12 Dog Breeds with Curly Hair: Curly-Coated Companions
Explore 12 dog breeds with curly hair, from Poodles to Portuguese Water Dogs.
Why Curly-Coated Dog Breeds Deserve a Closer Look
Dog breeds with curly hair offer a unique combination of striking appearance, functional coat design, and — in many cases — reduced shedding that appeals to allergy-sensitive households. But not all curly coats are created equal. Some breeds sport tight, wool-like ringlets that require professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, while others have loose, wavy waves that need only weekly brushing. Understanding these differences is critical before bringing a curly-coated companion home.
This guide profiles 12 standout curly-haired dog breeds, organized by size class, with honest assessments of their grooming demands, health predispositions, and lifestyle compatibility. Whether you're searching for a compact apartment-friendly curl or an athletic outdoor partner, this list gives you the data to decide confidently.
How We Selected These Breeds
To qualify for this list, each breed must meet all three criteria:
- Genuine curly coat: The breed standard (per AKC or FCI) must describe the coat as curly, corded, or distinctly wavy — not merely wiry or rough.
- Recognized breed status: Full or miscellaneous AKC recognition, or established FCI/UKC registry presence with documented breed standards.
- Accessible to typical owners: Breeds must be obtainable through responsible breeders or rescue networks in the US without requiring international import or multi-year waitlists exceeding 3 years.
Breeds with only wavy or slightly crimped coats (e.g., some spaniel types) were excluded. Corded breeds were included as a curly-coat subcategory with special grooming notes.
Small Curly-Haired Breeds (Under 20 lb / 9 kg)
1. Bichon Frise
Size class: Small | Weight: 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 a curly, plush outer coat that stands off the body, creating the breed's signature "powder puff" silhouette.
The Bichon Frise combines a cheerful, adaptable temperament with one of the most reliably hypoallergenic coats among small breeds. Their curls require professional grooming every 4-6 weeks (expect $50-$75 per session) and daily brushing to prevent matting at the skin level. Bichons thrive in apartments and multi-pet households, though their predisposition to patellar luxation and cataracts means pet insurance is a smart investment — budget $40-$60/month for comprehensive coverage.
2. Toy Poodle
Size class: Small | Weight: 4-6 lb (1.8-2.7 kg) | Height: 10 in or under (25 cm)
Key curly trait: Dense, harsh-textured curly coat that grows continuously and can be clipped into breed-standard show clips or practical "puppy cuts" for easier maintenance.
The Toy Poodle packs extraordinary intelligence into a tiny frame — they rank #2 in Stanley Coren's canine intelligence rankings and excel at learning complex tricks and routines. Their tightly curled coat sheds minimally but demands grooming every 3-6 weeks ($45-$70 per session). Toy Poodles are prone to progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, and dental crowding due to their small jaw size. Daily tooth brushing is non-negotiable for this breed.
3. Coton de Tulear
Size class: Small | Weight: 9-15 lb (4-6.8 kg) | Height: 9-11 in (23-28 cm)
Key curly trait: Technically a cotton-textured coat that ranges from loose waves to tight curls, especially prominent behind the ears and along the flanks.
Originally from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear has gained steady popularity in the US since AKC recognition in 2014. Their coat is less prone to matting than a Bichon's but still requires brushing 3-4 times per week. Cotons are exceptionally bonded to their owners — they're known as "Velcro dogs" — and can develop separation anxiety if left alone more than 4-5 hours regularly. Health-wise, they're relatively robust, with a lifespan of 14-19 years, though hip dysplasia and cardiac issues appear in some lines.
Medium Curly-Haired Breeds (20-60 lb / 9-27 kg)
4. Miniature Poodle
Size class: Medium | Weight: 10-15 lb (4.5-6.8 kg) | Height: 10-15 in (25-38 cm)
Key curly trait: Same dense, continuously growing curly coat as the Toy variety, but with slightly coarser texture that holds clip styles well.
The Miniature Poodle hits a sweet spot for many households: small enough for apartment living, sturdy enough for active families. Their curly coat is virtually non-shedding, making them a top choice for allergy sufferers — though no dog is truly hypoallergenic, as allergens exist in dander and saliva, not just hair. Minis need 30-60 minutes of daily exercise and mental stimulation; without it, they tend toward nuisance barking and destructive chewing. Budget $1,500-$3,000 for a well-bred puppy from an AKC-registered breeder who performs OFA hip and eye clearances.
