Curly-coated Retriever vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Curly-coated Retriever and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Curly-coated Retriever
Confident, energetic, and always ready for adventure, this breed stands out with its tight, water-resistant curls. Loyal and affectionate, it thrives as both a working partner and family friend.
Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Large
32–41 kg
Tight curls, water-repellent
9–14 years
23–32 kg
High energy
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Curly-coated Retriever
Generally sociable with people and other dogs
Learns quickly and understands new tasks well
High stamina and thrives on regular activity
Enjoys interactive games and mental stimulation
Adjusts well to different environments and routines
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Curly-coated Retriever
Hip dysplasia, eye conditions
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Curly-coated Retriever
Requires experience
Needs consistent training and leadership to thrive
Not ideal
Needs space and regular exercise, may become restless in small apartments
Excellent match
Thrives with active owners and enjoys outdoor activities and exercise
Very suitable
Gentle and tolerant, generally good with respectful children
Usually compatible
Gets along well with other pets if socialized early
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone and can develop separation issues
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Curly-coated Retriever
- Excellent swimmer with water-repellent coat
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn
- Loyal and affectionate with family members
- Strong stamina for active outdoor activities
- Low grooming needs due to tight curls
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Curly-coated Retriever
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs consistent mental and physical stimulation
- May be stubborn during training sessions
- Can be mouthy or chew excessively
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
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