Value FindsDaily

Top 9 Dog Breeds With Gorgeous Curly and Wavy Coats You’ll Love

9 breeds ranked · counting down to #1

By the Value Finds Daily Editorial Team · Last updated May 30, 2026

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If you’re drawn to dogs with beautiful curls or waves in their coats, you’re in for a treat. These medium and small-sized breeds showcase stunning textures that make them stand out in any crowd. From soft rings of curls to gentle waves, their coats not only look charming but often have a delightful bounce and feel. Whether you want a dog with a playful personality or a loyal companion, these breeds combine charisma with coat styles that are truly captivating. Let’s explore some of the most gorgeous curly and wavy-coated dogs you might just fall in love with.

How we ranked these: every breed below was chosen for real-world fit — temperament, energy level, grooming needs, and how well it suits everyday households. We count down from #9 to our #1 pick, so keep scrolling for the top spot.
At a glance: 9 breeds compared
#BreedSizeEnergySheddingTrainingBarkingLifespanKids
2Bichon Frisesmallmediumloweasymedium12–15 yrsYes
3Toy Poodletoyhighloweasymedium12–15 yrsYes
4Miniature Poodlesmallhighloweasymedium12–15 yrsYes
5Soft Coated Wheaten Terriermediummediummediummoderatemedium12–15 yrsYes
6Lagotto Romagnolomediummediumlowmoderatemedium14–16 yrsYes
7Cocker Spanielmediummediummediummoderatemedium10–14 yrsYes
8American Water Spanielmediummediummediummoderatemedium10–12 yrsYes
9Field Spanielmediummediummediummoderatemedium12–14 yrsYes
10Sussex Spanielmediumlowmediummoderatelow11–13 yrsYes
10

Sussex Spaniel

Sussex Spaniel

Best for: Lovers of gentle, laid-back dogs with unique coats

The Sussex Spaniel might not be the first breed that springs to mind when thinking about curly or wavy coats, but its thick, slightly wavy fur is truly unique. This medium-sized spaniel has a dense coat that helps it stand out with a rich golden liver color and a soft, feathered texture that gives it a charming old-fashioned appeal. Its waves are subtle but add a lovely dimension to its appearance, making it a lovely choice for those who appreciate a more understated wavy coat. Beyond looks, the Sussex Spaniel is known for its calm and friendly demeanor, making it a steady companion.

Did you know? The Sussex Spaniel has a distinctively low-slung, almost dachshund-like body shape that makes its waves even more noticeable.

9

Field Spaniel

Field Spaniel

Best for: Families looking for a devoted medium-sized dog with a wavy coat

The Field Spaniel boasts a silky, moderately wavy coat that’s both elegant and practical. Medium in size, this breed’s coat sits close to the body but has enough wave and feathering to catch the eye. Its rich liver or black coloring combined with the coat’s subtle waves gives it a sleek yet textured look. This breed is often a bit shy but very loyal, and its coat requires regular grooming to maintain those soft waves and keep it looking its best. It’s a lovely option for those who want a spaniel with a touch of curl and a sweet disposition.

Did you know? Field Spaniels were once considered a rare breed, making their coat an even more special sight.

8

American Water Spaniel

American Water Spaniel

Best for: Active families who love water and want a wavy-coated dog

True to its name, the American Water Spaniel has a curly to wavy coat that’s both weather-resistant and eye-catching. Medium-sized with a dense, water-repellent coat, this breed’s curls are tight but not overly so, offering a charming, soft texture that feels bouncy to the touch. Its coat color ranges from liver to chocolate brown, adding warmth to its curly charm. This breed was originally bred for hunting in water, so its coat is designed to dry quickly and protect against the elements, but today it’s also cherished as a lively, affectionate companion.

Did you know? The American Water Spaniel is the official state dog of Wisconsin, known for its curly coat and versatility.

7

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniel

Best for: Those who want a classic, elegant dog with soft waves

The Cocker Spaniel is famous for its beautiful coat that features soft waves and feathering that cascade around its ears, chest, and legs. This medium-sized breed’s coat is silky and smooth, with gentle waves that add a lovely texture without being overly curly. Its expressive eyes and lush coat make it an enchanting companion, and it comes in a variety of colors from solid black to rich blends. Keeping the coat looking its best means regular grooming to prevent tangles and maintain that soft wave that gives Cockers their signature charm.

