Poodle (Standard, Miniature and Toy) Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Pictures Temperament The temperament of the Poodle often depends on its size.... The Standard size is normally calmer than the Miniature, which can sometimes be yappy or snippy if not trained and socialized properly. All sizes of Poodle are extremely intelligent, sensitive, good-natured and easy to train. They love having a job to do and are loyal and protective. Poodles are fantastic with children as long as they are raised with them from a young age. These dogs love the water and are fairly active, but don't require an excessive amount of exercise. A nice daily stroll is often plenty to keep your Poodle happy and healthy. Caring For a Poodle (Standard, Miniature and Toy) A moderate amount of mental and physical exercise, as well as a good deal of human interaction, will keep your Poodle happy and healthy.... Poodles require a great deal of grooming. They will need a professional clipping every few months and regular at-home grooming sessions. This means a good brushing or combing to prevent tangles and mats.

Poodles do not shed, which makes them fantastic pets for people with allergies or anyone who is averse to dog hair on the furniture. You will need to make sure the ears are kept clean and free from dirt and mites. Nails should be trimmed regularly as well. For Standard Poodles, major health concerns include Addisons, gastric torsion and sebaceous adenitis; other problems include canine hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts, distichiasis and entropion. For Miniature and Toy Poodles, major health concerns include Legg-Perthes, PRA, epilepsy and patellar luxation; other health problems seen in this breed include entropion, glaucoma, lacrimal duct atresia, cataracts, distichiasis and trichiasis. Breed History While most people see the Poodle as nothing more than a fluffy lapdog, nothing could be further from the truth.... These dogs were bred to hunt and retrieve water fowl, specialties made evident by their coarse, wiry coat.

Even the dog's name is suggestive of this original purpose; the word Poodle comes from the German pudel, meaning "puddle" or "to splash." Though the Poodle is most often associated with France, the breed actually originated in Germany and Central Europe during the 16th century. The dog was traditionally employed as a hunter, retriever and herder. Eventually, the Poodle was also put to use as a guide dog, guard dog, military dog, draft animal and circus performer.But the Poodle found its greatest success as the pet of the French aristocracy. As it became thought of more and more as a lapdog and companion, the Poodle was bred down in size and would eventually come in three sizes. The original Standard Poodle would remain popular with outdoorsmen and the common man, but the Miniature and Toy varieties were the clear favorite of the European elite. So great was the Poodle's popularity that it was named the national dog of France - even Napoleon had one! The Poodle was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1887, and after a lull in popularity in the 1920s, the breed rebounded to become one of the most popular in America.

Poodles are still used today by French Customs to sniff for drugs and weapons. Ears: The Poodle should present a square and well proportioned appearance, regardless of size The coat is a moisture resistant, single layer of dense, curly fur. It can be soft and wavy or coarse and wooly. Colors can include apricot, black, blue, brindle, brown, cafe-au-lait, cream gray, red, sable silver, and white. Though usually a solid color the coat can include shades of its primary color. Poodle coats consisting of more than one color may be Abstract or Mismark Poodles, Parti Poodles, Phantom Poodles, Tuxedo Poodles, or have ticking. Please refer to the 'Colors" heading below for more information. Dark colored, usually black or brown, oval shaped and set wide apart Carried erect, sometimes docked Long, flat, and floppy and covered with wavy hair General Description: The Poodle is an elegant dog that gives an overall impression of being square, muscular and well proportioned.

The size and weight of the dog can vary from as little as 5 pounds to as much as 70 pounds dependent on the variety (Teacup, Toy, Miniature, Standard). But all four varieties have the same overall appearance proportioned to the size. The description of 'square' is related to the fact that these dogs tend to be equal in height and length. In other words, the length of the dog is approximately the same as its height. The skull of this breed is relatively long from the head to the snout. The ears are long and floppy and covered with wavy, sometimes coarse hair. And the nose, eye rims, lips and toenails are referred to as self-colored. This means that these features will be of a color that matches or compliments the coat color. The Poodle has a long. straight tail that is carried erect. But breeders and owners sometimes dock the tail to about half of its natural length to give a more balanced appearance to the dog. The feet of the Poodle tend to be proportionately small with toes that are visibly arched. Temperament and Personality: The Poodle is well known for its intelligence.

