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24 Curly Hair Dog Breeds (With Pros & Cons)

  • Other Dog Breeds
  • Posted 5 months ago

Curly-haired dogs have been in high demand for hundreds of years, and their popularity is only increasing. Fortunately, there are several curly hair breeds to pick from.

So, in this piece, I’ll include all of the breeds with wavy or curly hair. So get a cup of coffee and stick around till the end.

Let’s get started!

1: Bichon Frise

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The Bichon Frise is the most beautiful curly-haired dog breed in my opinion. These adorable tiny dogs enjoy spending time with their owners and have a long life (12 – 15 years).

The most amazing thing about them is that, despite having a lot of hair on their bodies, they shed very little, making them an ideal breed for people who are sensitive to dog shed.

They were also known as “little white dogs” back in the day.

Pros:

  • They shed much less
  • They are very friendly
  • Quite intelligent and trainable
  • They can live in a small space
  • High energetic

Some cons:

  • High grooming requirements – Due to their majestic hair, they require daily grooming Their curly hair can mat easily, so regular brushing is necessary.
  • They are prone to separation anxiety
  • They bark a lot
  • Can be a little stubborn at times

2: Bedlington Terrier

IG – rosiethebedlington

The Bedlington Terrier is one of the most unusual-looking dog breeds; in fact, they resemble lambs, which is odd.

Their distinct appearance and curly hair earn them the number two spot on our list, but it is not their only quality; this breed is also very loving, loyal, and loves spending time with kids.

They are little canines with a height of 16 to 17.5 inches and a weight of 17 to 25 pounds.

Furthermore, they were bred to hunt, dog race, and participate in other dog sports and were named after the mining town of Bedlington, Northumberland in North East England.

Overall, they are excellent family dogs with one of the most distinctive appearances.

Pros:

  • Gentle and Affectionate Temperament
  • Unique Lamb-Like Appearance
  • Hypoallergenic Coat
  • Good with Children and Other Pets
  • Athletic and Energetic, Yet Calm Indoors

Cons:

  • High Grooming Needs (Regular Clipping and Trimming)
  • Prone to Certain Genetic Health Conditions

3: Pumi

IG – melissamoon

Pumis look like a real-life teddy bear; they are very beautiful dogs, but this dog breed is more than simply looks; Pumis are also intelligent, which is why their popularity is expanding rapidly.

They are originating from Hungary and were bred to regulate stock.

They have a long head with semi-erect ears, a playful smile, and a tail that creates a circle around their backs.

Pumi’s coat (black, white, grey, or fawn) is a mix of wavy and curly hair that forms curls all over the body.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and Quick Learners
  • Lively and Energetic
  • Adaptable to Various Environments
  • Low Shedding Coat
  • Good with Families and Children

Cons:

  • High Exercise Requirements
  • May Display Independent or Stubborn Behavior

4: Bolognese

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Bolognese are a little and exceptionally cute dog breed, weighing about 6-10 pounds and standing 10-12 inches in height, making them ideal lap dogs.

They adore and enjoy spending time with their owners. They can live comfortably in an apartment or other compact locations due to their smaller size.

However, there are a few things you should be aware of before purchasing a Bolognese for yourself or your family.

This breed cannot survive without the individual with whom they have formed a bond. In other words, they suffer from separation anxiety. They are also demanding maintenance, requiring regular brushing.

If don’t see these requirements as a problem, go for Bolognese as they are adorable little dogs that will live with you till their last breath.


Pros:

  • Affectionate and Devoted Companionship
  • Low Shedding and Hypoallergenic Coat
  • Adaptable to Apartment Living
  • Generally Good with Children and Other Pets
  • Intelligent and Trainable

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming
  • May Develop Separation Anxiety if Left Alone for Long Periods

5: Barbet

IG – twomuttsandawiener

Originally from France, barbets are renowned for their outstanding temperament and distinctive hair. This medium-sized dog breed is extremely expensive and uncommon.

They are quite smart and enjoy swimming; in fact, they are even rarer because of their water-resistant coat.

All in all, they are wonderful family pets, and I heartily suggest this breed to those who are new to owning one, but keep in mind that they require maintenance because of their lengthy, curly hair.

Pros:

  • Friendly and Sociable Temperament
  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Excellent Swimmers with a Water-Resistant Coat
  • Low Shedding and Hypoallergenic
  • Adaptable to Various Living Environments

Cons:

  • High Grooming Needs (Regular Brushing and Professional Grooming)
  • Moderate to High Exercise Requirements

6: Poodle

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Poodles are one of the most popular dog breeds; in fact, the AKC ranks them as the fifth most popular dog breed in the world.

