what they are likeCurly-coated Retriever temperament
A clever, self-assured dog that is steady and dependable in the field. It is friendly and bold but can seem a little aloof with strangers, and it likes to think a problem through for itself rather than simply wait for instructions.14
how to spot oneCurly-coated Retriever coat and colours
tight curls, no undercoat
A tall, athletic retriever, a touch longer than it is tall. From the back of the skull to the tail tip the body is covered in small, crisp curls that sit close to the skin and shed water, while the face and front of the legs have smooth, short hair.12
A typical home-care rhythm for a Curly-coated Retriever. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery 2 days
Bathevery month
HaircutClip or scissor to keep curls from mattingevery 6 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
by countryIs the Curly-coated Retriever legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Curly-coated Retriever in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksCurly-coated Retriever exercise needs
High. The Royal Kennel Club suggests more than two hours of exercise a day, and the breed especially enjoys swimming and retrieving work.34
the hands-on bitsCurly-coated Retriever grooming and care
Grooming more than once a week is advised, and the coat does shed.3
where they are happiestCurly-coated Retriever at home
Suits town or country homes with a large garden and regular access to open ground or water.3
who they like aroundCurly-coated Retriever with people and other pets
Bonds well with its family and works as a partner in the field; can take time to warm up to people it does not know.14
where it all beganCurly-coated Retriever history
The Curly is counted among the oldest retriever breeds and, together with the Wavy-coated (now Flat-coated) Retriever, was one of the first two retrievers recognised, around 1860. Gamekeepers used it for upland birds and waterfowl, and its curly coat is thought to come from the extinct English Water Spaniel with retriever and Poodle blood added. The first breed club was founded in 1933.32
The Royal Kennel Club calls it the oldest of the retrievers.3
3
Its coat has no undercoat at all, just a thick layer of small curls.1
4
The dense curls are said to shrug off both water and burrs.2
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed is named for its distinctive curly coat, which in Curly-Coated Retrievers is caused by a specific genetic variant (the C2 allele) in the KRT71 gene.5
I woke up and nudged my human's hand for a morning scratch. After breakfast, we headed to the lake, my favorite place! I dove in, the cool water washing over my tight curls. I retrieved a stick with pride, thinking through each splash. Back home, I curled up on the rug, drying off. A neighbor came by, and I gave a polite sniff before returning to my spot. In the afternoon, we played fetch in the garden, and I felt steady and happy. Now, I'm dreaming of tomorrow's swim.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 110, Group 8 (Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs), Section 1 Retrievers; standard dated 28.07.2009, country of origin Great Britain.1
The Royal Kennel Club
Gundog group; listed as a vulnerable native breed; Breed Watch category 1.3
AKC
Recognised breed with an AKC breed page; ranked 168th of 202 breeds in 2025 registrations.6
Popularity Ranked 168th of 202 AKC-registered breeds6
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Curly-coated Retriever, and at what times?
Feed your Curly-coated Retriever at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. Stick to regular times each day, and always follow the food label and your vet's advice for amounts.7
What should a Curly-coated Retriever eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, so keep these away from your dog.8
How often should I bathe a Curly-coated Retriever?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, but general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, and always use a dog-safe shampoo.9Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Curly-coated Retriever need brushing?
Brush your Curly-coated Retriever more than once a week, and Pet Wiki's plan suggests every two days. This helps keep the tight curls free of mats and reduces shedding.3Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Curly-coated Retriever's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 28 days or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and ask your vet or a groomer to show you how if you are unsure.9Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Curly-coated Retriever need?
This breed needs high activity, with more than two hours of exercise daily. They especially love swimming and retrieving, so include these activities when you can.34
How do I look after a Curly-coated Retriever's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. For floppy ears, dry them gently after swimming or baths to prevent infections.9Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Curly-coated Retriever live?
The typical lifespan is 10 to 12 years, with some living a bit longer. Regular vet check-ups and good care help them stay healthy through their senior years.32
Is a Curly-coated Retriever good with children and other pets?
Yes, they are friendly and bond well with their family, including children. They can be a little aloof with strangers but are steady and dependable, and they usually get along with other pets when raised together.14
Can a Curly-coated Retriever be left alone?
This breed bonds closely with its family and may not enjoy long periods alone. How long they can be left varies, so ask your vet or a good breeder for advice based on your dog's personality.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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