Mary Allen
Introduction: Curly-Coated Retrievers
The Curly-Coated Retriever is a breed of dog that is known for its curly and tight coat. The breed is known to be agile and strong, making it a great hunting companion. The breed is also known for its intelligence and loyalty, which makes it a great family pet. The origin of the breed can be traced back to the 18th century, where it was used as a hunting dog in England.
Retrievers in the 18th century
During the 18th century, retrievers were used to retrieve game that was shot down by hunters. These dogs were bred to have a soft mouth, which meant that they could retrieve the game without damaging it. At this time, retrievers were not a separate breed, and they were often referred to as water dogs or water spaniels. These dogs were bred to work in the water, and their thick coats protected them from the cold water.
Water spaniels and poodles
In the 18th century, water spaniels and poodles were the two most popular breeds of water dogs. Water spaniels were bred to retrieve game from the water, while poodles were bred to retrieve game from the land. Both of these breeds had curly coats, which made them ideal for working in the water. Water spaniels were also known for their loyalty and intelligence, which made them great family pets.
"The Curly" as a separate breed
In the early 19th century, a breed of dog known as "The Curly" began to emerge. This breed was a cross between water spaniels and poodles and was bred specifically to retrieve game from the water. The breed was known for its curly and tight coat, which protected it from the cold water. "The Curly" was also known for its intelligence and loyalty, which made it a great family pet.
Early breed development in England
In the mid-19th century, the breed was further developed in England. Breeders began to focus on breeding dogs that had a more distinct curly coat, and they also focused on breeding dogs that were larger and stronger. The breed became known as the Curly-Coated Retriever, and it quickly became a popular breed in England.
The importation to the United States
The Curly-Coated Retriever was first imported to the United States in the late 1800s. The breed quickly gained popularity in the United States, and it became known for its hunting abilities and loyalty. The breed was also used as a family pet, and it quickly became a favorite among dog lovers.
Breed recognition by the AKC
The American Kennel Club recognized the Curly-Coated Retriever as a breed in 1924. The breed was recognized in the Sporting Group, which is a group of dogs that are known for their hunting abilities. The breed quickly gained popularity in the United States, and it became a favorite among dog lovers.
World War II and breed decline
During World War II, the Curly-Coated Retriever breed declined in popularity. Many breeders were forced to stop breeding dogs, and many dogs were sent overseas to serve in the war. The breed struggled to recover after the war, and it became a rare breed in the United States.
Breed restoration in the United States
In the 1960s, a group of dedicated breeders began to work to restore the Curly-Coated Retriever breed in the United States. These breeders focused on breeding dogs that were healthy and had a strong hunting ability. They also focused on breeding dogs that were loyal and intelligent, which made them great family pets.
Current popularity and breeding
Today, the Curly-Coated Retriever breed is still a rare breed in the United States. However, the breed has gained popularity in recent years, and it is becoming more common. Breeders are still working to improve the breed, and they are focusing on breeding dogs that are healthy, intelligent, and loyal.
Curly-Coated Retrievers in competition
Curly-Coated Retrievers are often used in hunting competitions, and they are known for their agility and strength. They are also used in obedience competitions, and they are known for their intelligence and trainability. The breed is a great competitor in these competitions, and it is known for its ability to perform well under pressure.
Conclusion: A unique and historic breed
The Curly-Coated Retriever is a unique and historic breed of dog that is known for its curly and tight coat, as well as its loyalty and intelligence. The breed has a rich history that can be traced back to the 18th century, and it has played an important role in hunting and as a family pet. Today, the breed is still rare in the United States, but it is gaining popularity among dog lovers. Breeders are working to improve the breed, and it is sure to remain a favorite among dog lovers for years to come.