10 Amazing Big Curly Haired Dog Breeds

Are you considering getting a dog with curly hair? Curly-haired dogs are quite stunning. However, do you realize that a dog’s curly hair is the product of a hereditary mutation? A puppy must inherit two mutations in the KRT71 gene to have curly hair. 

Curly hair, however, isn’t simply for making a dog appear elegant; it also protects dogs from cold water, climate, and prickly shrubs. Many curly-haired breeds were evolved as herders in cold, rainy locations or as water dogs to assist anglers.

Curly hair dogs, however, have the advantage of being non-shedders, hypoallergenic, or both. Hence, if you or a member of your family suffers from allergies, you might want to consider getting a curly-haired dog. However, always bear in mind that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.

Also, curly-haired dog breeds have varying grooming needs: some may require frequent combing or bathing, while others may just require hand stripping. 

Keeping all of this in mind, we’ve put up a list of 10 beautiful curly-haired dogs from the big dog category. So, without much ado, let’s start our pooch journey!

10 Gorgeous Big Curly-Haired Dogs For Dog Lovers

There are many curly-haired large dog breeds out there. Although they all appear to be wonderfully attractive, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most stunning huge curly-haired dogs here. And they all are appropriate for keeping as family pets.

However, we recommend that you evaluate all qualities of a breed, not just their coat hair, before making your decision. This includes personality, grooming needs, shedding, energy level, size, etc.

#1. Standard Poodle

A poodle is supposedly the most popular breed for curly-haired dogs. Originally bred to retrieve ducks from the water, these curly-haired dogs are today known for their magnificent coats, lovely appearances, and endearing personalities. They’re also non-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them ideal for people with allergy problems.

Poodles are bright and wonderful pets, so don’t judge them solely by appearance. Also, if you plan to get a standard poodle, be prepared to provide them with regular opportunities for physical activity and grooming their coat to prevent tangles and mats.

Group	Non- working
Height	15"
Weight	Up to 70lbs
Coat color	White, black, grey, brown, apricot
Coat type	Single-layer dense, curly coat
Longevity	12- 15 years

#2. Airedale Terriers

Airedale Terriers are the largest of all terriers and were bred for duck hunting in the beginning. These dogs are recognized for being intelligent, fearless, and lively. They have a tight curl coat that must be groomed regularly using a stripping comb. Their coat has a unique texture that distinguishes them from the other terriers. Airedale Terriers are low shedders and hypoallergenic, requiring only three to four hair cuts per year.

However, keep in mind that these dogs, like all terriers, have a high hunting instinct. So, be prepared for a barking day and night, especially if they encounter any critter or rodent. Furthermore, because Airedales are not fond of other dogs, you must train and socialize them from a young age to eliminate any negative behavior.

Group	Terrier
Height	Up to 23"
Weight	Up to 70lbs
Coat color	Black; tan
Coat type	Tight curly coat, with beard on the muzzle
Longevity	10- 12 years

#3. Curly-Coated Retriever

One of the largest curly-haired dog breeds is the Curly-coated retriever. This breed’s coat is incredible, protecting them from water, cold, snow, and other hazards. In addition, curly-coated retrievers, which were bred as hunting dogs, are extremely intelligent and, with proper training, can make wonderful companions.

One of the best aspects of this breed is that, in addition to being gentle and loving, they are also self-sufficient and require less attention. Although Curlies are playful and naughty with their loved ones, they do not gel with outsiders. Hence, training and socialization are essential for them.

That being said, keep in mind that this breed requires a lot of outdoor exercises and regular grooming, via combing only. Also, remember that curly-coated retrievers only have one coat of hair that sheds every six months. So, combing them regularly during the shedding season is a must.

Group	Sporting
Height	Up to 27"
Weight	Up to 90lbs
Coat color	Black; dark brown
Coat type	Curly coat with feathering fringes
Longevity	9- 14 years

#4. Irish Water Spaniel

Choose an Irish water spaniel if you want a playful and lively dog with a curly coat. This popular sporting dog in Europe and the United States looks similar to a Cocker Spaniel with a size and coat of a Standard Poodle.

The curls of Irish water spaniels are bigger and more luxuriant, requiring more grooming. In simpler terms, an Irish water spaniel’s coat should be brushed or combed at least once a week. Additionally, they need to be bathed and trimmed every six to eight weeks. 

These dogs are excellent family pets and are extremely lovely with children. However, bear in mind that because this breed was created to do retrieving activities, they will require daily exercise to channelize their energy.

Group	Sporting
Height	Up to 24"
Weight	Up to 68lbs
Coat color	Dark-brown liver color
Coat type	Dense and tight curls
Longevity	12- 13 years

#5. Bouvier des Flandres

Bouvier des Flandres, which literally means “cowherd of Flanders,” can be listed under the world’s largest curly-haired dog breed. They can reach a maximum height of 27.5 inches and weigh about 110 pounds. As a result, this breed is great for anyone searching for a large curly hair dog with plenty of indoor and outdoor space.

This breed was developed in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands as farm dogs during the medieval period. Initially, they were assigned jobs such as herding cattle, pushing carts, and guarding the property and livestock.

However, Bouvier des Flandres are outstanding watchdogs and guards in contemporary times. They also require a lot of upkeep and skilled grooming due to their thick curly coat. As a result, getting this dog would need investing time in frequent grooming sessions.

Group	Herding
Height	Up to 27.5"
Weight	Up to 110lbs
Coat color	Most commonly in black and blue
Coat type	Thick curls
Longevity	10- 12 years

Also Read: 8 Dogs Breeds That Shed The Most {Tips To Control It}

#6. Barbet

A lesser-known curly-haired dog breed. Barbet is a water dog with an appealing appearance and comes in various colors, with a maximum height of 24″. Their coat has a unique feature: it is water-resistant, and it is ideal for keeping it at a length of 3 to 5 inches.

