Poodle

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Description

When groomed to show dog standards the body is meant to give off a square appearance. It has approximately the same length as the height at the withers. The skull is moderately rounded with a slight but definite stop. It has a long, straight muzzle. The dark, oval shaped eyes are set somewhat far apart and are black or brown. The ears hang close to the head and are long and flat. Both the front and back legs are in proportion with the size of the dog. The topline is level. The tail is set and carried high. It is sometimes docked to half it's length or less to make the dog look more balanced. Dewclaws may be removed. The oval shaped feet are rather small and the toes arearched. The coat is either curly or corded. It comes in all solid colors including black, blue, silver, gray, cream, apricot, red, white, brown, or cafe-au-lait. While it does not make the written show standard, some breeders are breeding parti-colored poodles.See grooming for different types of poodle clips.

Overview

This ancient breed appears in three varieties: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. The Standard is the oldest. The Poodle was originally developed to be a water dog that retrieved game fowl. Favored by royalty as well as gypsies, this versatile breed was able to master many tasks and trades and maintain a reputation as a fine companion.

Temperament

One of the most popular breeds in the world, the Poodle is loyal and deeply devoted to their owner and family. They thrive on human companionship and are extremely sensitive to their familys moods and emotions. The Poodle may become overly attached to one particular family member and suffer from separation anxiety. The Standard and Miniature varieties are typically more amiable than the Toy variety, which has a tendency to be neurotic. The Standard does well in a home with children and other household pets. The Miniature and Toy varieties are best suited for homes with older, considerate children. The Poodle is reserved with strangers and makes a good watchdog. This breed has a tendency to bark excessively.

Activity

 

The Poodle enjoys swimming, family play sessions, and securely leashed walks. They greatly benefit from regular opportunities to romp and run off lead in a safe area. Poodles will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are sufficiently exercised and stimulated to help curtail their tendency to excessively bark, and to keep them physically fit.

Height, Weight

Height:  11-15 inches (28-38 cm.)
Weight:  15-17 pounds (7-8 kg.)

The sizes of the official AKC recognized Poodle breeds are determined by height, not by the weight. The Miniature Poodle must be over 10 inches and 15 inches or less at the highest point of the shoulder. Any Poodle which is over 15 inches or is less than 10 inches at the highest point of the shoulders cannot compete in the AKC show ring as a Miniature Poodle.