Curly dog ​​breeds

Dogs with curly hairs have a unique charm that makes them stand out from other breeds. Their distinctive coats, which are frequently springy and soft, have a functional use in addition to making them look adorable. Originally, many breeds with curly coats were bred for labor-intensive tasks like guarding homes or retrieving objects from the water. Their tightly curled hair keeps dirt and debris off of their skin and shields them from inclement weather.

Dog enthusiasts like these breeds for reasons other than just appearance. For those who suffer from allergies, curly-coated dogs are an excellent option because their fur is frequently hypoallergenic. Regular grooming can be a fulfilling bonding experience for both pet and owner, as it keeps their coats looking tidy and healthy.

This post will discuss some of the most well-liked curly-haired dog breeds, emphasizing their traits, maintenance requirements, and reasons they could be the ideal family pet.

1. American Water Spaniel

Wisconsin is where the American Water Spaniel breed first appeared. It became one of its emblems in 1985.

The dog was bred using a combination of retriever and spaniel breeds. Getting a tough, determined hunting dog that would work on hares and birds and not be scared of dampness or cold water was the task at hand.

Up to 46 cm and 20.5 kg, the American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized dog. The distinctive characteristic is thick, curly hair that isn’t brittle. It gathers into multiple curls and keeps the dog warm and dry. Brown and liver are the two different color categories.

The spaniel is easy to take care of even with his thick, curly hair. Using a brush to remove dead hairs and a comb to comb the fur coat two to three times a week should be sufficient. Additionally, give the pet an occasional trim and bathe them once every two to three months.

2. American Cocker Spaniel

In order to hunt birds, the American Cocker Spaniel was bred towards the end of the 1800s. However, the breed is mostly kept as a companion these days. The dog is smart, tries to please its owner, and has an affectionate and loving nature toward all people and animals (apart from birds).

The 37–39 cm Cocker Spaniel is a tiny, energetic breed. It requires regular running and playground workouts on walks.

The Cocker’s coat curls slightly and is long on the sides and ears. Taking care of it is challenging. Wash it once every two to three weeks. Carefully comb the coat each day, using a slicker brush after a comb. Additionally, look for tangles—they are constantly forming.

Wavy hair and long ears are a recipe for trouble. They get soiled easily; food, water, and dirt get inside of them. They are therefore killed and cleaned each day while they are being fed.

3. English Cocker Spaniel

Early in the 19th century, English Cocker Spaniels were bred to be the best hunting dogs for birds. Its hearing, vision, and sense of smell are all excellent, and it functions well in water.

Cockers are now more frequently kept as family pets, show animals, and competitive athletes. They are better suited for active people who live outside of cities due to their boundless energy. But if they get regular, lengthy walks, tiny pets (up to 40 cm and 15 kg) can live happily in apartments as well.

Generally speaking, the cocker is amiable toward all people and animals, including adults and children. Birds are an exception. He is particularly loyal and attached to the owner, to whom he can disregard other family members while still obeying him without question.

Representatives with mental illnesses do appear from time to time. This is the alleged "red spaniel rabies," which causes dogs to act viciously, cowardly, and hysterically.

The hair of the English Cocker is long, soft, and slightly curly. The sides and ears have particularly long hair. It will take patience to keep the flawless appearance. You must:

  • comb the coat daily with a long-toothed comb, then with a hard brush, and then with a soft-bristled comb;
  • remove dead hair with a slicker brush every 2-3 days;
  • bathe the dog every 7-10 days using veterinary shampoos and lotions;
  • several times a week to remove tangles.

Extended ears are also given extra consideration. They gather all the dirt in the area, get infected frequently, and smell bad if they aren’t taken care of. As a result, they are tied with an elastic band during meals and cleaned every day.

4. Barbet

French water dogs, also known as barbets, are an ancient dog breed. It was first mentioned in writing in the fourteenth century. Dogs have assisted farmers and sailors by helping to catch waterfowl since ancient times.

The barbet is one of the rarest breeds in existence today. It is still maintained to aid with farming and fishing. Additionally, the dog’s intelligence, compliance, and obedience made it a great companion.

A barbecue should take place outside of the city. However, it can be kept in an apartment because of its small size (up to 65 cm and 28 kg) and lack of shedding.

