The Curly Coated Retriever is one of the oldest Retrieving breeds. Developed in England, this breed was a favorite of English huntsmen who admired their gentle retrieving capabilities. Curly Coated Retriever's are extremely popular in New Zealand and Australia. However, they are quite uncommon in the United States and are difficult to acquire.
A breed of courage, perseverance, and grace, the Curly Coated Retriever has an indomitable field ability. They are sturdy, muscular, well-built, and balanced. The Curly Coated Retriever breed is a self-confident and elegant show, hunting, and companion dog.
The Curly Coated Retriever is loyal, affectionate, and sensitive. This breed does well with children, other dogs, and pets. They are aloof and reserved with strangers, but will only show aggression if they sense threatening danger. Curly Coated Retriever's are an extremely well-mannered breed, proud, and friendly.
The Curly Coated Retriever breed requires minimal grooming. Occasional brushing will suffice. The Curly Coated Retriever should only be bathed when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo. It is important that there be no damage to the coat. Regular checking of the ears for debris or infection is recommended. This breed is prone to eye problems, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia.
The coat of the Curly Coated Retriever is unique and distinctive. The coat on the body is a mass of thick tight, small curls that lay close to the skin. The coat on the feet, face, and forehead is smooth, short, and straight. The coat is water and weather resistant. The Curly Coated Retriever breed is an average shedder.
The Curly Coated Retriever breed is sensitive, independent, and has a tendency to be stubborn. Early socialization and obedience training is crucial. It is important that training sessions be short and varied as they become bored quite easily. Curly Coated Retriever's do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, and consistency.
Curly Coated Retriever's are not recommended for apartment living. They thrive on outdoor activity but must be indoor companions. They do best in a rural setting. The Curly Coated Retriever needs an inordinate amount of physical exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy and excel at swimming, tracking, retrieving, agility, as watchdogs, and competitive obedience.
Male: 80-100; Female: 70-90 lbs
Male: 25-27; Female: 23-25 inches
Black or Liver
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