Curly-Coated Retriever

Sporting Group

Three black Curly-Coated Retrievers sitting in front of a white background

Height at Shoulders

Females 23-25 in, Males 25-27 in

Weight

60-95 lbs

Life Expectancy

10-12 yrs

History

The Curly-Coated Retriever's history is a bit unclear, but it is generally accepted that the breed originated in England in the late 1700's. They are believed to be the oldest of the Retriever breeds. Curly-Coated Retrievers are likely descendents of English Water Spaniels and Retrieving Setters, both of which are now extinct, as well as Irish Water Spaniels, St. John's Dogs, and Poodles. Curly-Coated Retrievers were used to hunt upland birds and waterfowl, with their thick, curly, waterproof coat protecting them from icy water and briers.

Breed Characteristics

While not all Curly-Coated Retrievers share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.

Intelligence

Affection Towards Family

Friendliness Towards Strangers

Friendliness Towards Other Dogs

Exercise Needs

★★★★★

★★★★★

★★★☆☆

★★★★☆

★★★★☆

Energy Level

Sensitivity

Noise Level

Prey Drive

Shedding

★★★☆☆

★☆

★☆

Intelligence

★★★★★


Affection Towards Family

★★★★★


Friendliness Towards Strangers

★★★☆☆


Friendliness Towards Other Dogs

★★★★☆


Exercise Needs

★★★★☆


Energy Level


Sensitivity

★★★☆☆


Noise Level

★☆


Prey Drive

★★


Shedding

★☆

Common Traits

Independent, alert, determined, and confident

Mature slowly, taking a few years to grow out of "puppyhood"

Very mouthy and like to chew, nip, and carry things in their mouth

Can become destructive if not given sufficient mental stimulation or exercise

Friendly, loyal, and even-tempered, but are more reserved with strangers compared with other retriever breeds

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