20 Best Curly Haired Dogs for Your Home [Low-Shedding & Hypoallergenic Breeds]

Curly-haired dogs are showstoppers. Their unique coats are low-shedding and eye-catching. But there’s more to those curls than just good looks.

These coats serve a purpose. They repel water and provide warmth, making these breeds perfect for colder climates. Many curly-haired dogs are also a better choice for allergy sufferers, though no breed is completely hypoallergenic.

From tight coils to soft waves, these dogs bring charm and practicality. Whether you’re drawn to their style or their low-maintenance shedding, there’s a curly-haired pup for every lifestyle.

Purebred Curly-Haired Breeds

Curly-haired dog breeds offer undeniable charm and practicality. Among them, the Lagotto Romagnolo stands out for its unique history, coat, and functionality.

Lagotto Romagnolo

Breed Overview

• Group: Sporting

• Height: 16-19 inches

• Weight: 24-35 pounds

• Temperament: Friendly, alert, easygoing

• Life Span: 15-17 years

Originally bred in Italy for truffle hunting, the Lagotto Romagnolo has a water-resistant curly coat that's both functional and aesthetic.

Key Characteristics

• Coat Type: Dense, curly, and wool-like.

• Allergy-Friendly: Produces less dander, good for potential allergy sufferers.

• Intelligence: Highly trainable and task-focused.

These traits make the breed perfect for active owners who want both brains and beauty in a pup.

Grooming Needs

• Trimming: Keep fur around 1-1.5 inches long to avoid matting (Lagotto Romagnolo Club of America recommendation).

• Brushing: Weekly brushing prevents tangles and matting.

• Bathing: One bath per month is plenty to maintain coat health.

Stay consistent with its grooming routine to showcase its signature curly locks.

Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog, renowned for its hypoallergenic curls, is a versatile and energetic breed. Its history as a fisherman's helper adds a unique touch to its character.

Breed Overview

• Origin: Portugal

• Size: 17–23 inches at the shoulder

• Weight: 35–60 pounds

• Lifespan: 10–14 years

• Coat: Hypoallergenic curls

Bred for water tasks, these dogs are strong swimmers with a sleek, water-resistant coat. Their medium size paired with intelligence makes them ideal companions for active families.

Key Characteristics

• Webbed Feet: Perfectly suited for swimming, reflecting their fishing heritage.

• Energy Level: High, requiring extensive exercise.

• Classification: AKC Working Group

Their athleticism and intelligence make them great for sports like dock diving or agility. If you love an energetic, task-oriented dog, this breed will keep you on your toes.

Grooming Needs

• Professional Grooming: Every 6–8 weeks to maintain coat health.

• Brushing: Daily to avoid matting and tangling.

Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting in their dense, curly coat. Schedule sessions with a professional groomer or learn proper home grooming techniques to keep their curls in top shape.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise, a curly-haired charmer, is prized for its irresistible fluff and cheerfulness. This small breed is a fantastic choice for families and allergy sufferers alike.

Breed Overview

• Origin: Mediterranean

• Height: 9–12 inches

• Weight: 10–18 pounds

• Lifespan: 10–15 years

• Coat: Dense, fluffy white curls

Compact yet lively, the Bichon Frise combines style with substance. Its long lifespan and manageable size make it easy to fit into your home and heart.

Key Characteristics

The Bichon Frise is always ready to brighten your day. With its affectionate, playful nature, it’s been a favorite in royal courts for centuries. Its hypoallergenic coat means less shedding, perfect if you or someone in your home has allergies. You’ll also find its cheerful personality a constant mood booster.

This breed thrives in loving environments where cuddles and attention take center stage.

Grooming Needs

Daily brushing keeps the Bichon Frise’s fluffy curls tangle-free. Their unique double coat demands professional grooming every four weeks to maintain a neat appearance and avoid matting.

Irish Water Spaniel

The Irish Water Spaniel is a unique and striking curly-haired breed. Known for its athleticism and playful personality, this dog thrives in active homes.

Breed Overview

• Origin: Developed in Ireland in the 1830s for water retrieving.

• Size: Stands 21–24 inches tall.

