Did you know?
Dogs do not sweat by salivating or panting. They sweat through the pads of their feet.
Panting does help to release heat from a dog’s body though.
Curly-Coated Retriever
A man may smile and bid you hail
Yet wish you to the devil;
But when a good dog wags his tail,
You know he’s on the level.
– Anonymous
The Curly-Coated Retriever was the first dog bred to retrieve game from land or water and bring it back to the hunter.
An unusual retriever originating in Great Britain, the Curly-Coated Retriever has been breeding true for hundreds of years. His exact origins are unknown but it is believed that he was developed by crossing the St. John’s Newfoundland, Irish Water Spaniel, Poodle, and the English Water Spaniel.
The Curly was once the favourite of English gamekeepers as well as poachers.
A natural hunter with a great nose, superb stamina, and the ability to work over rough terrain, the Curly-Coated Retriever is known for his gentle mouth which he uses to carry wounded or dead animals back to his master.
The Curly-Coated Retriever is the tallest of the retrievers, standing up to 27 inches (69 cm) tall at the shoulder. He has a distinctive black or liver-coloured coat that is covered in dense, tight curls that lie close to the body. His coat is oily and sheds dirt, mud, and burrs easily. An easy-care dog for grooming, his coat requires no trimming.
Photos displayed courtesy of Pat Renshaw, Riverwood Reg’d, Ontario
Although his popularity has declined, the Curly-Coated Retriever is still considered the best retriever in Australia and New Zealand.
Eager, responsive, affectionate, and friendly, the Curly can be a wonderful family pet. A child’s best friend, the Curly will play with kids for hours. He also gets along well with other dogs. Family life agrees with this dog, and he should be part of your day-to-day activities, not left alone for long periods. The Curly is self-confident, alert, and determined. He makes an ideal companion for the weekend hunter. Proud and somewhat independent, he respects firm but patient leadership. Even-tempered, loyal, and aloof with strangers, they make good watchdogs.
Early socialization and obedience training is a must for this breed. However, training can be a challenge as the Curly bores easily. Short, interesting sessions are best. Curlies are quick learners but they are slow to mature, being puppyish for longer than other breeds.
Intelligent, active, and possessing great endurance, the Curly needs lots of exercise. A home with a fenced yard is best. Without enough exercise or a job to do, the Curly may indulge in less desirable activities and start making some of his own decisions! As are all the retrievers, he is particularly fond of water. Play fetch with him and let him swim often and you will have a true, loyal, friend for life!
Breed Clubs
National Retriever Club of Canada (field trials)
Mountain Valley Retriever Training Club
Vancouver Island Retriever Club
Retrievers ONLINE Magazine (field trials/hunting)
theRetriever News (field trials)