POODLE

APPEARANCE
The poodle comes in three varieties, which are Toy, Miniature, and Standard. The standard Poodle is medium to large in size, and has a graceful yet sturdy build. These dogs are known for their abundant, tight curls, with a coat that is profuse and harsh in texture. The coloring of the Poodle can vary and includes brown, red, silver, cream, black, white, and apricot. They have long, tapering muzzles, and a wise, thoughtful expression. The ears are long and hang to the side of the face. The height of the Standard Poodle is around 22-25 inches for females and around 24-27 inches for males. These dogs weigh in at 40-65 pounds for females, and around 55-80 pounds for males. Miniature Poodles are around 10-14 inches in height, and weigh in at around 15-20 pounds. The Toy Poodle is just 4-7 pounds in weight, and reaches around 5-10 inches in height.

PERSONALITY
Poodles are intelligent, alert, and active. Historically, their aptitude has made them ideal for performing in circuses across the globe for centuries. Otherwise notable is this breed’s keen sense for instinctual behavior. In particular, marking and hunting drives are more readily observable than in most other breeds. Even Toys will point birds. Classified as highly energetic, poodles can also get bored fairly easily and have been known to get creative about finding mischief.

TRAINING
Poodles are adaptable and easy to train. Like most dogs, they appreciate daily exercise, such as a walk or a play session. The Poodle is loyal and protective of his loved ones, and makes a relatively effective watchdog. While the standard variety may still be trained for hunting, the breed is generally preferred as a reliable companion and graceful show dog.

EXERCISE
Short walks and indoor play does the trick for the toy poodle, while the miniature and standard varieties do well with a routine opportunity to stretch its legs with a good workout. The standard Poodle may also appreciate the chance to apply its swimming skills.

SOCIALIZATION
He gets along well with children, but his size means that he is best suited to older children. These dogs are normally welcoming and polite with strangers, and tend to get along well with other pets. The steady temperament coupled with his sociability makes him ideal for active families who will welcome him as a member of the family. You should socialize your Poodle early on to promote a steady temperament, as some can be timid or nervous.

GROOMING
The Poodle requires extensive grooming. Professional clipping must be done every six to eight weeks. The coat may be groomed in three different styles: the Pet Clip, English Saddle, and Continental. Bathing should only be done when necessary using a mild shampoo. Daily brushing is highly recommended to prevent mats and tangles. It is important that the Poodles teeth and ears are checked and cleaned on a consistent basis. The good news is that the Poodle is ideal for allergy sufferers as he hardly sheds at all.

HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Poodle is around 10-13 years for Standard Poodles, 13-16 years for Miniature Poodles and up to 16 years for Toy Poodles. There are a number of health problems to look out for with this breed, and this includes Addison’s Disease, HD, PRA, bloat, SA, epilepsy, entropion, cataracts, renal disease, and allergies. The parents of the Poodle puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates, and you should also ask about clearance relating to vWD and SA (sebaceous adenitis).

HISTORY
The Poodle has a mixed history in terms of his origins, as he originated from Germany but was developed in France. He was once used to retrieve ducks from the water, which is reflected in his love for water. He was then used as a show dog in France, and went on to become a favorite with the wealth and the national dog of France. He was registered with the AKC in 1887.

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