• Weight: Weighs 45–65 pounds, making it medium-sized yet powerful.

• Coat: Features dense, liver-colored curls with a purple tint.

• Lifespan: Lives 12–13 years, provided good care and regular exercise.

Key Characteristics

• Tallest Spaniel: As the tallest spaniel breed, the Irish Water Spaniel has a distinctive appearance.

• Water-Repellent Coat: The curly coat repels water efficiently, making it perfect for retrieving game from chilly waters.

• Playful Personality: Nicknamed the "clown" of spaniels, these dogs are highly energetic, affectionate, and loyal, ideal for social families.

Grooming Needs

• Weekly Maintenance: Brush its curly coat weekly to prevent tangles and matting.

• Professional Care: Trim every 2–3 months to maintain the coat's shape and functionality.

• Bathing Routine: Bathe as needed, especially after water activities, to keep the coat clean and odor-free.

Barbet

The Barbet is a charming curly-haired dog breed with a rich history and a distinct woolly coat. Originally bred in France, it's known for versatility, intelligence, and an engaging personality.

Breed Overview

• Origin: France

• Height: 21–25.5 inches

• Weight: 35–65 pounds

• Lifespan: 10+ years

• Coat: Thick, woolly curls

Barbets are part of the AKC Sporting Group and were initially bred for waterfowl retrieving. Their dense curls protect them in cold, wet environments, making them excellent swimmers.

Key Characteristics

• They are friendly, loyal, and outgoing, fitting well in families with children or other pets.

• Smart and adaptable, Barbets excel in activities like swimming and retrieving.

• Ancestors of modern Poodle breeds, they remain highly trainable and dedicated companions.

Their aquatic abilities shine, ensuring plenty of water games or exercise keeps them happy and thriving.

Grooming Needs

• Brush their thick curls multiple times weekly to prevent tangling or matting.

• Trim monthly to maintain coat shape and length between 3–5 inches.

• Regular grooming and professional visits are essential to keep their woolly locks under control.

Poodle

The Poodle is one of the most iconic curly-haired dog breeds, known for its intelligence, elegance, and versatility. Available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes, there's a Poodle to fit every lifestyle.

Breed Overview

• Origin: Germany or France

• Height: Standard (18–24"), Miniature (10–15"), Toy (<10")

• Lifespan: 10–18 years

• Coat: Dense, tight curls that resist water

Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers. Their curly coat served a functional purpose, offering warmth in cold water. Over time, they became popular for their adaptability and charm.

Key Characteristics

• Intelligence: Ranked 2nd smartest dog breed by experts

• Varieties: Recognized in Standard, Miniature, and Toy by AKC

• Hypoallergenic: Ideal for allergy sufferers

Poodles excel in obedience training, learning quickly and thriving on interaction. Their hypoallergenic coat produces minimal shedding—perfect if you're looking for a cleaner home.

Grooming Needs

Maintaining a Poodle’s coat is essential.

1. Trimming: Needs clipping every 4–6 weeks.

2. Brushing: Daily brushing prevents tangles in their tight curls.

3. Cost: Professional grooming averages $50–$80/month.

Pumi

The Pumi is a lively, curly-haired herding dog with Hungarian roots. Known for their intelligence and adaptable personality, they make excellent working dogs and companions.

Breed Overview

• Origin: Hungary (crossbred from Pulis and European sheepdogs).

• Size: 15–18 inches tall.

• Weight: 22–29 pounds.

• Lifespan: 12–14 years.

• Coat: Dense, harsh curls perfect for working outdoors.

Pumis were officially recognized in the US in 2011. Their curly coats and compact size make them both functional and adorable.

Key Characteristics

Pumis are energetic herding dogs with a terrier-like vibrancy. They excel at working close to sheep but adapt well to family life.

• Work Purpose: Skilled at herding farm stock.

• Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, and active.

• Recognition: Gained AKC recognition in 2011.

If you're looking for a spirited, curly-coated companion, the Pumi brings both charm and work ethic to the table.

Grooming Needs

Keeping a Pumi's curls in top shape requires effort. Plan for:

• Trims: Professional grooming every 8 weeks.

