The hair is only of sufficient length to present a smooth outline. This is the only area where elastic bands may be used. The coat is an even and solid color at the skin. This is frequently present in the somewhat darker feathering of the ears and in the tipping of the ruff. While clear colors are definitely preferred, such natural variation in the shading of the coat is not to be considered a fault.
Poodles have liver-colored noses, eye rims and lips, dark toenails and dark amber eyes.
Black, blue, gray, silver, cream and white Poodles have black noses, eye rims and lips, black or self-colored toenails and vary dark eyes. In the apricots, while the foregoing coloring is preferred, liver-colored noses, eye rims and lips, and amber eyes are permitted, but are not desirable. Parti-colored dogs shall be disqualified. The coat of a parti-colored dog is not an even solid color at the skin, but is of two or more colors. A straightforward trot with light springy action and strong hindquarters drive.