There are many different kinds of dog coats. Some have short straight hair, others have long shaggy hair. Here you will learn about 38 dog breeds with curly hair:
Incidentally, curls are often an indication that the dogs have little hair. This also explains why many of the above breeds count as hypoallergenic.
1. Barbet
The Barbet is an obedient, good-natured dog from France. This curly-haired breed sheds very little and is highly trainable.
From the beginning, these four-legged friends were kept as house dogs. Rarely, they were also used as hunting or rescue dogs.
These curly-haired dogs get along very well with both cold and heat. They are very trusting towards the family, but still, need consistent training.
Fun Fact: When these dogs sleep on the sofa, they’re almost indistinguishable from a toy teddy bear.
2. Bichon Frize
The Bichon Frisé comes from Spain, Belgium, and France. This inquisitive, curly-haired dog was often kept on sailing ships there.
Today, these soft balls of fur are primarily lap and family dogs. They are now the 9th most popular dog breed.
Bichon Frisés will stay with you for a long time. On average, they live to be 15-21 years old. Due to their balance, they are also suitable for first-time owners and families with children.
Fun Fact: These dogs are so sweet that even the word “bichon” has been officially recognized for them. Translated from French it means pampering or pampering. Who can resist such a kiss ball?
3. Curly-Coated Retrievers
The Curly Coated Retriever from England is a clever four-legged friend with curly fur. In the past, it was primarily kept as a hunting dog for water and land birds.
Today, this playful, intelligent four-legged friend also makes a wonderful family dog. He is very loyal to the family. He also loves to romp with children.
Their curly coat is very easy to care for. This type of retriever makes excellent swimmers. They are great for first-time owners but require a lot of exercise and utilization.
Fun Fact: These dogs love to carry things around in their mouths. It doesn’t matter whether it’s decoration, the newspaper, or chic shoes.
4. Irish Water Spaniels
The Irish Water Spaniel comes from Ireland and is one of the largest breeds of the 23 species of Spaniel. Bred as a hunting dog, today it is often kept as a family dog.
With its long floppy ears and curly fur, this alert, active four-legged friend is guaranteed to attract attention. If not with that, then at the latest with his silly manner.
Due to the firm curl structure, these spaniels hardly shed at all. They are great swimmers and can also be used as hunting or guard dogs.
Fun Fact: If you like rats, then this might be the ideal dog for you. The “Rat Tail Spaniel” has a very thin, long tail without fur – a rat tail.
5. Bobtail
The Bobtail (Old English Sheepdog) comes from England and was kept there as a shepherd dog. This lively four-legged friend has a very strong herding instinct.
If they are kept as family dogs, then they also like to look after the family or associated children. They also have curly fur that is waterproof.
These large, gentle animals are great for beginners. However, they need a lot of attention and do not like to be left alone.
Fun Fact: The Bobtail is a giant teddy bear in dog fur. Not only his cuddly appearance is meant but above all his bear-like gait.
6. Cao de Água Portugues
The Cão de Água Português (Portuguese water dog) is an intelligent, persistent four-legged friend. He is very trainable with a mediocre hunting instinct.
These curly-haired water dogs live up to 14 years. They were once trained by fishermen to drive fish into nets.
You can often see the so-called “lion cut” in these dogs, in which the hind legs are shaved and a kind of mane forms in front.
Fun Fact: If you thought all dogs barked the same way, then you’ve never heard of a water dog! These four-legged friends bark in different octaves. All sounds can be present, from low hums to high-pitched screams of joy.
7. Welsh Terriers
The Welsh Terrier is a trusting, lively terrier with a very strong hunting instinct. He needs a lot of exercises and tends to bark a lot.
This curly-haired Welsh breed of dog was bred for hunting small game. They shed so little that allergy sufferers like to keep them these days.
These small terriers are well suited for beginners and apartment-keeping, but still, need a lot of exercise and exercise. They get along well with dogs and children.
Fun Fact: These dogs love to climb and see from above. This probably also explains why they’re more likely to be jumping around on your desk or cupboard.
8. Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres from Belgium was originally kept for farm work. Nowadays, this four-legged friend with a curly coat is often a watchdog or family dog.
