Curly-coated Retriever
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Coat and Care:
Surprisingly, the waterproof tightly curled coat requires almost no grooming. Taking a brush to it will make the coat become frizzy looking and is not recommended by most dog groomers. However, during shedding - about twice a year - combing and brushing out the loose hair is recommended. Another interesting feature about the coat is that it stops growing at a certain point, so only the odd stray wisps of hair need trimming.Personality and Traits:
Among the outstanding qualities of the Curly-coated Retriever is his extreme loyalty and protective instincts toward his owner. He is a fun loving dog and will put out the welcome mat for friends he has come to know and enjoy. But strangers fall into another camp - in this situation, he will be politely cool and calm while checking out a newcomer.
Do socialize this breed early with a variety of experiences, activities, people, pets and places to balance out the Curly's personality as he matures into adulthood.. Bear in mind that Curlies are considered late-maturers, often exhibiting puppy-like behavior for quite a few years.
Take this into account when you are training them too. Try to provide creative sessions that feed into their intelligent minds, yet don't overlook the fact that young pups have short attention spans!
Activity Level:
The Curly-coated Retriever is used to working long days retrieving game in often adverse conditions. If he is not being used in this respect, other forms of vigorous exercise will be needed to prevent him from seeking his own outlets in ways that may be negative.Being very much a loving family dog, long walks or jogs, games of fetch with the kids and any jobs where he can be at your side, will keep him happy. Access to water activities would also be a natural form of exercise, but if that is not an option, think about agility.
Space Needs:
Curly-coated Retrievers need room to run, so they are best suited in a home with a substantial yard. Make sure your property has secure boundaries as these dogs have a reputation for being great escape artists. They are also good jumpers, but the main thing to remember here is that a well exercised (as in tired) dog will not usually seek other distractions.
Children:
Curlies have kind natures and a very good reputation with children, but as always we caution that interactions between children and dogs should always be under adult supervision.
Elderly:
Although the Curly-Coated Retriever makes a wonderfully loyal companion, an elderly or more sedate household should carefully consider the exercise needs of this breed.
Book Recommendations:
CURLY-COATED RETRIEVER, A COMPLETE & RELIABLE HANDBOOK
A helpful and current book covering breed history, characteristics and attributes, breed standard, grooming, puppy care, housetraining, nutrition and feeding, basic training, proper health care, and the potential disorders that may concern the breed. Lots of color photos.
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