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The Murray River Curly Coated Retriever is a rare and unique breed that's as charming as it is intelligent. They originated in Australia, specifically in the Murray River region.
This breed is known for its distinctive curly coat, which requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They have a thick, wavy coat that sheds very little.
Their intelligence and high energy levels make them an excellent choice for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities. They thrive on mental and physical stimulation.
As a medium-sized breed, they need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy, but they're not as large as some other retriever breeds.
Broaden your view: River Dog Names
Physical Characteristics
The Murray River Curly Coated Retriever has a unique coat that repels water and prevents damage. Their tight, crisp curls cover their whole body and are a distinctive feature of this breed.
They are medium-sized dogs, slightly longer than they are tall, with deep chests and strong hindquarters. Their legs are straight and strong, and their feet are rounded with well-arched toes that have webbing between them.
Their heads are strong and blocky, with a powerful medium-sized muzzle that turns up at the end and a fully pigmented liver-colored nose. Their almond-shaped eyes range in color from light golden hazel to dark brown.
A different take: Medium Sheepadoodle
Breed Appearance
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The Murray River Curly Coated Retriever is a medium-sized dog that's slightly longer than it is tall, with a sturdy build that's perfect for active families.
Their legs are straight and strong, with rounded feet that have well-arched toes with webbing between them, making them well-suited for running and playing in the water.
The head of this breed is strong and blocky, with a powerful medium-sized muzzle that turns up at the end and sports a fully pigmented liver-colored nose.
Their almond-shaped eyes can range in color from a light golden hazel to a dark brown, giving them a unique and expressive look.
The ears of the Murray River Curly Coated Retriever are covered in dark brown ringlets of fur that hang down from the eye line and lie close to the cheeks.
Their curly coat is one of their most distinctive features, with longer, looser curls that repel water and prevent damage to the skin.
This breed has a robust build combined with agility and energy, making them a joy to watch and play with.
Explore further: River Run Dachshunds
How Big Does a Get
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The Murray River Curly Coated Retriever, or MRCC, is a medium-sized dog. They typically stand between 18-24 inches in height.
Their weight can vary, but they usually weigh between 25-60 lbs.
The female MRCC is marginally smaller than the male dog.
Care and Maintenance
Bathing your Murray River Curly Coated Retriever too frequently can strip its coat of natural oils, which are essential for keeping it strong and healthy.
These oils help the coat be water resistant, making it a must for dogs that spend time in the water.
A good brushing session once or twice a week helps control their moderate, year-round shedding.
Regular ear checks for moisture, debris, and infection are also crucial to prevent ear infections.
Their teeth should be kept clean and nails trimmed to a comfortable length as part of their grooming routine.
Murray River Curly Coated Retrievers often suffer from ear infections and hip dysplasia, making pet health insurance a good investment.
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Breed Maintenance
Bathing your Murray River Curly Coated Retriever too frequently can strip its single-layer coat of natural oils, so it's best to limit baths to when absolutely necessary.
Regular brushing is essential to control their moderate, year-round shedding.
Their ears need to be checked for moisture, debris, and infection on a regular basis.
Keeping their teeth clean is crucial, and you can even use flavored dog toothpaste to make brushing a habit.
Trimming their nails to a comfortable length is also important.
Murray River Curly Coated Retrievers are prone to ear infections and hip dysplasia, so it's a good idea to secure pet health insurance to avoid high veterinary care costs.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Why Are Labrador Retrievers so Popular
Activity Requirements
The Murray River Curly Coated Retriever is an active working dog that requires a lot of exercise. They need at least an hour of vigorous activity each day.
Long walks and even runs are helpful in expending their considerable energy. Swimming sessions and endless games of fetch are also great ways to tire them out.
It's essential to check their ears regularly for trapped water, dirt, or debris, especially after swimming. Their curly coats should also be examined for ticks, particularly in the spring and early summer months.
These versatile dogs may also enjoy activities like agility training, dock diving, or even freestyle canine dance. They're natural-born athletes, so be prepared to keep them active and engaged.
Here's a quick rundown of their daily activity needs:
Remember, every dog is different, so be sure to tailor their exercise routine to their individual needs and preferences.
Best Dog Bed
When choosing a dog bed, consider the Murray River Curly Coated Retriever's need for warmth and comfort.
The Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Dog Bed is a great option, featuring a unique insulation layer that radiates warmth from the dog's own body.
This bed is made from soft faux shag to keep your dog warm and cozy on cold nights.
It's also machine washable, making it easy to clean and maintain.
The bed's bolstered edges provide orthopedic support, which is especially important for larger breeds like the Murray River Curly Coated Retriever.
This feature can help prevent joint pain and discomfort, allowing your dog to rest comfortably.
The bed is made from water-resistant nylon, which helps protect it from accidents and spills.
Health and Temperament
The Murray River Curly Coated Retriever is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, it's not immune to certain health issues. Ear Infections, Entropion, Canine Hip Dysplasia, Night blindness, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy are some of the health concerns to be aware of.
Buying from a reputable breeder who has health clearances for their puppies is a great way to increase the chances of your dog being healthy. Regular veterinary visits are also essential to ensure your dog stays healthy.
