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SoftMaple Curly Coated Retrievers
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SoftMaple Since 1979.... Kinky since 1993!
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Kinky Links
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The Curly Coat is an active, well balanced dog that is "just off the square," only slightly longer than it is tall. It is at home in the water, in the field, or in your living room. Distinguishing it from all the other Retriever breeds is its uniquely textured, curly coat. This unusual coat is composed of very small, tight, waterproof curls which ideally extend from the back of the head down to the elbows and hocks and to the tip of its tail. The crisply curled coat forms a striking contrast to the face devoid of any curls -- the short hair growing naturally smooth and straight.
Ideal heights as listed in the AKC Standard are 25 to 27 inches for males and 23 to 25 inches for females, although otherwise excellent dogs are not to be penalized for falling outside these ranges. Because for a long time no height ranges were stated in the Curly Standard, there is often a large variance in the size of both US and imported Curlies.
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Exceptional swimmers, which revel in the water, these powerful and tireless hunters excel on all game. Exciting to shoot over, yet they are a delightful family companion. Self-confident, steadfast and proud, this active, intelligent dog is a charming and gentle family companion and a determined, durable hunter. The Curly is alert, biddable and responsive to family and friends, whether at home or in the field. Of independent nature and discerning intelligence.Each of the Retriever breeds, even though closely related, has distinct habits and temperaments, and the Curly is no exception. Curlies are very much loyal family dogs and are reserved with strangers. They make excellent watch dogs because of this characteristic. They are generally a dignified and somewhat independent dog, especially as compared to the Golden Retriever and the Labrador Retriever. Like the Flat Coated Retriever, Curlies come in both black and (recessive) liver colors. There have been occasional reports of yellow Curlies, but this has never been an accepted color in the breed and very few if any yellows occur today.
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Originally bred to retrieve ducks on English seaboard marshes, the Curly-Coated Retriever is a black or liver-colored dog easily recognized by his coat, which is one mass of crisp curls that covers his entire body. The coat is easy to care for, as the curls stay in place with little or no attention. The Curly-Coated Retriever is a strong, smart, active dog who exhibits intelligence and endurance. He will practically live in the water. Temperamentally easy to train, he is a charming and faithful companion, and an excellent guard dog. His curious nature may lead him into many amusing escapades that call for an owner with a sense of humor.
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The Curly is a hunting dog for the person who likes variety: ducks, pheasant, grouse and a dog who can also be a companion to children and a family friend. Though he is designated as a retriever, the Curly is also an outstanding upland game dog on pheasant, grouse, quail, etc. Curlies are currently being hunted throughout North America, and are used extensively for hunting in New Zealand (where they are the hunting dog of choice) and Australia. Many, if not most, of the people hunting Curlies are family oriented who just want a dog that hunts and can be a companion so hunting Curlies is rather a silent revolution.
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A Curly that lives in the house, has regular exercise and work, including any type of work that takes advantage of the breed's innate intelligence, and is a part of the family, is a happy Curly. The most important care and training of a Curly is involving him in the family's day to day activities. Include your Curly in your every day life and he will repay you with years of friendship. The AKC Standard states that "outline, carriage and attitude all combine for a grace and elegance somewhat uncommon among the other retriever breeds." The grace and elegance is combined with a sturdy structure and hardworking, persevering temperament to create an excellent working retriever
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Training can improve your relationship with your Curly. While obedience is a competitive sport there is also practical obedience which is not much different than teaching basic manners and communication. If you are uncomfortable with the formality and, yes, rigidity, of formal obedience you can still become a happy team in practical obedience. I recommend obedience to any Curly owner. It will make your dog a better member of your family.
Order your copy of the book, The Puppy Diary
Available through Trafford Publishing
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I started in the dog world with Irish Setters. I had an All Breed High In Trial winning Utility Dog when I was a teenager. I was always looking for a breed that was more versatile than my Irish. A dog who would be a constant companion, a partner in obedience and agility. A dog I could take from the field to the show ring. I found a true gem in the dog world. The Curly Coated Retriever.
I waited a long time for my first Curly, Am And Can CH Karakul Blazing Autumn CD, CDX, NA, OA, AX, CGC, USDAA AD, Can CD, CDX. From the moment she entered our lives I was hooked on the breed!
Order your copy of the book, The Puppy Diary
Available through Trafford Publishing
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I enjoy having fun with my dogs. I also enjoy letting them just lay around doing nothing. Laying around doing nothing, often leads to a dog occupying himself. Sometimes they become destructive!
Curlies are an active, intelligent breed. Giving them a "job" to do makes them better members of the family. Having a dog sport you and your curly can do together strengthens the bond between you. The Curly Coated Retriever is a dog that can excel at many jobs. A curly's job can be a hunting companion, and agility partner, a hiking buddy, jogging partner. You can do obedience, tracking, skijoring, therapy visits...the list is endless. Sometimes I just throw around a ball or bumper in the back yard.
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