Curly Coated Retriever

DevotedReservedIntelligentProtectiveHardworking

The Curly Coated Retriever is a steady, dignified gundog with a serious, sometimes reserved manner. Many are devoted to their families and do well with children who are taught to respect them, though they tend to be more wary of strangers than friendly retrievers often are. They usually get along with other dogs and can live with cats if raised with them.

Day to day, this is a working breed that needs real exercise, mental challenges, and room to move. Swimming, retrieving games, and scent work suit them well. Their dense, tight curls need regular brushing to stay clean and mat-free, and they benefit from consistent training started early.

Good for: Active owners with space, experienced dog people

Size	giant
Height	25–27 in
Exercise	about 75 min a day
Shedding	low
Origin	United Kingdom

Before you choose a Curly Coated Retriever

Their size, strength, and need for daily work make consistent training and exercise essential from the first week.

Living with a Curly Coated Retriever

Exercise

Plan for an hour or more of activity daily, including long walks, retrieving, and swimming. Mental work such as scent games or training sessions helps keep them settled.

Grooming

The tight, crisp curls shed lightly but mat if neglected. Brush weekly, check ears and coat after water work, and bathe only as needed.

Health

This breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, and some lines are affected by eye conditions and certain heart issues. Ask your vet about screening and buy from breeders who health test their dogs.

Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Progressive retinal atrophy

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

Questions owners ask

Do Curly Coated Retrievers shed?

They shed lightly for a retriever. Their curly coat traps loose hair, so regular brushing removes it and prevents matting.

Can a Curly Coated Retriever live in an apartment?

It is difficult. They are giant dogs that need substantial daily exercise and space to move, so a house with a yard or access to open land suits them better.

Do Curly Coated Retrievers bark a lot?

They are generally quiet dogs and bark mainly to alert or when bored. Good exercise and training help prevent unnecessary barking.