Curly-coated Retriever

The breed

The Curly-coated Retriever is a tall, athletic gun dog with a distinctive coat of tight, crisp curls covering most of its body. Its face and lower legs are smooth-haired, creating a striking contrast. Usually black or liver-colored, this breed has a lean, elegant outline, a long head, and an alert, confident expression.

Curly-coated Retrievers are intelligent, energetic, and independent-minded. They are often affectionate and playful with their families while appearing more reserved around unfamiliar people than some other retrievers. Bred to work in fields and water, they tend to be enthusiastic, determined, and agile, with a lively sense of humor and a strong, self-assured character.