Training a Curly-Coated Retriever: what works and what to expect

Curlies are intelligent and cooperative but less eager to please than Labradors. They need a reason, and variety helps enormously. Ten identical retrieves in a row often produce a bored dog that wanders off to sniff, while mixing in a blind retrieve, a hidden dummy or a new location keeps it keen. Food, retrieving and praise all work as rewards.

Their independence is an asset in the field and a challenge in town. Recall needs extra work, with a long line and high-value rewards until it is solid. Because some Curlies are reserved with strangers, gradual, positive socialization in puppyhood is essential: ask visitors to ignore the puppy and let it approach in its own time. Adolescent Curlies can seem to forget everything for a few months, so stay patient and consistent.