Murray River Retriever
Dogs: 20-25 kg, Bitches: 17-22 kg
Dogs: 46-53 cm, Bitches: 43-50 cm
12-15 years
Australia
About the Murray River Retriever
The Murray River Retriever is Australia's only native retriever, a medium-sized gundog with a sturdy, athletic build. Developed in the river regions of the Murray and Darling, these dogs were prized by early settlers for their ability to retrieve waterfowl from cold, fast-flowing waters. They are distinguished by their solid liver-coloured coat, which consists of tight, water-repellent curls that protect them from the elements while working. Beyond their working prowess, the Murray River Retriever is an exceptional family companion. They are known for their 'sensible' temperament, showing high intelligence and a deep desire to be near their humans. While they possess the stamina for a full day of field work, they are equally capable of relaxing at home, provided their physical and mental needs have been met. This breed is a testament to Australian functional breeding, combining utility with a devoted personality.
An Australian riverlands retriever
The Murray River Retriever was developed along the Murray River region of Australia, bred as a practical gundog for retrieving game from the waterways and wetlands of the river system. Adaptable and hardworking, the breed served hunters and rural families along the Murray for generations, valued for its water ability, endurance and loyal temperament.
Recommended for: active rural or riverside properties, hunting families, and experienced owners who can provide water work and daily exercise.
Not ideal for: apartment living or owners unable to provide regular access to water and open space.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Murray River Retriever presents a functional, balanced silhouette. The breed standard emphasizes a 'sensible' expression with medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes. The movement should be free and effortless, showing good reach and drive, essential for a dog that must swim and navigate riverbanks. The most defining quality is the coat: a dense mass of small, tight curls covering the body from the back of the skull to the tip of the tail, contrasting with the smooth hair on the face.
In Australia
The Murray River Retriever is a breed native to Australia, developed during the mid-to-late 19th century. It is believed to have been developed in the Murray River region of Victoria, while it may have been developed in the Murray River region of New South Wales.
Bred For
Versatile gundog specifically designed for duck hunting and retrieving from the Murray River and its tributaries, often working from punts and boats.
Temperament
Intelligent, loyal, companionable, and highly sensible with a stable, even-tempered nature. They are courageous workers but gentle companions.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Grooming Needs
Moderate; the curly coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and debris removal after swimming. Occasional professional clipping may be required.
Living Suitability
Not suited for small apartments; requires a home with a secure yard and ideally access to water or large open spaces for exercise.
Good with Kids
Excellent; known for being gentle and patient with children of all ages.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs and can coexist with household pets if socialised early, though they have a natural prey drive for birds.
Trainability
Highly trainable; they are intelligent, eager to please, and respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement and consistent guidance.
Coat & Colours
Distinctive tight curls that are not woolly, providing a water-resistant barrier. The face is smooth.. Liver (ranging from a reddish-brown to a chocolate-brown).
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware of the Murray River Retriever's intense love for water; they are more likely to find every puddle or muddy creek on a walk, which means frequent drying and ear cleaning are necessary. Their floppy ears are predisposed to moisture-trapping and potential yeast infections—this doesn't mean every dog will have issues, but regular ear checks are essential. As a high-energy gundog, they can be more likely to develop separation anxiety or destructive chewing habits if left alone without mental stimulation for long periods. They are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so choosing a breeder who performs health screening is vital. Regarding diet, they can be predisposed to skin sensitivities on standard commercial kibble containing high fillers; many Murray River Retrievers thrive on a clean, fresh-food diet. Finally, their curly coat requires diligent attention to prevent matting, especially after swimming, though their shedding is relatively minimal compared to other retrievers.
Feeding Guide for Your Murray River Retriever
Healthy Weight
17-25 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
400-600 grams
For a Murray River Retriever, a fresh or raw diet should focus on high-quality proteins. Based on an average adult weight of 20kg, they typically require 400g to 600g of fresh food per day (2-3% of body weight). Active working dogs may require closer to 4% (up to 800g) during peak season.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, protein-rich diet, ideally fresh or raw, to support their active gundog metabolism and maintain coat health. They benefit from Omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat condition.
Recommended protein sources available from Majestik include Kangaroo (excellent for lean muscle maintenance), Beef, and Lamb. Including fatty fish or green-lipped mussels provides essential Omega-3s to support joint health and their unique curly coat. Seasonal vegetables like spinach or carrots can be added for fiber. Given their gundog heritage, ensuring adequate bone content is vital for dental hygiene.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Murray River Retriever Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Murray River Retriever? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-10 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.