It is widely considered to be the second most intelligent breed of dog that exists, right behind the Border Collie. This is the singular trait that has resulted in the popularity of the Poodle as both a performance animal and a companion animal. Poodles are very popular circus performers. This is due, in large part, to their ability to learn quickly. But it is also a testament to their comedic personalities. These dogs enjoy learning, performing, and entertaining. The ease with which this breed can be trained has also added to their popularity as companion dogs. But intelligence can sometimes result in stubbornness. Make sure your Poodle knows you are the pack leader. Also beware, the more intelligent your pooch the more demanding they may be for mental stimulation. Do not allow your Poodle to become bored. Boredom will lead to frustration and this will lead to behavior issues. Exercise and stimulation will keep your Poodle happy and well behaved. Poodles are very affectionate with their family members and other people that they come to know. But they can be extremely allof with strangers. Exercise and Grooming: The Poodle enjoys outdoor activities and can be a high energy companion, but is not a hyper dog.

Of the four varieties, the Standard Poodle is the only one that was bred for hunting and retrieving. Although it has long since become a companion animal it has retained some of its hunting and retrieving instincts and therefore enjoys playtime that mimics these activities. The smaller varieties of Poodles are usually content with daily walks and, if lacking a backyard, indoor games with their people. All sizes of Poodles require mental stimulation to keep from becoming bored and frustrated. Poodles are considered high maintenance on the grooming charts. Although it is commonly believed that they do not shed this is a misconception. Poodles shed small amounts of hair. But it typically does not fall out as seen with other breeds. Instead the hair that is shed becomes tangled in the curly coat. For this reason the coat should be brushed to remove loose hairs every other day or so. If this is not done the coat can become entangled or matted. In addition to regular brushing, the hair on the feet and around the face should be clipped at least monthly. And dependent on the poodle cut or clip you choose to maintain for your dog, grooming may be required as often as monthly for some clips to quarterly for others.

Colors and Markings: Poodles are seen in quite a variety of colors including apricot, black, blue, brindle, brown, cafe-au-lait, cream gray, red, sable, silver, and white. Show dogs should be a single color. But shades of that color may be evident throughout the coat. Non show dogs are now intentionally being bred as: Abstract or Mismark Poodles Ticking Mismark or Abstract Poodle Abstract or Mismatch Poodles: Similar to but the reverse of the Parti Poodle (below). The Mismatch or Abstract Poodle's primary color is one of the acceptable Poodle colors other than white with light, even white, markings anywhere in the coat. These markings will typically appear on the chest, chin, neck, paws and tip of the tail. Parti Colored Poodle Parti Poodles: Refers to a broken pattern of coloring throughout the dogs coat, or areas that are colored differently than the rest of the coat. The dog is primarily white with a secondary color appearing anywhere in the coat. This has always been common in Poodles. At the beginning of the 20th Century part-colored Poodles were disqualified from most show competitions.

But this coloring is making a strong comeback and is again accepted by the UKC and AKC. phantom Poodle Phantom Poodle: Refers to Poodles that have a mixture of 2 colors in their coat. However these dogs differ from the Parti Poodle in that the color combinations are very specifically defined as: Black phantoms - black & apricot, black & red, black & cream, black & gray, black & brown or black & silver Chocolate phantoms - Brown & apricot Red phantoms - red & apricot Silver phantoms - silver & cream In addition to the predefined colors, the pups are born with these markings which must appear at certain points on the dog: Above the eyes Under the tail Tuxedo Poodle Tuxedo Poodle: Refers to the location of the markings on the dog. A True Tuxedo Poodle will give you the impression that he is, in fact, wearing a tuxedo due to the markings. This will consist of a white bib on the chest, a white belly, that will usually touch the bib and extends down the legs.

Ticking on Poodle Ticking: Ticking is a tem that means spotting and refers to small spots on the coat of the dog regardless of color. However this is most often seen in white or light colored poodles. The ticking can be present in conjunction with other markings such as on a Parti Poodle. Cuts and Clips: To view pictures of any of these clip styles please visit the Poodle Colors, Markings Cuts and Clips page. There are many acceptable haircuts for poodles. Some cuts are permitted when showing your dog in conformation trials while others are not. The acceptable cuts or clips are not standard across the various kennel clubs. So if you intend to show your dog you will need to determine the rules followed by any particular club. Beyond that clips are really a matter of practicality and preference. And in some cases the differences between one style and another are so minor that no one other than an expert would notice the difference. Bikini Clip or Miami Clip: The face, feet and the base of the tail are closely shaved. The body hair is left fluffy, not shaven, and scissored into shape. The length is not defined but is left to preference.

