of understanding a range of complex voice commands. They are balanced and trustworthy.

    • 100%

      Hunter

      These dogs were bred to hunt and retrieve water birds. They have a very high prey drive and need lots of exercise.  

    • 100%

      Fearful / wary of strangers

      They are quite sociable with people, although perhaps a little less so than other retrievers (Golden and Labrador). They may be reserved with strangers, so proper introductions should be made.

    • 66%

      Independent

      Like most intelligent dogs, the Curly Coated can be very independently minded. The right kind of training is vital for these dogs, and this needs to start as early as possible. If not, they can become disobedient. 

      Behaviour of the Curly-Coated Retriever

      • 33%

        Tolerates solitude

        The curly coat is a social dog. They need lots of company. Long periods of solitude will make them feel very unhappy and affect their long-term mental health.

      • 100%

        Easy to train / obedience

        One of the easiest dogs to train, they love to please their owners. However, training must be fun and engaging. These sensitive dogs require a gentle and patient hand.

      • 66%

        Barking

        They don’t usually bark excessively, or without good reason.

      • 66%

        Tendency to run away

        Keep a close eye on them during runs off the leash. They may go chasing after a pigeon or a squirrel, and they won’t give up until they catch it, or you get them under control.

      • 66%