Curly coats stand out — and they come with real grooming commitment. Whether you want small curly haired dogs for an apartment or big curly haired dogs for an active household, coat care and temperament still matter more than looks alone. This list highlights common curly coated dogs with practical owner-fit notes.

Selection criteria

Curly and wavy coats often trap loose hair in the coat rather than shedding it onto floors — which helps some allergy-sensitive homes but increases matting risk without regular care.

Budget for professional grooming every four to eight weeks for many curly breeds, plus brushing several times per week at home.

  • 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