The legs are shaped into poms starting just above the feet. Continental Clip: The face, throat, part of the tail, the feet and the upper half of the front legs are shaved. Fluffy pompons are left around the ankles. The hindquarters are also shaved, again, leaving pompons on the lower leg between the hock and the base of the foot. Optional pompons, or rosettes, may be left covering the hips. Corded Coat: Corded Poodles, though allowed to be shown in major kennel club shows, have become increasingly rare. In a corded coat the hair forms rope-like cords or mats like those seen in human dreadlocks or the Komondor breed. It is very difficult to keep this type of coat clean and takes a long time to dry after being washed. English Saddle Clip: This clip is similar to the Continental clip but is no longer seen on many dogs. In this clip the hindquarters are not shaved except for a small area on each flank, just behind the body, on the feet and below the knee. This pattern of shaving forms three pompons on the legs. Kennel Clip or Utility Clip: The face, feet, and base of tail are shaved closely.

Body hair is short all over and just scissored into shape. Top knot and tail are left longer than the body hair. Lamb Clip: An 'easy care' cut where the coat is cut short an even over the entire body. This coat can be as long or as short as the owner desires. The hair under the tail should always be kept short for sanitary reasons. This cut is also referred to as the 'pet clip' and the 'puppy clip.' Lion Clip: The Poodle is closely shaven on the face, neck, feet, base of the tail and hindquarters. The back legs are shaved to the pom area and the front legs are shaved from the elbow to the pom area. The poms are left round and fluffy. Miami Clip: Is also known as the Bikini Clip. The face, feet and the base of the tail are closely shaved. The body hair is left fluffy, not shaven, and scissored into shape. The length is not defined but is left to preference. The legs are shaped into poms starting just above the feet. Modified Continental Clip: The primary difference between the Modified Continental Clip and the Continental Clip is the absence of hip rosettes in the modified form.

Mouton Clip: Face, feet, and base of tail are shaved closely. The body cut is classically cut with the body, legs, tail and topknot left long. Pet Clip: An 'easy care' cut where the coat is cut short and even over the entire body. This coat can be as long or as short as the owner desires. The hair under the tail should always be kept short for sanitary reasons. This cut is also referred to as the 'lamp clip' and the 'puppy clip.' Poodle Cut: This cut is the result of water activities. The coat is shorn close to facilitate swimming but left long and full on the chest to provide warmth and protect vital organs in cold water. There is some discrepancy regarding the reason for the balls of fur on the four feet, hips, and tail. Some report that this was to provide protection of the ankles, hips and tail while hunting while others claim the added fur balls provided some buoyancy. However more modern theory seems to imply that these puffs are merely decorative and stylish. Puppy Clip: An 'easy care' cut where the coat is cut short an even over the entire body. This coat can be as long or as short as the owner desires.

The hair under the tail should always be kept short for sanitary reasons. This cut is also referred to as the 'pet clip' and the 'pet clip.' Scandinavian Clip or Second Puppy Clip: The face, throat, underside or belly, feet and base of the tail are shaved up to seven days before the show. This allows for a small amount of growth to get a nice, smooth appearance of the shaved areas. The hair on the head is left to form a "topknot" which is fixed in place using latex bands. This is the most common cut for all sizes of show Poodles throughout Europe. It is also known as the 'Second Puppy Clip.' Summer Clip: This clip is the same as the Miami or Bikini clip. The intent is for the dog's coat to be maintained at a very short length during the warmest part of the year. Town and Country Clip: The face, neck, belly band, feet, and base of tail are shaved closely. Narrow lines are shaved closely between the withers along the spine into the belly band and also between the hips along the spine into the belly band. The remaining body hair is left fluffy and scissored into shape and the edges of the lines are curved.