To be honest, Poodles have this honor because they are absolutely wonderful canines, very trainable, intelligent, and shed a lot less compared to other breeds.

They also have a pleasant personality and enjoy spending time with their family. Unfortunately, they are susceptible to a number serious of diseases.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and Highly Trainable
  • Hypoallergenic Coat (Low Shedding)
  • Versatile in Various Dog Sports and Activities
  • Good with Children and Other Pets
  • Comes in Three Sizes (Standard, Miniature, Toy)

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming
  • May Be Prone to Some Health Issues (e.g., Hip Dysplasia, Eye Conditions)

7: Kerry Blue Terrier

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Another very unusual-looking breed of dog with a lot of courage, intellect, and enthusiasm is the Kerry Blue Terrier.

These Irish blue dogs, originated from County Kerry, were bred to hunt small game and birds, kill rats, and herd sheep and calves.

While Kerry Blue Terriers get along well with kids, they don’t get along with other animals. Experts claim that because they might be abrasive among other dogs, adequate socialization is crucial.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and Quick Learners
  • Loyal and Devoted Companions
  • Hypoallergenic Coat (Low Shedding)
  • Versatile in Various Dog Sports and Activities
  • Good with Children and Families

Cons:

  • High Grooming Needs (Regular Clipping and Trimming)
  • May Exhibit Stubborn Behavior at Times

8: Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The brown, industrious Chesapeake Bay Retriever breed is renowned for its superb hunting and retrieving skills. Their athletic physique enables them to participate in numerous dog sports.

These gorgeous dogs can swim fairly well as well. You may make them extremely amiable with early socialization and training, but without these things, they can be Reserved or Aloof with Strangers.

Pros:

  • Excellent Water Retrievers and Swimmers
  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Loyal and Protective
  • Good with Families and Children
  • Strong Work Ethic, Suitable for Various Activities

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation
  • Can Be Reserved or Aloof with Strangers

9: Airedale Terrier

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Being the largest breed of terrier dog, the Airedale Terrier is frequently referred to as the “King of Terriers.” They reach a height of 23 inches and a weight of 70 pounds.

They frequently appear in numerous dog sporting activities since they are incredibly athletic and trainable.

Originally from Yorkshire, England, Airedale terriers were developed to hunt otters and other rodents, but they soon gained popularity as working and show dogs.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Energetic and Playful
  • Good with Children and Families
  • Versatile in Various Dog Sports and Activities
  • Low Shedding Coat

Cons:

  • Regular Grooming Required (Wire Coat Maintenance)
  • Can Be Independent and Stubborn at Times

10: Lagotto Romagnolo

IG – mac_in_manhattan

The Italian Lagotto Romagnolo, often known as the Italian water dog, is a smart, obedient, active, and low-shedding breed.

Although this breed was initially developed to hunt ducks in the damp marshes of Romagna, Italy, it is now most recognized for its prowess in the pursuit of truffles.

When compared to other breeds of dogs with curly hair, they are medium-sized and have a lengthy lifespan. Their lifespan is between 15 and 17 years.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Hypoallergenic Coat (Low Shedding)
  • Energetic and Playful
  • Excellent Truffle Hunters
  • Good with Children and Families

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming (Curly Coat Maintenance)
  • Moderate Exercise Needs

11: Bouvier Des Flandres

Large dogs—possibly the largest on this list—Bouvier Des Flandres are excellent family pets because of their generally calm and docile demeanor.

They are also able to coexist with other animals if they have the proper training and early socialization. Their ability to adjust to various living conditions and their highly versatile digs set them apart from other breeds.

Their intended use was as an all-purpose farm dog. They assisted farmers with a wide range of duties, such as guarding, dragging carts, and herding livestock—especially cattle.

Overall, they are large in stature but have a golden heart. They can be an excellent option for you if you enjoy large, curly-haired dogs.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Protective and Loyal
  • Adaptable to Different Living Environments
  • Versatile Working Dog (Herding, Guarding)
  • Low Shedding Coat

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming (Heavy Double Coat)
  • May Display Reserved Behavior with Strangers

12: Curly Coated Retriever

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The curly-coated retriever has a very unique coat that is primarily liver and black in color. They were highly favored by English gamekeepers, hunters, and poachers equally because they were developed to retrieve game from both land and water.

It’s amazing to say that this breed is now utilized for search and rescue operations, rehabilitation, and drug detection in addition to competing in dog contests.

