English gamekeepers, hunters, and poachers all used the Curly-Coated Retriever dog breed, which was developed to retrieve game from either land or water. Nowadays they participate in dog sports including field trials and flyball as well as being used as therapy animals, drug-sniffing canines, and search and rescue canines.
In their spare time, they'll like lying on the ground with their favourite person and receiving a good back rub. See all the characteristics and facts of Curly-Coated Retrievers here!
Highlights
- Among the retriever breeds, the Curly-Coated Retriever's coat is the most unique. The coat is easy to maintain and sheds only twice a year, making it a low-maintenance breed.
- Allergy sufferers should be aware that Curly-Coated Retrievers tend to have an oily coat.
- As with other retriever breeds, curly-coated retrievers must be well socialised in order to avoid any apprehension.
- There is little doubt that Curly-Coated Retrievers, like other sporting and working breeds, are highly energetic creatures. They can become destructive out of boredom if they don't get enough exercise, which should be at least 30 to 60 minutes each day.
- Toys, clothing, and even people's hands aren't safe from Curly-Coated Retrievers' gnawing and nipping.
- Despite his intelligence, the Curly-Coated Retriever needs a strong and confident owner who can deter him from taking over the reins. His training and activities should be varied as well, as he gets bored doing the same thing over and over again.
- Curly-Coated Retrievers are more difficult to find than other breeds, but it is still necessary to search for the best potential breeder, even if you face extensive waiting lists.
- In general, Curly-Coated Retrievers take longer to mature than other breeds, so be prepared for your dog to act like a puppy for at least three years.
- Curly-Coated Retrievers are generally good with children, but no dog, regardless of breed, should ever be left alone with a small child.
- Curly-Coated Retrievers fare better in homes with a spacious yard where they can burn off their excess energy rather than living in an apartment. After meeting their energy needs at home, they tend to be a lot quieter.
- Curly-Coated Retrievers, despite their love of the great outdoors, are not dogs that can be kennelled outside. When they are separated from their family, they can become extremely destructive.
- Never buy a puppy from a puppy mill, negligent breeder, or pet retailer if you want a healthy dog. To ensure that her breeding dogs are free of genetic disorders that they could pass on to the puppies and have sound temperaments, find a reliable breeder who performs genetic testing on her dogs.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
65 to 100 pounds
Lifespan
9 to 12 years
Height
1 foot, 11 inches to 2 feet, 3 inches tall at the shoulder
History
The Curly-Coated Retriever, one of the oldest and most distinctive retriever breeds, may have been utilised in England as early as the late eighteenth century for retrieval. In spite of speculation as to its origin, it is likely derived from the cross between an Irish Water Spaniel and a little Newfoundland. Some of the best water dogs in the world were merged into one animal by these breeds.
It was through crosses with the Poodle, an excellent water retriever in its own right, that these curly locks were further accentuated over time. The Curly-Coated Retriever was the most popular retriever in England by the mid-1800s, not only because of its exceptional retrieving talents but also because it was a loyal and trustworthy companion. At English dog exhibitions, it was one of the earliest breeds to be shown.
Exports to Australia and New Zealand were well-received, and the breed continues to be popular in those countries today. The first American imports were made in 1907, and the breed was recognised by the AKC in 1924.
Personality and Temperament
Even-tempered, loving dogs, curly-coated retrievers get along well with children, and prefer to spend time with their owners rather than being left outside on their own. However, due to their high level of energy, these dogs may be too boisterous for extremely young children.
As a rule of thumb, curly-coated retrievers are considered intelligent and easy to teach. Curlies, on the other hand, have a reputation for being stubborn and maturing slowly, so training them may take longer than with other breeds of retrievers.
Dogs with curly coats tend to be shy around strangers, and they'll do their best to protect their owners and their children. To prevent extreme shyness with strangers, they should be socialised from an early age.
In the wild, the Curly-Coated Retriever is an eager and tireless land and water retriever, yet a peaceful friend at home. Intensely empathetic and receptive to commands, he is a natural with children. He is wary of meeting new people. Despite being one of the retrievers' bravest members, he is also one of their most sensitive. He's a great match for someone who enjoys spending time outside but also wants a devoted friend for their family.
Care
A curly-coated retriever can be a fantastic companion for families with a lot of activity. The coat of this breed is easy to care for, requiring only a conventional bath and attention to the nails, teeth, and ears on a regular basis.
Health
Several Curly Coated Retrievers have been reported to have lived to the ripe old age of 15 to 17 years. Because of some predispositions, their typical life expectancy is only 9 to 14 years old.
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV)
In order to treat GDV, also known as bloat, a surgical procedure must be performed. During a GDV, the stomach fills with gas and rotates on its axis, preventing food from being swallowed. The accumulation of gas in the stomach continues to cause agony, collapse, and even death. –
Surgery is the only option for repositioning the stomach and removing the trapped gas. GDV is more likely to develop in large breed dogs, but other risk factors, such as eating a large meal soon after a rigorous exercise session, have been found to play a role.
Ectropion / Entropion
In both entropion and ectropion, there is a hereditary basis for the eyelid disease. An eyelid condition known as entropion is when the eyelid curls inward, causing the eyelid's hair to come into contact with the cornea.
In contrast, Ectropion refers to eyelids that fold outward such that the centre of the eye is exposed when blinking, a condition known as ectropion both can cause corneal ulcers and are extremely painful. Fortunately, they can be remedied with a rather straightforward operation.
