Who doesn’t love a dog with curls? It feels so good to run your fingers through a dog’s coils, and they’re adorable, to boot. Curly coats aren’t just stylish and fun, of course—they’ve served a variety of purposes throughout history, most often related to warmth (especially in retrieving breeds). From the waves on a doodle to the tight spirals of an Irish Water Spaniel, curly coats continue to charm dog lovers the world over.
Read on to learn about curly-haired dog breeds that combine good looks with endearing personality traits.
Bichon Frisè
As packed with personality as they are with curls, this breed is an entertaining family dog to the core. With a history that includes both aristocracy and the life of a circus performer, you couldn’t ask for a more loyal, intelligent and adorable friend. Just make sure to keep that hypoallergenic coat well-groomed and shower them with plenty of love.
Aussiedoodle
An adorable mix between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, this crossbreed has it all—brains, beauty and the desire to be busy. Though their coats come in all kinds of colours and patterns, their personalities seem to share a common characteristic: these friendly dogs love spending time with their people. What to know more? Here’s what Aussiedoodle people understand.
Portuguese Water Dog
This breed’s coils aren’t only beautiful—they also serve a purpose. These good-natured dogs were initially bred to help Portuguese fisherman on their boats, so their waterproof curls came in handy for swimming!
With a coat that ranges from tight curls to loose waves, Portuguese Water Dogs require some maintenance to keep them looking their best. Since their coat is made of hair—not fur—they need to see a groomer regularly.
Poodle
There’s not a breed more recognised for their fancy coif than this one. Whether you’re looking at a standard, miniature, or toy Poodle—curls will be part of the package. Poodle owners get to know their dogs’ coats well because they should be brushed on a daily basis to keep them from matting. There’s more to this breed than meets the eye—they’re known for being smart, athletic and playful.
Pumi
Via Flickr/Voff
Hailing from Hungary, this quick and compact breed sports corkscrew curls that give them a sweet and charming look. Initially bred to herd sheep, these dogs are known for their fun-loving and energetic personalities. They can be great for families, too.
With good early training and socialisation, you can keep their barking and herding tendencies at bay.
Havanese
These compact dogs make great companions for city-dwellers, and never fail to impress as they saunter down the street with their wavy, silky coats. Once the lapdog of Cuba’s aristocrats and wealthy planters (hence the Havana-inspired name), this breed has fascinated many throughout the years—even Hemingway and Charles Dickens were fans, according to the Kennel Club in America.
Spanish Water Dog
Developed as a working dog in Spain (of course), this breed rocks distinctive curls that can form into cords if left to their own devices. Known to be smart and loyal, they tend to be wary of strangers and protective of their owners. They respond best to confident, experienced owners. If you provide them with plenty of mental stimulation and entertaining tasks, you’ll have a happy dog on your hands!
Lagotto Romagnolo
Known as Italy’s “truffle dog” because of their innate ability to root out truffles, this breed is adorably soft and fluffy. But they’re more than just a pretty face—these dogs make amazing family pets because of their affectionate, easily-trainable nature. Their thick, woolly coats may take a little extra effort, but their sweet demeanour more than makes up for it.
American Water Spaniel
The luscious brown locks on these dogs truly set them apart. Bred in Midwest America (specifically by the Great Lakes), this breed is born to hunt and be in the water. Though fairly small, they have big personalities and love spending time playing with the family and expending energy on fun activities.
Curly-Coated Retriever
Armed with the best weather-resistant gear around—their curly coat—this breed is tough, yet lovable. They’re also thought to be the oldest retriever breed, though their exact origins are unclear. Super affectionate with familiar faces, but a bit wary of strangers, these dogs always benefit from plenty of training and early socialisation.
Irish Water Spaniel
Via Flickr/Petful
This breed earns bragging rights as the tallest of all of the spaniels. They tend to make quite the impression with their liver-coloured curly coat, smooth face, and unique ‘rat tail’. These water retrievers are great for super-active families who love hiking, swimming, and exploring the great outdoors.
Bedlington Terrier
According to Kennel Club, this breed is named after the English mining shire where they were first bred as coalmine ratters. Incredibly unique looks immediately set them apart—with curly coats, tasselled ears, a fuzzy pear-shaped head, and an abundance of elegance.
Today they’re considered wonderful companions and family pets, though early socialisation and training are a must considering their strong independent streak.
