Dog Breeds - Poodle (Standard)

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a specific breed is inclined to demonstrate towards its family members and familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds might be distant and unattached to anyone other than their owner, whereas other breeds have a tendency to treat everyone they know as their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The extent to which a breed can tolerate and be patient with the behavior of children, as well as their overall friendliness towards families is an important consideration. It is essential to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children with limited exposure to dogs, regardless of the breed.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The inherent friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is a significant factor to consider. While it's crucial to supervise all dog interactions and introductions, some breeds tend to have a natural inclination to get along with other dogs, whether it be at home or in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur or hair a breed is prone to leave behind is an important aspect to consider. Breeds that exhibit high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing have a higher likelihood of triggering specific allergies and may necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain cleanliness.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming requirements of a breed, which include bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance should be taken into account. It is essential to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for such grooming responsibilities. Additionally, it's important to note that all breeds require regular nail trimming as part of their grooming routine.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool is a factor worth considering. If you have a preference for cleanliness and are meticulous about your appearance, breeds that leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create significant wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Curly
COAT LENGTH +
Long

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming behavior a breed exhibits towards strangers is an important aspect to take into account. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, some breeds are generally happy and open to meeting new people whenever they encounter them.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play, even beyond the puppyhood stage is worth considering. Certain breeds will continue to enjoy activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. In contrast, other breeds may be content with simply relaxing on the couch with you for the majority of the time.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The tendency of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers is another important characteristic to consider. Some breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, such as the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are also likely to warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to change is a crucial aspect to consider. This encompasses various factors such as adjustments to different living conditions, tolerance of noise levels, adaptability to different weather conditions, coping with changes in the daily schedule and overall resilience to variations in day-to-day life. It's important to assess a breed's ability to handle these changes when considering which breed may be the best fit for your lifestyle.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are important factors to consider. Certain breeds have a strong desire to please their owners and are generally more trainable. They take pride in making their owners proud. On the other hand, some breeds may have a more independent nature and may be more inclined to do things on their own terms, whenever they please and wherever they choose.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The level of exercise and mental stimulation required by a breed is an important consideration. High-energy breeds are always ready for the next adventure and eagerly engage in activities such as running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more akin to couch potatoes content with lounging around and enjoying peaceful snoozes.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization, whether through barks or howls is a characteristic to consider when choosing a breed. Some breeds tend to bark at every little thing like passers-by or birds in the window, while others only bark in specific situations. It's worth noting that even barkless breeds may still be vocal using other sounds to express themselves.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation required by a breed to maintain their happiness and overall well-being should be considered. Purpose-bred dogs, with jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities, require regular mental exercise. Without adequate mental stimulation, they may engage in activities to keep their minds busy, which might not align with the projects you'd prefer. Providing the necessary mental challenges can help prevent undesirable behaviors arising from boredom or under-stimulation.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a specific breed is inclined to demonstrate towards its family members and familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds might be distant and unattached to anyone other than their owner, whereas other breeds have a tendency to treat everyone they know as their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The extent to which a breed can tolerate and be patient with the behavior of children, as well as their overall friendliness towards families is an important consideration. It is essential to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children with limited exposure to dogs, regardless of the breed.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The inherent friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is a significant factor to consider. While it's crucial to supervise all dog interactions and introductions, some breeds tend to have a natural inclination to get along with other dogs, whether it be at home or in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur or hair a breed is prone to leave behind is an important aspect to consider. Breeds that exhibit high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing have a higher likelihood of triggering specific allergies and may necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain cleanliness.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming requirements of a breed, which include bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance should be taken into account. It is essential to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for such grooming responsibilities. Additionally, it's important to note that all breeds require regular nail trimming as part of their grooming routine.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool is a factor worth considering. If you have a preference for cleanliness and are meticulous about your appearance, breeds that leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create significant wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Curly