• Brushing: Weekly to prevent tangles.

Avoid blow-drying! Let their curls air-dry after brushing for optimal bounce and texture. Regular combing ensures their coat stays manageable and stylish.

Curly-Coated Retriever

The Curly-Coated Retriever is a distinct and elegant breed with origins dating back to 18th-century England. Loved for their water-resistant curly coat, these dogs are prized as loyal companions and skillful hunting partners.

Breed Overview

• Origin: England

• Size: 23–27 inches tall

• Weight: 60–95 pounds

• Lifespan: 10–12 years

• Coat: Waterproof, tight curls

Bred for retrieving waterfowl, these dogs are one of the oldest retriever breeds. Their webbed feet and powerful build make them excellent swimmers, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Key Characteristics

• Athletic Build: Their strong, agile frame is perfect for long swims and rigorous activities.

• Distinct Curly Coat: Made of tight, crisp curls that shield against cold water and briars.

• Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, and protective, making them excellent family companions.

Males typically reach 25–27 inches tall, while females are slightly smaller. Their robust size pairs with a joyful, outdoor-loving spirit.

Grooming Needs

Brush weekly to manage shedding during coat transitions. Combing during shedding helps remove loose hair effectively. Avoid frequent brushing to prevent frizz.

Hand-stripping may be needed occasionally to maintain coat texture. Their low-maintenance coat pairs well with routine baths as needed after outdoor adventures.

Puli

The Puli is a Hungarian herding dog with a coat like no other. Its iconic corded appearance makes it instantly recognizable, while its agility and intelligence make it a standout working breed.

Breed Overview

Originally bred in Hungary, the Puli dates back to ancient times with Asiatic roots, believed to descend from the Tibetan Terrier. Compact yet agile, they stand about 16–17 inches tall and weigh 25–35 lbs. Pulis are known for their corded coats, which provide natural weather resistance. With a lifespan of 12–16 years, their enduring vitality ensures they're faithful companions for many years.

Key Characteristics

Pulis are herding dogs with an innate protective nature, often serving as both guardians and companions for families. Their dense, corded coats form naturally as part of their unique look and functionality—ideal for harsh weather. These medium-sized dogs are highly energetic, self-confident, and thrive in environments where they can stay busy and interactive.

Grooming Needs

Pulis require specialized care to manage their corded coats. Weekly maintenance can take 2–3 hours, involving separating and shaping the cords by hand. Bathing is occasional due to the coat's water-resistant properties, but drying takes time. Regular upkeep keeps their unique look intact and prevents matting—plan for professional grooming help as needed.

Komondor

The Komondor, also known as the "mop dog," is a distinctive, curly-haired breed with a striking corded coat. Originating from Hungary, this large working dog is a loyal guardian of livestock.

Breed Overview

• Origin: Hungary

• Height: 25.5–31.5 inches

• Weight: 80–130 pounds

• Lifespan: 10–12 years

• Coat: Iconic white cords

Bred to guard flocks, Komondors are powerful and independent. Their tall stature and corded coat make them both functional and eye-catching.

Key Characteristics

Komondors are natural protectors, bred to defend livestock from predators. Their dense white cords help them blend in with sheep, providing camouflage.

This breed is rare and remarkable, with strong protective instincts and a mop-like coat that stands out. They're not overly aggressive but are alert and loyal.

Grooming Needs

Maintaining their unique coat is specific but rewarding. Cords take around three years to form completely and require regular separation to avoid matting.

Avoid brushing—focus on proper bathing and thorough drying. Air circulation is crucial to prevent mildew and odor in the cords.

Havanese

The Havanese, Cuba’s national dog, is a lovable curly-haired breed with a big personality in a compact body. It thrives on companionship and earns its nickname, the “Velcro dog,” for staying close to its loved ones.

Breed Overview

• Origin: Cuba

• Height: 8.5–11.5 inches

• Weight: 7–13 pounds

• Life Span: 14–16 years

• Coat: Silky, wavy, or curly double coat

Compact and playful, these dogs excel as family companions. Males are slightly larger, standing up to 11.5 inches, while females range from 8.5 to 10 inches. With a long lifespan of up to 16 years, the Havanese stays a loyal companion for years. Their coats are soft and luxuriant, making them an appealing choice for cuddles.