This friendly, courageous dog sheds very little and is very trainable. He is strong and very enduring, so he needs a lot of mental and physical exercise.
Early socialization and consistent training are mandatory for these dogs, otherwise, they tend to be aggressive or dominating. So not really suitable for beginners.
Fun fact: do you have a good mop? You will need it all the time because these four-legged friends always leave a huge puddle behind after drinking. This is due to her beard, which absorbs water like a sponge when she drinks.
9. Poodle
The poodle from Germany is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. No wonder, these curly-haired dogs are super intelligent and highly trainable.
They come in four different sizes, from small to large. This breed is versatile as both a lap dog and a hunting dog.
Poodles are suitable for living in an apartment if you train them consistently and give them enough activity. Even first-time owners get along well with these dogs.
Fun fact: many hairdressers keep these four-legged friends as pets. Because their hair never stops growing – accordingly, you can regularly give them the wildest hairstyles.
10. German Spaniel
The mild-mannered German Wachtelhund used to be kept as a hunting dog. Today he is represented internationally and is used more and more often as a family dog.
This nose with long floppy ears and curly fur is very versatile. This intelligent dog gets along well with children and other dogs.
This breed is also suitable for beginners. However, you should not underestimate the strong hunting instinct. Spaniels need a lot of exercise and exercise.
Fun fact: The “German Spaniel” not only has a good sense of smell but is also considered to be very curious. When women are on their period, the snout likes to go between the legs.
11. American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel comes from the USA and is one of the dogs breeds with a curly coat. It was originally bred to hunt waterfowl.
It is now often kept as a family dog breed. This very trainable, energetic dog is by no means made for the apartment.
This four-legged friend likes to swim, dig, and be mentally and physically challenged. If he gets too little workload, then he often shows it with constant barking.
Fun Fact: Swimming? No problem for these dogs. Heat? No problem. Children? No problem. Stay alone for 5 minutes? Helpee!
12. Kerry Blue Terriers
A smart, gentle dog, the Kerry Blue Terrier is Ireland’s national dog. He was used as a working, guard, and shepherd dog.
This four-legged friend with curly fur is less suitable for first-time owners. He needs a strict upbringing and early socialization, otherwise, he will be too rebellious.
This strong-willed four-legged friend is often aggressive towards strange dogs. On the other hand, he really likes people and children. He also loves to dig, hunt and gnaw.
Fun fact: These dogs’ hair grows back particularly quickly. To be more precise, their fur will grow back completely after around 4-6 weeks.
13. Schapendoes
The Schapendoes is an alert, trusting dog from the Netherlands. He is one of 56 German Shepherd breeds. Today he is also a popular house dog.
In addition to their shaggy, curly hair, these dogs are also bearded. They need a lot of attention and want to be kept busy. They are very reluctant to be left alone.
Many Schapendoes tend to be stubborn and are therefore only moderately well-trainable and are only recommended for experienced owners.
Fun Fact: These curly shaggy puppies are always ready for a snack! They tend to be hungry all the time and are therefore particularly often overweight.
14. Mudi
The Mudi is an active, eager dog from Hungary. He was primarily kept as a shepherd dog. He’s an ace at that. A single Mudi can herd up to 500 sheep alone.
The small, curly-haired dog is very persistent and protective of its people. He, therefore, likes to follow his owners wherever they go.
This active energy dog is not suitable for living in an apartment. He loves to play frisbee and work out. Loud barking is also one of his hobbies.
Fun Fact: These dogs used to be specially trained to herd sheep by barking constantly. Even as family dogs, they rarely break this habit.
15. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo (Italian water dog from Romagnol) was used both as a hunting dog and for searching for truffles.
This loyal, undemanding nose is very suitable for first-time owners. He stands out due to his very curly fur and is also great for allergy sufferers.
Lagottos shed very little, are very trainable, and are great family dogs. They need plenty of exercise and activity to keep their hunting instincts under control.
Fun Fact: This breed is also known as the “truffle dog.” Because they are often bred specifically to track down truffles in forests.
16. Pumi
The Hungarian Pumi is a clownish, small, curly-haired German Shepherd. He is very intelligent, and alert and can live up to 14 years.
