Mary Allen
The Curly-Coated Retriever is known as the oldest of the English retriever breeds – and was also at one time the most popular. Find out everything about the behavior, character, activity and exercise needs, education, and care of the Curly-Coated Retriever dog breed in the profile.
The Curly-Coated Retriever is quite rare in Germany. Experts believe that the curly coat that gives it its name comes from the English Waterdog, which was a hugely popular breed in the 17th century. Otherwise, it is believed that pointers and setters were crossed, possibly even poodles or Irish water spaniels. In the 19th century, the Curly was already known in its current form, as shown in pictures. It was recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1854.
General Appearance
As its name suggests – curly means curly in English – the Curly Coated Retriever has frizzy hair that makes this breed unmistakable. The “Curly” is a powerful dog that does not lack a certain elegance. The head is wedge-shaped, the eyes are large, oval, and slanted. The back should be strong, the chest-deep. The tail should reach the hock and be straight. Curls also cover the small ears.
Behavior and temperament
Good-natured, intelligent, and friendly, the Curly Coated Retriever has a will to please without being overly subservient to its owner. Courage and self-confidence characterize him, he is also fond of children and loyal. He can show a certain reserve towards strangers.
Need for employment and physical activity
First of all: The Curly-Coated Retriever is a dog that is suitable for advanced learners. In addition, he should definitely be given hunting tasks in order to find his fulfillment as a companion dog. As a retriever, he needs species-appropriate activity. If it is not possible to lead him hunting, you have to do a lot of retrieval and dummy training with him. He wants to use his excellent sense of smell for nose work. He does not want to be kept as an apartment dog, the Curly also needs a lot of exercises. By the way, he is considered to be funny and imaginative, so you shouldn’t get bored with him.
Upbringing
Since the “Curly” has healthy self-confidence and a certain degree of independence, it is not always easy to educate him. Because, as already mentioned, despite its need to please its owner, the breed is not considered submissive, so it must be raised consistently and with patience from an early age.
Maintenance
The robust, curly, water-repellent coat is actually not very difficult to care for. It doesn’t have to be brushed, every now and then you can massage the curls with damp hands so that they don’t feel. If the Curly goes into the water regularly, he practically grooms himself. Show dogs are occasionally trimmed on the tail and ears.
Did you know?
The Curly-Coated Retriever is known as the oldest of the English retriever breeds – and was also at one time the most popular.