The Curly Coated Retriever, also known as the Curly or the CCR, is a breed of dog in the Sporting Group. This is one of the oldest classified retriever dog breeds, and they have a unique tightly curled water resistant coat. The Curly was recognized by the AKC in 1924 and AKC approved in 1993.
The Curly Coated Retriever is an active, well-muscled dog bred for upland bird and waterfowl hunting. The Curly is somewhat different in structure than the more common retrievers. A well-bred Curly will appear slightly leggy but is actually slightly longer than tall.
Curly Coated Retrievers are a single coated dog breed with no undercoat, and the small, tight curls of a show-standard dog are very easy to maintain. A Curly kept as a companion or as a hunter do not need to be elaborately groomed, but should be kept clean and free of mats for the health of the dog. Bathing should be as needed using a dog shampoo.
The life expectancy of the Curly Coated Retriever is on average between 8 and 12 years, though some Curlies have been reported to live up to 17 years of age. The Curly-Coated Retriever is generally a long lived breed, though there are some health issues that Curly owners should be aware of.