Curly-Coated Retriever

Distinguished by its coat of small, tight, water-resistant, crisp curls, the Curly-Coated Retriever is a strong, robust and agile breed. Developed to be a multi-purpose hunting retriever, the Curly will work for as long as there is work to be done, retrieving game in the heaviest of cover and iciest of waters. The breed's curly coat can be black or liver in color.

Though the correct origin of the Curly-Coated Retriever is unclear, there appears little doubt that he is one of the oldest of all breeds now classified as Retrievers. He is popularly believed to be descended from the 16th century English Water Spaniel, the St. John's Newfoundland, the retrieving setter, and, in the late 19th century, the Poodle.

Breed Profile

It requires training and daily exercise or a job to keep him from becoming bored and destructive. This is a breed that enjoys human interactions and hence is never happy being relegated to a backyard with only occasional human contact. One of the more independent retriever breeds, the Curly may appear somewhat aloof, but is always willing to please. Early socialization and training are necessary to ensure a happy, well-adjusted Curly.