CURLY COATED RETRIEVER

The Curly Coated Retriever is considered to be the oldest of all English retriever breeds. Its hard, curly fur is believed to have come from the 17th century old English Waterdog. There are prints from the 18th century that show that it existed in its present-day appearance back then. This breed was officially recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1854. The main differences in the standard from then and now are only size and weight, as it used to be a bit smaller and therefore lighter. Thus, the Curly Coated Retriever has existed as a breed for over 100 years and has been known as a breed type for 400 years.

The Curly Coated Retriever was already very popular in England 90 to 100 years ago, and every ranger or gamekeeper there owned at least one Curly. It was used as a general hunting dog on land and water for independent work, as well as for work after instruction, in addition it guarded the house and yard and protected against poachers. Because of its excellent swimming ability, Norfolk fishermen and seafarers like to use it for launching and hauling in nets in the water.

Curly Coated Retrievers are largely one-person or one-family dogs with great loyalty and attachment. They are usually cautious towards strangers and have retained their watchful and protective instincts. As a late developer, they are only mature at the age of 3, which means that a lot of time and patience is required for training and developing a Curlies.

They are spirited, reliable and courageous, but sometimes a bit stubborn, with great perseverance and the will to work independently. As hunting dogs, they can be used for work after the shot, as they have excellent noses combined with excellent marking ability. For non-hunters, dummy work is a good way to keep the Curlies busy.

Since the watchful and protective instinct of a Curly Coated Retriever is well developed without it becoming aggressive or snappy, it is also suitable as a protective family dog. He has a sense of humor and likes to play the clown too. In any case, he needs a close family connection, as well as active playful and sporting activity. Its characteristic coat is unmistakable with its thick, small, hard curls and is very easy to care for.

With the Curly Coated Retriever there is no division into show and work lines.

-> Here you can find the FCI breed description of the Curly Coated Retriever