5. Portuguese Water Dog
Size class: Medium | Weight: 35-60 lb (16-27 kg) | Height: 17-23 in (43-58 cm)
Key curly trait: Two accepted coat types — curly (compact, cylindrical curls) and wavy (long, falling waves) — both waterproof and designed for cold-water retrieving work off Portugal's coast.
Made famous by the Obama family's dogs Bo and Sunny, the Portuguese Water Dog (PWD) is an athletic, highly trainable breed that excels in water sports, agility, and obedience. Their curly coat requires clipping every 6-8 weeks and thorough brushing 2-3 times weekly. PWDs carry a breed-specific risk for juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy (JDCM), a fatal heart condition — responsible breeders test for the known genetic marker. They also need genuine daily exercise (45-90 minutes) and a job to do; a bored PWD will invent its own (usually destructive) entertainment.
6. Kerry Blue Terrier
Size class: Medium | Weight: 33-40 lb (15-18 kg) | Height: 17.5-19.5 in (44-50 cm)
Key curly trait: Soft, dense, wavy-to-curly coat that is born black and gradually fades to a distinctive blue-gray by 18 months — a process called "clearing."
The Kerry Blue Terrier is an Irish breed originally used for vermin control, herding, and guarding. Their curly coat doesn't shed but requires professional grooming every 6-8 weeks and daily brushing to prevent painful mats. Kerrys are strong-willed, energetic, and not always dog-friendly — early and ongoing socialization (minimum 100 positive exposures to other dogs before 16 weeks) is essential. They excel in earth dog trials, agility, and barn hunt. Puppy prices typically range from $1,800-$2,500 from health-tested breeders.
7. Lagotto Romagnolo
Size class: Medium | Weight: 24-35 lb (11-16 kg) | Height: 16-19 in (41-48 cm)
Key curly trait: Thick, wool-like, tightly curled coat with a waterproof texture — the breed name translates to "curly-coated lake dog" in Italian dialect.
The Lagotto Romagnolo is Italy's truffle-hunting specialist, and their extraordinary nose work ability translates well to scent detection sports and nose work competitions in the US. Their curly coat requires clipping every 6-8 weeks and should never be brushed completely smooth — the curls should remain visible per breed standard. Lagottos are generally healthy (lifespan 15-17 years) but carry risk for benign familial juvenile epilepsy and storage disease (an inherited metabolic disorder). They're affectionate but can be reserved with strangers, making early socialization critical.
8. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Size class: Medium | Weight: 35-40 lb (16-18 kg) | Height: 17-19 in (43-48 cm)
Key curly trait: Silky, gently wavy-to-curly coat that falls in loose, flowing waves — distinctly different from the tight curls of a Poodle, with a soft texture that earns the breed its name.
Another Irish breed, the Wheaten Terrier is known for the "Wheaten greetin'" — an enthusiastic, full-body welcome for anyone entering the home. Their coat requires brushing every 2-3 days and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks; neglect leads to severe matting close to the skin. Wheaten owners must be aware of protein-losing nephropathy (PLN) and protein-losing enteropathy (PLE), two related conditions where the kidneys or intestines lose protein abnormally. Regular bloodwork and urinalysis (every 6-12 months) help catch these early.
Large Curly-Haired Breeds (Over 60 lb / 27 kg)
9. Standard Poodle
Size class: Large | Weight: 40-70 lb (18-32 kg) | Height: Over 15 in (38+ cm)
Key curly trait: The original Poodle variety — dense, harsh, curly coat that historically was clipped to protect joints and vital organs while allowing freedom of movement during water retrieving.
The Standard Poodle is arguably the most versatile curly-coated breed: competitive in obedience, agility, dock diving, hunt tests, and even mushing (yes, Poodle sled teams have competed in the Iditarod). Their coat requires professional grooming every 4-8 weeks ($60-$90 per session for a Standard). Standards carry risk for gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV/bloat), Addison's disease, and sebaceous adenitis — an autoimmune skin condition that destroys hair follicles and can cause patchy hair loss. Ask breeders for OFA and CHIC health clearances before purchasing. Puppy prices range from $2,000-$4,500.
