Gundogs Group - Curly-coated Retriever

Probably descended from the Irish Water Spaniel or the Standard Poodle, the Curly-coated was one of the first breeds to be used seriously for retrieving purposes in England, but is now rarely seen outside the show ring.

Coat: A mass of crisp, small curls all over, except on face.

Color: Black or liver.

Features: Long, well-proportioned head; black or dark brown eves; small ears, set on low; muscular shoulders and deep chest; moderately short tail.

Size: Height at withers: dogs about 27 in, bitches about 25 in. Weight: 70-80 lb.

Care: Requires vigorous exercise, best in a country environment. Its curly coat only needs to be dampened down and massaged with circular movements.

Character: A better guard than other retrievers, and a reliable family dog.