Curly-Coated Retriever

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingWeekly brushing

  A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment10–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Bloat (GDV) · Progressive retinal atrophy

The Curly-Coated Retriever is a confident, independent gundog that is a little more reserved and self-reliant than the Labrador or Golden. Devoted and affectionate with its family, it tends to be aloof and discerning with strangers, making it a naturally alert companion. Curlies are intelligent and playful, keeping a puppyish sense of fun for years, but their independent streak means they think for themselves. Bred to retrieve on land and in cold water all day, this is an athletic breed that needs substantial daily exercise — swimming, fetch, running and dog sports are ideal. Mentally sharp, Curlies can bore of repetitive drills, so keep training varied, upbeat and reward-based to hold their interest. A well-exercised Curly is calm and easygoing at home; an under-worked one grows restless. The distinctive curly coat is surprisingly low-maintenance, needing little brushing (which can cause frizz) but occasional trimming and regular checks of the curls. The breed is generally healthy and long-lived for its size, with hip dysplasia, bloat, eye conditions and some cancers among the concerns. Given exercise and companionship, the Curly is a hardy, devoted family dog.

• How much exercise does a Curly-Coated Retriever need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Curly-Coated Retriever need?

  Weekly brushing. A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Is a Curly-Coated Retriever suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Curly-Coated Retriever a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Curly-Coated Retriever live?

  10–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Curly-Coated Retriever?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Bloat (GDV), Progressive retinal atrophy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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