Breeders are often asked if male or female Curly Coated Retrievers make better pets. Unlike other breeds, male Curly Coated Retrievers are rarely aggressive and have the same sweet temperament as their female counterparts. However, there are other differences between males and females of the breed that interested buyers should be aware of before making a purchase. In this article, we'll take a look at two of the major differences between male and female Curly Coated Retrievers.
The most obvious difference between male and female Curlies is that females tend to blow coat,or shed more often than their male counterparts. Not every Curly will blow coat when they come into season, while some females will blow coat twice or more in a year. Others will shed in the spring, when the weather starts to warm up. The truth is, every dog is different, but it is clear that males will shed less frequently than females.
This shouldn't be a major deterrent for those that are interested in purchasing a Curly Coated Retriever, however, as the coat is still relatively easy to care for. The coat generally shouldn't be brushed, as this can remove the tight curls the breed is famous for, although it should regain its curls when the coat becomes damp. While the dog is blowing its coat, brushing can help remove some of the dead hairs and make it easier for the new coat to grow in. There are a variety of tools that can be used to help remove the dead hairs, including combs, brushes, and even a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment has been suggested! If nothing else, this can help control the amount of shedding over a longer period of time.
On the other side of the coin, there are some health issues that some Curly Coated Retrievers are predisposed to inherit, and some of them, namely Bloat or Gastric Torsion, are more likely to affect males than females. While these particular medical issues can occur in any larger, barrel-chested breed, it is thought that they are hereditary in some way, though the cause has not yet been found. Other common factors include adulthood, a diet of mainly kibble, and a tendency to want to exercise vigorously right after eating. While it is not impossible for a female to develop these disorders, two thirds of dogs who suffer from them are male.
While every dog is an individual and therefore different, it can generally be said that male and female Curly Coated Retrievers are equal in their devotion to their families, their love of play and high energy, and their aptitude in such popular events as hunting, Obedience and Agility trials. No matter which gender you choose, you are likely going to bring home a wonderful family pet.
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