Curly-Coated Retriever health: what owners should know

The Curly-Coated Retriever is predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia, several inherited eye conditions, glycogen storage disease type IIIa, exercise-induced collapse and some cancers, as well as a follicular condition that causes patchy coat loss. Bloat is also seen. Average lifespan is around 10 to 12 years.

Responsible breeders hip and elbow score their dogs, arrange regular eye tests and DNA test for GSD IIIa and EIC so that affected puppies aren't produced. At home, keep your dog lean and fit, and raise exercise intensity gradually. See a vet if you notice collapse or wobbliness during hard exercise, limping that persists, cloudy eyes or bumping into things, unexplained weakness or lethargy, or new lumps.