Key Characteristics

The Havanese is highly adaptable. Whether you live in a house or an apartment, this breed adjusts to your lifestyle with ease. Their happy, playful nature shines through in their daily interactions, making them an ideal companion for families or singles alike.

As Cuba’s beloved mascot, the Havanese stands out with its silky curls in colors like cream, white, or sable. Their medium energy levels require moderate daily activity, such as walks or indoor play, keeping this little dog both happy and healthy.

Grooming Needs

Daily grooming is essential to prevent tangles in their luscious double coat. Regular brushing keeps their curls intact and free of debris. Additionally, you’ll need to schedule professional grooming every month to maintain their coat’s pristine condition.

Plan for doggy baths, full brush-outs, and consistent coat care routines. Their hypoallergenic coat sheds minimally, making them a perfect option for allergy sufferers craving a low-maintenance, curly-haired dog.

Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres, a curly-haired herding breed from Belgium and France, is known for its rugged build and dense coat. Originally bred for farm work, these dogs are intelligent, protective, and make loyal companions.

Breed Overview

• Origin: Belgium/France

• Size: 23.5–27.5 inches tall

• Weight: 70–110 pounds

• Lifespan: 10–12 years

• Coat: dense, rough double coat

Bouviers were initially used as farm hands for cattle droving and other tasks. Their curly, wiry coat provides insulation and weather resistance, making them ideal for outdoor work. Despite their robust appearance, they’re calm and affectionate with their families.

Key Characteristics

• History: Known as WWI messengers and farm workers.

• Temperament: Protective, intelligent, and adaptable.

• Purpose: Excellent guard dogs and family companions.

These fierce yet gentle giants are naturally loyal and protective, making them great watchdogs. Their intelligence has also made them excellent police, guide, and tracking dogs. If you seek an active yet loving pet, the Bouvier won’t disappoint.

Grooming Needs

• Frequency: Trim every 6–8 weeks.

• Maintenance: Weekly brushing to prevent mats.

Kerry Blue Terrier

This elegant curly-haired breed boasts a striking blue-gray coat and a loyal demeanor. Originally bred in County Kerry, Ireland, they were once versatile working dogs.

Breed Overview

• Origin: Ireland

• Height: 17.5–19.5 inches

• Weight: 33–40 pounds

• Lifespan: 12–15 years

• Coat Type: Soft, dense, wavy-curly

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a unique coat that changes from black at birth to blue-gray as they mature. They are durable and agile, making them ideal for vibrant homes.

Key Characteristics

• Born Black: Puppies change to a signature blue-gray as they grow.

• Versatile Worker: Historically herded livestock and controlled pests.

• Sporty: Thrives in agility, obedience, and dog sports.

These terriers are intelligent, loyal, and energetic, perfect for families or active individuals. Their playful, strong-willed nature makes them stand out.

Grooming Needs

• Weekly Care: Strip loose hairs and brush coat to avoid matting.

• Monthly Trimming: Visit a groomer every 4–6 weeks for maintenance.

• Ongoing Attention: Their hair grows continuously, requiring routine upkeep.

Plan for regular grooming to keep their soft, curly coat in top form. Invest in professional trimming or learn to maintain their elegant look yourself.

Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is known as the "King of Terriers" for good reason. With their tall, rugged build and distinctive wiry curls, they stand apart as intelligent and versatile companions.

Breed Overview

• Origin: The Airedale Terrier hails from England's Aire Valley, where it was bred as a working dog.

• Height: They typically stand 22–24 inches tall, making them the tallest terriers.

• Weight: These muscular dogs range from 50–70 pounds.

• Coat & Lifespan: Their wiry, curly coat comes in tan with black or grizzle saddle, with an average lifespan of 10–13 years.

They were once used for police and military service, proving their adaptability and strength.

Key Characteristics

• Largest Terrier: The Airedale is the biggest among terrier breeds, combining power and elegance.

• Intelligent & Bold: They’re smart problem-solvers who thrive on challenges. Expect some stubbornness but tons of personality.