The coat of the Barbet is dense and curled. Dead hair is removed with a slicker brush every three to four days because it is hypoallergenic and virtually never sheds. The dog is frequently washed and has its coat trimmed by a groomer because it gets dirty all the time.

5. Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a highly remarkable and uncommon breed. The dogs’ white, curly wool gives them a sheeplike appearance. However, they have lion hearts at their core because they are fearless hunters of small game.

Bedlingtons are extremely rare. This breed is costly and is thought to be an aristocratic privilege.

People do not harbor any malice toward Bedlington Terriers. Because of their friendliness, obedience, and affection, they make excellent companions. Nonetheless, they are mischievous and stubborn, just like all terriers.

The Bedlington can be kept in an apartment due to its compact size. The dog can reach a height of 40 cm and a maximum weight of 10 kg.

Whatever the season, the curly coat of the Bedlington sheds. As a result, it is combed every other day using a rubber mitten or a comb with short bristles. The coat is also trimmed as it grows and is cleaned every two to three weeks.

6. Bichon Frise

Curly-haired and charming, the Bichon Frise is a snow-white "antidepressant." The breed, also known as the French lapdog, is a member of the lapdog group.

The small white dogs of Middle-earth, of which there have been mentions since the 12th and 14th centuries, are the ancestors of bichons. On ships, they were employed to catch rats. And today’s lapdogs, who are exclusively decorative, delicate, and kind companions for apartment living, are their descendants. They weigh five kilograms and are no taller than thirty centimeters.

The fur of bichons is always white; beige spots appear on them only as puppies. Both the nose and the eyeliner must be black.

The dog may grow up to 10 cm of fur. However, caregiving is not as hard as it sounds. There is no hair loss or tangling. It is sufficient to give pets a bath a few times a month and to comb them once every two to three days, or every day. Additionally, show dogs are brought to the groomer once every two to three months.

7. Boykin Spaniel

The Boykin Spaniel is a relatively new breed that originated in the American South at the start of the 20th century. Whit Boykin, a hunter, received a brown dog that was its ancestor. Eventually, it was infused with the blood of Pointers, American and Springer Spaniels, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.

In marshy areas, the Boykin Spaniel makes a great hunter of ducks and turkeys. It is obedient, diligent, and has an exceptional sense of smell. Additionally, its compact size (up to 45 cm and 18 kg) makes it simple to navigate thickets. Because.k. is submissive and tries to please the owner, he was quickly trained.

Boykin is a wonderful friend as well. loves to communicate, enjoys helping out with household chores, is obedient, gets along with other pets, and is loving to all family members.

There are two varieties of the Boykin’s brown or liver coat: straight and curly. Curly dog lovers find dogs with the second type of coat to be appealing. However, their maintenance is more demanding: you must regularly bathe them, comb them at least every other day, remove burrs and tangles, and clean out dirt.

8. Bolognese

The lapdog breed includes the bolognese. based on Maltese lapdogs and miniature poodles and bred in Italy. The dogs arrived in France in the 16th century, where they quickly won over the nobility, and then they moved to Russia in the 18th century.

The Bolognese got its tiny stature (20–40 cm, 2.5–4 kg), snow-white coat (ear fawn markings are acceptable), lively disposition, and playful nature from lapdogs. The dog inherited a curly coat and a thick undercoat from the miniature poodles.

Italian lapdog coat maintenance is simpler than it might seem. After a walk, it is combed to remove debris and untangle the strands. Give the dog a monthly wash. Bolognese people also get haircuts; these can be standard hygienic cuts or model haircuts, such as a teddy bear or a Japanese style, among others.

A Bolognese makes a great city partner. Even in this small studio, he feels fantastic. The dog will not bore you; it is an energetic, happy pet who enjoys playing games and taking long walks.

9. Welsh Terrier

Old English Terriers served as the foundation for the Welsh Terrier, a small animal hunting breed developed in Wales. Its curly fur, small stature (up to 38 cm and 10 kg), and ornamental hair on its muzzle (also known as its "beard") set it apart.

The Welsh Terrier is a devoted, energetic dog that enjoys active play. He feels very at ease in an apartment and away from the city. However, he needs to move a lot—play, run, and work out. Calm, lethargic people are not the best candidates for a hyperactive dog.

