Curly-Coated Retriever Personality Profile
Curly-Coated Retrievers are exceptionally intelligent, loyal, and independent companions. While they are incredibly affectionate and love to cuddle with their families, they can be aloof or reserved around strangers. These confident and energetic dogs are highly trainable but slow to mature, requiring engaging, reward-based mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potential stubbornness.
FRIENDLINESS
Highly Friendly
9 out of 10
ATTACHMENT
Very Affectionate
8 out of 10
PLAYFULNESS
Moderate
6 out of 10
TEMPERAMENT FAQ
Are Curly-Coated Retrievers smart?
Very Smart
8 out of 10
Curly-Coated Retrievers are exceptionally intelligent, independent, and wicked smart. While they are highly trainable, they are also slow to mature and can get bored easily. Owners should use engaging, reward-based training sessions to keep their sharp minds focused and prevent potential stubbornness during their long puppyhood.
Do Curly-Coated Retrievers like to cuddle?
Independent
2 out of 10
Curly-Coated Retrievers are incredibly affectionate and enjoy cuddling with their families, often acting like lovable lap dogs despite their size. While they possess an independent and confident nature, they thrive on human companionship and are happiest when included in daily activities and snuggled up at home.
Do Curly-Coated Retrievers get separation anxiety?
Independent
3 out of 10
3 — “Curly-Coated Retrievers are more independent than most retrievers and generally tolerate alone time reasonably well once their exercise needs are met. That said, they still form real bonds with their families and can become bored or destructive if left alone too often without enough physical and mental outlets.”
Do Curly-Coated Retrievers bark a lot?
Quiet
2 out of 10
Curly-Coated Retrievers are relatively quiet dogs that bark mainly to alert their family to something unusual, not out of anxiety or excess energy. Consistent training and enough mental stimulation help keep this occasional alert-barking from turning into a habit.
Are Curly-Coated Retrievers protective?
Watchful
0 out of 10
Curly-Coated Retrievers are more protective than most other retriever breeds. They are fiercely loyal and vigilant watchdogs, often remaining reserved or aloof around strangers. While gentle with their families, their confident and independent nature makes them naturally wary and alert to potential threats on their home turf.
VET INSIGHTS
3 — “Curly-Coated Retrievers are more independent than most retrievers and generally tolerate alone time reasonably well once their exercise needs are met. That said, they still form real bonds with their families and can become bored or destructive if left alone too often without enough physical and mental outlets.”

Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
Veterinarian
Researcher
Dog breed specialist
Verified