• Versatile History: Originally bred for hunting, they've also served as police dogs and messengers during wartime.

If you're looking for an independent, confident companion who loves an active lifestyle, the Airedale is your perfect match.

Grooming Needs

• Brushing: Airedale Terriers need weekly brushing to maintain their wiry curls.

• Hand-Stripping: Regular hand-stripping helps maintain coat texture and prevent matting.

• Professional Grooming: Plan for trims every 3–4 months to keep their sleek and tidy appearance.

Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier stands out for its lamb-like appearance and soft, curly fur. This playful and loyal breed offers unique traits that make it a delightful companion.

Breed Overview

• Origin: Northumberland, England

• Size: 15–17.5 inches tall

• Weight: 17–23 pounds

• Lifespan: 12–16 years

• Coat Type: Wool-like curls resembling a sheep's fleece

Originally bred for vermin hunting, Bedlington Terriers are sharp and affectionate pets. Their compact size and manageable energy level make them ideal for your family.

Key Characteristics

• Unique Look: They resemble lambs with their pear-shaped heads and curly coats.

• Temperament: Gentle, playful, and affectionate, they’re friendly to people but may require early socialization with other pets.

• Health Note: Be aware of copper toxicosis, a genetic liver condition affecting this breed.

This terrier’s charm lies in its distinctiveness, combining elegance with a loving personality.

Grooming Needs

• Clipping: Schedule professional grooming every six weeks to maintain their coat shape.

• Brushing: Perform weekly brushing to remove debris and prevent tangles.

• Ease of Care: Their low-shedding coat requires minimal upkeep and stays manageable with routine maintenance.

Invest in grooming tools or hire a professional to keep their lamb-like coat pristine. Weekly care ensures a happy, healthy Bedlington Terrier you’ll adore.

American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel is a rare, curly-haired breed with rich history and versatile abilities. Known for its loyalty, hunting skills, and curly charm, this breed is perfect for active families who love the outdoors.

Breed Overview

• Origin: United States

• Size: 15–18 inches tall

• Weight: 25–45 pounds

• Lifespan: 10–14 years

• Coat: Tight curls in a dense, double layer.

Bred in Wisconsin during the 1800s, this dog excels at fetching both on land and in water. As a result, it's a prime choice for hunters and water enthusiasts alike.

Key Characteristics

• State Dog of Wisconsin: Representing its unique heritage.

• Natural Hunter: Skilled in retrieving game, even in harsh waters.

• Loyal and Sensitive: Forms strong bonds but needs gentle handling.

This breed's adaptability makes it a perfect fit for families that live an adventurous lifestyle. Its curly coat repels water, keeping it ready for action.

Grooming Needs

While the curls aren’t heavy shedders, they need weekly brushing to avoid matting.

• Trimming: Occasionally trim to maintain shape.

• Ears: Clean regularly to prevent infections.

• Special Tools: Use detangling brushes for precision.

Hybrid Curly-Haired Breeds

Hybrid curly-haired dogs combine intelligence, beauty, and hypoallergenic qualities, making them a perfect companion for many families. These hybrids inherit the best traits from their purebred parents and boast unique temperaments, sizes, and appearances ideal for a variety of lifestyles.

Labradoodle

Breed Overview

The Labradoodle, a Labrador Retriever and Poodle mix, is among the most beloved hybrids. Developed in Australia, this breed offers a friendly, intelligent personality and a famously low-shedding coat. Labradoodles have become a top choice for allergy sufferers due to their hypoallergenic coats (The Spruce Pets).

Key Characteristics

• Size: Ranges from miniature (14–16 inches) to standard (21–24 inches).

• Weight: Weighs 18–75 pounds depending on the parent's size.

• Coat: Curly, wavy, or straight; usually low-shedding.

• Temperament: Gentle, playful, and loyal, ideal for families with kids or other pets.

• Energy Level: High; they thrive in active households and enjoy daily exercise.

Grooming Needs

Labradoodles need regular grooming to maintain their dense curls:

• Brush several times a week to prevent matting and tangles.

• Professional trims every 6–8 weeks keep their coats manageable.

