Large breedsporting group

Curly-Coated Retriever

Curly-Coated Retrievers are the thinkers of the retriever world — confident, affectionate, and a bit more independent than their Labrador cousins. At home, they tend to be calm and dignified once their exercise needs are met, but they have a wonderfully playful side that comes out around the people they love. They're typically gentle and patient with children, especially kids old enough to respect their size and energy, and they make excellent companions for families who enjoy the outdoors.

Temperament

confident · affectionate · intelligent · playful · independent

Size

Typically 60–95 lbs and 23–27 inches at the shoulder.

Best for

families, active owners

Energy level

high

Shedding

Yes

Grooming

Low

Training

Moderate

Lifespan

10–12 years

Behavior & traits

gentle with kids
loyal
alert watchdog
fun loving
eager to please

Health concerns

Curlies are generally a hardy breed, but families should be aware of hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy, and a higher-than-average risk of certain cancers as they age. Bloat (gastric torsion) can also be a concern in deep-chested dogs, so feeding routines matter. Reputable breeders will provide health clearances for hips, eyes, and heart.

Responsible breeding and regular check-ups go a long way. Always ask breeders about health testing.

Feeding & nutrition

A high-quality large-breed dog food split into two daily meals works best, with portions adjusted for age and activity level. Because Curlies are deep-chested, avoid heavy exercise right before or after meals to reduce bloat risk. Many families find a slow-feeder bowl helpful for enthusiastic eaters.

Exercise needs

This is an active sporting breed that needs at least an hour of vigorous exercise daily — think long walks, runs, fetch sessions, or best of all, swimming, which they absolutely love. Families with backyards, access to lakes, or time for daily adventures will be the happiest match. Without enough activity, a bored Curly can become restless and mischievous indoors.

Living with a Curly-Coated Retriever

Living with a Curly-Coated Retriever is a bit like having a fun-loving athlete and a thoughtful old soul in the same dog. Mornings often start with eager energy — they're ready for a walk, a swim, or a game of fetch before settling into a calm, easygoing presence around the house. They're affectionate without being clingy, which many families appreciate; they'll happily nap nearby while the kids do homework rather than demand constant attention. Expect a dog that's alert enough to announce visitors but rarely yappy, and one that bonds deeply with the whole family rather than fixating on one person. The biggest surprise for many owners is how independent-minded they can be — Curlies think for themselves, so training works best when it's positive, consistent, and a little bit fun.

Recommended products

A sturdy no-pull harness and a long lead are essentials for an active, water-loving dog this size, along with a quick-dry microfiber towel for post-swim cleanups. Invest in a slow-feeder bowl to help reduce bloat risk and durable fetch toys like rubber bumpers or floating retrievers that play to their natural instincts. A simple rubber curry brush is all you really need for grooming, plus a raised orthopedic bed to support their joints as they age.

Reads for Curly-Coated Retriever owners

[header] Dog sitting calmly by the window with storm clouds outside,

Training Guide

How to Train a Dog to Stay Calm During Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms making your dog anxious? Discover practical steps to train your fur friend to stay calm and collected during even the loudest storms with calming exercises and body awareness techniques.

All ages3 min read

[header] Cartoon beagle sitting beside a food bowl and a symptom-trac

Article

The Sensitive Stomach Playbook: A 3-Week Plan Before You Blame the Food

If you've cycled through three "sensitive stomach" foods in two months and your dog's gut is still a mystery, the problem probably isn't the kibble — it's that no one told you how to actually run an elimination trial. Here's the 3-week diagnostic process, the variables most owners forget (hint: eating speed and anxiety), and honest picks for slow feeders and limited-ingredient foods when you genuinely need them.

All ages8 min read

[header] Labrador retriever exploring a sensory garden with colorful

Illustrated

How to Create a Sensory Garden for Your Dog

Transform your backyard into a sensory wonderland for your dog with our guide to creating a sensory garden. Enhance their senses and enrich their life with tactile pathways, aromatic plants, and interactive features.

All ages3 min read