The stubborn and errant nature of the character makes training challenging. The Welsh Terrier never compromises on his independence. In order to get a dog to obey, the owner must take the lead and show them encouragement all the time.

The Welsh Terrier’s curly coat rarely sheds. As a result, it needs to be clipped once every three months for pets in the pet class or once a month for show dogs. The coat is also washed every four weeks and combed two to three times a week.

10. Irish Water Spaniel

The largest and oldest breed of spaniels is the Irish Water Spaniel. Though they originated as a distinct species in the 1930s of the 20th century, similar dogs have been present in Great Britain since the 17th century. Dogs weigh between 20 and 30 kg at the withers, reaching a height of 60 cm.

The Irish Spaniel looks different from other dogs. The unusual purple-hued brown hair is gathered in dense curls and forms a crest atop the head. The "rat" tail and bald muzzle stand out against the curly coat.

The dog is amiable, calm, and gregarious. He does not have a favorite family member; he loves them all equally. When it comes to strangers, he is shy but never hostile. intelligent and simple to train. He prefers to handle things his own way, though, and is crafty. frequently acts funny, making other people laugh.

The hair of the Irish Spaniel is moderately shed all year round, without any noticeable seasonal shedding. Once a week, the coat is combed, first with a brush that has thick bristles and then with a comb that has uncommon teeth. trimmed on a regular basis to maintain uniform curl length throughout the body.

11. Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The coat of the Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is distinctive. It has no undercoat and is incredibly soft, silky, curly, or wavy. The hue is also unique, ranging from pale to golden hues of ripe wheat.

"Wheaten" was first mentioned in writing in the seventeenth century. However, they weren’t acknowledged as a breed until the mid-1900s.

Fearless and fierce, the Wheaten Terrier annihilates rodents and other small animals. He is a people-lover. He is cautious around strangers but has a great love for his family. But as soon as you get to know him better, the dog will bring new players into the game.

The coat is prone to matting, gets tangled easily, and sheds moderately. It is therefore combed each day. The coat can be regularly trimmed or left in its natural state. To avoid damaging the structure of their hair, you do not need to give your pets frequent baths.

12. Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog makes an adaptable friend. It can guard the house, assist with fishing, herd cattle, and take part in sporting events. Additionally, it makes a great friend and family member for kids due to its docile and calm temperament.

Spanish water dogs are born with curly hair. It gathers into curls and then into cords as they get older. Only the curls are manually separated, and the resulting mats are cut off, rather than the coat being combed. He only takes a bath when he is really filthy. As a result, among curly dogs, this breed is among the easiest to care for.

The IWS is of medium size; its maximum length is 50 cm, and its maximum weight is 20 kg. It can be stored in an apartment or in the country.

The characteristic wavy or tightly coiled coats of curly dog breeds give them a distinctive look and also make them easier to groom and hypoallergenic. These breeds, which range in size and temperament from the gregarious Poodle to the devoted Portuguese Water Dog, are excellent companions for singles, families, and allergy sufferers. Regardless of your preferred size, there is a curly-coated breed that can suit practically any kind of lifestyle, be it small, medium, or large.

13. Kerry Blue Terrier

The Irish county of Kerry is where the Kerry Blue Terrier originated, and its unique gray-blue coat color is what gave rise to its name.

Kerry is incredibly intelligent. He frequently exhibits amazing creativity and makes his own judgments. He possesses strong hunting and guard instincts. In addition, he enjoys taking long, strenuous walks, playing loud games with the kids, and showing affection to his family.

The coat has no undercoat, almost no shedding, and no odor. However, as it grows, it must be trimmed and combed two to three times a week.

Kerry is petite, standing only 49 cm and weighing 18 kg. It is therefore appropriate for apartment living. However, it would be preferable to keep this excitable dog outside of the city, where he can run around and play with no restrictions.

14. Kuvasz

Hungary is home to Kuvasz, a snow-white giant. It is 40–60 kg in weight and reaches a height of 66–76 cm. The breed has served as a guardian and family protector for flocks for more than a millennium.

Kuvasz is a multifaceted individual. It will take a lot of training to help this arrogant and unyielding dog learn how to socialize and learn to control its protective tendencies. Its size and delayed development cause additional issues; by the age of three, pets are formed.

Kuvasz’s shaggy, snow-white fur has big, wavy curls that set it apart. It will need care; during the shedding period, it is combed every three days. Otherwise, the fur coat will get tangled.

