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Curly Coated Retriever

Sporting Group

Intelligent, affectionate and energetic

Curly Coated Retriever

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Breed Overview

The Curly-Coated Retriever is a versatile breed, equally adept in the field as a working dog and at home as a family companion. They are mainly known for their unique coat and love of water, making them excellent swimmers.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size L:arge
  • Height Males stand about 25-27 inches (63-69 cm) at the shoulder, females 23-25 inches (58-63 cm)
  • Weight Males typically weigh 80-100 pounds (36-45 kg), females 65-85 pounds (29-38 kg)
  • Life Span Around 10-12 years
  • Coat Distinguished by its tight, water-resistant, curly coat
  • Color Solid black or liver
  • Grooming Moderate; minimal brushing, occasional trimming around feet and tail
  • Temperament Known for being confident, independent, and intelligent
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise High; requires regular, vigorous exercise
  • Trainability Intelligent and trainable, but may show independence
  • Socialization Generally good with people and other animals, but early socialization is beneficial
  • Grooming Moderate; minimal brushing, occasional trimming around feet and tail
  • Health Issues Prone to some health issues like hip dysplasia, eye problems, and cardiac conditions
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Curly-Coated Retrievers are affectionate, playful, and protective, making them excellent family pets, especially for active and outdoors-oriented families
  • Suitable Living Space Best suited for homes with yards, Curly-Coated Retrievers thrive in spacious environments that cater to their high energy levels

About the Breed

The Curly-Coated Retriever is one of the oldest retriever breeds, excelling in retrieving game from water. They are equally known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them excellent family companions.

History of the Breed

The Curly-Coated Retriever originated in England in the early 19th century, primarily for upland bird and waterfowl hunting. They are thought to have descended from the now-extinct English Water Spaniel, the St. John’s water dog, and possibly the Irish Water Spaniel.

England

Fun Facts About the Curly-Coated Retriever

What To Expect When Caring For a Curly-Coated Retriever

Health

Common health issues include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and cardiac conditions. Regular health check-ups and genetic testing are recommended.

Grooming

Their curly coat is low-maintenance, requiring occasional brushing and trimming. They should be bathed sparingly to maintain the coat's natural oils.

Exercise

Curly-coated retrievers are high-energy dogs. Daily exercise, including swimming, running, and retrieving games, is vital for their physical and mental well-being.

Training

Intelligent and independent, they respond well to consistent, positive training methods. Early socialization and obedience training are beneficial.

Nutrition

A balanced diet is essential for their age, size, and energy level. Portion control is necessary to prevent obesity, especially as they age.

The Curly-Coated Retriever is an excellent breed for active families or individuals. They thrive in environments where they can engage in physical activities and be part of family life. With proper care, exercise, training, and nutrition, a Curly-Coated Retriever can be a joyful and loyal companion.

Curly-Coated Retriever Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

The Curly-Coated Retriever is generally a robust breed, but like all dog breeds, they have specific health issues they may be prone to. Owners and breeders should be aware of these potential health concerns and consider appropriate tests to ensure the well-being of these dogs. Here's a list of common health issues in Curly-Coated Retrievers and the recommended tests for these conditions:

Description: A genetic condition where the thigh bone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint, leading to arthritis or lameness.

Description: Similar to hip dysplasia, it affects the elbow joints, causing pain and mobility issues.

Description: A group of genetic diseases that lead to the degeneration of the retina, resulting in eventual blindness.

Description: A rare hereditary condition in Curly-Coated Retrievers that affects metabolism, leading to muscle weakness and growth retardation.

Description: Includes a variety of heart conditions that can affect this breed, such as cardiomyopathy.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: A genetic condition where the thigh bone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint, leading to arthritis or lameness.

Elbow Dysplasia

Description: Similar to hip dysplasia, it affects the elbow joints, causing pain and mobility issues.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Description: A group of genetic diseases that lead to the degeneration of the retina, resulting in eventual blindness.

Glycogen Storage Disease (GSD IIIa)

Description: A rare hereditary condition in Curly-Coated Retrievers that affects metabolism, leading to muscle weakness and growth retardation.

Cardiac Issues

Description: Includes a variety of heart conditions that can affect this breed, such as cardiomyopathy.

Ensuring that Curly-Coated Retrievers undergo these recommended tests, primarily if they are intended for breeding, can help in early detection and management of these conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key factors in promoting the long-term health of Curly-Coated Retrievers.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Curly-Coated Retrievers

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Curly-Coated Retriever?

The annual cost of caring for a Curly-Coated Retriever can vary depending on various factors such as your location, the dog’s individual needs, and the standard of care you choose to provide. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses involved in caring for a Curly-Coated Retriever:

A purebred Curly-Coated Retriever puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1000 - 3000

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Curly-Coated Retriever enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

Curly-coated retrievers require high-quality dog food and treats due to their size and energy levels

Estimated Cost

$300 - 800

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Curly-Coated Retrievers.

Their unique coat requires some maintenance. Basic grooming supplies and occasional professional.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 400

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Curly-Coated Retrievers require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Curly-Coated Retriever's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Curly-Coated Retriever will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 200

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2600 - $7200

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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