Curly-Coated Retriever

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History/Origin
The Curly-Coated Retriever, among the earliest retrievers, originated in England. It was used in hunting since the late 18th century. Its ancestors were probably the Old Water Spaniel, the St. John's Newfoundland dog, and the Close-Curled English Water Dog.

The breed is ideal in working with game birds and water fowl because it has a soft mouth, which cannot hurt the animals. When hunting, it can easily remember the animal's location and it is brilliant in finding wounded ducks, which lie hidden in bushes or in water.

Although very popular in New Zealand and Australia, it is difficult to find Curly-Coated Retriever today especially in the United States. Its fame in England also lessened because of the wrong belief that it is a strongly-mouthed retriever, thus, hunters eventually chose other breeds.

Description
The Curly-Coated Retriever, as the name implies, has a coat of stiff curls. A strong, upright-standing dog, it looks very elegant with its liver and black coats. Black Curly-Coated Retrievers have black nose while the liver-coated ones have brown or amber. The curls of Curly-Coated Retriever's coat are very close to the skin, which give them protection from thistles and cold water. Its ears, neck, and tail are also densely covered with tiny curls. Ideally, the Curly-Coated Retriever should be strong but elegant with smooth hocks, front legs, and face. This large, hardy, and very athletic breed keeps itself fit through plenty of exercise.

Temperament
The Curly-Coated Retriever has the reputation of being confident and proud, but unknown to many, it is loyal and amiable. It is very witty and trainable but it needs a firm hand to guide him. It can perform amply in competitive agility and obedience but its performance is not as certain as Golden Retriever's.

Although affectionate and can live with kids, the Curly-Coated Retriever needs more guidance because it can knock down a toddler with their excitement. On the other hand, it can be very reserved and timid around strangers so it can be a watchdog to protect its masters. Consistent with its history and physical characteristics, it loves swimming and playing in the water.