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Curly-coated Retriever

Curly-coated Retriever is a large sporting breed from England.

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Curly-coated Retriever

Breed overview

Curly-coated Retriever is a large sporting breed from England.

One of the oldest retriever breeds, developed in England (circa late 18th century) from water spaniels and retrieving setters.

People looking into Curly-coated Retriever usually prepare for High exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 60–95 lbs • 23–27 in.

History and origin

Curly-coated Retriever is tied to originating from England, specifically English countryside, with sources often placing its development around 1860 CE.

Curly-coated Retriever is described here as placed in the Sporting group and marked as an established breed.

One of the oldest retriever breeds, developed in England (circa late 18th century) from water spaniels and retrieving setters.

Browse dog breeds from England Browse more Sporting breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Sporting
Size
Large
Origin country
England
Region
English countryside
Origin year
1860 CE
Weight
60–95 lbs
Height
23–27 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
3 / 5
Barking tendency
2 / 5
High exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Curly-coated Retriever is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

CurlyTightWater Resistant

Curly-coated Retriever is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Distinctive tight, crisp curls covering body
  • Sleek, graceful outline despite the curly coat
  • Tapered head with minimal stop
  • Available only in solid black or liver

What this breed is known for

  • One of the oldest retriever breeds, developed in England (circa late 18th century) from water spaniels and retrieving setters.
  • It has a distinctive tight, crisp curly coat (either black or liver in color) that is water-resistant, suited for retrieving waterfowl from cold waters.
  • Curly-Coated Retrievers are confident, intelligent, and independent. They tend to be a bit more reserved with strangers than other retriever breeds.

Health and care notes

Curly-coated Retriever is noted here for High exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Conditions
  • Bloat

Coat details: Curly, Tight, Water Resistant

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Curly-coated Retriever come from?

Curly-coated Retriever is closely associated with England, especially English countryside in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Curly-coated Retriever get?

Typical size details for Curly-coated Retriever on this page are 60–95 lbs, 23–27 in, 10–12 years.

What is the Curly-coated Retriever known for?

One of the oldest retriever breeds, developed in England (circa late 18th century) from water spaniels and retrieving setters.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Curly-coated Retriever reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.