Otherwise, taking care of yourself is easy. There’s no need to cut Kuvasz; he bathes once every three months. Ears, eyes, teeth, and claws are routinely cleaned and clipped.

15. Lagotto Romagnolo

In the sixteenth century, the Lagotto Romagnolo, or Italian Water Dog, was created in Italy. Its ancestors were probably prehistoric peat dogs. The FCI only recognized the breed in 2005, despite its long history.

Lagotto-Romanolo is a canine of medium size, standing 41–48 cm tall and weighing 11–16 kg. It has a thick, waterproof undercoat and curls of hard, thick wool.

Lagotto was first employed to keep judges safe following a search and the procurement of shot ducks. They are being raised as a family now, for sports, police work, and canister. Additionally, the dogs are used to extract truffles because of their keen sniffing skills.

Old wool gets stuck in curls instead of falling out. The dog is combed twice a week to get rid of it. In addition, they bathe once a month, trim their claws, and clean their teeth, ears, and eyes as needed.

Italian water dogs are well-mannered, submissive, intelligent, and incredibly industrious. Working with them is enjoyable and simple because dogs can be trained in any activity.

16. Lakeland Terrier

In the eighteenth century, farmers in England bred the Lakeland Terrier to ward off rodents such as rats, gophers, and rabbits. Eventually, they started using it to hunt creatures that burrow.

The Lakeland is a small, temperamental dog that weighs up to 8 kg. Like all terriers, it is obstinate and has an opinion about everything, including how commands should be carried out. Long-term, dedicated training combined with firm handling are required to produce an obedient dog.

The Lakeland has a dense, soft undercoat underneath its hard, curly coat. Every three months, it is trimmed, and every other day, it is combed. As it becomes dirty, bathe it once a month on average.

The Lakeland does not get along with other pets because it is naturally hostile to animals. With the owner and his family, it is affectionate nevertheless. It can be kept in an apartment, but you must take it for at least two hour-long, vigorous walks each day.

17. Maltipoo

About 20 years ago, a new breed of ornamental dogs called Maltipoos was developed in America. A Maltese and a toy poodle were crossed to create a new species.

A Maltipoo is a family dog best kept indoors. It is brittle and vulnerable to liver, heart, and eye conditions. Long walks are not necessary; 30 minutes a day will do.

However, Maltipoo requires continuous communication. It is so adoring that it borders on obsession: it follows people around, makes demands for attention, and begs to be petted or played with. Consequently, homebodies are a better fit for this breed.

There are two varieties of fur on maltipoos: straight and curly. The latter requires more maintenance; it needs to be combed daily, regularly cut or untangled, and washed twice a month.

18. Portuguese Water Dog

Portugal developed the Portuguese Water Dog, also known as the Wasserhund, during the Middle Ages.

The Portuguese Wasserhund has long been a hunting and fishing companion. In tough circumstances, the dog had to be cool and completely obedient. As a result, members of the breed tend to have a calm, composed personality. They learn new environments quickly and easily, obey all family members, and are easy to train.

There are two varieties of "Portuguese" coats: curly and wavy. Wasserhunds require less maintenance than many other curly breeds; they only need to be bathed 2-4 times a year, combed once a week, and have any debris from walks removed from their coat.

19. Poodle

It’s amazing to think that the decorative poodles of today were once working dogs. They served a variety of functions, including military requirements, cattle herding, and hunting.

Whether the breed originated in Germany or France is a mystery. However, one thing is certain: poodles have a long history—they were recognized in Europe as early as the 15th and 16th centuries.

Poodles come in two coat types: curly and corded, and they come in a range of colors. Additionally, the breed is divided into 4 sizes-based varieties:

  • standard (also royal or large): 45-60 cm;
  • small (medium): 35-45 cm;
  • miniature (dwarf): 28-35 cm;
  • toy: up to 28 cm.

Poodles of all kinds are known for their exceptional intelligence, diligence, self-worth, and obedience. As per Stanley Coren’s classification, they rank second in intelligence among breeds.

They should ideally comb their curly coat every day, but at least once every three days. Dead hairs are combed out and plucked because they do not fall out naturally. Twice a month, they get baths.

