Records of the first Curly-Coated Retrievers date back to the late 1700s, making this breed one of oldest known retriever breeds. They look a bit like a Golden Retriever with a curly coat: Curlies, as the dogs are often called, are named after their waterproof black or liver (brown) coat made of small, tight curls.
In this comprehensive breed guide, we've compiled everything you need to know about the Curly Coated Retriever, including breed characteristics, health considerations, care requirements, training tips, grooming needs, and all essential supplies. We've evaluated each product based on quality, safety, appropriateness for the breed, ease of use, and value. All products reviewed here include direct Amazon purchase links with our affiliate tag.
Quick Answer: Essential Curly Coated Retriever Supplies
If you're in a hurry, here are the must-have items for a Curly Coated Retriever:
- Food: Quality Dog Food - AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced nutrition
- Food Bowl: Stainless Steel Bowl - Durable, easy to clean, appropriate size
- Grooming Tools: Grooming Tools - Brushes, combs, nail clippers
- Dog Bed: Comfortable Dog Bed - Supportive, appropriate size
- Toys: Interactive Dog Toys - Mental stimulation, exercise
- Leash and Collar: Leash and Collar Set - Safe, secure, comfortable
About Curly Coated Retrievers
Records of the first Curly-Coated Retrievers date back to the late 1700s, making this breed one of oldest known retriever breeds. They look a bit like a Golden Retriever with a curly coat: Curlies, as the dogs are often called, are named after their waterproof black or liver (brown) coat made of small, tight curls.
Breed Characteristics
The Curly Coated Retriever is known for its unique personality and characteristics. Each breed has specific traits that make them special, and understanding these characteristics is essential for providing proper care and training.
Curly Coated Retriever Health Issues
Common Health Consideration
The typical Curly-Coated Retriever lifespan is 10–12 years. They’re considered a healthy dog breed, but, just like other dog breeds, they are predisposed to a few medical conditions.
Common Health Consideration
Curly-Coated Retrievers can develop a handful of eye conditions over their lifetime, including:
Common Health Consideration
Cataracts: A cataract occurs when the lens within the eye becomes cloudy. The cataract’s size determines the degree of vision impairment, and your pup might need surgery to remove the cataract to restore eyesight.
Common Health Consideration
Distichiasis: This is when extra eyelashes grow on the edge of an eyelid and rub against the eye’s surface, causing irritation and possibly corneal ulcers. Surgery can correct this, though some dogs will need to have the surgery repeated in the future.
Common Health Consideration
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): PRA causes the retina to slowly degenerate, leading to blindness. There is no cure, but blind dogs can live a long, happy life with proper care.
While individual dogs may vary, it's important to be aware of potential health issues that can affect the Curly Coated Retriever. Regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and preventive measures can help keep your dog healthy throughout their life.
Product Comparison Table
| Product | Key Features | Best For | Size/Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality Dog Food | AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced nutrition | Daily nutrition, health maintenance | Appropriate for breed size |
| Food Bowl | Stainless steel, durable, easy to clean | Feeding, water | Appropriate size for breed |
| Grooming Tools | Brushes, combs, nail clippers | Grooming, coat maintenance | Appropriate for coat type |
| Dog Bed | Comfortable, supportive, washable | Rest, sleep, comfort | Appropriate size for breed |
What To Feed a Curly Coated Retriever
Nutrition Basics
Curly-Coated Retriever puppies under 1 year old should be fed a high-quality puppy food made for large dogs. Puppy food will provide the extra calories a Curly-Coated Retriever puppy needs to grow to their full potential.
Key Features: AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced, appropriate for breed size
How Much Should You Feed a Curly Coated Retriever?
The recommended caloric intake for Curly Coated Retrievers varies between individuals—it all comes down to their size, metabolism, neuter/spay status, and activity level. Additionally, the caloric content for each food may vary drastically from one brand to the next.
The best way to determine how much to feed a Curly Coated Retriever is to talk with your veterinarian. They can calculate how much you should feed your dog. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on your dog food provide valuable information about portions.
Behavior and Training Tips for the Curly Coated Retriever
Curly Coated Retriever Personality and Temperament
Curly Coated Retriever Training
Curly-Coated Retriever dogs are high energy and need an outlet to unleash this energy, such as playing outdoors, going on a long walk or run, or swimming. They need about two hours of exercise every day. This also means Curlies can be destructive if they are left alone for several hours with no attention or entertainment, such as interactive toys.
Key Features: Positive reinforcement, lots of treats, early socialization, consistent training
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Exercise Needs
Exercise-induced collapse (EIC) is an inherited neuromuscular disease that first affects the hind limbs. After exercise, the hind legs of Curly-Coated Retrievers with EIC will suddenly become weak. This can lead to a lack of coordination and possibly collapse.
Curly Coated Retriever Grooming Guide
Skin Care
Regular bathing using dog shampoo helps keep your Curly Coated Retriever's skin healthy. If you notice any changes in your dog's skin, such as redness or flakiness, talk to your veterinarian.
Key Features: Regular bathing, dog shampoo, monitor skin health
Coat Care
Curly-Coated Retrievers are incredibly smart dogs that are easy to train using praise and treats as positive rewards. Because they’re so active, Curly-Coated Retriever puppies need to go through proper training when young, such as puppy training, socialization, and obedience training to turn them into well-behaved adult dogs.
Key Features: Regular brushing, prevent matting, coat maintenance
Considerations for Pet Parents
Family Compatibility
The Curly Coated Retriever can make a great family pet when properly socialized and trained. Understanding the breed's needs and characteristics is essential for a successful relationship.
Final Verdict
Records of the first Curly-Coated Retrievers date back to the late 1700s, making this breed one of oldest known retriever breeds. They look a bit like a Golden Retriever with a curly coat: Curlies, as the dogs are often called, are named after their waterproof black or liver (brown) coat made of small, tight curls.
With proper care including a balanced diet (AAFCO-compliant food), regular grooming, appropriate exercise, early socialization and training, and regular veterinary care, your Curly Coated Retriever can live a healthy and happy life.
Quality supplies are an investment in your Curly Coated Retriever's long-term health and happiness. Choose products that are safe, appropriate for the breed, and designed to meet their specific needs. With proper care and attention, your Curly Coated Retriever will be a wonderful companion for many years to come.
Use this breed guide as a reference when considering or caring for a Curly Coated Retriever, and don't hesitate to consult with your veterinarian if you have questions about your dog's specific needs or notice any signs of health issues.