Poodle

Poodle: BREED BOX Country: Germany Size: Stan 45-70lb, 15in - Miniature 26-30lb, 11-15in - Toy 14-16lb, 13-15in Temperament: Intelligent, loyal Grooming: Regular grooming Recognition: FCI, AKC, ANKC, KC(UK), NZKC

The Poodle is one of the most versatile of all dog breeds. This old breed probably originated in Germany, not France as many people assume. They have been used for hunting, herding, police work and they excel in obedience. The Poodle is one of the smartest breeds of dogs. They make excellent family dogs and pets.

Breed History

The Poodle comes from Germany where it was known as the Pudel. They were used for hunting and water retrieving. Pudel or pudelin means to splash in the water in German. However, the dog has been been the national dog of France for centuries.

The Standard Poodle, the largest of the three Poodle variety, is the oldest of the Poodles. They have been known in Europe since about the 15th century. The dogs had their coats clipped down to help them swim more easily in the water, but clumps of hair were left on their joints to provide a little warmth. This is the origin of the Poodle haircut today. Poodles were excellent swimmers and this trait has come down to the dogs today. Many smaller Poodles were also used for hunting truffles. The dogs used for truffle hunting were probably Miniature Poodles.

The smaller varieties of Poodle, the Miniature and the Toy, developed a short time later. The Toy variety became very popular in England in the 18th century. Toy Poodles were also the favorite pets of Louis XVI of France and Queen Anne in England. The Toy Poodles became famous all over Europe as trick dogs, able to learn any trick they were taught.

The American Kennel Club recognized the Poodle in 1887.

Appearance

In appearance the Poodle is usually easily recognized, even without their singular grooming clips. They have a curly coat, unless it is brushed out and styled. The coat is a single layer without an undercoat. The coat usually sheds less than most other breeds and for this reason Poodles have been cross-bred with many other breeds to try to produce dogs that shed less. They may come in many solid colors such as blue, gray, silver, brown, apricot, cream, black and white.

There are a number of different show clips for Poodles as well as pet clips. Dogs may also be kept corded with the curls grown long and encouraged to wrap around like dreadlocks.

The Toy, Miniature and Standard Poodles share the same breed standard and are only different in terms of size. The Toy Poodle is 10 inches or less at the shoulders. The Miniature is between 10 and 15 inches at the shoulder. And the Standard Poodle is over 15 inches at the shoulder.

Poodles of all sizes give an appearance of an active, intelligent, elegant dog. They are squarely-built and well-proportioned. They should move soundly and carry themselves proudly. When they are properly clipped in the traditional manner and well-groomed the Poodle should have an air of distinction and dignity.

In The Home

Poodles love people and they love to be the center of attention. They are usually very eager to please and people-oriented. Training a Poodle is usually very easy since they are so intelligent and enjoy pleasing their owners. However, since they are so intelligent it can be easy for a Poodle to get bored if they don’t have anything to do or enough to keep them busy or entertained. They can get themselves into trouble if you don’t provide them with ways to entertain themselves or pay enough attention to them.

Poodles are natural performers and they have been circus stars for centuries. They love to perform tricks and they excel at obedience training, rally, agility and other dog sports. They are very energetic dogs and they do require lots of regular exercise.

Poodles are considered to be very adaptable dogs so they can live in many different kinds of situations. Although most people think of Poodles as rather pampered dogs because of their hairstyles, the Poodle is actually a hardy dog who makes a wonderful companion. Their intelligence allows them to take on many different roles. They love to play and they’re very athletic. They’re also great with kids, especially the larger Standard Poodles.

Care

The Poodle does requires some extra grooming because of his coat. However most pet owners do not keep their Poodle in a show clip. A visit to a pet groomer every couple of months will take care of your dog’s needs or you can learn to use clippers at home. On the positive side, Poodles shed very little. If you have allergies or someone in your family has allergies, Poodles are a good choice. You will need to clean your dog’s ears regularly to prevent ear infections and trim his nails regularly.

Like all dogs, the Poodle is subject to some possible health problems. These problems can occur in the breed but they certainly won’t happen to all Poodles. The Poodle Health Registry reports that Addison’s disease, bloat, thyroid issues, tracheal collapse, epilepsy, sebaceous adenitis, juvenile renal disease, hip dysplasia, and cancer may occur in Poodles.

Poodles usually live to be around 12 years old although some Poodles may live much longer. Poodles have been reported to live up to 20 years.

Where to Find a Poodle

Poodles are usually not hard to find. All varieties of Poodles are very popular and, combined, they are one of the most popular breeds registered by the American Kennel Club. The AKC parent club for Poodles in the United States is the Poodle Club of America. They can direct you to breeders and provide more information about Poodles. They also have a rescue foundation for Poodles if you are looking for a rescued dog.

There are many other rescue groups for Poodle so you may wish to contact one of them to see if they have Poodles available.

You can also contact your local animal shelter to see if they have any Poodles. They may have Poodles or Poodle crosses. Check with them and let them know you’re interested.

• Ideal Owners: The owner should be a competent trainer, as poodles can be willful if trained poorly. They excel as a companion dog. The Toy Poodles are prefect for anyone living in apartments or small houses.
• Coat Color: The coat is an even and solid color at the skin. In blues, grays, silvers, browns, cafe-au-laits, apricots and creams the coat may show varying shades of the same color.
• Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
• Other Names: Caniche, Pudel

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Poodle Reviews

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