Pros:

  • Excellent Swimmers and Retrievers
  • Low Shedding Coat (Hypoallergenic)
  • Independent Thinkers and Problem Solvers
  • Good with Families and Children
  • Sturdy and Athletic

Cons:

  • Late Maturity (Takes Longer to Mature)
  • Independent Nature Can Lead to Stubbornness

13: Portuguese Water Dog

IG – portraitsofdogs

Another working breed that excels at duties such as herding sheep, retrieving ducks, and assisting fishermen is the Portuguese Water Dog.

They are originally from Portugal, as the name implies, and were imported to the United States in the 1960s, where they have since become a popular companion dog.

They are not small dogs, with a height of up to 23 inches and a weight of 35-60 pounds.

They are also high-energy canines, good swimmers, and enjoy spending time with their owners and kids.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Excellent Swimmers and Retrievers
  • Low Shedding and Hypoallergenic Coat
  • Energetic and Athletic
  • Good with Families and Children

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming (Curly Coat Maintenance)
  • High Exercise Needs

14: Irish Water Spaniel

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Irish Water Spaniels are medium-sized, Irish dogs with curly hair and a liver color. They are good swimmers because of their waterproof, dense coat, which also sheds low.

They are intelligent and quick to pick up new abilities, and they have a friendly and eager-to-please attitude.

The Irish Water Spaniel is a smart dog breed that makes the ideal family pet.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Excellent Swimmers and Retrievers
  • Hypoallergenic Coat (Low Shedding)
  • Energetic and Playful
  • Good with Families and Children

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming (Curly Coat Maintenance)
  • May Have Some Health Concerns (e.g., Hip Dysplasia, Ear Infections)

 

15: Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

IG – juniorthewheaten

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a lengthy name, but don’t worry, they’re also known as Wheatie. This is another Irish breed that is strong and playful.

They are a pleasant and extroverted dog breed that was intended to help farmers,; they are also rather versatile.

Unfortunately, they are predisposed to certain health problems, such as Protein-Losing Nephropathy. Overall, they are among the best family dogs, and I adore them.

Pros:

  • Friendly and Outgoing Temperament
  • Hypoallergenic Coat (Low Shedding)
  • Good with Children and Families
  • Energetic and Playful
  • Intelligent and Trainable

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming (Soft, Silky Coat Maintenance)
  • May Be Prone to Certain Health Issues (e.g., Protein-Losing Nephropathy)

16: Afghan Hound

IG – afghan_hound.ins

The Afghan Hound is renowned for having a stunning appearance. Their piercing eyes and long, flowing hair give them a unique appearance.

Being a rather historic dog breed, they have a lot of history in addition to being independent, smart, and devoted canines.

These dogs were raised by the Afghan Bedouin people to hunt gazelles and other small animals in the difficult mountainous environment of that country.

All in all, a wonderful dog breed distinguished by its magnificent, exquisite coat.

Pros:

  • Elegant and Graceful Appearance
  • Independent and Aloof Demeanor
  • Low Shedding Coat (Hypoallergenic)
  • Athletic and Agile
  • Good with Families and Older Children

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming (Long, Silky Coat Maintenance)
  • Independent Nature Can Lead to Stubbornness
  • May Be Reserved or Distant with Strangers

17: Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a quiet, reserved canine breed with a distinctive appearance. To hunt badgers and otters, they were bred.

Despite their diminutive stature, this breed’s short legs, curly coat, and long neck make them eager hunters and territorial defenders.

Pros:

  • Unique Appearance and Charismatic Expression
  • Low Shedding Coat (Hypoallergenic)
  • Good with Families and Children
  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Adaptable to Apartment Living

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming (Double Coat Maintenance)
  • May Be Prone to Certain Health Issues (e.g., Back Problems, Eye Conditions)
  • Can Be Reserved or Distrustful of Strangers

 

18: Labradoodle

IG – sactolabradoodles

The popularity of labradoodles has grown significantly over the past several years and continues to rise daily. Because this breed never grows old, labradoodles are rightfully very popular.

They are incredibly sociable, highly intelligent, and quickly trainable. Another factor in their appeal is their low shedding nature; in fact, they were designed to be hypoallergenic.

All things considered, they are ideal for people seeking a cute dog with minimal shedding and a long lifespan (12–15 years).

 

Pros:

  • Hypoallergenic Coat (Low Shedding)
  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Good with Families and Children
  • Friendly and Sociable Temperament
  • Comes in Various Sizes to Suit Different Lifestyles

Cons:

  • Grooming Needs Can Vary (Depending on Coat Type)
  • Potential for Health Issues from Both Labrador and Poodle Breeds
  • May Require Regular Exercise to Prevent Boredom-Related Behaviors

19: Goldendoodle

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Another unusual breed is the Goldendoodle, a cross between a golden retriever and a poodle. Although this breed is sadly not pure, I nevertheless included them on the list because of their stunning beauty.

