Curly-Coated Retriever

Brushing Routine

Do NOT brush the Curly-Coated Retriever's coat with conventional brushes -- this destroys the tight, crisp curls. Instead, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to gently separate any tangles. After bathing, scrunch the coat with your hands to encourage curl formation. A light misting with water and hand-scrunching between baths refreshes the curls.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 4-6 weeks with a curl-enhancing or lightweight moisturizing shampoo. Apply conditioner only to the ears and furnishings, not the body curls -- conditioner weighs them down and loosens the tight pattern. Towel-dry by scrunching, then air-dry completely. Blow-drying frizzes the coat and ruins curl definition.

Common Issues

• Loss of curl pattern from brushing, blow-drying, or heavy products
• Patchiness and bald spots (pattern baldness is a breed issue)
• Frizzy coat from humidity or improper drying
• Ear infections from curly ear flaps trapping moisture
• Slow drying time due to dense, water-resistant curls

Extend Your Grooming Results

Mist the coat lightly and scrunch with hands to refresh curls between baths. Apply a light curl-defining spray after bathing. Do not over-groom -- the Curly-Coat should look naturally tidy with minimal fuss. Monitor for any pattern baldness on the thighs and flanks and consult your vet if it appears.

Seasonal Care

Curly-Coated Retrievers shed minimally year-round with a more noticeable shed in spring and fall. In Houston's humidity, the curls may frizz -- a light anti-humidity spray helps. In summer, the tight curls provide sun protection but ensure the dog has access to shade and water. Never shave the coat as curls may not grow back correctly.

Maintenance Schedule

Finger-comb or wide-toothed comb weekly (NO brushing), bath every 4-6 weeks with curl-enhancing shampoo, ear cleaning weekly, nail trims every 3 weeks, curl refreshing with water mist as needed, professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.