COAT SPECTRUM

Long

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of welcoming behavior a breed exhibits towards strangers is an important aspect to take into account. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, some breeds are generally happy and open to meeting new people whenever they encounter them.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play, even beyond the puppyhood stage is worth considering. Certain breeds will continue to enjoy activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. In contrast, other breeds may be content with simply relaxing on the couch with you for the majority of the time.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The tendency of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers is another important characteristic to consider. Some breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, such as the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are also likely to warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to change is a crucial aspect to consider. This encompasses various factors such as adjustments to different living conditions, tolerance of noise levels, adaptability to different weather conditions, coping with changes in the daily schedule and overall resilience to variations in day-to-day life. It's important to assess a breed's ability to handle these changes when considering which breed may be the best fit for your lifestyle.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are important factors to consider. Certain breeds have a strong desire to please their owners and are generally more trainable. They take pride in making their owners proud. On the other hand, some breeds may have a more independent nature and may be more inclined to do things on their own terms, whenever they please and wherever they choose.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The level of exercise and mental stimulation required by a breed is an important consideration. High-energy breeds are always ready for the next adventure and eagerly engage in activities such as running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more akin to couch potatoes content with lounging around and enjoying peaceful snoozes.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Likes To Be Vocal

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The amount of mental stimulation required by a breed to maintain their happiness and overall well-being should be considered. Purpose-bred dogs, with jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities, require regular mental exercise. Without adequate mental stimulation, they may engage in activities to keep their minds busy, which might not align with the projects you'd prefer. Providing the necessary mental challenges can help prevent undesirable behaviors arising from boredom or under-stimulation.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Apricot	002
Black	007
Blue	037
Brown	061
Cream	076
Red	140
Silver	176
Silver Beige	183
White	199
Cafe Au Lait	069
Gray	100
Black & Cream	010
Black & Gray	012
Black & Silver	016
Black & White	019
Blue & White	045
Brown & Apricot	247
Brown & White	063
Black & Apricot	246
Cream & White	077
Black & Brown	009
Gray & White	105
Red & Apricot	157
Red & White	146
White & Apricot	200
White & Silver	216
Black & Tan	018

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Mask	004
Black Points	019
White Markings	014
White Mask	015

About The Breed

Poodles, regardless of their size (Standard, Miniature, or Toy) and whether they are black, white, or apricot in color are recognized as elegant and aristocratic dogs. Beyond their curly, low-allergen coats Poodles possess athleticism and make excellent companions for various purposes and throughout every season.

The three size varieties of Poodles have similar body build and proportions. Standards should measure over 15 inches at the shoulder, Miniatures are 15 inches or less and Toys stand no more than 10 inches. In dog shows, Poodles are commonly presented in the elaborate Continental clip, but most pet owners prefer the simpler Sporting clip. This clip involves trimming the coat to follow the outline of the Poodle's well-built and smoothly muscled body.

Contrary to common misconceptions, Poodles are eager, athletic and highly intelligent canines with remarkable versatility. They excel in various training endeavors and while the Standard Poodle exhibits greater size and strength, all Poodles can be trained with great success.

What to Expect When Caring for A POODLE (STANDARD)

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs as sentient beings require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Poodle (Standard): Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	The diligent efforts of responsible breeders have contributed to a long, delightful and thriving life for the majority of Poodles. These breeders consistently undergo testing procedures on all their breeding stock. Nevertheless, it is important to note that certain health problems, such as hip dysplasia and various eye disorders can still affect Poodles, as is the case with any other dog breed. Additionally, one may occasionally come across idiopathic epilepsy, sebaceous adenitis, von Willebrands disease and immune-mediated disorders in Poodles. Compared to Standard Poodles, Toy and Miniature Poodles are more prone to experiencing two orthopedic issues called Legg-Calve-Perthes and luxating patellas. Conversely, Standard Poodles face a higher risk of developing gastric dilatation with volvulus (bloat) and sebaceous adenitis. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: Patella Evaluation Hip Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Rod-Cone Dysplasia 4 (PRA-rcd4) - DNA Test Progressive Retinal Atrophy, PRCD (PRA-prcd, PRCD) - DNA Test Von Willebrand Disease I (VWDI) - DNA Test

Grooming

	To ensure your Poodle's coat remains free from tangles and mats, it's important to brush them daily unless you prefer a short trim. Neglecting to brush and comb a Poodle with a full coat all the way down to the skin can lead to matting close to the roots, necessitating complete shaving and regrowth. Many pet owners prefer to keep their Poodles in a shorter trim to avoid this issue. While some owners opt to learn the techniques of clipping and trimming themselves, others choose to visit a professional dog groomer every four to six weeks. These grooming sessions typically include a bath, grooming, and nail trim. With its coat being relatively non-shedding, the Poodle breed is often recommended for individuals with allergies.

