Poodles are one of the most intelligent breeds of dog.
They work retrieving water fowl when their owers hunt, they are also great additions to most dog shows.
Poodles were bred as working retriever dogs, but are listed as “nonsporting” dogs. They helped duck hunters so they’re fast as well as good swimmers.
They don’t shed much and are typically hypoallergenic.
Poodles come from Germany, they are associated with France, but first were bred in Germany.
There are three sizes- toy, miniature, standard
Appearance:
Poodles have wiry and curly hair that doesn’t shed much
They can have many styles, the most well known is the french cut which was actually started to help with the swimming they needed to do when they were retrieving ducks and other water game. The pattern that their fur is usually cut into is to help keep important organs warm/safe while swimming in cold water.
Average size
Toy: Under 10 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 6-under 10lbs
Miniature: Over 10 inches to under 15 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 10-15lbs on average
Standard: Over 15 inches at the shoulder
Weight: Over 15, most are over 20lbs and under 30
Lifespan
Usually between 10 and 18 years
Behavior and Personality
- Poodles are one of the most intelligent and easy to train dogs. They don’t take a ton of work to get them trained for the basics and work well as show dogs.
- They are energetic, loyal and cuddly
- They need daily physical activity and they need stimulation regularly.
- They are high need.
- They bark a lot.
- A lot of the time they can adapt to playing with new dogs and will happily run all over the yard with the neighbor dogs.
Maintenance
- Daily brushing
- Dematting
- Regular visits to the groomer or grooming at home, if you choose to learn
These dogs are high maintenance, if you don’t take daily care of their fur, they will get matted.
Poodles are great show dogs, but also great for kids growing up. This is the first of a series talking about different breeds, and poodles have always held a special place to me. All these photos are my baby growing up. Have you had a poodle that really made a difference in your life?
Up next will be the golden retriever.