12 Curly Haired Dog Breeds: Coats: Care & Compatibility
Explore 12 curly haired dog breeds with care needs, temperament, and costs. Includes a comparison table and decision framework to find your ideal match.
If you've ever run your fingers through the tight ringlets of a Poodle or the soft, wavy curls of a Lagotto Romagnolo, you know that curly-coated dogs are as distinctive to touch as they are to look at. But curly hair isn't just an aesthetic trait — it shapes everything from grooming routines and allergy considerations to how a dog handles heat, cold, and outdoor adventures.
This guide covers 12 of the most notable curly haired dog breeds recognized by major registries, organized by size class. You'll find practical details on coat maintenance costs, exercise requirements, and the lifestyle factors that make each breed a good (or poor) fit for your household.
Selection Criteria: What Qualifies a Breed for This List
Every breed below meets all four of these standards:
- Genuinely curly coat: The breed standard calls for curls, ringlets, or tight waves — not just slightly wavy fur. We reference the AKC breed standards for coat descriptions.
- Recognized breed or established type: Registered with the AKC, UKC, FCI, or The Kennel Club (UK) — or a well-established working type with documented lineage.
- Accessible to typical owners: Available through responsible breeders or breed-specific rescues in the US (no breeds with fewer than ~50 annual US registrations).
- Distinct care profile: Each entry brings something different to the table in terms of size, energy, or grooming demands.
Small Curly Haired Dog Breeds (Under 20 lb / 9 kg)
1. Bichon Frise
Size: 12–18 lb (5.4–8.2 kg) | Height: 9.5–11.5 in (24–29 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Double coat with a soft, dense undercoat and coarser curly outer coat that stands off the body, creating a powder-puff silhouette.
The Bichon Frise has one of the most iconic curly coats in the dog world — tight corkscrew curls that, when professionally groomed, produce the breed's signature rounded "teddy bear" look. Their coat is low-shedding, which makes them popular with allergy-sensitive households, though no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Expect professional grooming every 4–6 weeks at $60–$90 per session. Bichons are cheerful, adaptable companions that thrive in apartments and multi-pet homes alike.
Ranking rationale: The quintessential small curly breed — their coat texture is central to the breed standard and instantly recognizable.
2. Curly-Coated Cavalier (Cavapoo / Curly-Coated Type)
Size: 10–18 lb (4.5–8.2 kg) | Height: 9–14 in (23–36 cm)
Key Curly Trait: F1B or multigen Cavapoos (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel × Poodle backcross) inherit tight Poodle-like curls rather than the wavy F1 coat.
While not a recognized purebred, curly-coated Cavapoos have become one of the most sought-after small companion dogs in the US. The F1B generation (75% Poodle) typically produces the tightest curls and most consistent low-shedding coat. They combine the Cavalier's gentle, affectionate nature with the Poodle's intelligence and trainability. Health-conscious buyers should seek breeders who perform OFA cardiac and patella evaluations on parent dogs. Puppy prices from tested breeders range from $2,500–$4,500.
Ranking rationale: Reflects real-world demand — Cavapoos are among the most searched small curly dogs, and their coat variation requires buyer education.
3. Bolognese
Size: 5.5–9 lb (2.5–4 kg) | Height: 10–12 in (25–30 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Long, fluffy coat with loose ringlets and waves that fall in soft flocks rather than tight spirals.
The Bolognese is a rare Italian breed that shares ancestry with the Bichon Frise but carries a distinctly different coat texture — longer, less structured curls that give them an almost ethereal, cloud-like appearance. They're devoted one-family dogs that form intense bonds and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long stretches. Grooming runs $50–$75 per session, with daily brushing needed to prevent matting in the longer coat. Annual US registrations remain low, so expect waitlists of 6–18 months from the handful of active breeders.
Ranking rationale: Offers a genuinely rare curly-coat option for owners who want something beyond the usual suspects.
Medium Curly Haired Dog Breeds (20–60 lb / 9–27 kg)
4. Poodle (Miniature & Moyen)
Size: Miniature 10–15 lb (4.5–6.8 kg) | Moyen 15–35 lb (6.8–15.9 kg)
Height: Miniature 10–15 in (25–38 cm) | Moyen 15–20 in (38–51 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Very curly, dense, harsh-textured coat that grows continuously — the benchmark against which all other curly breeds are measured.