Internationally, punk (plural of the pump) is very rare. Only about 2000 specimens live in Hungary. They are ideal for beginners but require a lot of work.
The playful, active shepherd dogs like to release their energy through barking and digging actions. So you should give them a good workout and do a lot with them.
Fun Facts: Beware, Pumik like to take the lead if they don’t get consistent training! Before you know it, you’ll have a dictator in dog fur.
17. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a fearless, cheerful dog from Tibet. These little four-legged friends live between 14 and 20 years. They often tend to be obstinate and selfish.
In Tibet, they were often given away because they were considered sacred. Even today, many of these curly-haired dogs live with Buddhist monks.
Despite their small size, they are well-suited as guard dogs because they bark a lot and like to do so. Their hunting instinct is strong and in training, they are often compared to stubborn toddlers.
Fun Fact: While other breeds lie dead sad in their basket after only 5 minutes of loneliness, many Lhasa Apso doesn’t even notice that their master has been away for a while.
18. Perro de Agua Espanol
The Perro de Agua Español (Spanish Water Dog) is an ideal guard, shepherd, or family dog. It can be used in a variety of ways and is very easy to train.
This curly-haired breed is initially skeptical of strangers. These active four-legged friends are not really for apartments. They need lots of exercise and attention.
Their fur makes them ideal for allergy sufferers and they are very loyal to the family. They have a strong hunting instinct and need plenty of exercises.
Fun Fact: If you’re a dreadlocked fan, buy a Spanish Water Dog! The fur of these four-legged friends becomes matted particularly quickly – especially when you try to brush it.
19. Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was used in Ireland as a farm or sheepdog. It ranks 53rd among the most popular dog breeds.
This curly-haired dog breed is very people-oriented and loves children and other animals. Therefore, he is great as a house dog for families. He is a great playmate for children.
These cheerful animals get along very well with the cold, but they don’t tolerate heat very well. You can also easily take them with you for a swim on hot days.
Fun Fact: These dogs’ greeting is so enthusiastic that it’s known as the “Wheaten Salute.” Because they often hop around in the area and lick their master’s face.
20. Gos d’Atura Catala
Originating in Spain, the Gos d’Atura Català is better known as the Catalan Shepherd Dog. He has a very strong Guardian instinct and doesn’t need any training to use it.
If you want to keep this curly-haired dog as a pet, then he needs early socialization. He needs a lot of exercises and wants to be used to capacity.
If you train this four-legged friend strictly, then he is very obedient and balanced. However, this active dog is less suitable for beginners.
Fun Fact: When you first see a Catalan Shepherd Dog, you’ll be wondering where his eyes are! Because the fur of these dogs is so long, even on the face, that it completely covers their eyes. Hair clips are mandatory here.
21. Russian Black Terrier
The Russian Black Terrier hails from the former Soviet Union. He was bred there as a working, guard, and protection dog.
In times of war, he was also used as a military dog because he is very loyal and obedient. This confident, curly-haired dog loves to work. He’s a true workaholic.
As puppies, they are often considered hyperactive. These energy junkies are less suitable for first-time owners, as they like to be stubborn and test their limits.
Fun Fact: Although these dogs are called “terriers”, they are not officially part of the terrier group. Because 17 different breeds were crossed with each other for their breeding.
22. Bolognese
The Bolognese from Italy is a small, lightweight dog with a curly coat. He was bred primarily as a lap and family dog.
While affable and trainable, the Bolognese has a stubborn personality of its own. He loves to be the center of attention and demands a lot of attention.
Alone, this playful, loyal dog does not do well. But he gets along wonderfully with strangers, dogs, or children.
Fun fact: cross your heart. You got hungry for “Bolognese” right away, right? Many instinctively think of Spaghetti Bolognese when they hear the name, so “Bolo” has officially become the acronym for these dogs.
23. Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tuléar is a playful, charming dog with a soft, curly coat. He is also known by the name “Cotie”.
This small, curious four-legged friend only weighs 4-5 kg when fully grown. He loves to swim, run and jump around happily.
Being a very rare breed, a Cotie rarely costs less than €2,000. The flyweight is well-suited for first-time owners and apartments. He also gets along well with children.
Fun Fact: Velvety fur, is as soft as wool. No wonder the name translates to “cotton from Madagascar”.
