bestdogbox
Find Your Box
Find Your Box
bestdogbox

Finding the perfect subscription box for your pup.

Reviews

  • BarkBox
  • Super Chewer
  • Ollie
  • The Farmer's Dog
  • Sundays

Dog Food

  • Fresh Dog Food
  • Raw Dog Food
  • Freeze-Dried Dog Food
  • Air-Dried Dog Food

Company

  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy
  • Terms

Free Tools

  • Dog Age Calculator
  • Pregnancy Calculator
  • Calorie Calculator
  • Puppy Weight Calculator
  • Dog Name Generator
  • Dog Cost Calculator
  • Walking Calculator
  • Ideal Weight Calculator
  • Sleep Calculator
  • Water Calculator

More Tools

  • Heat Cycle Calculator
  • Birthday Calculator
  • Body Condition Score
  • Vaccination Schedule
  • Travel Checklist
  • Grooming Schedule
  • Dog Breed Quiz
  • Personality Quiz
  • Dog Dream Generator
  • Dog Zodiac Generator

Resources

  • Dog Breeds
  • Blog
  • Subscription Boxes
  • Power Chewer Toys

© 2026 BestDogBox. All rights reserved.

We may earn a commission from affiliate links.

Home/Breeds/Curly-Coated Retriever
large breedhigh energy

Curly-Coated Retriever

Weight

60-95 lbs

Height

23-27 inches

Lifespan

10-12 years

Origin

England

Temperament

ConfidentProudSmart

The Curly-Coated Retriever is the oldest of the retriever breeds with distinctive curly coat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Curly-Coated Retriever

Are Curly-Coated Retrievers good family dogs?

Yes, Curlies are devoted family dogs. They are affectionate and good with children.

Are Curly-Coated Retrievers rare?

Yes, Curlies are the rarest of the retriever breeds. They are relatively uncommon.

How much exercise does a Curly-Coated Retriever need?

Curlies need 1-2 hours of exercise daily. They are high-energy sporting dogs.

What health problems do Curly-Coated Retrievers have?

Common issues include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and bloat. Cancer risk is elevated.

How long do Curly-Coated Retrievers live?

Curlies typically live 10-12 years.

Are Curlies easy to train?

Curlies are intelligent but can be independent. They mature slowly. Patient training works best.

Do Curly-Coated Retrievers shed?

Curlies shed minimally despite their coat. Their tight curls trap loose hair.

How big do Curly-Coated Retrievers get?

Curlies weigh 60-95 pounds and stand 23-27 inches tall. They are the tallest retrievers.

Are Curlies hypoallergenic?

Curlies are not hypoallergenic but shed less than other retrievers.

Are Curlies good with other dogs?

Yes, Curlies are friendly with other dogs. They are social.

Do Curly-Coated Retrievers bark a lot?

Curlies are not excessive barkers. They may bark when alerting or excited.

Are Curlies good swimming dogs?

Yes, Curlies are excellent swimmers. They were bred for waterfowl retrieving.

How do you groom a Curly-Coated Retriever?

Curlies should never be brushed. Wet the coat and air dry for best curls.

Are Curlies good apartment dogs?

Curlies are not ideal for apartments due to size and energy. They need space.

Are Curlies good for first-time owners?

Curlies can be challenging for first-timers due to independent nature. Experience helps.

Explore More Breeds

Similar to Curly-Coated Retriever

Afghan Hound

large • high

Airedale Terrier

large • high

Akita

large • high

Alaskan Malamute

large • very-high

More Breeds from England

Beagle

small • high

Bull Terrier

medium • high

Bulldog

medium • low

Bullmastiff

giant • moderate

Breed Info

Grooming
low
Chewing
moderate
Activity
high
AKC Group
Sporting

Common Health Issues

  • • Hip Dysplasia
  • • Elbow Dysplasia
  • • Heart Disease
  • • Exercise Induced Collapse

Other Popular Breeds

  • Affenpinscher
  • Afghan Hound
  • Airedale Terrier
  • Akbash Dog
  • Akita