They are mainly cream, apricot, and red in hue, with wavy hair. They are quite bright and get along well with families and kids, just like poodles and golden retrievers.

They also require a healthy dose of exercise to prevent boredom-related behaviors.

Pros:

  • Hypoallergenic Coat (Low Shedding)
  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Good with Families and Children
  • Friendly and Sociable Temperament
  • Comes in Various Sizes to Suit Different Lifestyles

Cons:

  • Grooming Needs Can Vary (Depending on Coat Type)
  • Potential for Health Issues from Both Golden Retriever and Poodle Breeds
  • May Require Regular Exercise to Prevent Boredom-Related Behaviors

20: Sussex Spaniel

IG – lucythechocolatecocker

The purpose of the English-bred Sussex Spaniel, which has its origins in England, was to lure birds into the air for hunters.

Their attitude is normally peaceful and easygoing, although they become lively when they see birds.

It’s interesting to note that despite having long, curly, or wavy hair, they don’t shed much.

Pros:

  • Gentle and Calm Temperament
  • Good with Families and Children
  • Low to Moderate Exercise Needs
  • Adaptable to Apartment Living
  • Low Shedding Coat

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming (Feathering on Ears and Legs)
  • May Be Prone to Some Health Issues (e.g., Ear Infections, Obesity)
  • Less Common Breed, which may impact availability

21: Otterhound

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As their name implies, otterhounds are gorgeous, tall dogs that originated in England and were bred specifically to hunt otters.

Otterhounds are very athletic and lively dogs that get along well with families and kids. Aside from that, they have superb tracking and olfactory abilities.

Pros:

  • Affectionate and Sociable Temperament
  • Good with Families and Children
  • Excellent Sense of Smell and Tracking Skills
  • Athletic and Energetic
  • Unique and Distinctive Appearance

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation
  • Grooming Needs (Regular Brushing, Especially the Thick Coat)
  • May Be Prone to Some Health Issues (e.g., Hip Dysplasia, Bloat)

22: Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka

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As the name implies, Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonkas are tiny toy dogs from Russia who are renowned for their cute appearance and loving disposition.

Functioned as a companion dog in Russia throughout the 1800s. It became more well-known in Europe after the 1960s and, more recently, in the US.

They are thought to be the greatest lapdogs, therefore they can be the ideal option for you if you’re searching for a tiny, curly-haired dog breed that’s ideal for a lapdog.

Pros:

  • Small Size, Suitable for Apartment Living
  • Affectionate and Devoted to Owners
  • Low to Moderate Exercise Needs
  • Hypoallergenic Coat (Low Shedding)
  • Good with Families, Including Children

Cons:

  • Regular Grooming Required (Silky, Long Coat Maintenance)
  • May Be Reserved or Shy with Strangers
  • A Less Common Breed, which may impact availability

23: Havanese

IG – havaneseoftheworld

Another little dog breed that originated in Cuba is the Havanese. This bichon-type dog evolved from the now-extinct Blanquito de la Habana to become Cuba’s national canine.

They are emotional, playful, and devoted to their owners. They are unsurprisingly highly clever, low-shedding, and excellent family dogs.

Pros:

  • Affectionate and Playful Temperament
  • Good with Families, Including Children
  • Low Shedding Coat
  • Intelligent and Trainable
  • Adaptable to Apartment Living

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Grooming (Long, Silky Coat Maintenance)
  • May Be Prone to Dental Issues
  • Potential for Separation Anxiety if Left Alone for Long Periods

24: Griffon Fauve de Bretagne

IG – oscar_de_nantes

Another French breed recognized for its outstanding looks and amiable disposition is the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne.

They are highly nimble and lively dogs who require a lot of playtime with their owners on a regular basis. They normally get along well with other dogs because of their amiable disposition.

Furthermore, they have an excellent sense of smell and a curly coat that does not require much maintenance.

Pros:

  • Energetic and Agile
  • Sociable and Friendly Temperament
  • Good with Families and Children
  • Low Maintenance Coat
  • Excellent Sense of Smell

Cons:

  • Requires Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation
  • Independent Nature Can Lead to Stubbornness
  • May Be Reserved or Shy with Strangers
  • Less Common Breed, which may impact availability

Final Words

Curly-haired dogs are more popular than ever before, some breeds are small in size while others are massive, so it’s up to you what size of breed you want, but make sure to choose a dog that doesn’t shed much as shedding can be difficult to control, and if you’re a first-time owner, avoid getting an aggressive dog breed as training and socializing them can be difficult.

Poodles, Labradoodles, Havanese, Pumi, and Bichon Frise are our top picks.

I hope you liked this post.

Thanks for reading!

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