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About the Breed

History - The Curly Coated Retriever is considered to be one of the oldest retriever breeds. They were believed to be developed in England in the late eighteenth century but it is unclear how they were developed. The Curly Coated Retriever was used for retrieving ducks, quail and other game as well as creeping up in the night on unwanted poachers.

Life Span - Curly Coated Retrievers can live up to 12 years of age but with the correct care and diet they are known to live to a much older age.

Ideal Owners - Curly Coated Retrievers adapt well to most people and will be loyal and devoted friends to its owner if treated well. They seem to adapt well to most other pets and are known to share their home with cats and other dogs. They are a large breed that does need exercise especially with their mischievous nature.

Personality - Furthermore on the above Curly Coated Retrievers are slow maturing dogs and may take up to three years to reach full maturity. They are kind hearted, loyal and confident. They have a deep bark that you will only hear when they think it is required, this bark is known to scare unwanted guests. Curlies are strong minded and like to do things in their own time but if you are patient with them can be extremely obedient. They are fun-loving, gentle companions for all members in the family but sometimes forget they have a powerful tail when they get excited.

Grooming  - Curly Coated Retrievers do not need much grooming for a family pet. They are a wash and wear dog that usually show a strong desire to swim from an early age. On no account use a brush on the coat as you will loose the curl to their coat. Swimming your Curly Coated Retriever on a regular basis will stop a frizzy coat. Scissors can be used to trim up any scraggy bits from the tails, ears and legs.

Known Medical Issues - Curly Coated Retrievers can be know to bloat due to being a deep chested dog, as well as cancer, cardiac problems, Progressive Retinal Atrpohy (PRA), Exercise-induced Collapse (EIC) and Hip Dysplasia. Some of these can be cleared by parentage and avoided with the correct care. We are happy to discuss this further with you.

ANKC Standard - Can be found at http://ankc.org.au/Breed/Detail/66

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