4 Gorgeous Curly Coated Dog Breeds You’ll Love

Curly coated dogs are a captivating group, cherished not only for their unique, beautiful curls but also for their charming personalities and often allergy-friendly coats. These breeds shed very little, making them excellent companions for many. In this guide, you'll discover four stunning curly coated breeds that stand out for their looks, temperament, and care needs.

The following sections take you through each breed’s background, personality, grooming requirements, and suitability as a pet, helping you make an informed choice if you’re considering one for your family.

The Irish Water Spaniel

This medium to large-sized breed has a strong, muscular frame wrapped in a striking tight curly coat, which is dense and water-resistant. The Irish Water Spaniel is known for its intelligence and gentle, laid-back nature. However, they respond best to training by confident owners familiar with firm but gentle handling, so they may not be ideal for first-time dog owners.

Puppies need early socialisation to prevent timidity, but with proper care and training, Irish Water Spaniels become devoted companions with a playful, mischievous side. They are relatively quiet dogs who bark only when necessary, making them excellent watchdogs.

The breed’s characteristic curls are dense, crisp, and tight, covering most of the body except for the face, where the fur is smoother and shorter, topped by a distinctive curly topknot. Their coat colours range from rich liver to a purple-tinged shade known as “puce liver.” Weekly grooming and regular trimming are essential to keep their curls mat-free. Their minimal shedding and hypoallergenic qualities make them a smart choice for allergy sufferers.

Breed Origins and Care Tips

The Irish Water Spaniel is believed to have origins involving crosses with Poodles, Irish Setters, Curly-Coated Retrievers, or even Portuguese Water Dogs, bringing together water-loving traits and curly coats. Consistent grooming and mental stimulation are vital for their well-being.

The Curly-Coated Retriever

The Curly-Coated Retriever is an athletic, highly intelligent breed recognised by its short, tight curls covering its body. This breed thrives in outdoor, active environments and particularly enjoys water activities. They require an owner who can provide firm guidance and ample daily exercise to satisfy their energetic nature.

Ideal for owners who enjoy an active lifestyle, Curly-Coated Retrievers can become bored easily if not mentally and physically stimulated, which may lead to destructive behaviours. Their loyalty and protective instincts also make them superb watchdogs and valued therapy dogs in many communities.

The breed’s coat comes in two colours: black and liver. Fortunately, grooming is comparatively easy, mainly requiring occasional baths and regular checks to maintain their neat curls without tangles. Their low shedding is another advantage for allergy sufferers.

Breed Origins and Extra Care Advice

Though their exact origins are uncertain, many believe the Curly-Coated Retriever descends from English Water Spaniels, St John's Newfoundland, and Poodles, inheriting their excellent swimming ability and stable temperament. Regular exercise and mental challenges are essential to keep this breed content and well behaved.

The Airedale Terrier

Known as the “King of Terriers,” the Airedale Terrier is the largest terrier breed, known for its courageous and independent character. They excel in family environments, showing patience and gentleness with children when socialised and trained consistently from an early age.

The breed’s coat is wiry and dense with a soft undercoat, shedding minimally. Typical colouring includes black and tan, although variations with red tinges or small white chest markings occur. Being intelligent, they both learn good behaviours and bad habits quickly, so they thrive under consistent and firm training—making them more suitable for experienced dog owners.

The Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a lively, affectionate breed known for its distinctive blue-grey wavy curls. These dogs are great family pets and entertainers alike, renowned for their intelligence and playfulness. However, they require significant mental stimulation and physical activity to remain happy and healthy.

Kerry Blues dislike being left alone for long periods and can develop behavioural problems if understimulated. They also need early socialisation, especially with other animals, due to a strong hunting instinct that might pose challenges if not managed appropriately.

Coat care includes regular professional grooming at least five times a year to maintain their signature look and prevent mats. Their coats are also low shedding and odourless, appealing to allergy sufferers.

How to Choose and Care for Curly Coated Dogs

Each of these curly-coated breeds offers unique traits that can suit different family lifestyles. When choosing one, consider the following:

• Activity Level: Most curly-coated dogs are energetic and need regular, vigorous exercise.
• Grooming Commitment: Their coats vary in grooming needs, from weekly brushing to periodic professional trims.
• Training: These intelligent breeds benefit greatly from early socialisation and consistent, firm but gentle training.
• Allergy Considerations: Their low shedding coats make many of these breeds excellent for allergy sufferers.

Always source your dog from reputable breeders who prioritise health and temperament, and consider adopting from rescue organisations where possible to provide a loving home to a dog in need.

Summary

Curly coated dog breeds such as the Irish Water Spaniel, Curly-Coated Retriever, Airedale Terrier, and Kerry Blue Terrier combine stunning looks with dynamic personalities. Their hypoallergenic coats and distinctive curls require specific grooming and care to flourish. By understanding their history, temperament, and grooming needs, you’ll be well prepared to welcome one of these gorgeous companions into your home.