The Poodle is the original curly-coated breed, and its coat genetics appear in nearly every modern "doodle" cross. Miniature and Moyen (also called Klein) Poodles offer the breed's exceptional intelligence — ranked #2 in working/obedience intelligence by canine researcher Stanley Coren — in a manageable mid-size package. Their coat requires professional grooming every 4–6 weeks ($65–$100) and regular home brushing 2–3 times per week. Poodles excel in dog sports (agility, obedience, rally) and adapt well to both apartment and suburban living.
Ranking rationale: No curly-breed list is complete without the Poodle — it's the genetic source of curls in dozens of other breeds and crosses.
5. Portuguese Water Dog
Size: 35–60 lb (15.9–27.2 kg) | Height: 17–23 in (43–58 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Two accepted coat types — compact curls (similar to a Poodle) or wavy with a slight sheen. The curly variety has tight, cylindrical ringlets covering the entire body.
Made famous by Bo and Sunny Obama in the White House, the Portuguese Water Dog (PWD) is a working breed originally used by Portuguese fishermen to retrieve nets and carry messages between boats. They're athletic, water-loving dogs that need 60–90 minutes of daily exercise, ideally including swimming access. Their curly coat is clipped in either a "lion clip" (hindquarters shaved) or "retriever clip" (scissored evenly to about 1 inch). Health testing should include OFA hips, eyes, and a DNA test for GM1 storage disease and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Puppy prices: $2,500–$3,500.
Ranking rationale: A genuine working breed with functional curls — their coat evolved for cold-water insulation, not aesthetics.
6. Lagotto Romagnolo
Size: 24–35 lb (10.9–15.9 kg) | Height: 16–19 in (41–48 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Thick, woolly coat with tight, uniform ringlets that cover the entire body including the face — one of the most consistently curly coats in the canine world.
The Lagotto Romagnolo is the world's only recognized truffle-hunting breed, originating from the marshlands of Italy's Romagna region. Their dense, waterproof curls served a functional purpose in cold, wet working conditions. Today, they're prized as intelligent, moderate-energy family companions. Lagottos require regular coat maintenance — professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($70–$100) plus weekly brushing to prevent felting. They're generally healthy, but breeders should test for Benign Familial Juvenile Epilepsy (BFJE) and Lagotto Storage Disease (LSD) via DNA. Expect puppy prices of $3,000–$5,000 from US breeders.
Ranking rationale: One of the most uniformly curly-coated breeds in existence, with a fascinating working heritage that shapes their temperament.
7. Spanish Water Dog
Size: 30–49 lb (13.6–22.2 kg) | Height: 15.75–19.75 in (40–50 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Distinctive corded coat — curls naturally form into rope-like cords if left unclipped, similar to a Puli but with a coarser texture.
The Spanish Water Dog (Perro de Agua Español) is a versatile herding and water-retrieving breed from the Iberian Peninsula. Unlike the Lagotto's soft ringlets, the Spanish Water Dog's coat forms tight, felted cords when allowed to grow. Most pet owners keep the coat clipped short (once or twice yearly), which is far more practical. They're energetic, intelligent dogs with strong herding instincts that may manifest as nipping at children's heels if not redirected. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are essential. They need 60+ minutes of vigorous daily activity. Puppy prices: $2,000–$3,500.
Ranking rationale: Offers a unique corded-curl variation that expands the definition of "curly" beyond the typical Poodle-type ringlet.
8. Barbet
Size: 35–65 lb (15.9–29.5 kg) | Height: 19–24.5 in (48–62 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Long, curly, woolly coat that covers the entire body and forms a characteristic beard (the breed's name derives from the French word "barbe," meaning beard).
The Barbet is an ancient French water dog that predates the Poodle and contributed to the development of several modern breeds, including the Griffon and possibly the Poodle itself. They're friendly, calm-mannered dogs with moderate energy — typically content with 45–60 minutes of daily exercise. Their coat requires significant upkeep: brushing 3–4 times per week and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks to prevent matting. Barbet breeders remain rare in the US (fewer than 20 litters annually), so expect waitlists and prices of $3,500–$5,000. Health testing should include OFA hips and elbows.