10. Curly-Coated Retriever
Size class: Large | Weight: 60-95 lb (27-43 kg) | Height: 25-27 in (64-69 cm)
Key curly trait: Distinctive tight, crisp curls covering the entire body — the curls are so uniform they look almost sculpted, with no undercoat.
One of the oldest retriever breeds (originating in 18th-century England), the Curly-Coated Retriever remains relatively rare in the US, with only 300-500 AKC registrations annually. Their coat is remarkably low-maintenance for a curly breed: a quick brush once a week and an occasional rinse after swimming are usually sufficient. Avoid over-bathing, which can soften the curl texture. Curlies are independent thinkers — they're not as biddable as Golden or Labrador Retrievers and respond best to patient, positive-reinforcement training. They carry risk for exercise-induced collapse (EIC) and glycogen storage disease Type IIIa.
11. Irish Water Spaniel
Size class: Large | Weight: 45-68 lb (20-31 kg) | Height: 21-24 in (53-61 cm)
Key curly trait: Tight, liver-colored ringlets covering the body with a distinctive smooth "rat tail" and a topknot of loose curls on the head — one of the most visually unique coats in the dog world.
The Irish Water Spaniel is the tallest spaniel breed and an accomplished waterfowl retriever. Their curly coat is liver-colored (deep reddish-brown) and repels water exceptionally well. Grooming involves brushing every 2-3 days and professional clipping every 6-8 weeks. IWS dogs are known for their clownish, sometimes stubborn personalities — they bond intensely with their families but can be aloof with strangers. The breed has documented sensitivity to ivermectin (a common heartworm preventive) due to an MDR1 gene mutation; always inform your veterinarian of the breed before prescribing parasiticides. Puppies cost $1,800-$3,000 and may require joining a waitlist.
12. Komondor
Size class: Large/Giant | Weight: 80-100+ lb (36-45+ kg) | Height: 25.5-27.5+ in (65-70+ cm)
Key curly trait: Coat forms into thick, rope-like cords (not traditional curls, but the curl pattern initiates cord formation) — a dramatic, functional coat that protects against predators and weather during livestock guarding work.
The Komondor's corded coat is unlike any other breed: by age 2-3, the curls naturally mat into floor-length cords that can weigh 10-15 lb when wet. Cord maintenance is specialized — cords must be separated by hand regularly and dried thoroughly after bathing (which can take 24+ hours with a high-velocity dryer). This is not a beginner breed. Komondors are serious livestock guardians with powerful protective instincts; they require experienced handlers, secure fencing (minimum 6-foot), and extensive socialization. They're included here because the cord structure originates from the same curly-hair follicle pattern, but they're best suited for experienced owners with property to protect.
Complete Curly-Coated Breed Comparison
| Breed | Weight | Grooming Frequency | Exercise Need | Apartment OK? | Shedding Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bichon Frise | 12-18 lb | Every 4-6 weeks | 30 min/day | ✅ Yes | Minimal |
| Toy Poodle | 4-6 lb | Every 3-6 weeks | 30 min/day | ✅ Yes | Minimal |
| Coton de Tulear | 9-15 lb | 3-4x/week brushing | 30 min/day | ✅ Yes | Minimal |
| Miniature Poodle | 10-15 lb | Every 3-6 weeks | 30-60 min/day | ✅ Yes | Minimal |
| Portuguese Water Dog | 35-60 lb | Every 6-8 weeks | 45-90 min/day | ⚠️ Large apt only | Minimal |
| Kerry Blue Terrier | 33-40 lb | Every 6-8 weeks | 45-60 min/day | ⚠️ With exercise | Minimal |
| Lagotto Romagnolo | 24-35 lb | Every 6-8 weeks | 45-60 min/day | ⚠️ With exercise | Minimal |
| Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier | 35-40 lb | Every 6-8 weeks | 30-45 min/day | ⚠️ With exercise | Minimal |
| Standard Poodle | 40-70 lb | Every 4-8 weeks | 60-90 min/day | ⚠️ Needs space | Minimal |
| Curly-Coated Retriever | 60-95 lb | Weekly brushing | 60-90 min/day | ❌ Needs yard | Low |
| Irish Water Spaniel | 45-68 lb | Every 6-8 weeks | 60-90 min/day | ❌ Needs yard | Low |
| Komondor | 80-100+ lb | Specialized cord care | 60+ min/day | ❌ Needs property | Minimal (corded) |
How to Choose the Right Curly-Haired Breed for Your Lifestyle
Choosing between curly-coated breeds comes down to four practical factors: your living space, your daily time commitment, your experience level, and your budget. Use this decision framework to narrow your options.
