DriversRecommendedOutdated drivers can make a good PC feel brokenScan driver issues before chasing fixes manually.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PC×
Skip to content
Entry 959Filed under Breeding

20 Curly-Haired Dog Breeds with Gorgeous Coats You Need to Know About

Curly-haired dog breeds vary in coat type, grooming needs, and working background. Compare breed-standard descriptions and follow coat-specific care guidance rather than assuming every curl is alike.
5-minute read By Animalso Team

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Curly-haired dogs include breeds of different sizes and working backgrounds, but “curly” is not one coat type or care routine. The verified examples below include tight curls and loose waves; the comparison also flags corded coats as a distinct category, rather than treating them as ordinary curls.

Before choosing a dog, compare its confirmed coat description and grooming needs with its activity and working background. Coat type alone does not predict temperament, household fit, or whether someone with allergies will react.

What dog breeds have curly hair?

Examples with support in the research include the Curly-Coated Retriever, Lagotto Romagnolo, Poodle, Bichon Frise, Irish Water Spaniel, Portuguese Water Dog, Barbet, American Water Spaniel, Bolognese, Spanish Water Dog, and Mudi. Poodles come in Standard, Miniature, and Toy varieties. This is not a verified list of twenty breeds: the available research did not establish authoritative coat descriptions for twenty individual breeds.

Curly and wavy are separate coat categories in the American Kennel Club’s breed directory. Breed standards are a useful starting point for checking coat wording; they describe an ideal breed type and do not mean every individual dog has an identical coat. The AKC explains that a breed’s standard originates with its parent club in its breed directory.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
2PCS Slicker Brush for Dogs & Pet Comb,Professional Dog Grooming Brush (Goldendoodles,Poodles,Labradoodles) with Extra Long Pins to Effectively Remove Tangles, Knots and Mats (Blue, Large)
  • 【Premium Dog Grooming Kit】Owning a professional dog slicker brush and a comb, you can effectively remove tangles, knots, and mats, significantly reducing brushing and drying time. Let you, as the groomer, give your furry companion a shiny, healthy coat , Goldendoodle Must Haves - The Best Dog Gifts - Merry Christmas
  • 【Professional Slicker Brush for Dogs】Designed for medium-length and curly-haired pets with thick, difficult-to-manage coats, our slicker brush features extra-long angled pins that penetrate deeply to remove dead hair and loose undercoat. It is the best choice for deep combing undercoat for Goldendoodles, Poodles, Labradoodles, etc.Ergonomic handle minimizes hand and arm fatigue during grooming sessions, making it an essential tool for shedding season
  • 【High Quality Dog ​​Comb】Made of high quality stainless steel, this comb is durable, corrosion resistant and will not fade, good for avoiding static electricity.Rounded pin ends are gentle to the skin.it’s perfect to promote blood circulation and massage skin
  • 【Optimize Combing Function】Pin Length ≈ 1in,Tilt Angle ≈ 45° Extra-long pins effortlessly reach through dense coats, while the angled design protects sensitive skin. This innovative structure simplifies detangling by effectively accessing the undercoat.Ideal for Poodles, Bichons, Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, and Other Doodle Breeds
  • 【2-Year Warranty & Support】As a professional pet care brand, we are committed to providing safe, practical, and affordable solutions. Enjoy peace of mind with our 7*24 customer support and 2-year quality guarantee covering any manufacturing defects

Verified curly-coated breeds to compare

Breed or variety Coat and care notes supported by the research Background or comparison point
Curly-Coated Retriever Tight, crisp curls. Most owners do not brush the coat because brushing can make it frizzy. During shedding season, a metal-prong rake-type tool can help remove dead hair. A versatile gundog and swimmer; the curls serve as weather protection for work in bramble and cold water.
Lagotto Romagnolo Curly coat. Has a waterfowl-retriever history and is known for truffle searching.
Standard, Miniature, and Toy Poodle Long, curly coat. A long coat needs daily brushing to help prevent mats. Three size varieties; plan for intensive grooming as well as the dog’s other needs.
Bichon Frise Included among the curly-coat examples in the AKC coat-genetics discussion. Check the relevant standard for precise coat wording. A small-breed comparison; confirm individual care needs with a breed club or knowledgeable groomer.
Irish Water Spaniel Included among the curly-coat examples in the AKC coat-genetics discussion. Check the relevant standard for precise coat wording. A sporting-breed example.
Portuguese Water Dog Included among the coat examples in the AKC coat-genetics discussion; check its standard for the exact coat description. A water-working breed.
Barbet Included among the curly-coat examples in the AKC coat-genetics discussion; verify the detailed coat description against its standard. A breed to investigate with its parent club when comparing grooming and activity needs.
American Water Spaniel Included among the examples in the research; verify the exact coat description against its standard. A sporting-breed example.
Bolognese Named as an example in the research; verify its coat wording and care needs against its standard before relying on them. Consult the relevant breed club or registry for details.
Spanish Water Dog Surfaced as a curly-coat example in the AKC coat-genetics discussion. Do not assume its care is the same as a brushed-out curl coat; verify the breed-specific standard and grooming guidance. Registry recognition and standards can differ by country.
Mudi Surfaced as a curly-coat example in the AKC coat-genetics discussion. Check its standard for precise wording. Registry recognition and descriptions can differ by country.