Ranking rationale: A historically significant curly breed that few US owners know about — offers an alternative to more common water-dog breeds.
Large Curly Haired Dog Breeds (Over 60 lb / 27 kg)
9. Standard Poodle
Size: 40–70 lb (18.1–31.8 kg) | Height: Over 15 in (38+ cm), typically 22–27 in (56–69 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Same dense, harsh-textured curly coat as smaller Poodle varieties, providing more surface area for creative grooming clips.
The Standard Poodle is a large, athletic dog originally bred as a water retriever — far from the show-ring caricature. Standards are the most physically capable Poodle variety, excelling in agility, dock diving, obedience, and even hunt tests. They need 60–90 minutes of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Grooming costs are higher due to size: $80–$130 per professional session. Standard Poodles are predisposed to Addison's disease, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), and hip dysplasia — ask breeders for OFA hip scores and evidence of bloat-risk reduction practices (e.g., feeding multiple small meals, avoiding exercise around mealtimes). Lifespan: 10–13 years. Puppy prices: $2,000–$3,500.
Ranking rationale: The largest curly-coated purebred with the widest range of activity capabilities — bridges the gap between companion and working dog.
10. Curly-Coated Retriever
Size: 60–95 lb (27.2–43.1 kg) | Height: 25–27 in (64–69 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Short, crisp, tight curls lying close to the body — a distinctly different texture from the Poodle's longer, fluffier curls. The face and front of legs are smooth-coated.
The Curly-Coated Retriever (CCR) is one of the oldest retriever breeds, developed in England in the late 18th century for upland and waterfowl hunting. Their coat is remarkably weather-resistant — tight, crisp curls that shed water and debris efficiently. Unlike Poodles, CCRs require minimal coat maintenance: occasional brushing and no professional clipping needed. However, they're independent thinkers (less biddable than Golden or Labrador Retrievers) and need patient, reward-based training. They're prone to exercise-induced collapse (EIC) and certain cancers. Breeders should test for EIC via DNA and provide OFA hip scores. Lifespan: 10–12 years. Puppy prices: $2,000–$3,000, with limited breeder availability in the US.
Ranking rationale: The only retriever breed with a genuinely curly coat — fills a niche for hunting-oriented owners who want curls.
11. Irish Water Spaniel
Size: 55–68 lb (24.9–30.8 kg) | Height: 21–24 in (53–61 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Tight, crisp ringlets covering the body with a smooth topknot of long curls on the head and a distinctive "rat tail" — nearly hairless at the base with short curls.
The Irish Water Spaniel (IWS) is the tallest spaniel breed and the only one with a curly coat. Known as the "clown of the spaniel family," they're playful, intelligent, and sometimes stubborn. Their coat is liver-colored (deep reddish-brown) and requires brushing 2–3 times weekly plus professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($70–$100). IWS dogs are natural swimmers and need regular water access to be happiest. They tend to be reserved with strangers and benefit from extensive early socialization. Health concerns include hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. Lifespan: 12–13 years. Puppy prices: $1,800–$2,500, with very limited US availability.
Ranking rationale: A genuinely unique curly-coated breed that combines spaniel temperament with retriever-like water ability.
12. Airedale Terrier
Size: 50–70 lb (22.7–31.8 kg) | Height: 23 in (58 cm)
Key Curly Trait: Dense, wiry outer coat with a softer undercoat — the outer coat is broken and crinkly rather than soft-curly, but produces a distinctly curly silhouette when hand-stripped.
The Airedale Terrier — the "King of Terriers" — is the largest terrier breed and the only one with a curly/wiry coat texture. Unlike the soft curls of a Poodle, the Airedale's coat is harsh and wiry, designed to protect against brambles and rough terrain during hunting. Coat maintenance involves hand-stripping (pulling dead hair by hand or with a stripping knife) 2–4 times per year, or clipping for pet dogs (which softens the coat texture over time). Professional grooming runs $75–$120 per session. Airedales are bold, confident, and high-energy — they need 60–90 minutes of vigorous exercise and aren't ideal for first-time owners. Lifespan: 11–14 years. Puppy prices: $1,500–$2,500.
Ranking rationale: Represents the wiry-curly end of the spectrum — broadens the list beyond soft-coated breeds and gives terrier enthusiasts a curly option.
