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

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Product Guide

Best Foldable Dog Gates for Versatile Home Use

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Breed Profile

Living with a Basenji in an Apartment: What the 'Barkless Dog' Reputation Doesn't Tell You

Every apartment-dog list puts the Basenji near the top because they don't bark. What those lists leave out: the yodel, the scream, the climbing, and the squirrel-fueled window escapes. Here's what small-space life with a Basenji actually requires — and the specific setup that makes it work.

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Training Guide

Training Your Dog to Accept Nail Trimming with Positive Reinforcement

Does your dog run at the sight of nail clippers? Discover how positive reinforcement can make nail trimming an enjoyable bonding activity. Learn step-by-step how to ease your dog's anxiety and make those trims stress-free.

All ages2 min read