Breed Selection Decision Framework
- Step 1 — Assess your space:
- Apartment or condo under 1,000 sq ft → Focus on small breeds: Bichon Frise, Toy Poodle, Coton de Tulear
- House with fenced yard → Medium and large breeds become viable: Portuguese Water Dog, Standard Poodle, Lagotto Romagnolo
- Rural property with acreage → Consider working/guardian breeds: Curly-Coated Retriever, Komondor
- Step 2 — Be honest about grooming time:
- Under 15 minutes/day → Curly-Coated Retriever (weekly brushing, minimal professional grooming)
- 15-30 minutes/day → Bichon Frise, Poodles (daily brushing + regular professional grooming)
- Willing to learn specialized care → Komondor (cord maintenance is a learned skill requiring hours per month)
- Step 3 — Evaluate your dog experience:
- First-time owner → Bichon Frise, Standard Poodle, Coton de Tulear (forgiving temperaments, eager to please)
- Some experience → Portuguese Water Dog, Lagotto Romagnolo, Wheaten Terrier (need consistent training)
- Experienced handler only → Kerry Blue Terrier, Komondor, Irish Water Spaniel (strong-willed, protective instincts)
- Step 4 — Calculate total first-year cost:
- Budget under $3,000 → Consider rescue/adoption; Bichon Frise and Poodle mixes are common in breed-specific rescues
- Budget $3,000-$5,000 → Most breeds from responsible breeders (puppy + first-year vet + grooming)
- Budget $5,000+ → Rare breeds (Curly-Coated Retriever, Irish Water Spaniel) where waitlists and travel add cost
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Approach with Caution
Honorable Mentions
Poodle mixes (Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, Bernedoodle): While these designer crosses frequently produce curly-coated offspring, coat type is genetically unpredictable in multigenerational crosses (F2, F3). An F1 Labradoodle may have a flat coat, a wavy coat, or a curly coat — and there's no guarantee of reduced shedding. If low-shedding curls are your priority, a purebred Poodle is a more reliable choice than a mixed-breed gamble.
Bedlington Terrier: This breed has a distinctive curly, lamb-like coat but is extremely rare in the US (fewer than 100 AKC registrations annually). Finding a responsible breeder may require a 2-3 year waitlist and international search.
Puli: Similar to the Komondor but smaller (25-35 lb), the Puli develops cords rather than traditional curls. Like the Komondor, cord maintenance is demanding and not suitable for casual owners.
Breeds to Approach with Caution
Komondor for first-time owners: The Komondor's protective instincts, size, and specialized coat care make it inappropriate for anyone without prior livestock guardian breed experience. Improperly socialized Komondors can become dangerously reactive.
Kerry Blue Terrier for multi-dog households: Same-sex aggression is documented in this breed, particularly among males. If you already have a male dog, a Kerry Blue may not integrate smoothly regardless of socialization efforts.
Any curly-coated breed if you cannot commit to professional grooming: Matted coats cause skin infections, pain, and in severe cases, hematomas of the ear (aural hematoma from mat weight pulling on ear tissue). If your budget cannot accommodate $40-$90 grooming sessions every 4-8 weeks ($500-$1,200 annually), a curly-coated breed is not a responsible choice.
Curly-Coated Breed Health Considerations
While curly hair itself doesn't cause health problems, several curly-coated breeds share predispositions worth knowing before you commit. Consult your veterinarian about breed-appropriate screening tests during your puppy's first wellness visit.