Did you know? Cocker Spaniels were originally bred as hunting dogs, prized for their keen nose and graceful coat.

6

Lagotto Romagnolo

Lagotto Romagnolo

Best for: Families seeking a curly-coated, smart, and affectionate companion

If you’re captivated by dense, corkscrew curls, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a standout. This medium-sized Italian breed is known for its woolly, curly coat that’s both thick and springy. Originally bred to hunt truffles, its curls help protect it from rough terrain and harsh weather. The coat is low-shedding and feels soft, with tight curls all over the body that give it a teddy bear-like appearance. Beyond being strikingly beautiful, the Lagotto Romagnolo is intelligent and affectionate, making it a great fit for families who want a unique curly-coated dog.

Did you know? The Lagotto Romagnolo’s curls actually helped it sniff out truffles in the Italian countryside.

5

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Best for: Active families wanting a friendly dog with a soft, wavy coat

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier lives up to its name with a silky, wavy coat that’s soft to the touch and always catches attention. This medium-sized terrier’s coat ranges from pale beige to a warm wheaten color, with waves that flow naturally without tight curls. Its coat has a lively bounce and a somewhat fluffy quality, giving it a friendly, approachable look. Known for being cheerful and lively, Wheatens are a great fit for active families who want a dog with a distinctive, wavy coat that’s also low-shedding with regular grooming.

Did you know? Despite being a terrier, the Wheaten’s coat is softer and less wiry than many others in the group.

4

Miniature Poodle

Miniature Poodle

Best for: People looking for a smart, curly-coated companion in a smaller size

Miniature Poodles are known for their elegant, tight curls that cover their entire body, creating a plush, cloud-like appearance. Their coat is dense and springy, making them one of the most recognizable curly-coated breeds. These small dogs carry themselves with a graceful air, and their curls come in a variety of colors, from classic black to apricot and cream. The Miniature Poodle’s coat requires regular grooming to keep those curls defined and healthy, but it’s a rewarding effort for anyone who loves a dog with a stunning, distinctive look and an intelligent, lively personality.

Did you know? Miniature Poodles have been bred for centuries for their curly coats and versatility.

3

Toy Poodle

Toy Poodle

Best for: Those wanting a small, curly-coated dog with personality

The Toy Poodle offers all the charm of larger Poodles but in a petite package, with tight, luxurious curls that give it a plush, velvety feel. Their coat is dense and springy, often styled in various cuts that highlight those beautiful curls. Toy Poodles are known for their alert and friendly nature, and their elegant curly coat is a big part of their appeal. Though small, they carry a confident presence, and their coat colors range widely, offering plenty of visual variety. Regular grooming is key to keep their curls looking their best, making them a great fit for those who enjoy pampering their pets.

Did you know? Toy Poodles are among the most popular small curly-coated dogs in the US.

2

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise

Best for: People seeking a cheerful, small dog with soft, curly coat

The Bichon Frise is synonymous with soft, fluffy curls that give it a cloud-like silhouette. This small breed’s coat is dense with loose, bouncy curls that form an irresistibly soft texture. Their white or cream-colored coats often look like a fluffy powder puff, and they require regular grooming to maintain that signature look. Bichons are cheerful, affectionate, and sociable, matching their charming coat with an equally delightful personality. Their coat’s wavy curls and plush feel make them a standout in the curly-coated world, perfect for someone who values both appearance and character.

Did you know? The Bichon Frise’s name means “curly lap dog” in French.

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The bottom line

Any breed on this list is a solid place to start — the best choice comes down to your space, routine, and what you value most.

Frequently asked questions

Which dog breeds have naturally curly coats?
Breeds like Miniature Poodles, Toy Poodles, Lagotto Romagnolo, and Bichon Frise are known for their naturally curly coats that range from tight corkscrew curls to soft, fluffy ringlets.
Do curly and wavy coated dogs need special grooming?
Yes, dogs with curly or wavy coats generally require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Brushing a few times a week and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks help maintain their coat’s texture and health.
Are wavy coats easier to maintain than curly coats?
Wavy coats tend to be easier to manage because they are less prone to matting than tight curly coats. However, all dogs with textured coats still benefit from regular brushing and grooming to keep their fur looking its best.
Can small dogs have curly coats too?
Absolutely! Breeds like Toy Poodles and Bichon Frise are small dogs with beautiful, curly coats. Their size makes them great companions for people living in apartments or with limited space.

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