• Bath monthly or as needed, especially after outdoor play.

Make grooming a bonding time between you and your Labradoodle! Regular care keeps their stunning curls healthy and their coat irresistibly soft.

Flandoodle

The Flandoodle, a modern hybrid, combines the charm of the Bouvier des Flandres and the Poodle. This curly-haired breed is loved for its intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature.

Breed Overview

• Origin: United States, as a Bouvier × Poodle mix

• Size: Stands 22–27 inches tall, making it a large breed

• Weight: Ranges between 70–100 pounds

• Coat: Dense, tight curls suitable for allergy sufferers

• Lifespan: Typically 10–12 years

This mix inherits the herding capabilities of the Bouvier and the hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle, making it both functional and family-friendly.

Key Characteristics

• Protective Nature: Flandoodles are loyal guardians with a gentle demeanor.

• High Energy: They thrive on consistent exercise and mental stimulation.

• Social Temperament: Friendly and loving, they blend seamlessly into family life.

This breed's intelligence and trainability, paired with its high energy, make it a great choice for active households.

Grooming Needs

• Daily Brushing: Prevents tangles and matting in its dense, curly coat.

• Professional Grooming: Schedule trims every 4–6 weeks to maintain coat shape.

• Coat Care: Regular baths are essential to keep the fur clean and healthy.

Invest in quality grooming tools and set a routine to ensure your Flandoodle's curls remain in top condition.

Schnoodle

A Schnoodle combines the best traits of a Schnauzer and a Poodle, resulting in a playful and curly-haired companion. If you're seeking a dog that blends intelligence, adaptability, and low-shedding curls, the Schnoodle is a perfect fit.

Breed Overview

• Origin: 1980s hybrid breed

• Size: Ranges from 10–26 inches tall

• Weight: Varies between 10–75 pounds

• Lifespan: Typically 12–15 years

• Coat: Curly or wiry texture, a hallmark of its parent breeds (World Animal Foundation)

This breed’s varying size means it suits both small apartments and larger homes. Schnoodles adapt easily and love to bond with their families.

Sheepadoodle

The Sheepadoodle is a curly-haired hybrid combining the Old English Sheepdog and Poodle. Adored for its hypoallergenic coat and gentle personality, it's an ideal choice for families and allergy sufferers.

Breed Overview

• Origin: United States in the 1960s

• Size: 16–27 inches tall

• Weight: 60–80 pounds

• Lifespan: 12–15 years

• Coat: Dense, woolly curls, perfect for minimizing shedding

These hybrids are affectionate, intelligent, and athletic. Their calm demeanor makes them excellent companions for households with kids or pets.

Key Characteristics

• Mix of Old English Sheepdog x Poodle

• Known as gentle giants with a loyal disposition

• Approximately 80% of Sheepadoodles sport panda-like black-and-white markings

You’ll find them to be playful yet calm, a great fit for both active lifestyles and relaxed family settings.

Grooming Needs

• Daily brushing is crucial to prevent tangles in their dense, curly coat

• Visits to a professional groomer every 6–8 weeks help maintain coat texture and length

• High-maintenance curls need careful attention to stay mat-free and well-shaped

Conclusion

Curly-haired dogs offer unique beauty, personality, and hypoallergenic benefits, making them perfect for diverse lifestyles. Their coats, whether corkscrew curls or dense waves, require consistent care for health and appearance.

Key Takeaways About Curly-Haired Breeds:

• Healthier Coats with Routine Grooming: Regular brushing, trimming, and bathing prevent matting and maintain shine. Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks is essential for many breeds.

• Optimal for Allergy Sufferers: While no breed is completely hypoallergenic, low-shedding curly coats minimize allergens, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).

• Active and Adaptable Companions: Breeds like the Poodle or Portuguese Water Dog excel in active households, while smaller breeds like the Bichon Frise fit apartment living.

Build a Connection with Your Pet

Invest time in grooming to foster bonding. Grooming not only builds trust but also ensures your pet feels comfortable and looks their best.

For a deeper dive into care tips, check professional grooming resources or AKC recommendations. Choose your curly-haired companion today and enjoy a lifetime of loyalty and charm.