Haircuts are the most labor-intensive aspect of poodle care. A professional groomer is tasked with cutting your pet’s hair because it is a difficult task to perform on your own. Four types of haircuts are permitted by the standard: "lion," "modern," "English," and "papi."

20. Russian colored lapdog

Russian colored lapdog is a young curly breed, bred in Leningrad in the 1950s. To get these charming dogs, various lapdogs were crossed with Shih Tzu and Pekingese.

The Russian lapdog is a cute little dog with curly fur that comes in multiple colors. Its size is up to 28 cm and 4 kg. Long walks and games won’t be necessary for her—a little bed in a quaint apartment corner will do just fine.

"Tsvetnushki" make the perfect friends for loner and homebodies. They don’t impose themselves, but they enjoy company. kind and polite, watchful, astute, and submissive. They only become upset when things or their personal space are invaded.

Russian lapdogs are carefree and modest. The most important thing is to keep an eye on their safety because curious dogs prod things with their little noses. The dogs have thicker fur than other varieties of lapdogs. As a result, it hardly ever becomes tangled or dirty. It’s sufficient to brush a few times a week and take a bath once a month.

21. Russian Black Terrier

Another breed developed in the USSR is the Russian Black Terrier. The breeders of the "Red Star" kennel took an Airedale Terrier, a Rottweiler, a Giant Schnauzer, and a Newfoundland for crossing.

The outcome was a large (68–76 cm and 45–60 kg), all-purpose breed that is highly resilient to all types of weather. When it comes to the police, customs, searching for explosives and drugs, and securing people and areas, dogs are indispensable.

The Black Terrier is docile, easily trained, and highly social. However, this dog’s primary purpose is service, not companionship. For seasoned dog handlers who can manage a large pet, gather the required skills, and reach their full potential as workers, getting one is advised.

Hair that is pure black or gray is coiled into many curls and is hard. Instead of falling out on their own, dead hairs become entangled in the strands. Dogs are combed daily to prevent them. Trimming and hair cuts are also required.

22. Scotch Terrier

In Scotland, foxes, badgers, and other burrowing animals were the target breed for Scotch Terriers. These little dogs have incredible strength, unwavering perseverance, and admirable bravery, weighing up to 28 cm and 10.5 kg.

Scottish terriers are more submissive and less obstinate than other terrier breeds. They submit to their owner and grow quite attached to him. Even so, they occasionally behave in an erratic manner.

Scottish terriers have two coat types: a wiry, hard topcoat and a short undercoat. The latter has a slight curl and is elongated on the sides.

Only the undercoat of Scotch terriers sheds; the topcoat tangles the undercoat, which does not fall out. For this reason, dogs get haircuts in a salon once every three months and get "plucked" on their own every month.

Scottish terriers typically get bathed once a month. However, the dogs themselves enjoy getting dirty, and their fur gathers a lot of dirt. Consequently, wash the coat as needed and comb it afterwards, using a comb after the first slicker brush wash.

Breed Description
Poodle Known for their curly coat, Poodles are intelligent, active, and come in various sizes.
Bichon Frise A small, cheerful dog with a fluffy, curly coat, great for families.
Lagotto Romagnolo An Italian breed famous for truffle hunting, with a curly and water-resistant coat.
Portuguese Water Dog A loyal and energetic breed, their curly coat helps them excel in water-based activities.
Irish Water Spaniel This breed has tight curls and is known for being a skilled swimmer and hunting dog.

Breeds of dogs with curly hairs have a distinct charm due to their loving dispositions and soft, textured coats. Whether you’re drawn to the wavy fur of a Bichon Frise or the tight curls of a Poodle, these dogs are notable for their intelligence and loving personalities in addition to their attractive appearance.

Even though their coats are exquisite, they do need to be groomed frequently to stay in good condition. Their curls will stay fresh and avoid matting with regular brushing and the odd trim. But don’t worry, these breeds are easy to handle and will show you loyalty and love if you give them a little extra attention.

Ultimately, people searching for a unique, devoted companion should consider curly-haired breeds. They are a great asset to any family because of their lively dispositions and distinctive looks.

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Maxim Kovalev

Veterinarian with many years of experience. Main interest is the prevention and treatment of diseases in cats and dogs. I constantly share proven tips for caring for the health of pets to help avoid common problems and maintain their excellent health.

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