The length of body hair depends varies in accordance with preference. Differences by Variety: Toy Poodle Best Suited For: Poodles are very adaptable to their surroundings. This breed, in all varieties, does fine in an apartment or condo setting as long as it is provided with adequate physical exercise and mental stimulation. These dogs, especially the Standard Poodle, enjoy physical activities such as swimming, agility courses, hunting, and all other outdoor activities. But make no mistake, they are house pets and cannot be left outdoors in hot or cold weather. Breed Origin: It is believed that this breed originated in Germany in the 1500's as indicated by the name Poodle which stems from the German words 'pudel' and 'pfudel' meaning 'to splash in water' or 'to splash in a puddle.' But it is likely that its ancestors were curly-coated herding and hunting dogs from Asia mixed with rough-coated water dogs such as the Barbet. This combination resulted in a coarse and curly-coated water loving, top notched hunting dog that came to be known as the Poodle. The Poodle was used as a water retriever and hunting dog throughout France, Germany and Great Britain well into the nineteenth century.

This breed quickly became known as a great perormance dog due to their superior intellect and was also very welcome in the home as a companion pet due to the ease with which they could be trained. The Poodle breed standard was developed in France. The Poodle first appeared in the United States during the late nineteenth century. But they did not gain popularity until after World War II. They are now regularly in the top 10 most registered dogs in the US and most of Europe. The Standard Poodle is assumed to be a predecessor to both the Miniature and Toy varieties. Although the Toy Poodle is believed to have a 'touch' of Maltese in its heritage. The Teacup Poodle is the result of breeding the smallest available Toy Poodles to make 'tiny' the dominant trait in this variety. General Health: All purebred dogs are more susceptible to certain health conditions while less susceptible to others. It does not mean that your dog will or will not suffer from certain conditions. One of the most common minor health issues associated with Poodles is ear infections. This can be a problem in all Poodle varieties because the non-shedding coat can grow into the ear canal where it can trap wax and dirt.

Ear problems can be minimized by proper care which includes regular cleaning and removal of hair within the ear canal. Other major health conditions that have been reported for Poodles include: Health information specific to each variety of the Poodle is provided on each variety's page. Little Known Facts and Misconceptions: National dog of France Entered the show ring in the late 1800's Originally shown with corded coat Lost favoritism in North America by 1920 but staged a comeback to become one of America's most popular breeds after World War II Poodles should be socialized with people and other animals at a very young age Poodles have long been referred to as 'hypoallergenic' dogs because of the low shed rate. This is, in fact somewhat of a misconception. All dogs, including Poodles, shed and release dander. Both the dander and the hair can aggravate allergies in people that are sensitive to either or both of these. However, it is a fact that even people with known allergies are less sensitive to many low shed dogs, such as poodles and long-haired terriers. But please do not assume that these dogs cannot trigger allergies in may people.

Poodles are one of the top 10 Best Breeds for people with allergies. Famous Poodles: Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show: Standard: Nunsoe Duc de la Terrace of Blakeen, 1935 Miniature: Pitter Patter of Piperscroft, 1943 Toy: Wilber White Swan, 1956 Standard: Puttencove Promise, 1958 Standard: Acadia Command Performance, 1973 Standard: Whisperwind On a Carousel, 1991 Miniature: Surrey Spice Girl, 2002 Best in show at Crufts: Standard: Topscore Contradiction, 2002 Poodles have long been known for their intelligence and ability to learn and perform tricks. They are naturals at performing in the entertainment business. Poodles Brac and Philax were able to play dominoes.

Weiss, also known as Professor Weiss, from Europe could count Standard Poodle Rhapsody in White ("Butch") was featured in the movie "Best in Show" Roly the Poodle was featured in the BBC's "EastEnders" for eight years Charley, the pet of Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck, was a black Poodle, although referred to as "blue" in the book, played Charley in the TV miniseries "Travels with Charley: In Search of America", based on Steinbeck's 1961 book of the same name. The "mentalist" Munito was able to read the minds of spectators while the dog's trainer, General Huchinson, handled a deck of cards Boye, the pet Poodle of Prince Rupert of the Rhine (1619–1682), was killed at the Battle of Marston Moor Atma and Butz were poodles owned by philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer Poodle Designer Breeds Poodle Breed Information Tendency toward a tolerance for cats and a lower prey drive. 4 stars Child Friendly Dogs that tend to be more sturdy, playful and easygoing around children and more tolerant of children's behavior.

