This distinguished and handsome strongly built dog is instantly recognisable by his astrakhan-like coat which is a mass of close, tight, oily, waterproof curls from the back of the skull to the tip of the tail. The head is free of curl and covered with short smooth hair. Originally a gamekeeper's gundog and guard dog, he is very fond of water and is a natural swimmer.

The Curly is kind hearted and totally without malice, devoted to his owner, excellent with children and loves to be praised. He has a definite sense of humour and loves to play the clown.

The Curly is friendly, intelligent, responsive and confident but more difficult to train that other Retriever breeds, having a definite mind of his own and training may take a great deal of patience - however this independence of mind makes a dog of great character.