Epilepsy
Idiopathic epilepsy is more common in Curly Coated Retrievers. Seizures are caused by this, although the cause is unknown. The first signs of idiopathic epilepsy appear between the ages of six months and six years.
After ruling out other possible causes of the seizures, a diagnosis is made. The frequency of seizures will rise until euthanasia is an option for patients with idiopathic epilepsy, which can be controlled with medication management. Epileptic dogs, on the other hand, can lead normal lives up until that time.
Cancer
Mast cell tumours, osteosarcoma, lymphoma, and hemangiosarcoma are just some of the cancers that Curly Coated Retrievers are susceptible to developing. For Curly Coated Retriever owners, it's important to keep an eye out for skin lumps and changes in demeanour, which could indicate that your dog isn't feeling well.
Cataracts
The lens of the eye becomes clouded by cataracts. As they age, Curly Coated Retrievers are more likely to develop them. They will eventually lead to blindness because they are progressing. Surgical removal of the cataract can restore eyesight if the condition is severe enough.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia Curly Coated Retrievers, like other large breed dogs, are prone to developing hip dysplasia. When the femur's head isn't properly aligned in the hip joint, this problem occurs. As a result, arthritis develops more quickly, and it can cause discomfort at a young age.
It is rare to find a dog hip replacement, even though it has been successful in smaller breeds. Pain control and nutritional supplements are the mainstays of treatment. Screening and hip scoring of breeding animals is recommended since hip dysplasia is hereditary.
Recommended Health Tests
- Hip Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- EIC DNA Test
- GSD Illa DNA Test
- Cord-1 PRA DNA Test
Nutrition
Dog food that is strong in protein and excellent in quality is essential for curl-coated retrievers, an active and athletic breed. Dogs who are active on a daily basis will need to eat more to keep up with their calorie requirements.
You should feed your curly several smaller meals a day rather than one huge portion because this breed is susceptible to bloat, which can cause the dog to gulp food down too quickly. Ask your veterinarian for advice on how to feed your dog based on his age, weight, and level of exercise.
Grooming
The CCR's curls are probably its most recognisable feature. However, the face, forelegs, and feet are all coated in short, straight fur, despite the dense coat on the rest of the body. Curly-coated retriever is a low-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming compared to other retrievers and many other dog breeds. Because brushing causes frizz, the characteristic curls are best cleaned with a moist towel.
With no oily undercoat, you don't need to bathe your CCR very often. To keep your dog's coat looking its best, keep a grooming rake handy for when it sheds twice a year. To ensure the health of their dogs, owners must perform routine grooming tasks like brushing their teeth, cutting their claws, and washing their ears (particularly after a swim).
Exercise
Curly-coated retrievers have a lean and athletic build that suggests they were not bred to be lap dogs. If you give curly-coated retrievers some exercise and a job to perform, they excel and remain out of trouble. Don't underestimate or dismiss their intellect.
To raise a well-balanced dog, give your pooch at least 30 to 60 minutes of strenuous exercise every day, as well as enough of cerebral stimulation. You may keep your dog's mind active with activities such as running, long walks, hiking, or biking, as well as activities that are unique to the breed's natural tendencies, such as swimming and playing fetch.
Training
It's possible to start training CCR puppies as early as eight weeks of age, and they're eager to learn. Those who enjoy hunting and the great outdoors will find that this breed excels at retrieving game and waterfowl. Even if you don't plan to take your dog hunting, you may still keep curly happiness by training them to retrieve or carry tiny objects. Canine activities such as agility, flyball, and more can be offered to these dogs by their owners.
The curly retriever, like most retrievers, utilises its mouth for a variety of purposes, including carrying or chewing on objects and learning not to nip. These dogs are known to get bored and start chewing on things around the house if left alone for an extended period of time.
Children and Other Pets
Curly-Coated Retrievers are wonderful pets for older children who can handle their size and energy level, but they may be too much for younger children who are easily knocked down during playtime. It's important to set some ground rules for your dog and the youngsters she meets whenever she interacts with them. Biting, pulling, or grabbing of ears or tails is not permitted. Dogs and tiny children should never be left alone together.
In general, Curly-Coated Retrievers get along well with other animals, but early socialisation is critical if you want your dog to be comfortable among other canines and animals.
Puppies
It's critical to give your Curly Coated Retriever puppy as much exposure to people and other animals as possible while it's still a puppy. In this way, as the dog matures, it will feel more at home in the family home. Also, these energetic puppies need a lot of room to run around!
Dog breeds related to Curly Coated Retrievers
The Labrador Retriever, poodle, and American Water Spaniel are all close relatives of the Curly Coated Retriever.
Labrador Retriever
Curly Coated Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are comparable in height and weight. Labradors are more gregarious and friendly than Curlies, who are more reserved.
Poodle
Curly Coated Retrievers and Poodle Poodles both have the same coat type. Both of them are extremely well-educated and devoted individuals. Curly Coated Retrievers are larger than Poodles in terms of height and weight.
American Water Spaniel
These two breeds of water dogs have a lot in common when it comes to intelligence and alertness. Both of them have a wavy texture to their hair. In contrast, an American Water Spaniel has an easygoing personality, whilst a Curly Coated Retriever needs some time to become used to new people and situations.