13 Curly-Coated Dog Breeds That Look Like Walking Clouds

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There’s something magical about a dog wrapped in curls. It’s as if they were sculpted from clouds, each puff of fur capturing the softness and wonder we feel when watching a sky full of cumulus. These breeds don’t just have style their coats often reflect their personalities: buoyant, cuddly, and full of heart. Whether you’re looking for a hypoallergenic companion or just love that plush, cloud-like aesthetic, these dogs are guaranteed to catch your eye.

Poodle

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Poodles are the royalty of curly coats. Whether in standard, miniature, or toy size, their dense, springy curls are both iconic and functional, often used in water retrieving. Their coats can be shaped into elegant patterns, but even left natural, they maintain that charming fluffiness. Beyond beauty, Poodles are also one of the smartest and most trainable breeds around.

Bichon Frise

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The Bichon Frise looks like it rolled straight out of a dryer full of cotton balls. With their rounded faces and powder-puff bodies, their soft, tightly curled coat is one of their most distinctive features. This breed is known for being cheerful and affectionate, often described as having a natural clownish charm. Their white fur does require regular grooming to stay pristine.

Portuguese Water Dog

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Originally bred to help fishermen, the Portuguese Water Dog has a waterproof coat of tight curls. These dogs are energetic, adventurous, and loyal—and their fur reflects that rugged spirit. Their curls are both practical and adorable, and they rarely shed. With the right grooming, they can look like a seafaring stuffed animal.

Lagotto Romagnolo

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Italy’s truffle-hunting treasure, the Lagotto Romagnolo, wears a curly coat that’s both dense and woolly. Their fur is not only cute but also protective against the elements, perfect for a working dog with a job to do. They are affectionate and eager to please, making them wonderful companions. With curls like corkscrews, they always look ready for a cozy nap.

Curly-Coated Retriever

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One of the oldest retriever breeds, the Curly-Coated Retriever sports a coat of small, crisp curls that are water-resistant and durable. They’re athletic and independent, with a dignified yet playful personality. While less fluffy than some others on this list, their curls are elegant and tightly wound. It’s a working coat with a whimsical twist.

Bedlington Terrier

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With a silhouette resembling a lamb, the Bedlington Terrier’s coat is a mix of hard and soft hair that creates a unique, linty texture. Their arched back and tasseled ears only add to the cloud-like illusion. Despite their delicate appearance, they are spirited and tough little dogs. Their coat gives them a vintage charm, like a page from an old storybook.

Pumi

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The Hungarian Pumi is an energetic herding dog with a bouncy coat of corkscrew curls. Their fur is a mix of soft and harsh textures, creating a coat that springs back with personality. They’re clever, expressive, and love to work—but also love to cuddle. That curly coat needs regular maintenance, but it’s well worth the effort.

Barbet

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The Barbet is a French water dog with a joyful heart and a coat full of loose, woolly curls. Their name comes from the French word “barbe,” meaning beard, and their scruffy faces give them a perpetually cheerful expression. They are gentle, loyal, and love outdoor adventures. Their coats are as versatile as their personalities.

Irish Water Spaniel

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Known for their rat-like tails and clownish personality, Irish Water Spaniels wear tight curls all over their bodies except for their faces and tails. Their coat is thick, water-repellent, and built for swimming. They are intelligent and often have a mischievous streak. Their blend of goofy energy and curly elegance is hard to resist.

Spanish Water Dog

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This multi-talented breed has a rustic, curly coat that forms natural cords if left to grow. The Spanish Water Dog is hardworking, whether herding, guarding, or retrieving. Their curls are denser and more textured than most, making them look like wooly wonders. Beneath that working-dog toughness is a loyal and affectionate heart.

American Water Spaniel

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A compact, curly-coated retriever, the American Water Spaniel is a hidden gem among sporting breeds. Their coat is marcelled or tightly waved, offering water resistance and a velvety texture. These dogs are enthusiastic, trainable, and love to be close to their people. They might not be flashy, but their curls carry a quiet charm.

Komondor

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The Komondor is famous for its unique corded coat, which looks like a walking mop or a pile of noodles—in the best way. While not traditionally curly in the fluffy sense, their cords start as soft curls that mat naturally. These guardians are deeply loyal and protective. Their cloud-like coats were built for both camouflage and comfort.

Kerry Blue Terrier

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Born with a black coat that fades to blue-gray, the Kerry Blue Terrier has a soft, wavy, and curly coat that sets it apart. This breed is spunky, confident, and packed with personality. Their fur is more silky than woolly but still forms distinctive curls. They have an old-school elegance that never goes out of style.

Puffy Coats and Big Hearts

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Curly-coated dogs aren’t just a feast for the eyes. Their unique fur often hints at a deeper story of resilience, purpose, and love. Whether bounding through the water, herding sheep, or warming a lap, these dogs bring a texture to life that goes far beyond their curls. So if you ever meet one, don’t just admire the fluff—get to know the soul inside the cloud.