| Breed | Primary Health Concerns | Recommended Screening | Estimated Treatment Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Poodle | GDV/bloat, Addison's disease, sebaceous adenitis | OFA hips, thyroid panel, ACTH stimulation test if symptomatic | GDV surgery: $3,000-$7,000 |
| Portuguese Water Dog | Juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia | JDCM DNA test, OFA hips, cardiac exam | JDCM: fatal (no cure); cardiac management $200-$500/month |
| Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier | Protein-losing nephropathy/enteropathy | Annual urinalysis, serum albumin levels | PLN/PLE management: $150-$400/month |
| Irish Water Spaniel | Ivermectin sensitivity (MDR1), hip dysplasia | MDR1 DNA test, OFA hips | Avoid ivermectin; use alternative preventives |
| Curly-Coated Retriever | Exercise-induced collapse, glycogen storage disease | EIC DNA test, OFA hips/elbows | EIC: management only (avoid triggers) |
For comprehensive health screening guidelines, refer to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) breed-specific recommended tests and the AKC Canine Health Foundation breed health resources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Curly-Haired Dog Breeds
Are curly-haired dogs truly hypoallergenic?
No dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Allergens are found in dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine — not just hair. However, curly-coated breeds like Poodles and Bichon Frises shed less hair and dander into the environment, which reduces allergen load for many (but not all) allergy sufferers. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that individual allergic responses vary, and spending time with a specific dog before committing is the only reliable test.
Why are Poodles listed in three size categories?
The Poodle is one breed with three AKC-recognized size varieties (Toy, Miniature, Standard) based on height at the shoulder. Each variety has distinct health profiles and lifestyle fits, so they're listed separately here. A Toy Poodle's needs and risks differ significantly from a Standard Poodle's, despite sharing the same breed name and coat type.
How much does grooming a curly-coated dog actually cost per year?
Based on 2026 pricing data from groomer surveys, expect to pay $500-$1,400 annually for professional grooming of a curly-coated breed. Small breeds (Toy Poodle, Bichon) average $50-$70 per session every 4-6 weeks. Medium breeds (Portuguese Water Dog, Kerry Blue) average $60-$85 per session. Large breeds (Standard Poodle, Curly-Coated Retriever) average $70-$95 per session. Add $100-$200 annually for at-home grooming supplies: slicker brushes, metal combs, detangling sprays, and dog-safe shampoo.
Can I shave a curly-coated dog to avoid grooming?
Technically yes, but it's not recommended for most curly breeds. Poodle coats can be clipped very short (a "kennel clip" at 1/4 inch) without damage, as their hair grows continuously like human hair. However, breeds like the Kerry Blue Terrier and Portuguese Water Dog can develop post-clipping alopecia or altered coat texture after shaving. Never shave a double-coated curly breed (like the Bichon Frise) down to the skin — this disrupts temperature regulation and sun protection. Always discuss clip options with a certified professional groomer (IPGA or NDGAA member).
Which curly-haired breed is best for someone with dog allergies?
The Toy Poodle and Bichon Frise consistently rank highest in allergy-sufferer satisfaction surveys, due to their minimal shedding and small size (less total dander production). However, individual dogs vary even within breeds. Before purchasing, spend at least 2-3 hours with the specific dog in an enclosed space and monitor for symptoms over 24 hours. Some allergists recommend allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) for committed owners of curly-coated breeds.
Do curly-haired dogs need special shampoo?
Yes. Curly coats benefit from moisturizing, sulfate-free dog shampoos that prevent the coat from drying out and becoming brittle. Look for products containing oatmeal, aloe vera, or coconut oil. Avoid human shampoos (wrong pH for canine skin — dogs need pH 6.5-7.5 vs. human 5.5). For breeds with corded coats (Komondor, Puli), use a diluted shampoo solution and never apply conditioner, which can soften and weaken the cords.
Final Considerations Before Bringing Home a Curly-Coated Companion
The appeal of dog breeds with curly hair extends beyond aesthetics. These breeds were largely developed for specific working purposes — water retrieving, truffle hunting, livestock guarding — and their coats served functional roles in those jobs. Understanding the working heritage behind the curls helps you meet the dog's exercise, mental stimulation, and training needs in a modern home setting.
Before committing, visit at least two breeders or rescue organizations, meet adult dogs of the breed (not just puppies), and ask to see health clearances for both parents. Reputable breeders registered with the AKC will provide OFA or PennHIP hip scores, eye clearance certificates from a veterinary ophthalmologist, and any breed-specific DNA test results. If a breeder cannot or will not provide these documents, walk away — curly hair should never be the only qualification you check.
Disclaimer: This article provides educational information about dog breeds and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for breed-specific health screening recommendations and any medical concerns about your dog.
Marcus Aldridge
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
