Poodle

Size: Toy/Miniature: Small
Standard: Large
Other Names: Pudle (Old English), Caniche
Country of Origin: France and Germany
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Non-Sporting
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Non-Sporting
United Kennel Club (UKC): Companion Dog
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Non-Sorting
The Kennel Club (KC): Utility
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Utility
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Non-Sporting

Height:

Standard: 15 to 26 inches; Miniature: 11 to under 15 inches; Toy: under 11 inches

Weight:

Standard: 48-65 pounds; Miniature: 12-18 pounds; Toy: 4-8 pounds

Color(s):

Any solid color or accepted pattern, depending on variety (white, black, brown, gray, apricot, cream, and others)

Coat:

Single; harsh, dense, curly

Description:

The Poodle is regarded as one of the most intelligent breeds of dog.  Originally bred as a type of water dog, the Poodle is skillful in many dog sports, including agility, obedience, tracking, and even herding.  Poodles are retrievers or gun dogs, and can still be seen in this role.  The well-known "Poodle clip" was designed by hunters to help the dog move through the water more efficiently.  The Poodle’s appearance, as well as his aptitude, made him popular as a circus dog, and pet for the wealthy.

Temperament:

Poodles are intelligent, alert, and active people-oriented dogs who are generally eager to please, and have a sense of humor.  The Poodle is highly social, and requires human companionship, and regular, close interaction with his family members.  Poodles are extremely affectionate with children.  The Poodle also has a keen sense for instinctual behavior; his marking and hunting drives are more readily observable than in most other breeds, with even Toys pointing birds.

Training:

Poodles are adaptable and easy to train.  He is one of the easiest dogs to housebreak.

Care & Grooming:

A Poodle is highly energetic, and fairly athletic, and requires adequate physical and mental stimulation daily to remain healthy and well-balanced.  Play time is vital, making sure he gets plenty of rest following long play periods, and making sure fresh water is available at all times.  His coat requires regular, professional grooming.  There are several different types of coat cuts for Poodles.  Most owners keep the feet and face clipped short to prevent dirt from matting between toes and food from matting around the dog's muzzle.  Beyond these sanitary requirements, desired clips depend on the owners' preference.  Some owners maintain a longer clip in winter than summer, which they groom often with a wire slicker brush to remove tangles and prevent matting.

Shedding:

Low; the curly coat holds loose hair and needs regular clipping.

Health:

Poodles may develop hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, sebaceous adenitis, and bloat in the Standard size.  Ask breeders about hip, eye, and skin testing for the variety you choose.

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Litter Size:

2–4 puppies (Toy/Miniature); 4–8 puppies (Standard)