24. Kuvasz
The Kuvasz is a large, curly-haired dog from Hungary. He was bred to be a companion for royal guards. He was also used as a hunting and war dog.
He is one of the white shepherd dogs and can weigh up to 62 kg and be 76 cm high. Despite its size, this four-legged friend can live up to 14 years.
The Kuvasz is only available with white fur. This independent, fearless dog is not suitable for beginners. Early socialization and lots of exercises are a must.
Fun Fact: This breed’s name is based on a misspelling and was originally supposed to be “Kawasz”. Translated from Turkish it means “armed guard of the nobles”.
25. Cao da Serra de Aires
The Cão de Serra de Aires comes from Portugal and is one of the shepherd dogs. He has shaggy, curly hair and sheds very little.
These four-legged friends are well-suited as watchdogs or family dogs. You are very trusting of the family. They are reserved for strangers. They bark a lot and love a lot of exercises.
These four-legged friends live for work and occupation. They get along great with other animals. Therefore, they are also often held by beginners and seniors.
Fun Fact: Ever pet a monkey? No problem. These four-legged friends are also known as “monkey dogs”. Because their fur resembles the hair structure of monkeys.
26. South Russian Ovcharka
The South Russian Ovcharka is a large, energetic dog with a moderate hunting drive. He belongs to the shepherd dogs and is often very territorial.
The very long, curly hair, which usually covers the eyes, is striking. Because of their independent nature, they are very good at being left alone and need little attention.
These four-legged friends are also great as watchdogs. They get along well with children if socialized early. They are also suitable for beginners.
Fun Fact: Attack Dog in Angel Skin? Many websites describe Ovcharkas as “family and senior-friendly”. In Denmark and Lithuania, however, they are on the attack dog list because of their potential for aggressiveness.
27. Bedlington Terriers
The Bedlington Terrier is a happy, good-natured dog from England. He was bred as a hunting dog. Today he enjoys his career as a lap dog.
These small, curly-haired dogs only weigh 8-9 kg and love to be cuddled. So if you like lounging on the couch, then you’ve got a great partner here.
Nevertheless, they are very persistent and love to be physically active. Swimming, running, and digging makes “England’s sheep” – aka. Bedlington Terriers – extra fun.
Fun Fact: Whoever digs a pit for others… owns a Bedlington Terrier! These dogs love to dig. In contrast to other breeds, however, they use their muzzle instead of their paws for this.
28. Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a curly-haired dog from France. It was bred as a hunting dog and is still used today.
It is also known by the abbreviation GBGV. Internationally, the breed is very rare. These four-legged friends are also packed dogs, which means they need other dogs to be happy.
They are rather less suitable for an apartment. A house with a garden makes sense. They get along great with children. And they are also ideal as dogs for pensioners.
Fun Fact: GBGV is really lazybones. Not only do these dogs sleep above average, but they are also considered to be relatively lazy when it comes to their active time.
29. Tibetan Terrier
Tibetan terriers are small dogs from China. Translated, they are called “bearded dogs” in their homeland. They have curly fur and particularly wide paws.
Their paws are also called “snow paws” because they are very good at walking over snow. These four-legged friends are well-suited as pets for first-time owners.
These dogs are trusting and gentle by nature. They train well but tend to bark too much. You should definitely make good use of this four-legged friend.
Fun fact: As paradoxical as it sounds – the Tibetan terrier is not a real terrier. Because he was not bred for hunting, but as a domestic dog.
30. American Cocker Spaniel
The American Cocker Spaniel is a very trainable dog. He was bred as a hunting dog for waterfowl. Today he is kept as a family dog.
This four-legged friend with curly fur stands out with its long floppy ears and long fur on its legs. It is therefore the 30th most popular breed in the world.
He counts as loving and sensitive among the dogs. He is very sensitive to criticism and should therefore be brought up with care. He is not suitable as a guard dog.
Fun fact: floppy ears – and what kind! These dogs’ ears are often even longer than their legs when they are young.
31. Wetterhoun
The Wetterhoun (Frisian Water Dog) from Holland was bred specifically for water hunting. Due to their territorial nature, they are also wonderfully suited as watchdogs.
