Preserving and Promoting the Murray River Curly Coated Retriever
Little changed in over 100 years. (circa 1893)
The Murray River Curly Coated Retriever (MRCCR) is known by various names including Murray River Curlies, Murrays, Curlies, Murray Curly Retriever, in SA they were in the past known as Murray River Duck Dogs and numerous other names. They are often mistaken for English Curly Coated Retrievers, or Labradoodles. They have features that align them more with the Spaniel breeds such as the Irish Water Spaniel (IWS) than the Retriever breeds. They have a striking resemblance to the American Water Spaniel (AWS) not only in looks, size and temperament, but also their original role.
It is widely held that the MRCCR was developed in the mid to later 1800s in the Murray River region of South Eastern Australia. It's most well known role was for duck hunting however early evidence suggests that they may have been companion dogs as well. They are loyal to their master's family and house however some dogs can be quite aloof with strangers.
The decline in duck hunting has seen these lovable dogs make a seamless transition from working dogs to family pet. They are still used for duck hunting as well as other types of hunting. The MRCCR is well suited to families.
The dogs have changed little over time. They have spread to all parts of Australia, however they can be difficult to find.
This website is the Association's vehicle to meet our Mission which is:
- To Preserve and Promote the Murray River Curly Coated Retriever.
The Murray River Curly Coated Retriever Association grew from a lone voice in the wilderness. Ms Karen Bell started a Yahoo Group dedicated to the Murray River Curly Coated Retriever on the 22 July 2006. By 2010 there were 181 members on the site and an estimated 400 dogs. At that time the dogs did not have ANKC recognition nor did they have a breed club or association. In late 2009 and early 2010 the discussions became more serious and a meeting was held on 13 June 2010, on a cold day in Seymour Victoria to found the Murray River Curly Coated Retriever Association. The meeting selected an initial committee and agreed upon the rules of the organisation.
The basic principles of the Association are as follows:
- is not for profit,
- would embrace an open register,
- would allow occasional outcrosses as required to maintain a strong gene pool,
- would establish a multi part register,
- is not interested in the show ring,
- would strive for recognition by the relevant statutory authorities,
- would establish a Murray Rescue Service to re-home MRCCR's who found themselves homeless.
Bella and Maple
Disclaimer: This official website of the Murray River Curly Coated Retriever Association is intended for sharing of official information. Information on the Forum is from the experience of individial Members & not meant to replace or contradict any advice from your Veterinarian or other professional body. We encourage you to make your own decisions based upon your own research & in conjunction with professional advice.
Acknowledgements: Many thanks to Andrea, Kim & the team at Rice Graphic Images for the design of our fabulous new Logo & their invaluable ongoing help & support. The Association highly recommends RGI, please support them www.rgi.com.au