Barbet’s hair is thick and woolly, and it has to be groomed on a weekly or biweekly basis to eliminate mats and tangles. This breed, however, is easy to train and has a friendly demeanor, making it a good choice as a family companion. You can also visit a professional dog groomer to ensure that your dog remains in good shape.

Groom them and offer them the scope to exercise regularly, and you will get a happy curly dog at your home. 

Group	Yet to be accepted by AKC.
Height	Up to 24.5"
Weight	Up to 65lbs
Coat color	Black, brown, grey, and fawn
Coat type	Long and dense curls
Longevity	13- 15 years

#7. Black Russian Terrier

Black Russian Terriers are large, powerful working dogs that belong to the big curly dog category. This breed was created due to a research attempt to develop a super dog and was initially bred for military purposes.

Black Russian Terriers are noted for their bravery, self-assurance, and intelligence, making excellent guard dogs. However, because these dogs are large-boned and muscular, you’ll need a large house and plenty of outdoor areas to keep them as a family pet.

To keep its thick and curly double coat from tangling, Black Russian Terriers will need grooming three to four times per week, as well as 30 to 40 minutes of exercise each day. So, to summarise, you must invest both time and money to maintain this dog happy and healthy.

Group	Working
Height	Up to 30"
Weight	Up to 130lbs
Coat color	Black
Coat type	Thick, curly, and double coat
Longevity	10- 12 years

#8. Kuvasz

The Kuvasz is a huge, white, Hungary-bred flock-guarding dog. These dogs have a reputation for being intelligent, courageous, and devoted to their owners. These dogs, however, are not a good choice for inexperienced dog owners because they are difficult to train.

Kuvaszok (plural of Kuvasz) don’t like to be apart from their families for long periods and need a constant human touch. They’re also not a good fit for small urban residents, as they require plenty of space to run and exercise daily. However, a Kuvasz could be a great option if you have a large property and don’t mind the grooming and maintaining challenges.

Group	Working
Height	Up to 30"
Weight	Up to 115lbs
Coat color	White
Coat type	Wavy
Longevity	10- 12 years

You May Also Read: 7 Top Large White Dog Breeds [My Favorite List]

#9. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs are a medium to large breed originally designed to be fishing partners. This breed’s curly and wavy coats are available in brown, black, blue, and white colors.

The breed is now renowned as a pet and can be presented in dog sports dock diving and agility. These dogs enjoy being around water and would be best suited to a home with a swimming pool or beach in proximity. That said, these dogs require frequent exercise in addition to swimming.

The best part about these canines is that they are hypoallergenic and shed little. So, if you or a member of your family suffers from allergies and still wants a dog, consider a Portuguese Water Dog.

Group	Working
Height	Up to 23."
Weight	Up to 60lbs
Coat color	Brown, black, blue, and white
Coat type	Wavy and tightly curled
Longevity	11- 13 years

#10. Komondor

When we talk about big curly dogs, how can we not mention Komondors? First, of course, it goes without saying that Komondors are a rare breed with a distinctive hairy appearance. Their long and body covering fur give them the appearance of a big rug toy. 

This dog breed originated in Hungary and was primarily bred for outdoor activities, such as sheep herding. However, Komondors are popular for being watchdogs with a powerful build and a soft heart in contemporary times. So, if you have a rage property, a Komondor can be a good choice. 

However, these dogs’ cord-like long furs require regular grooming, especially after bathing, since a wet Komondor is a stinky Komondor. In other words, make sure to dry your dog’s coat with sufficient airflow every time they get wet and cord the fur later on. These dogs also need regular exercise sessions to channel their energy in addition to grooming.

Group	Working
Height	Up to 27.5"
Weight	Up to 100lbs
Coat color	White
Coat type	Long corded
Longevity	10- 12 years

Also Read: 13 Best Large Family Dog Breeds

What Are Curly-Haired Dog Breeds?

Curly-haired dogs, to put it in simpler terms, have fur that develops in waves rather than in a straight line. And it’s their perfectly straight follicular that makes all the difference. We say this because the spot where the hair emerges from the skin leads it to bend as it develops. However, it would be great to keep in mind that the follicle’s shape can be anything in, including straight and rounded.

Between tight and loose curls, there are a range of coat kinds to choose from, including woolly, wavy, spiral, and curly, to name a few. However, it would be a mistake to assume that curly dogs will have curly-haired offspring.

We say so because, while a Portuguese Waterdog’s puppies will frequently have the same type of curls, a Labradoodle’s progeny can have various coat types. It may range from long and straight to thick and curly.

Grooming Tips

When it comes to grooming and maintaining curly-haired dogs, you need to spend more time. Dogs with curled hair tend to get dirty, matted, and tangled if not taken care of regularly. 

That said, it’s important to realize that not all curly coat dogs are the same, and you’ll need to know your pet’s specific needs to choose the correct grooming regimen and equipment.

According to dog experts, it’s usually a good idea to study the dog breed you have, or want before deciding on its grooming requirements. You can also seek assistance from a veterinarian or a professional dog groomer.

Some essential tips to remember while grooming your curly-haired dogs may include the following:

• Comb or brush their coat regularly
• Refrain bathing them often
• Detangle knots, if any
• Trim their coat, etc.

Summary

So, to summarize, we would like to state that all the above-listed dog breeds are amazing. In addition to having curly to wavy coats, they are loyal and can be extremely good family pets. And aside from having beautiful coats, all these breeds have some specialties of their own. Hence, it is always advisable to conduct detailed research to learn about them thoroughly and check if your lifestyle and surroundings match your preferred dog. 

Always remember that an ideal dog is not the one that is most beautiful but happy and healthy.