The American Kennel Club’s directory covers breeds it recognizes, not every breed worldwide. Standards and recognition may differ among registries, so check the relevant registry or parent club when comparing breeds.

How do curly, wavy, and corded coats differ?

Curly and wavy coats are distinct categories in the AKC directory. A corded coat is also a different presentation from loose curls or waves; do not assume it can be managed with the same brushing routine. Check the breed’s standard and seek coat-specific guidance rather than inferring care from a broad label such as “curly-haired.”

Rank #2
Sale
Maxpower Planet Dog Grooming Rake, Deshedding Undercoat Brush, Dogs & Cats
  • DUAL-SIDED DESIGN: Our Undercoat Rake Dog brush is perfect for deshedding your pet's coat. Designed with a dual-sided design, start with a 9-teeth side to tackle stubborn mats and tangles, and finish with a 17-teeth side to thin out and deshed after.
  • HEALTHY COAT AND REDUCED SHEDDING: Our deshedding brush for dogs is designed with sharpened but finely rounded teeth that allow you to easily and safely remove mats, tangles, knots, and loose hair without irritation or scratching.
  • EFFECTIVE DESHEDDING TOOL: This dematting and deshedding brush gently removes loose hair and eliminates tangles, knots, dander, and trapped dirt. The perfect cat grooming tool solution for pets with thick fur or dense double coats.
  • COMFORTABLE TO USE: Keep your pet clean and healthy with our dog and cat brush for grooming. Designed with a lightweight, comfortable handle and a non-slip rubber base to keep the brush from moving around as you brush your pet.
  • PERFECT GIFT FOR PET LOVERS: Our dog comb brush is a must-have grooming products for dogs and cats. A great gift undercoat rake dog for pet lovers who want to keep their fur buddies clean, healthy, and well-groomed!

How much grooming do curly-haired dogs need?

Grooming depends on the breed and the coat length the owner keeps. A long Poodle coat needs daily brushing to help prevent mats, according to the AKC. That guidance should not be applied to every curly-coated breed.

The Curly-Coated Retriever needs different care: the AKC says brushing can frizz its curls and recommends a rake-type tool with metal prongs to remove dead hair during shedding season. Keep this tool advice specific to that breed. Its profile also notes that wetting and air-drying can enhance the curls.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
BioSilk for Pets Eco-Friendly Detangling Pin Brush for Dogs
  • DETANGLING PIN BRUSH FOR DOGS: Designed to help gently remove knots and tangles during everyday dog grooming routines, making brushing easier while supporting comfortable coat care for regular at-home grooming sessions.
  • SUITABLE FOR ALL DOGS: Ideal for dogs of all sizes and coat types as part of regular grooming care, offering a versatile brushing solution for short, medium, or long coats in multi-dog households.
  • ECO FRIENDLY DESIGN: Made with eco-conscious materials to support sustainable pet grooming, providing an environmentally responsible option for pet owners who value greener choices in everyday dog care tools.
  • GENTLE ON DOG COATS: Pin brush design helps smooth coats while minimizing pulling and discomfort, supporting a more pleasant brushing experience for dogs during routine grooming and maintenance.
  • SUPPORTS HEALTHY COATS: Helps distribute natural oils for a smooth and healthy-looking dog coat, promoting shine and improved coat appearance when used regularly as part of grooming routines.

Ask a breed club, reputable breeder, rescue, or groomer familiar with the specific coat what routine is appropriate. If a dog’s coat is difficult to maintain, get individualized grooming advice rather than relying on a universal brush or schedule.

Are curly-haired dogs hypoallergenic?

No coat type guarantees that a dog is allergy-proof. The research supports discussing shedding as one relevant factor, not promising that a curly or low-shedding dog will not trigger symptoms. Individual allergic responses vary.

