The site was last updated on

24 Aug 2000

Name of breed: Curly-Coated Retriever
Class: Gundog Recognized: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI, KC (GB), KUSA
Size: Height at withers: dogs about 67cm (27in), bitches 62cm (25in).
Coat: A mass of crisp, small curls all over, except on face.
Colors: Black or liver

Everything about the Curly-Coated Retriever points to the Irish Water Spaniel or the Standard Poodle contributing to its ancestry. The Labrador Retriever obviously played some part in producing this fine breed, of which far too little in seen.
The Curly-Coated was first exhibited at dog shows in the United Kingdom as long ago as 1860, and one of the first breeds to be used seriously for retrieving purposes in England. However, despite its attractive appearance, stamina and working ability, it is now rarely seen outside the show ring. It has been said that its popularity as a sporting dog declined because of its reputation of being hard-mouthed, a fault that certainly does not exist in the breed today. 

Character and care

The Curly-Coated Retriever has an excellent nose and a good memory. It is a better guard than other retrievers, and while a little anti-social with its canine colleagues in the shooting field, it generally combines its working life admirably with that of a reliable family dog. It requires vigorous exercise, and fares best in country environment with plenty of opportunities to run free, its curly coat does not need to be brushed or combed, just dampened down and massaged with circular movements. Advice should be sought on the necessary trimming if it is the intention to exhibit.