Retriever (Curly-coated)

Origins and History

The Curly‑Coated Retriever originated in the United Kingdom in the mid‑19th century. Bred by Sir Dudley Marsh, the breed was developed from a combination of the original Labrador Retriever, the now‑extinct St. John’s water dog, and the Poodle to produce a dense, water‑repellent coat suitable for rough, cold water work. The breed was officially recognized by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1903 and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1946. Though never as numerous as other retrievers, the Curly‑Coated has maintained a reputation for excellence in both field trials and conformation shows.

General Characteristics

• Medium‑large sporting dog with a compact, muscular build and a distinctive tightly curled coat.
• Intelligent, eager, and highly trainable; retains a strong retrieving instinct and a love of water.
• Developed primarily for retrieving game from water and land; excels in field work, obedience, and agility.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 23‑25 inches (58‑64 cm); Females 21‑23 inches (53‑58 cm).
• Weight: 55‑70 lb (25‑32 kg) for both sexes, proportionate to height and build.

Coat and Color

• Coat: Dense, tightly curled, water‑resistant, with a soft undercoat. Length typically 1‑2 inches; longer on the neck and tail.
• Color: Solid black is the only accepted color. A small amount of white on the chest, feet, or tip of the tail is permissible if it does not dominate the coat.

Temperament Considerations

The Curly‑Coated Retriever is energetic and highly motivated by a game‑oriented drive. While eager to please, the breed can exhibit an independent streak, especially when the task is not clearly defined. Early socialization and consistent, reward‑based methods are essential to channel enthusiasm into focused performance.

Training Essentials

• Begin socialization with a variety of people, animals, sounds, and environments between 8‑16 weeks.
• Provide daily mental and physical challenges; at least 2 hours of varied exercise, including swimming, retrieval games, and scent work.
• Use positive reinforcement, clicker training, or marker training to maintain high motivation. Avoid harsh corrections, which can diminish confidence.

Daily Grooming

• Brush 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush and a metal comb to prevent matting and remove loose hair.
• Bath as needed; use a mild, water‑repellent shampoo to preserve the coat’s natural oils.
• Check ears daily for moisture and debris; clean with a cotton ball and a veterinarian‑approved ear solution.
• Trim nails weekly or when they click on a hard surface; maintain dental hygiene with regular tooth brushing or dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Hand‑strip or clip the coat to the standard length (approximately 1/4 inch) 7‑10 days before the show to allow the coat to settle.
• Shape the feathering on the ears, tail, and legs with scissors for a tidy appearance.
• Bathe 24‑48 hours before the ring, then dry thoroughly and apply a light coat spray to enhance curl definition.
• Present the dog on a clean, white show line; ensure the coat is glossy, the head is well‑arched, and the gait is free and balanced.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – screening via OFA or PennHIP recommended.
• Elbow dysplasia – radiographic evaluation recommended.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – DNA test available.
• Hereditary cataracts – regular ophthalmologic exams.
• Hypothyroidism – routine blood work in adult dogs.
• Gastric dilatation‑volvulus (bloat) – consider prophylactic gastropexy in high‑risk individuals.

General Care

• Exercise: Minimum 2 hours of vigorous activity daily; includes swimming, retrieving, and off‑lead play.
• Nutrition: High‑quality protein‑rich diet formulated for active sporting breeds; maintain a lean body condition to reduce stress on joints.
• Lifespan: Typically 10‑12 years with proper health monitoring and preventive care.

Disclaimer: The information provided reflects current breed standards and widely recognized health concerns. Individual dogs may vary, and owners should consult a qualified veterinarian for personalized care.