Curly-Coated Retriever

The Curly-Coated Retriever, probably one of the oldest retriever breeds, is not simply a Labrador with curly hair. He is a distinct breed with his own personality--sensitive, intelligent, curious, and family-loving. Like all the retrievers, he loves his daily exercise, especially running and swimming.

His ancestors include the old English Water Spaniel (now extinct) and some form of retrieving setter. Also in his bloodlines is the Poodle, added around the late 1800s to strengthen his retrieving ability and tighten the curl in his coat.

His small, woolly curls cover his body, tail, and ears, and set him apart from other retrievers. It is a self-styling coat; a quick brushing twice a week is all it needs. Like the Chesapeake, the Curly can shake himself practically dry after leaving the water. That woolly coat helps keep out burrs and prickles, which makes Curlies fearless about going headfirst into any undergrowth. The Curly's coat can be black or liver; his eyes should not be yellow. His nails need frequent trimming and filing.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: A strong, rugged dog, showing activity, endurance, and intelligence. Body rather short and muscular; powerful legs.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Size and weight can vary from 21 to 30 inches and 50 to 100 pounds, though most are in the middle range. There are no size or weight requirements, quality of the dog being more important.

Fun Facts

While most dogs mature at around two years old, the Curly behaves like an energetic puppy longer. He may settle down as late as four years old, though he's a puppy heart forever. The patient person with a sense of humor does best with the unique and gentle Curly-Coated Retriever.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.