They are very skeptical of strangers. However, these curly dogs are trusting, good-natured, and loyal to the family. Sometimes they tend to be stubborn.
They like children and love company. Being alone is torture for them. These four-legged friends feel most comfortable in a house with a garden.
Fun Fact: Attention water lovers! While other dogs detest water, this breed jumps into the sea at the first opportunity.
32. Maltese
The Maltese are playful, fearless dog native to Malta. He was bred to be a lap dog and only weighs around 2kg when fully grown. It was also considered sacred by the Romans.
This handbag dog with a curly coat is always suitable for living in the apartment. He needs a moderate amount of exercise and is easy to train.
These little four-legged friends don’t get along very well with the cold. They often suffer from chills. A coat for the winter is therefore part of the basic equipment.
Fun fact: high spirits are rarely good! Maltese are often very brave. The problem with this is that they also often dare to make one or the other jump that exceeds their jumping capacity.
33. Briard
The Briard from France is a confident, loyal four-legged friend. He is easily trainable and has a moderately strong hunting instinct.
He was bred as a guard and shepherd dog and was able to chase away wolves and foxes due to his size. By nature, he is protective and territorial.
These curly-haired dogs get along well with children and other dogs. They learn quickly and willingly but have a strong guardian instinct. You should socialize them well.
Fun Fact: These dogs are often so affectionate towards their family that they are described as having a “heart wrapped in fur.” On the other hand, they often react aggressively toward strangers.
34. West Highland White Terriers
The West Highland White Terrier is a friendly four-legged friend from Scotland. It was originally bred to hunt vermin.
Today, this white, curly-haired dog is known as the “Westie” and is widely owned by families. No wonder. Because he is a happy, loyal companion and easy to train.
However, its strong hunting instinct is difficult to control. The Westie loves to dig and bark. He, therefore, needs a lot of utilization and employment.
Fun Fact: Big mouth Westie behind it! For some inexplicable reason, the teeth of some dogs of this breed are disproportionately large. Internationally, it is therefore even known as the “Westie Jaw”.
35. Airedale Terriers
The Airedale Terrier is a sociable, alert four-legged friend from England. It is also known as the “king of terriers” because it is one of the largest specimens.
He was bred as a working and hunting dog. Today he enjoys his popularity as a police, service, and family dog. He is very intelligent and versatile.
This bearded, curly-haired dog breed loves to carry things around in their mouths. They like to dig, hunt and gnaw. They also need consistent leadership.
Fun Fact: These dogs are less suitable for shoe lovers. Because they literally gnaw at everything that falls in front of their faces.
36. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small, clever dog from China. It only weighs around 6 kg fully grown and is only 20-28 cm high. Translated, Shih-Tzu means “little lion”.
Due to its small size, this lap dog is well suited for the apartment and first-time owners. However, you should be careful with small children. Shih-Tzus are very delicate.
For a long time, these lively four-legged friends were considered sacred by Tibetan monks and were often used as foot warmers. Not a bad idea at all!
Fun Fact: If you’ve ever seen a walking mop anywhere, it was probably a Shih Tzu. Often the curly hair of this dog is so long that you can’t see his legs from the side.
37. Havanese
The Havanese is a playful, gentle four-legged friend from Cuba. The little guy was bred as a lap dog. Even today it is still liked to be kept as such.
This small, curly-haired dog is very suitable for first-time owners. He gets along very well with children and other dogs. You can also train him very well.
A lot of attention and activity give the Havanese a lot of joy. This four-legged friend is happiest when you are happy.
Fun Fact: This breed of dog has freckles all over its coat. However, this can only be seen if the fur is very short.
38. Scottish Terriers
The Scottish Terrier was originally bred to keep rats and mice out of the home. Today they are kept as family dogs.
Due to their self-confident nature, they usually only bind themselves to a maximum of two people. They rarely get along with other animals. Often they are aggressive.
This four-legged friend has short legs and curly fur. He is good for apartments but barks a lot. It should therefore be used extensively and extensively.
Fun fact: the Scottish terrier has such a strong digging instinct that it is best to allocate a corner in the garden for it, otherwise it will find one for itself. Unfortunately, the drive can neither be trained nor controlled.