5 stars Tendency to enjoy or tolerate other dogs. 4 stars Level of daily activity needed. 4 stars Amount of bathing, brushing, even professional grooming needed. 5 stars Level of health issues a breed tends to have. 3 stars A dog's thinking and problem-solving ability (not trainability). 5 stars How lighthearted and spirited a dog tends to be. 4 stars Amount and frequency of dog hair shedding. 1 star Preferred amount of interaction with other pets and humans. 5 stars Tendency to be welcoming to new people. 4 stars A dog's inclination to be protective of his home, yard or even car. 4 stars Level of ease in learning something new and a willingness to try new things. 5 stars A breed that is likely to alert you to the presence of strangers. 4 stars Overview Did You Know? These curly-coated canines are often thought of as France’s national dog, though the breed originated in Germany. No breed has a more highly developed sense of humor than the Poodle. Good thing, too, because no breed has been the butt of more jokes. Humor aside, all the sniping is unfortunate. Many a family overlooks the smart, funny Poodle, thinking him prissy.

Still, it is one of the more popular breeds in the world. Poodle lovers know the dogs for their intelligence, ease of training, low-shedding curly coat, and love of family. A Poodle’s coat is both a blessing and a curse. It is a blessing because the breed sheds less, so it may be more easily tolerated by some people with allergies. But the coat — or rather what some people do with it — is why many people cross the Poodle off their lists. The breed’s frou-frou reputation is based on show poodles, who are poofed, shaved, and hair-extensioned into an appearance that, though once based on practical considerations, is now just plain silly. Family pets can have a simple and easy-to-maintain look. And they don’t have to wear nail polish! Poodles require grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Some Poodle owners learn to use clippers and do the job themselves, but most rely on professionals. Either way, it’s essential to take care of the Poodle’s curly coat. Without regular clipping, it will become a matted mess that can cause painful skin infections at the roots.

The Poodle’s coat comes in many colors: apricot, black, blue, brown, café-au-lait, cream, gray, red, silver, silver beige, and white. Parti Poodles are two-tone. Phantom poodles have tan areas that are similar to the points on a Doberman Pinscher . The group Versatility in Poodles was founded to take the focus away from the breed’s appearance and put it squarely on what’s under those curls. Today, Poodles with the right stuff can compete for American Kennel Club working certificates and are eligible to compete in hunt tests alongside Labradors, Goldens, and other Retrievers. Most people won’t be competing with their Poodles, of course, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty for the bright and agile dog to do. These easy-to-train dogs can go anywhere and do anything. They’re generally good with other dogs, cats , and strangers, and are easy to housetrain. Poodles can excel at performance activities such as agility and obedience. They are active dogs who thrive on attention and learning.

Although Toy Poodles (less than 10 inches at the shoulder) are too small to roughhouse with children, there’s nothing the larger Poodles (Miniature, between 10 and 15 inches; Standard, more than 15 inches) like better than to chase a ball or run with kids. Standard Poodles especially need plenty of exercise to be happy, and can do a lot of damage if bored or lonely. Other Quick Facts The Standard Poodle was originally bred in Germany as a duck retriever; he is still capable of performing that task today. The crazy haircuts seen on today’s show Poodles have their roots in the dog’s hunting roots; the thick, curly coat was cut in a way that allowed him to swim but also kept his chest and joints warm. A Poodle’s intelligence can translate into stubbornness, so be kind but persistent with training. History The History of Poodles Poodles are thought to have originated in Germany, where they were called Pudel, meaning "splash in the water,” a reference to their work as water retrievers. The exaggerated show cut seen today began as a practical way to keep the dog’s joints and torso warm in cold water.

The Standard is the oldest of the three Poodle varieties. The Miniature and the Toy were created by selecting for smaller size. They, too, were working dogs. Miniatures are said to have sniffed out truffles, a type of edible mushroom that grows underground, and Toys and Miniatures were popular circus dogs because of their intelligence, love of performing, and ability to learn tricks. The curly-coated dogs became popular in England and Spain, but in France they were adored. King Louis XVI was besotted with Toy Poodles and the breed became thought of as France’s national dog . It was in France that the breed achieved status as companions, and Poodles still enjoy that status today. They are beloved around the world and are consistently ranked among the most popular breeds. Today the Miniature is the most popular of the three sizes, and the three varieties together are ranked ninth in popularity among the breeds registered by the American Kennel Club. Personality Poodle Temperament and Personality People-pleasing Poodles are happy, friendly dogs who like mingling with people and other dogs. They have a terrific sense of humor and are natural-born clowns. Being the center of attention makes them happy.

