The Curly Coated Retriever's unique curled coat makes it stand out, but it's currently considered a 'vulnerable native breed' due to low UK numbers.
However, the Kennel Club reports a significant resurgence in popularity in 2023, with a fivefold increase in puppies compared to 2022. A well-bred, Kennel Club-registered pedigree puppies from reputable breeders can range from £600 to £800 in cost.
A Curly-coated retriever competes in the 147th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Presented by Purina Pro Plan at Arthur Ashe Stadium on May 09, 2023 in New York City.
45 New Curly Coated Retriever Puppies Born in 2023
First showcased in 1860, the Curly Coated Retriever, the oldest and tallest among Retriever breeds, inherits its distinctive curly coat from a blend of its ancestor, the English Water Spaniel, and likely the Labrador Retriever. Poodle blood was incorporated to enhance the curl's tightness, providing waterproof qualities for retrieving tasks, its original purpose.
Despite its initial popularity, the breed's appeal waned due to wartime circumstances and the emergence of the Labrador breed, leading to a decline, according to the club's explanation. The exact cause for its diminished recognition remains uncertain; however, the Kennel Club speculates that its absence from mainstream culture might have played a role.
Bill Lambert, the Kennel Club's representative, noted that contemporary trends and fame significantly influence society, affecting even dogs' popularity, resulting in the Curly Coated Retriever becoming a "forgotten breed" in contrast to its widely recognized Labrador counterparts that dominate public spaces.
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The Kennel Club's Vulnerable Native Breed List
The Curly Coated Retriever is among the Kennel Club's Vulnerable Native Breed list, designated for breeds with under 300 annual puppy registrations. These breeds, originating from the UK and Ireland, are considered at risk due to declining numbers and lack of visibility.
In recent years, Curly Coated Retriever registrations were as low as 53 in 2017 and 73 in 2022, but the 45 registrations so far this year offer optimism for their resurgence.
The Kennel Club urges considering lesser-known breeds among over 200 in the UK, often overlooked for familiar choices. Vulnerable Native Breeds include Bloodhounds, Greyhounds, and more.
Selecting a suitable dog based on lifestyle is crucial. Prospective Curly Coated Retriever owners are encouraged to extensively research and make thoughtful choices considering the breed's exercise and grooming needs.
More About Curly Coated Retrievers
As one of the older retriever breeds, the Curly Coated Retriever is renowned for its versatility and exceptional swimming prowess. It possesses a poised and intelligent demeanor, making it a retriever that matches its owner's determination. Its distinguishing feature is the tightly curled coat in black or liver, which provides protection in various weather conditions and dense vegetation.
Despite its robustness, this breed also boasts elegance, particularly evident in its sleek, wedge-shaped head that sets it apart from typical retrievers. While they are considered affectionate like Labradors and Golden Retrievers, Curlies have a touch of more independence and are less reliant.
They exhibit playfulness and mischief within the family circle but exercise caution around strangers, making them vigilant watchdogs. It's important to note that these dogs require substantial outdoor activity to remain engaged, as bored Curlies can pose a handful when underutilized.
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