
Curly-coated dogs aren’t just adorable; they’re smart and full of personality too! With coats that offer extra charm—and even some practical perks like insulation or water resistance—these breeds bring something special. From the lively Poodle to the striking Komondor, each curly breed has its own unique look and flair. Let’s dive into 15 amazing dog breeds with naturally curly fur you’ll love!
The Poodle

The Poodle is a showstopper with its iconic curly coat, which comes in an array of beautiful colors and patterns. These tight, luxurious curls aren’t just eye-catching—they’re also practical, offering protection from environmental elements. But those gorgeous curls do come with a bit of responsibility. Poodle coats need frequent brushing to prevent matting and keep their soft texture. Many Poodle owners also opt for professional grooming to maintain the famous “poodle cut,” which enhances the breed’s natural elegance. With the right care, a Poodle’s curls are always impressive, making them one of the most admired curly-coated breeds.
Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog stands out not only for its lively personality but also for its striking curly coat. Known for its water-resistant, hypoallergenic fur, this breed’s curls are both beautiful and functional, providing warmth during cool swims. The coat’s dense, wavy curls add a touch of elegance, but they do require regular brushing to keep their coat free from mats and tangles, and professional grooming every few months helps maintain those gorgeous curls. With proper care, the Portuguese Water Dog’s coat remains a true showpiece, perfectly complementing its spirited nature.
Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is instantly recognizable for its cheerful disposition and fluffy, curly coat that resembles a soft cotton ball. Their charming appearance captures hearts, and those tight curls require special attention to maintain their adorable look. Daily brushing is vital to prevent matting and to keep their coat looking pristine, and regular grooming appointments help to shape their iconic fluffy silhouette and provide essential care. These grooming rituals not only enhance their appearance but also strengthen the affectionate bond between the Bichon and its owner, as they share moments of love and laughter during grooming.
Irish Water Spaniel

Among dog breeds, the Irish Water Spaniel stands out with its distinct, curly coat, which is both waterproof and stylish. Their rich, chocolate-colored curls are not just beautiful but also functional, making them well-suited for water retrieval tasks. But to maintain this majestic coat, owners must engage in consistent grooming, including regular brushing and occasional professional trims to keep the curls manageable and free of debris. But that’s a given for most breeds of this ilk.
Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo is not just known for its exceptional truffle-hunting abilities but also for its irresistible curly coat that offers both charm and practicality. Their dense, curly fur is water-resistant, making them suited for various outdoor activities. To keep their coats looking their best, regular brushing is essential, as it helps prevent mats and keeps their curls bouncy. Grooming sessions provide an opportunity for bonding, reinforcing the Lagotto’s affectionate nature. With their captivating curls and vibrant personalities, these dogs make loving companions for those who appreciate their unique blend of beauty and purpose.
Curly-Coated Retriever

As one of the oldest retriever breeds, the Curly-Coated Retriever is renowned for its distinctive, water-resistant curly coat that sets it apart from other retrievers. These elegant curls not only protect the breed against the elements but also contribute to their striking appearance. Caring for their unique coat involves regular brushing to keep it free from tangles and debris and an occasional professional intervention can ensure they maintain their beautiful curls year-long, captivating any and everyone that sets their eyes on one!
Barbet

The Barbet, a charming and affectionate breed from France, is characterized by its long, curly coat that is as delightful as its personality. Their dense, water-repellent fur not only makes them perfect for swimming but also requires consistent care. Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting. Additionally, their fur is known to trap debris and dust effectively, meaning they do have some hypoallergic qualities. Paired with the low-shedding this breed offers, they sure are a great option for those looking for a curly-haired breed.
American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel is an energetic breed, known for its versatile skills and love for water. Their curly coat, which is both waterproof and dense, sets them apart from other spaniels. This unique fur requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free of tangles, with frequent brushing essential to maintain its charm. Regular trips to a professional groomer help enhance their natural curls. The American Water Spaniel’s playful spirit, combined with its curly coat, makes it a delightful companion for active families.
Komondor

The Komondor is a breed that turns heads with its impressive, corded coat, resembling a large, fluffy mop. This unique feature not only offers protection from harsh weather but also is a treat for sour eyes. While their coat looks striking, it demands regular maintenance, including occasional hand-stripping to keep the cords healthy and free of debris. However, bathing should be done sparingly, as too much water can loosen the cords and disrupt their natural formation. Their extraordinary appearance and gentle nature make them a beloved addition to any family.
Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog is a versatile and intelligent breed, known for its tightly curled coat that is both practical and appealing. Their unique fur protects them from the elements but at the cost of regular grooming. Weekly brushing is essential to prevent mats and ensure that the curls remain bouncy. Periodic visits to a professional groomer help maintain their signature look. Moreover, like some other curly-coated breeds, the Spanish Water Dog is often considered a hypoallergenic option, as their curly coat tends to trap dander and loose hair, reducing airborne allergens.
Puli

The Puli is truly one-of-a-kind, instantly recognizable by its remarkable corded coat that resembles natural dreadlocks. This unique fur not only adds to the Puli’s striking appearance but also provides excellent protection from the elements. The cords form naturally as the Puli matures, creating a coat that’s both functional and visually captivating. However, maintaining these cords does require commitment; regular grooming is essential to keep them free from mats and ensure they stay healthy, especially for such an active breed. For those willing to invest the time, the Puli’s iconic coat is well worth the effort, adding to its charm and character.
Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a breed like no other, boasting a distinctive lamb-like appearance with its curly, soft coat. This charming fur not only enhances their unique look but also boasts some hypoallergic qualities. Even if this breed is known to be a low-shedding breed, consistent brushing is vital to prevent mats and maintain the soft texture that is so characteristic of the breed. Regular trips to a professional groomer are also essential to achieve their signature style.
Havanese

The Havanese, a small breed local to Cuba, is known for its friendly demeanor and beautiful, silky curls that flow gracefully, which is smooth to the touch as well. However, their luxurious low-shedding coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangling and matting, making grooming an essential part of their care. Regular grooming not only enhances the dog’s appearance but also allows for moments of affection and play. With their delightful curls and loving nature, Havanese dogs are cherished companions for families and individuals alike.
Pumi

The Pumi is a lively and intelligent breed, known for its distinctive coat that is often described as a mix of corded and wavy textures. This unique fur not only adds to their charm but also provides protection against various weather conditions. Their expressive ears and lively expressions further enhance their endearing look. And like any other curly fur breed, their unique fur requires consistent grooming to keep it looking its best; regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and to maintain the bounciness of their curls. With their captivating appearance and energetic spirit, Pumis make wonderful companions for those who appreciate their spirited nature and charming curls.
Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier, often called the “King of Terriers,” is celebrated not only for its impressive stature but also for its distinctive, wavy coat that adds to its dignified appearance. Their coat, while beautiful, requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free of mats. Owners must engage in consistent brushing and periodic professional grooming to maintain the breed’s iconic look. With their elegant curls and loyal nature, Airedales are beloved companions who bring joy and sophistication to any home.