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Curly-coated retriever

The Curly-Coated Retriever is the oldest of the retriever breeds, developed in England by the early nineteenth century for wildfowling, and covered in tight crisp curls that provide the same waterproofing other retrievers get from an oily double coat.

It stands 63 to 69 centimetres, weighs 29 to 41 kilograms and lives ten to twelve years. It is more aloof than other retrievers — friendly with its own people, reserved and watchful with strangers — and it is independent and slow to mature. It remains uncommon. One inherited metabolic disease is specific to the breed and has a DNA test.

Origin
England; the oldest retriever breed
Size
63–69 cm; 29–41 kg
Lifespan
10–12 years
Coat
Tight crisp curls over the whole body; waterproof
Temperament
Aloof with strangers, devoted at home; slow to mature
Health
Glycogen storage disease IIIa and EIC — both DNA testable

Related: Chesapeake bay retriever · Flat-coated retriever · Golden retriever · Labrador retriever

2 curly-coated retriever photos, newest first

  • Plum II, a curly coated retriever

    Plum II

    Plum II was promoted to librarian managing an avalanche of blank books; unfortunately, a ribbon spool rolls across the entire set.

    FrostyOtter · 1 week ago

  • Plum II, a curly coated retriever

    Plum II

    Plum II pretending the mud was not their idea.

    SunnyHeron · 2 weeks ago

Living with a curly-coated retriever

Ask for the glycogen storage disease IIIa DNA test. It is specific to this breed, recessive, and causes progressive liver and muscle disease in affected dogs. Also ask for exercise-induced collapse testing, hip and elbow scores and eye testing.

Do not brush the coat. Brushing turns the curls to frizz; the coat is washed, allowed to dry and left alone, with occasional trimming of stray hairs. This is the opposite of most coat care and catches new owners out.

They are reserved rather than unfriendly. Early and broad socialisation prevents that from becoming suspicion.

They mature slowly and stay adolescent well into the third year.

Cancer rates are higher than average in the breed; ask about longevity in the lines.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and anything about a specific animal is a question for a vet who has seen it.

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