Curly-haired dogs stand out not just for their beauty, but also for their charm, personality, and often hypoallergenic coats. Whether they have soft waves, tight ringlets, or bouncy curls, these breeds are as fun to look at as they are to cuddle.
If you’re searching for a dog that’s both low-shedding and full of character, explore these 15 curly-haired dog breeds that offer style, smarts, and snuggles.
1. Poodle (Standard, Miniature, Toy)
Coat Type: Tight, dense curls
Traits: Intelligent, elegant, highly trainable
Poodles are the poster dogs for curls. Their hypoallergenic coats and versatile sizes make them one of the most popular curly-haired breeds worldwide.
2. Portuguese Water Dog
Coat Type: Wavy to curly, water-resistant
Traits: Energetic, loyal, adventurous
These swimmers were bred to work on boats, and their curls protect them in wet conditions. They’re intelligent, athletic, and great with families.
3. Bichon Frise
Coat Type: Soft, plush curls
Traits: Cheerful, gentle, playful
The Bichon looks like a walking cotton ball. Their low-shedding, curly coat and sunny disposition make them a great fit for allergy sufferers.
4. Lagotto Romagnolo
Coat Type: Woolly, tight curls
Traits: Smart, affectionate, active
Originally bred in Italy to hunt truffles, this rare breed has a beautiful curly coat and a strong work ethic.
5. Irish Water Spaniel
Coat Type: Dense, crisp curls
Traits: Energetic, curious, water-loving
One of the tallest spaniel breeds, they sport tight curls and a unique “rat tail.” They’re excellent swimmers and loving companions.
6. Curly-Coated Retriever
Coat Type: Tight, water-resistant curls
Traits: Confident, independent, loyal
With a distinctive curly coat, this lesser-known retriever is athletic and great for active families who love the outdoors.
7. Barbet
Coat Type: Wooly, curly, and dense
Traits: Calm, friendly, versatile
This French water dog is an affectionate and trainable companion with a coat that needs regular grooming to avoid mats.
8. American Water Spaniel
Coat Type: Wavy to tightly curled
Traits: Friendly, energetic, intelligent
This rare American breed is compact, active, and ready to join you on hikes or water adventures—with curls to match.
9. Kerry Blue Terrier
Coat Type: Soft, wavy curls
Traits: Spirited, loyal, alert
Known for their blue-gray coat and wavy texture, Kerry Blues are hypoallergenic terriers with big personalities.
10. Komondor
Coat Type: Corded, forming natural dreadlocks
Traits: Protective, calm, independent
These Hungarian livestock guardians are famous for their mop-like appearance. Their cords begin as curls that twist over time.
11. Pumi
Coat Type: Corkscrew curls
Traits: Energetic, smart, vocal
The Pumi is a Hungarian herding dog with a lively temperament and a curly coat that’s full of bounce and personality.
12. Spanish Water Dog
Coat Type: Tight, curly, wooly
Traits: Hardworking, loyal, intelligent
This multi-talented breed can herd, retrieve, and guard. Their curly coat is functional and naturally low-maintenance—no brushing required!
13. Bolognese
Coat Type: Soft, wavy curls
Traits: Gentle, affectionate, reserved
A relative of the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese is a white-coated companion dog known for its devotion and plush curls.
14. Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel + Poodle Mix)
Coat Type: Curly or wavy
Traits: Affectionate, clever, social
This popular doodle mix is a family favorite. With its soft curls and loving temperament, it’s a low-shedding hybrid that suits many homes.
15. Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever + Poodle Mix)
Coat Type: Loose curls to tight ringlets
Traits: Friendly, intelligent, social
This designer breed is known for its playful nature and curly coat, often passed down from the Poodle parent. They’re great for active families.
FAQs
1. Do curly-haired dogs shed less?
Yes, many curly-coated dogs shed less than straight-haired breeds. Their hair gets caught in the curls, which reduces loose hair but requires frequent grooming to prevent mats.
2. Are curly-haired dogs hypoallergenic?
Some curly-haired breeds like Poodles, Bichons, and Portuguese Water Dogs are considered more hypoallergenic, but no dog is 100% allergen-free.
3. How do I care for a curly-coated dog?
Curly coats need regular brushing to prevent matting and may require professional grooming every 4–8 weeks depending on the breed and hair type.
4. Do all curly-haired dogs love water?
Many do, especially breeds like the Portuguese Water Dog and Irish Water Spaniel. However, not all curly-coated dogs are swimmers—personality matters more than coat type.