Curly Haired Dog Breeds: Full Comparison Table
| Breed | Weight (lb / kg) | Exercise (min/day) | Grooming Cost/Session | Coat Shedding | Puppy Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bichon Frise | 12–18 lb / 5.4–8.2 kg | 30–45 | $60–$90 | Very low | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Cavapoo (F1B) | 10–18 lb / 4.5–8.2 kg | 30–45 | $55–$85 | Low | $2,500–$4,500 |
| Bolognese | 5.5–9 lb / 2.5–4 kg | 20–30 | $50–$75 | Very low | $2,500–$4,000 |
| Poodle (Mini/Moyen) | 10–35 lb / 4.5–15.9 kg | 45–60 | $65–$100 | Very low | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Portuguese Water Dog | 35–60 lb / 15.9–27.2 kg | 60–90 | $70–$100 | Very low | $2,500–$3,500 |
| Lagotto Romagnolo | 24–35 lb / 10.9–15.9 kg | 45–60 | $70–$100 | Very low | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Spanish Water Dog | 30–49 lb / 13.6–22.2 kg | 60+ | $60–$90 (if clipped) | Very low | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Barbet | 35–65 lb / 15.9–29.5 kg | 45–60 | $75–$110 | Very low | $3,500–$5,000 |
| Standard Poodle | 40–70 lb / 18.1–31.8 kg | 60–90 | $80–$130 | Very low | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Curly-Coated Retriever | 60–95 lb / 27.2–43.1 kg | 60–90 | $40–$60 (minimal) | Low–moderate | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Irish Water Spaniel | 55–68 lb / 24.9–30.8 kg | 60–90 | $70–$100 | Low | $1,800–$2,500 |
| Airedale Terrier | 50–70 lb / 22.7–31.8 kg | 60–90 | $75–$120 | Low | $1,500–$2,500 |
How to Choose the Right Curly Haired Dog for Your Lifestyle
With 12 breeds spanning from 5-pound Bolognese to 95-pound Curly-Coated Retrievers, narrowing your choice requires honest self-assessment. Here's a practical decision framework:
Decision Flowchart: Which Curly Breed Fits You?
- How much time can you dedicate to daily exercise?
- Under 30 minutes: Bolognese, Bichon Frise, or Cavapoo
- 30–60 minutes: Miniature Poodle, Lagotto Romagnolo, or Barbet
- 60–90+ minutes: Standard Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog, Curly-Coated Retriever, Irish Water Spaniel, or Airedale Terrier
- What's your grooming budget?
- $50–$75/session every 4–8 weeks: Bichon Frise, Bolognese, Cavapoo
- $75–$130/session every 4–8 weeks: Any Poodle variety, Barbet, Airedale Terrier
- Prefer minimal professional grooming: Curly-Coated Retriever (occasional brushing, no clipping needed) or Spanish Water Dog (clipped once or twice yearly)
- Do you have young children?
- Yes, under age 8: Standard Poodle (sturdy, patient) or Curly-Coated Retriever (gentle, tolerant). Avoid very small breeds (Bolognese, Bichon) that can be injured by rough handling.
- Older children or adults only: Any breed on this list can work with proper socialization.
- Is allergy sensitivity a concern?
- Yes: Poodle (any size), Bichon Frise, Lagotto Romagnolo, or Portuguese Water Dog tend to produce less dander. However, always spend time with the breed before committing — individual reactions vary. No dog breed is truly hypoallergenic.
- First-time dog owner?
- Yes: Bichon Frise, Miniature Poodle, or Cavapoo — all are forgiving of training mistakes and eager to please.
- Experienced owner: Airedale Terrier, Spanish Water Dog, or Curly-Coated Retriever — these breeds benefit from confident, consistent handling.
Honorable Mentions & Breeds to Approach With Caution
Honorable Mentions (Didn't Make the Top 12)
Kerry Blue Terrier: Has a soft, wavy-to-curly coat that's striking in its blue-gray color. Didn't make the list because the coat is more wavy than curly in most specimens, and the breed requires experienced handling due to dog-aggression tendencies.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: The coat is silky and wavy rather than curly — beautiful, but doesn't meet our strict "curly" criterion.
