Top 10 Curly-Coated Dog Breeds (and How to Keep Them Looking Fabulous)
Curly-coated dogs are showstoppers. Their fluffy, springy curls don’t just turn heads—they also signal a coat that needs special care. Unlike straight-haired breeds, curly pups require a grooming routine tailored to texture, moisture, and tangle prevention.
Whether you're a proud Poodle parent or considering adding a curly companion to your life, here’s our list of the top 10 curly-coated breeds—plus expert tips for keeping their coats healthy, happy, and mat-free.
1. Poodle (Standard, Miniature, Toy)
The OG curly icon. Poodles have dense, tight curls that are prone to matting without regular maintenance.
Keep Them Fabulous:
✨ Regular conditioning, bi-weekly brushing, and curl cream to define and soften
✨ Use the CurlyWags Method to reduce brushing time and keep those curls springy
2. Labradoodle / Goldendoodle
Beloved for their teddy-bear looks, Doodles have unpredictable coat textures—ranging from wavy to ultra-curly.
Keep Them Fabulous:
✨ Brush at least 2–3x per week using a curly coat brush
✨ Apply Curl Magic Cream after baths to prevent matting between grooms
3. Portuguese Water Dog
This athletic breed has a thick, waterproof coat that curls tightly and requires structure to maintain.
Keep Them Fabulous:
✨ Weekly deep conditioning
✨ Section-by-section brushing while the coat is damp for easier detangling
4. Bichon Frise
These little clouds have soft, plush curls that can compact and mat if left unattended.
Keep Them Fabulous:
✨ Light daily combing and a moisturizing curl cream after baths
✨ A microfiber towel post-bath helps reduce frizz and retain shape
5. Irish Water Spaniel
With crisp ringlets and a naturally oily coat, this breed benefits from regular grooming that respects curl pattern.
Keep Them Fabulous:
✨ Cleanse every 2–3 weeks using a dog-safe shampoo
✨ Finish with curl cream and diffuse-dry for best results
6. Barbet
A rare French water dog with soft, wooly curls that grow continuously—meaning consistent trimming and curl care is a must.
Keep Them Fabulous:
✨ Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle before brushing
✨ Apply curl cream to keep strands hydrated between trims
7. Lagotto Romagnolo
Known as the “truffle dog,” their tight curls are charming—but quick to mat if not maintained.
Keep Them Fabulous:
✨ Use a layering technique to brush curls section by section
✨ Blow dry on low heat to avoid moisture traps under the coat
7. Cockapoo
Another doodle darling with varying curl types that can easily mat without prep and product.
Keep Them Fabulous:
✨ Apply conditioner + Curl Magic Cream before brushing
✨ Avoid brushing dry—mist with water or leave-in conditioner first
9. Curly-Coated Retriever
This hunting breed has tight, water-repellent curls and sheds minimally—but still needs curl-conscious care.
Keep Them Fabulous:
✨ Gentle brushing once a week
✨ Occasional curl cream use to reduce friction in high-rub zones
10. Pumi
This Hungarian herding breed has corkscrew curls that need shaping and softening to stay looking their best.
Keep Them Fabulous:
✨ Finger detangle before using a comb or brush
✨ Light curl cream application after drying to maintain definition
The Key to Curly Coat Care? A Curl-First Routine
No matter which curly companion you’ve got, their coat needs more than just brushing. It needs a grooming method that hydrates, detangles, and supports healthy curl formation from root to tip.
That’s exactly why we created the CurlyWags Method—a kind, 4-step routine made just for curly coats.
✔️ Shampoo + Condition
✔️ Gentle, section-by-section brushing
✔️ Curl Magic Cream for hydration + definition
✔️ Blow-dry for frizz control and curl hold
Want Softer Curls, Fewer Mats, and Easier Grooming?
Your curly pup deserves products made just for them—not human hair hacks or harsh detanglers.
👉 Shop Curl Magic Cream
Because curly coats need kind care.