Rank #4
Sale
SleekEZ Dog Brush for Shedding | Patented Deshedding Dog Brush | Pet Hair Remover for Short, Medium & Long Coats | Made in USA | 5 Inch
  • SAVE MONEY: Reduce expensive trips to the groomer. Our dog shedding brush works great as a dog brush for short haired dogs & dog brush for long haired dogs. It is an absolute essential for pet supplies, dog supplies, and a dog grooming kit.
  • ALL HAIR & FUR TYPES: Our dog brushes for grooming safely removes loose hair without irritation. SleekEZ dog hair brush works great as a pet hair remover / dog hair remover for pets of all fur types and hair lengths.
  • EASY AND FAST CLEANUP: SleekEZ also works great as a carpet rake, pet hair rake, & dog fur remover tool. It removes hair & fur from couches, cars, blankets, beds & more! Its innovative design ensures that hair is easily gathered and removed.
  • PAINLESS AND ENJOYABLE: SleekEZ's patented design helps grab at the tips of the hair to extract from the skin without painful tugging. It is the perfect undercoat brush for dogs and deshedding dog brush. Works on all coat types and animal breeds!
  • GREAT GIFT: A must have metal dog comb for any pet grooming kit. The perfect pet grooming metal comb for dogs & dog deshedding brush. Worlds best grooming brushes / dog grooming brush. Voted #1 dog brushes for shedding & deshedder brush for dogs.

How should you choose among curly-haired dog breeds?

  1. Confirm the coat description. Check the relevant registry or parent-club standard, and distinguish curly from wavy or corded.
  2. Learn the breed’s background. A working or sporting history may matter when assessing the activity and training you can provide.
  3. Understand the actual grooming routine. Ask about the kept coat length and breed-specific brushing, trimming, or shedding care.
  4. Meet the individual dog. Standards describe an ideal breed type; they cannot guarantee an individual dog’s coat, temperament, or fit for your home.
  5. Consider allergies without relying on a coat guarantee. Shedding may be relevant, but coat type cannot promise a reaction-free household.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

FAQ

Which dog breeds have curly hair?

Research-supported examples include the Curly-Coated Retriever, Lagotto Romagnolo, Poodle, Bichon Frise, Irish Water Spaniel, Portuguese Water Dog, Barbet, American Water Spaniel, Bolognese, Spanish Water Dog, and Mudi. Check breed standards for exact coat descriptions; this research did not verify a complete list of twenty breeds.

Are curly-haired dogs hypoallergenic?

No. A curly or low-shedding coat is not a guarantee that a dog will not trigger allergies. Individual responses vary.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Poodle Pet Slicker Brush - For Dogs, Cats, Rabbits - Matted/Loose Fur, Knots - Suitable for Doodle/Goldendoodle Grooming and Shredding Short/Long Hair
  • Professional Dog & Cat Grooming Brush: Premium slicker brush for dogs and cats designed for daily grooming and coat maintenance. A versatile dog brush and cat brush, also suitable as a pet brush that supports healthy coats and salon-quality grooming at home.
  • Removes Mats, Tangles & Loose Hair: Fine wire pins reach the undercoat to remove loose hair before it sheds while gently smoothing tangles and mats. Functions as a dog brush for shedding, deshedding dog brush, and cat brush for shedding to help keep fur off furniture and clothing..
  • Gentle on Skin, Tough on Tangles: Rounded stainless-steel pin tips glide smoothly through sensitive areas while removing light mats and tangles without scratching. A safe, comfortable cat hair brush and dog grooming brush for pets with delicate or sensitive skin, including seniors.
  • Designed for All Coat Types & Breeds: Effective on long, short, curly, thick, or fine coats — including poodles, doodles, goldendoodles, mixed breeds, kittens, adult cats, and rabbits. One versatile slicker brush for dogs and cats that delivers consistent grooming results.
  • Durable & Groomer-Approved: Built with rust-resistant stainless steel pins and a non-slip ergonomic handle for comfort and control. Trusted by professional groomers and pet owners as a dependable dog brush and cat brush for complete at-home grooming.

How often do curly-haired dogs need grooming?

There is no single schedule for all curly-coated breeds. The AKC says a long Poodle coat needs daily brushing to help prevent mats, while its Curly-Coated Retriever profile cautions that brushing can frizz that breed’s curls. Follow breed-specific guidance.

Can you brush a Curly-Coated Retriever?

The AKC says most owners do not brush this breed because brushing can frizz its curls. For dead hair during shedding season, its profile recommends a rake-type tool with metal prongs.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from Field Notes

  1. Entry 01Disaster Preparedness for Pets: What to Plan and PackBreeding6 min
  2. Entry 02Holiday Pet Safety Tips: How to Keep Dogs and Cats Safe Through the HolidaysBreeding7 min
  3. Entry 03What to Buy for a New Rescue Dog: A First-Week Essentials GuideBreeding3 min
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.