Curly-Coated Retriever
Sporting Group
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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