Most dogs are naturally active and are eager to work on different tasks. Such activities include guarding, herding, patrolling, drug and bomb detection, and sports. It is fascinating how many sports enthusiasts engage dogs in various activities, and some breeds do relatively better compared to others. One remarkable sport dog is the Curly-Coated Retriever.
Curly is quite a large dog that has a powerful body. Curly’s main asset is its curly coat, which is unique compared to other dog’s fur. Its beautiful coat is a clear definition of elegance, which is also why many people are attracted to this breed. Despite its elegant appearance, Curly has an athletic figure that allows it to excel in different fields of work, especially sports. This confident breed takes pride in its exceptional abilities, which includes swimming. Another notable feature of the Curly is its intelligence. This dog is often known for its brilliance on the field and at the house. These great qualities are expected to see in one of the oldest retriever breeds – the Curly-Coated Retriever.
Origins of the Curly-Coated Retriever
As mentioned earlier, the Curly is among the oldest retriever breeds. We can trace its origins back to the late 18th century, commonly used as a hunting dog. Despite not having any early records on its exact origins, there are speculations about how and where they originate. It is believed that its ancestors were the English Water Spaniel and the Retrieving Setter, but others state that the Irish Water Spaniel and St. John’s Dog were also the Curly’s ancestors.
During the late 19th century, Curly was a famous breed in England. Its popularity was mainly due to its special coat and confident nature, which were key features in dog shows. Furthermore, speculations state that Curly was crossed to the Poodle to develop its coat further. This cross-breeding led to the improvement of Curly’s beautiful coat, as well as some of its other characteristics.
Over the years, Curly continued to dominate dog shows with its elegant coat. Furthermore, this breed was not only an outstanding show dog in England; it was also well-known for its exceptional sport skills. Because of the breed’s remarkable capabilities, it didn’t take long for it to gain recognition in other countries. It reached Australia and New Zealand, wherein it was also famous for its beautiful appearance and incredible job on the field. This dog was rather versatile and suitable for different kinds of work, which is why many dog lovers admired it.
Characteristics of the Curly-Coated Retriever
Height: 23 – 27 inches
Weight: 60 – 95 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
Hypoallergenic: No
The Curly-Coated Retriever is a large breed that could stand up to twenty-seven inches tall and weighs up to ninety-five pounds. It has a very distinct appearance, mainly because of its curly coat. Its coat is noticeable because of the tighter curls compared to other dog’s hair. It comes with two color variations – black and liver; its coat is also known to be waterproof and durable against extreme weather. Its wedge-shaped head is also unique, along with its small, dark eyes and large, hairy ears. Its overall appearance is a clear definition of elegance and power.
Similar to other retrievers, Curly is highly affectionate and playful towards its family. However, its playfulness is often accompanied by its gentle nature, making it acceptable even with children. Despite this dog’s friendly nature, it is smart enough to recognize strangers, especially intruders. This feature makes Curly a suitable watchdog to own at home. Even though it has an elegant appearance, it also showcases a strong and intimidating characteristic, which would surely keep intruders at bay.
Caring for the Curly-Coated Retriever
Curly is not complicated to feed. It works well with good-quality dry dog food, but it is always best to consult with your vet for the best-recommended food for your dog. This practice would ensure that your dog will receive enough nutrients required by its body. Always be mindful of the amount of food to feed your dog to avoid obesity, as well as other health problems.