Pumi: A Hungarian herding breed with a curly/wiry coat, but extremely rare in the US (fewer than 10 litters per year) and very high-energy — not a practical choice for most households.
Breeds to Approach With Caution
Goldendoodles / Labradoodles (F1 generation): First-generation Poodle crosses produce highly unpredictable coat types — roughly 50% will have wavy or straight coats rather than curls. If you specifically want curls, seek F1B (backcross to Poodle) or multigenerational breedings where coat type is more predictable. Always ask breeders for photos of adult dogs from the same lineage.
"Teacup" Poodles: Poodles bred to be under 5 lb (2.3 kg) often carry severe health problems including fragile bones, dental overcrowding, hypoglycemia, and heart defects. The AKC does not recognize "teacup" as a valid size variety. Stick to Toy Poodles (4–6 lb) from health-testing breeders instead.
Curly Coat Care: What All These Breeds Share
Regardless of which curly-coated breed you choose, certain care principles apply across the board:
- Matting risk: Curly hair traps shed undercoat against the skin, creating mats that can pull on the skin, restrict movement, and harbor moisture (leading to hot spots). Brush at minimum 2–3 times per week with a slicker brush, working in sections from skin outward.
- Bathing frequency: Every 3–4 weeks with a dog-specific conditioner. Human shampoo disrupts the canine skin acid mantle (pH 5.5–7.5 vs. human 4.5–5.5), leading to dryness and irritation.
- Ear care: Many curly-coated breeds have hair growing inside the ear canal, which can trap moisture and debris. Ask your veterinarian whether ear hair plucking is recommended for your specific dog — the practice is debated, and some dogs do better with trimmed (not plucked) ear hair.
- Drying: Never let a curly-coated dog air-dry completely — the curls will mat as they dry. Use a high-velocity dryer (like the Chris Christensen Kool Dry or Metro Air Force Commander, $120–$200) to blow out moisture and fluff the coat after bathing.
- Professional grooming interval: Most curly breeds need a groomer every 4–8 weeks. Budget $700–$1,500 annually for professional grooming depending on breed size and your local market rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are curly haired dog breeds hypoallergenic?
No dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Curly-coated breeds like Poodles and Bichon Frises tend to shed less dander into the environment because loose hair gets trapped in the curls rather than falling onto furniture. However, allergens also come from saliva and skin cells. The AKC notes that individual allergic responses vary — spend time with a breed before committing, and consult an allergist for personalized guidance.
Why are so many curly haired dog breeds water dogs?
Curly coats evolved as functional insulation for dogs working in cold water. Tight curls trap a layer of air close to the skin, providing thermal protection similar to a wetsuit. The Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog, Irish Water Spaniel, Barbet, and Lagotto Romagnolo all originated as water-retrieving or marsh-working breeds. The curl pattern isn't decorative — it's an adaptation to aquatic environments.
Can I shave my curly haired dog's coat?
Yes, most single-coated curly breeds (Poodles, Bichons, Portuguese Water Dogs) can be clipped short without damaging the coat — it will grow back with the same texture. However, double-coated curly breeds should not be shaved to the skin, as this can disrupt the undercoat's regrowth cycle and reduce temperature regulation. Always consult a professional groomer familiar with your specific breed.
Which curly haired dog breed sheds the least?
The Bichon Frise, Poodle (all sizes), and Lagotto Romagnolo are consistently among the lowest-shedding curly breeds. The Curly-Coated Retriever sheds more than the others on this list — its short, crisp curls do release some hair seasonally, though far less than a Labrador or Golden Retriever.
How much does it cost to own a curly haired dog breed annually?
Beyond the initial puppy purchase, budget for: professional grooming ($700–$1,500/year), high-quality food ($360–$720/year depending on size), routine veterinary care ($400–$800/year), pet insurance ($300–$800/year), and supplies/training ($200–$500/year). Total annual cost typically ranges from $1,960–$4,320 depending on breed size and your location. Larger breeds like the Standard Poodle or Curly-Coated Retriever cost more in food, medications, and grooming than smaller breeds like the Bichon Frise.
Disclaimer: This article provides general breed information and care guidance. For personalized advice about your dog's health, coat care, or suitability of a breed for your household, consult your veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer. Always work with responsible breeders who perform health testing or consider breed-specific rescue organizations.
Beth Carrasco
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
