Curly Coated Retriever
Also known as Retriever A Poil Boucle · Cobrador de Pelo Rizado
Great Britain, Retrievers
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 63–69 cm
- Weight
- 32–41 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–13 yrs
- Intelligent
- Independent
- Loyal
- Strong swimmer
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly Coated Retriever is one of the oldest retriever breeds, developed in Great Britain for retrieving game from land and water. It is tall and elegant for a retriever, with a distinctive coat of tight, crisp curls covering most of the body, usually black or liver. It remains a capable gundog and a loyal family companion.
Temperament
Confident, intelligent and independent, with a dignified manner. Often affectionate with family but aloof with strangers. It matures slowly and can be wilful, so patient, consistent training and early socialisation help.
Exercise
Needs a good hour or more a day, including off-lead running and ideally swimming or retrieving games. Mental work helps keep it settled.
Grooming
The curls need little brushing, but wet them and gently comb through occasionally. Avoid brushing dry, which can frizz the coat. Trim as required.
Care & wellbeing
Check ears after swimming, keep weight lean, and ask about hip and eye screening.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 36.5 kg adult- Water
- 1.5 L–2.2 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,660 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Curly Coated Retriever
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
One of the oldest British retriever breeds, developed to retrieve shot game from land and water. Its tight, crisp curls shed water and protect it in rough cover and cold water. It is independent, intelligent and slower to mature than other retrievers.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus)
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye conditions
- Exercise-induced collapse
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
- DNA test for exercise-induced collapse
Not every Curly Coated Retriever is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–13 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Curly Coated Retriever right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Curly Coated Retriever get?
Adult Curly Coated Retrievers typically stand about 63–69 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 32–41 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Curly Coated Retrievers live?
Typically 10–13 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Curly Coated Retriever need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Curly Coated Retriever need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Curly Coated Retrievers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Curly Coated Retrievers shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Curly Coated Retrievers good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Curly Coated Retriever live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Curly Coated Retrievers have?
The breed can be prone to bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus), hip dysplasia, eye conditions. Not every Curly Coated Retriever is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Retrievers
- Internationally recognised
- 1954