Care and Health of the Curly Coated Retriever

The Curly is an extremely easy-care dog, you only have to pay attention to a few things with him. We have listed them for you here.

Grooming

The Curly is an extremely easy-care dog, brushing or combing is completely eliminated. It should only be noted that wetting the hair occasionally with water and then massaging it in with spread fingers in a circular motion is highly recommended in order to maintain the curly hair’s splendor.

It’s also important to only do this with water, as too much shampooing can cause coat problems by destroying the natural protective layer. The Curly sheds its coat twice a year, dead hair is also removed by massaging the curls. That means the best grooming routine is regular swimming!

Did you know that moistening with rainwater or a garden hose is also sufficient for grooming?
Trimming is not really necessary, only the tail or the hair under the ear flaps is clipped away every now and then.

Diseases and problems

The Curly has few diseases or problems that are typical of the breed. Other retriever breeds have common eye problems, such as PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) and HC (hereditary cataract), as well as the dreaded hip dysplasia (HD). These occur from time to time with the Curly, but also much less than with the retriever colleagues.

Some Curly Coated Retrievers have coat problems, this affects symmetrical bare spots, mostly on females, on the neck and hindquarters. This can be due to hereditary factors, an imbalanced hormone balance, negative environmental influences, and improper nutrition.

Nutrition

Diet is particularly important for Curlies, as they tend to become overweight quickly. So two solid meals and a few treats throughout the day are important.

In addition, the food should be adapted to the energy and nutrient needs of the dog and the ingredients should have a good vitamin and nutrient composition.

Activities with the Curly Coated Retriever

In its history, the Curly was used particularly as an independent working hunting dog, especially in water hunting, or as a protection dog against poachers and to guard yards and houses. They were also used by Norfolk fishermen and for setting and hauling in nets and lines, such as in Australia for duck hunting.

If you buy a Curly, you should make enough use of it accordingly, most Curlys are enthusiastic about any kind of fun. Here are a few ideas for possible brain-activating activities:

• Hunting (professional or as a hobby);
• Nose work;
• Fetch;
• Dummy training;
• To swim;
• Rescue dog training;
• Guide dog training;
• Jog;
• Cycle.