Exercise

	Poodles, regardless of their size, are highly energetic dogs and thus need regular exercise to fulfill their activity needs. They possess a strong desire to engage in various types of physical activity always excited to be occupied. Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for Poodles, as they generally have a natural inclination towards water and thoroughly enjoy it. Originally bred as hunting companions, they have a natural instinct for retrieving objects making activities like playing fetch with toys, sticks or balls beneficial for stimulating both their physical and mental abilities. Additionally, Poodles greatly benefit from going on jogs or long walks alongside their human companions, as these activities contribute to their overall well-being.

Training

	Poodles possess remarkable intelligence and are highly trainable. They exhibit both agility and grace, complemented by their high level of intellect. Poodles enthusiastically participate in various canine sports, such as agility, obedience and tracking, showcasing their abilities and excelling in these activities. With their exceptional skills in retrieving objects from water, they also engage in competitive events like dock diving and retriever hunt tests. Poodles are known to be people-oriented, prioritizing human companionship. They are eager to please their owners particularly when training methods are enjoyable and based on positive reinforcement. It is important to maintain consistency in your commands and expectations during training sessions.

Nutrition

	No matter which size of Poodle has captured your affection, it is essential to provide them with the highest quality dog food available. To determine the most suitable food for your Poodle, whether from your veterinarian or breeder, consider factors such as their age, activity level, and size. Some Poodles have a tendency to gain weight easily, so it is crucial to monitor their calorie intake and maintain a healthy weight. While treats can serve as valuable tools for training, it is vital to exercise moderation when giving them to your dog as excessive treats can lead to obesity. Remember to never feed your Poodle cooked bones or fatty table scraps, as these can be harmful. Educate yourself about which human foods are safe for dogs and which should be avoided. If you have any concerns regarding your dog's weight or diet, consult your veterinarian for guidance.

Historiography

The Poodle holds the distinguished title of being the national dog of France and it is undeniable that the French have a special affinity for these beloved canines. However, it is important to note that there is no breed officially referred to as the "French Poodle." In France, Poodles are recognized as the Caniche, which translates to "duck dog" in English.

Despite its strong association with France, the Poodle breed actually originated as a skilled duck hunting dog in Germany. The German word "pudelin" aptly describes the breed's inclination for splashing in water. The development of the Standard Poodle as a proficient water retriever began over four centuries ago. Sporting a distinctive curly coat that provides protection against the elements displaying exceptional swimming abilities and possessing remarkable intelligence, the Poodle has always been an impressive hunting companion. Interestingly, both the Standard and Miniature varieties of Poodles are classified as non-sporting dogs and are eligible to participate in AKC Retriever and Spaniel Hunting Tests.

The flamboyant show coat of the Poodle served a practical purpose during its early years. Hunters desired their dogs to have unrestricted movement in the water while safeguarding vital areas from the cold. As a result, they would shave the legs, neck and tail, while leaving the chest, hips and leg joints coated. The distinctive rounded tufts on the legs, hips and tail tip are properly known as pompons, differing in spelling from the pom-poms used by cheerleaders.

The Poodle's exceptional qualities allowed it to transition from the lakeside into a life of luxury. The elegant Standard and Miniature Poodles captured the favor of nobility throughout France and eventually gained popularity across Europe. Not only did these dogs possess striking appearances and impressive trainability, but they also proved to be natural entertainers making Poodles a longstanding fixture in European circus traditions. Additionally, their superb sense of smell led to employment as truffle hunters.

Over time, breeders selectively downsized the Standard Poodle to create the Miniature variety. Furthermore, the Toy Poodle originated in America during the early 20th century and was bred primarily as a companion for city dwellers. It is essential to note that well-bred individuals of all three Poodle varieties are exact replicas of each other and conform to the same breed standard.