These dogs are social and loving, but they can be wary of strangers and may chase small, fast-moving animals like cats if not socialized properly.
Consider reading: Flat Coated Retriever Health Issues
8 Thoughts
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As we explore the complex relationship between health and temperament, it's essential to consider these 8 thoughts:
A person's temperament can significantly impact their mental health, with research showing that individuals with a more anxious temperament are more likely to develop anxiety disorders.
People with a more sensitive temperament tend to be more prone to emotional reactivity, which can lead to increased stress levels and decreased resilience.
Temperament can influence a person's ability to cope with stress, with some individuals being more resilient in the face of adversity.
Research has shown that people with a more agreeable temperament tend to have better mental health outcomes, likely due to their ability to form and maintain strong social relationships.
Individuals with a more conscientious temperament tend to engage in healthier behaviors, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, which can contribute to overall physical and mental well-being.
A person's temperament can also impact their ability to form and maintain relationships, with some individuals being more prone to conflict and others being more empathetic.
Temperament can influence a person's emotional regulation, with some individuals being more able to manage their emotions in a healthy way and others struggling with emotional dysregulation.
Ultimately, understanding and acknowledging our temperament can help us take steps to improve our mental and physical health.
Temperament
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The Murray River Curly Coated Retriever is a loyal and docile dog that is moderately easy to train.
They are eager-to-please, alert, and protective, making a very good guard and watchdog.
This dog is happiest when it has a purpose, otherwise it finds the pent-up energy.
They can be wary of strangers without adequate socialization.
Early socialization will change them into a very social pup that is even gentle with smaller pets and kids.
However, you would need to supervise these interactions carefully.
These dogs are frequently gentle with children of all ages, although some may prove to be too boisterous for very small children.
They prefer to be integrated into the family as possible and are prone to developing separation anxiety if kept isolated from their family for very long.
They are naturally inquisitive animals and are prone to snakebite, so intensive snake avoidance training should occur when they are young.
Extra precautions should be taken when walking or hunting in the summer.
Health
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When buying a Murray River Curly Coated Retriever, it's essential to do your research and find a reputable breeder.
Regular veterinary visits are necessary to ensure your dog's health, as they can detect potential issues early on.
Ear Infections and Entropion are two health issues that can affect your Murray River Curly Coated Retriever, so be sure to keep an eye out for any signs of infection or eye problems.
Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) are also potential health concerns, so it's crucial to have your dog's health clearances checked before bringing them home.
Here are some specific health issues to be aware of:
- Entropion
- Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
- Night blindness
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Cost and Comparison
The cost of a Murray River Curly Coated Retriever puppy can range from $1000 to $2000, which may seem high but is well worth it for these intelligent and agile dogs.
Researching a reputable and reliable breeder is essential to ensure you're getting a high-quality puppy, not one from a puppy mill that prioritizes quantity over quality.
Never buy from a puppy mill, as they can put your dog's health and well-being at risk.
Cost Estimation
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When buying a Murray River Curly Coated Retriever, the cost can vary, but it's essential to research reputable breeders to ensure you're getting a quality dog.
Puppies from these breeders can cost anywhere from $1000 to $2000.
Never buy from puppy mills as they prioritize quantity over quality.
Similarly Sized Breeds
If you're considering the Murray River Curly Coated Retriever, you might be curious about other breeds with similar sizes. The Tarsus Catalburun is a great match, with a 98% similarity in size.
These breeds are often overlooked, but they're definitely worth a look. The Braque Francais Pyrenean is another breed with a 97% similarity in size, making it a great option for those who want a similar build.
The Combai and Treeing Cur are also great matches, each with a 97% similarity in size. This means they'll likely have similar energy levels and exercise needs.
Worth a look: Blackmouth Cur Size
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Curly Coated Retriever and a murray river retriever?
The Murray River Retriever is a smaller dog with longer, looser curls compared to the Curly Coated Retriever. This distinct characteristic sets them apart from their English counterpart.
What is the personality of a Murray River retriever?
The Murray River retriever is a loving and loyal companion, known for being good with children. They're intelligent, energetic, and focused hunters, requiring close supervision to ensure a harmonious household.
How rare are curly coated retrievers?
Curly Coated Retrievers are a relatively rare breed, with an estimated 2,000 in the USA and 3,000 worldwide. This unique breed is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by dog enthusiasts.
How long do Murray River curly coated retrievers live?
Murray River curly coated retrievers typically live for 15-16 years, making them a relatively long-lived breed. With proper care, they can enjoy a healthy and happy life.
What is the lifespan of a Curly Coated Retriever?
A Curly Coated Retriever's average lifespan is 10 to 12 years. Plan ahead for a decade-long companionship with this loyal breed.
Sources
- https://nationalpurebreddogday.com/murray-river-curly-coated-retriever/
- https://www.dogproductpicker.com/murray-river-curly-coated-retriever-dog-breed-info/
- https://www.petrescue.com.au/listings/175100
- https://wagwalking.com/breed/murray-river-curly-coated-retriever
- https://janedogs.com/murray-river-retrievers/
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