Curly coats look distinctive, but they demand real maintenance. Loose hair stays trapped in the coat rather than falling on your couch — so regular brushing and professional grooming are non-negotiable. Match coat care and exercise needs to your lifestyle, not just the look.

Selection criteria

Curly coats trap shed hair — plan to brush several times weekly and book professional grooming every four to eight weeks for most breeds on this list.

A curly coat does not mean low energy: Portuguese Water Dogs and Irish Water Spaniels need substantial daily exercise.

If allergies are a concern, spend time with the individual dog — low visible shedding is not allergen-free.

  • Grooming time, cost, and tolerance for coat maintenance
  • Size and exercise needs — curly coat does not mean low energy
  • Allergy expectations — lower shed is not allergen-free
  • Whether you prefer a purebred or a curly-coated mixed breed
  • Experience level with training and socialization

Breeds to consider

  1. #1

    Poodle (Toy, Miniature, Standard)

    Non-sporting / Utility

    The classic curly haired dog breed in three sizes. Highly trainable with a dense, low-shedding coat that needs regular professional grooming.

    Pros

    • Intelligent and trainable
    • Coat sheds minimally when maintained

    Cons

    • Coat mats without frequent brushing
    • Grooming costs add up

    Best for

    • Owners committed to grooming routines
    • Families wanting versatile companions
  2. #2

    Portuguese Water Dog

    Working

    Athletic medium-to-large breed with a curly or wavy coat. Often listed among curly hypoallergenic dogs, though reactions still vary.

    Pros

    • Active companion for outdoor families
    • Curly coat with lower visible shedding

    Cons

    • High exercise needs
    • Regular clipping required

    Best for

    • Active owners who enjoy training and water activities
  3. #3

    Bichon Frise

    Companion

    Small curly coated dog with a soft, plush coat. Many individuals are social and friendly, but temperament varies.

    Pros

    • Compact size for apartments
    • Social, friendly temperament in many individuals

    Cons

    • Daily brushing ideal
    • May bark without training

    Best for

    • Owners wanting a smaller curly breed with close companionship
  4. #4

    Lagotto Romagnolo

    Sporting / Working

    Medium breed with a wooly, waterproof curly coat. Originally a truffle-hunting dog with moderate-to-high activity needs.

    Pros

    • Distinctive curly coat
    • Trainable working background

    Cons

    • Needs mental and physical exercise
    • Grooming maintenance required

    Best for

    • Owners who want a less common curly breed and can meet exercise needs
  5. #5

    Irish Water Spaniel

    Sporting

    Large curly coated dog with a topknot and rat tail. Energetic water-loving breed suited to active homes.

    Pros

    • Athletic sporting companion
    • Curly, low-shedding coat type

    Cons

    • Needs substantial exercise
    • Coat care and trimming required

    Best for

    • Experienced owners with time for training and activity
  6. #6

    Curly-Coated Retriever

    Sporting

    One of the oldest retriever breeds with a tight curly coat. Independent streak with strong retrieving instincts.

    Pros

    • Distinctive tight curls
    • Capable sporting partner

    Cons

    • Higher exercise and training commitment
    • Less common — research breeders carefully

    Best for

    • Active owners who want a sporting breed with a unique coat

  7. Mixed breed (Poodle-type or curly-coated)

    Varies

    Many Doodle and shelter dogs have curly or wavy coats. Coat type and temperament vary — meet the individual dog.

    Pros

    • Wide range of sizes and personalities
    • Often available through rescues

    Cons

    • Coat may change as puppies mature
    • Grooming needs still apply

    Best for

    • Families open to mixed breeds who can commit to coat care

Important caveats

Curly dogs that do not shed much still produce dander and require grooming. No dog is 100% hypoallergenic — spend time with a breed or individual before committing if allergies are a concern.

Temperament varies within every breed. Socialization, training, and daily routine shape behavior as much as coat type.

  • Budget for professional grooming and home brushing tools
  • Mats can hide skin problems — regular coat checks matter
  • Match energy level to your lifestyle, not just coat preference