The Curly Coated Retriever

Origin:
The Curley Coated Retriever originated in England in the late 18th century, making it one of the older retriever breeds. It's unsure exactly what breeds were used to develop the CCR however it is believed they include the Newfoundland, Poodle, English Water Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel and Labrador.

Purpose:
The CCR was bred (as their name would suggest) for retrieving. They served as a fantastic hunting and gun companion dog being able to gently retrieve small hunted animals and return them undamaged. 
Today, they are most popular as pets throughout Australia and New Zealand and are rarely found anywhere else in the world. They are still fantastic as working tracking and retrieving dogs as well an competitive agility and obedience. 

Coat care:
The CCR is unique in the fact that it has smooth fur over its face and front legs and a curly coat over the rest of its body. Their coat is very easy to maintain, they require no brushing or clipping (brushing causes their tight curls to become frizzy) and bathing only when needed. As they were bred to come in and out of waters often their skin and coat almost maintains itself. 

Health & Temperament:
A CCR is a laid back, loyal, smart and confident breed. Their eagerness to please makes them easy to train. Being a working dog, it's in their DNA to want to run and burn off a lot of energy, both mental and physical, every day. They are best suited to a high energy house hold that has time to exercise them daily. They love to 'work' to activities such as retrieving toys (especially if a body of water is involved) are a favourite as well as obedience and tracking are great ways to keep them satisfied. 
When socialised from a young age they will get along well with other dogs however due to the nature of what they were bred to do, should never be trusted alone with smaller animals. 
Their breed is prone to health issues including hip dysplasia, eye issues and epilepsy so DNA testing of breeding parents is highly recommended. Their life expectancy is between 8 - 12 years. 

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