Did you know that curly-haired dogs often have hypoallergenic coats, making them ideal companions for allergy sufferers? Beyond their health benefits, these curly canines boast rich histories and fun personalities.
In this blog, we will move through the world of curly-haired breeds, uncovering their origins, temperaments, and what makes their curly coats so special. Get ready to fall in love with these curly cuties.
Curly Hair Dog Breeds
1. Portuguese Water Dog
Ever dreamed of owning a personal lifeguard with curls? Meet the Portuguese water dog, your wavy-coated aquatic sidekick. Originally a fisherman’s assistant off the coast of Portugal, these dogs actually herded fish into nets.
Their dense, water-resistant curls are nature’s built-in wetsuit, perfect for splash sessions at the beach or hijacking your bubble bath.
Smart? Too smart. These dogs might learn commands before you finish Googling how to train them. They are affectionate, loyal companions, and so clingy they would probably attend your Zoom meeting too.
Just a little warning: they need activity like fish need water. Without daily exercise, they may chew your pillows. Not to forget, their curly, thick coats need regular grooming, or you will end up with a walking mop.
2. Irish Water Spaniel
Imagine a dog that looks like it stepped straight out of a Jane Austen novel, with tight curls and a personality full of sass. Say hello to the Irish Water Spaniel.
It is also called the ‘Clown of the Spaniel Family’, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Its hairdo could rival any 80s rock band!
Bred in Ireland as water retrievers, this breed’s coat acts like a natural wetsuit. Plus, their famous ‘rat tail’ (yes, that is a real thing) is smooth and bare, like someone forgot to finish the paint job.
They are athletic dogs with high intelligence and energy. They are loving and loyal. Moreover, to maintain their coat healthy, it requires weekly brushing.
3. Lagotto Romagnolo
Say ‘ciao’ to the Lagotto Romagnolo, the only dog that might sniff out your snacks and your lost car keys. This curly-coated Italian sweetie is the Beyonce of the doggo world: rare, talented, and stylish with ringlets.
Their coat? Think tight, woolly coats that scream grooming. They are hypoallergenic, so if you are sneezy around dogs, the Lagotto has your back!
But don’t let the teddy bear face fool you. They have got some serious brainpower and a work ethic that would put your intern to shame.
Friendly, affectionate, and sometimes a bit clingy, Lagottos bond hard. They will follow you to the kitchen, the shower, and maybe even into your dreams.
4. Barbet
Ever wanted a walking, tail-wagging cloud? Meet the Barbet (pronounced as bar bay). This is a rare French water dog breed, according to WebMD. And they live to splash!
Historically bred for waterfowl hunting, the Barbet is equal parts sporty and snuggly. Their dense, curly coat is not just for fashion, it is built for swimming.
These pups are lovers, not loners. They will shadow you like a curly-coated ghost and are known for their loving nature with both humans and other pets.
Training is a breeze, assuming treats and positive reinforcement are involved. They are eager to please, but give them enough exercise, or your socks may get stolen!
5. American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is known to be a crossbreed of Irish Water Spaniel and curly-coated retriever.
What if a teddy bear could swim? These dogs are the answer. They may be small in size, but don’t underestimate their swimming abilities.
Personality-wise, think clevel goofballs with a streak of stubbornness. They will charm you into letting them nap on your best pillow and then act surprised when you move them!
These dogs need daily exercise, especially anything involving water. With their affectionate nature and curly charisma, the American Water Spaniel is the perfect pup for active families.
6. Schnoodle
Take one part Poodle, one part Schnauzer, shake well, and boom, you get the Schnoodle. It is the canine equivalent of a curly-haired espresso shot.
Schnoodles are the curly lovechild of two super smart breeds, which means they are clever, energetic, and might be one Zoom away from launching their own startup.
Their coat? A glorious, ever-fluffy fusion of poodle tight curls and schnauzer wiry waves. They are also hypoallergenic, but grooming is a must.
These pups are comedians and great companions for families. They will get zoomies, and you will find toys flying at your face! Don’t worry, their intelligence makes them easy to train.
7. Cockapoo
What do you get when a Cocker Spaniel meets a Poodle? The Cockapoo: the curly-coated retriever of designer dogs, just… curlier.
Their coat can range from soft waves to tight poodle curls, and honestly, every Cockapoo seems to have its own haircare routine. A plus factor: they have low-shedding coats.
Cockapoos are pure sunshine in doggy form. Outgoing, goofy, and almost too eager to please, they would probably learn how to make your coffee if you asked nicely.
Exercise? Yes. Fetch, walks, or just chasing a sock around the house work. They don’t need long exercise, but they hate being bored. Don’t try to ignore them at all, it is a serious warning. Or else your table legs might get chewed or pillows torn!
8. Komondor
Imagine a walking floor mop that barks. That’s the Komondor. Hungary’s finest sheepdog and living proof that dreadlocks are not just for humans.
This dog can weigh up to 100 pounds, according to The Hills Pet. Seriously, people may stop you to ask if you are walking a yeti!
Their unique, thick coat may need a professional groomer. Their dreads form naturally and require hours of maintenance.
These guys don’t need a ton of exercise, but they do need space. Apartment? Nah, bad idea. But if you have a farm, or at least a big backyard, they will love it!
9. Bernedoodle
What do you get when you cross a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle? A curly-coated teddy bear with a PhD in cuteness, aka the Bernedoodle.
With their sweet faces, bouncy curls, and goofy personalities, Bernedoodles are what happens when fluff meets fun. Their coats range from shaggy waves to tight curls, depending on how much Poodle power is in the mix.
They may need professional grooming. Bonus: they are low-shedding, so your black clothes might survive. Sort of.
These dogs are known as gentle giants for their goofy personalities. They get along with kids and other pets. But don’t leave them alone for too long. Result? Pillow explosion, maybe.
Conclusion
From curly-coated water lovers to mop-like marvels, these dogs prove that fabulous hair days are not just for humans. Behind every twist and curl, there is a story of adventure, loyalty, and a little bit of fluff-fueled chaos.
If you are dreaming of a dog that is equal parts style icon and devoted sidekick, one of these curly-haired dogs might just be your perfect match!