They have an astonishing capacity for behaviors and tricks involving both brains and agility. It is entirely possible for a Poodle to outwit you, and you may find it unnerving to live with a dog who seems smarter than you are. There are many similarities within the three sizes, but there are also some minor differences in behavior. These differences won’t be seen in every Poodle, but if you saw one of each size together, you might notice some of the following characteristics. Standard Poodles are active and energetic, but they tend to be a bit more reserved than Miniature and Toy Poodles. They like having a job to do. Miniature Poodles follow their people around and are the most active of the three sizes. Because of their larger size, Miniatures are better suited to small children than Toys. Miniatures and Toys have more mischievous natures than Standards. Toy Poodles are the ultimate companion dogs. They really know how to strut their stuff, in and out of the ring. Poodles are among the smartest of breeds, but that intelligence can translate into stubbornness. Even so, they can make wonderful therapy dogs.

Their empathetic nature and joy in engaging with people make them naturals for visiting with people in nursing homes, hospitals, and schools. Therapy provides Standards with their work fix. Poodles are active dogs, but the smaller dogs need less room and less exercise. Toy and Miniature Poodles are often the companions of people who are less active and can be extremely happy as lap dogs and TV-watching buddies. Just be sure their busy minds have enough to keep them out of mischief. Poodles love to learn and want to please. Trick-training suits their heritage as circus dogs quite well. Teach them to pick up the newspaper, carry a bottle to the recycling bin, and bring your slippers. But whatever you do, don’t tell a Poodle that he is a dog, and don’t even think about excluding your Poodle from family activities. Poodles want to be active in every part of family life, from being dressed up for make-believe tea parties to going to soccer practice to racing around the beach and charging into the water with you. In every size, he’s an active dog and wants nothing more than to be doing things with you.

He can’t bear being alone too often, and he will channel his boredom in ways that are not likely to meet your approval. With that in mind, Poodles still need to be treated like dogs, not like little princes or princesses. Give a Poodle consistent, firm guidance or he will walk all over you. Health What You Need to Know About Poodle Health All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Run, don’t walk, from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on puppies, who tells you that the breed is 100 percent healthy and has no known problems, or who tells you that her puppies are isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur in her lines. The Poodle Club of America has good descriptions of diseases that might affect Poodles. It is a long list. Not all of these diseases affect Standard Poodles, but conditions that can occur generally in Poodles include the following: Addison's disease and Cushing’s syndrome are flip sides of the same coin.

In dogs with Addison’s disease, the adrenal glands don't produce enough of the hormone cortisol. The dogs become lethargic, depressed and intolerant of stress, and they may have digestive problems. Some dogs can have an acute crisis, necessitating hospitalization. Lifelong treatment consists of giving medication. In dogs with Cushing's syndrome, the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. Symptoms include weight gain, panting, excessive thirst and hunger, bladder infections, and urinating in the house even though the dog was previously house-trained. Cushing's is usually managed with lifelong medication, but surgery is sometimes necessary. Another hormonal problem seen in Poodles is hypothyroidism (inadequate levels of thyroid hormone). Symptoms include weight gain, hair loss, lack of resistance to disease, excessive hunger, and seeking out warmth. Thyroid hormone supplements are usually prescribed to manage the condition. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is an inherited eye disease that can eventually lead to blindness. Other potential eye problems in Standard and Toy Poodles include cataracts and glaucoma. Poodles can also be affected by von Willebrand's disease (a blood clotting disorder).

Although all Poodles, no matter the size, are the same "breed", they don’t all have the same health problems. Toy and Miniature Poodles share many of the health problems common to the smallest breeds of dog, such as kneecaps that easily slip out of place (luxating patellas), breathing difficulties caused by a collapsing trachea , and dental problems because of tooth crowding inside their small mouths. Toy Poodles can also suffer from Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, which causes reduced blood supply to the head of the thigh bone, causing it to degrade. The first sign of this disease is limping, which usually appears when the puppy is 4 to 6 months old. Treatment is surgical, after which the puppy can have a relatively normal life aside from an increased likelihood of arthritis. Standard Poodles, like many large, deep-chested breeds, have an increased risk of bloat, also known as gastric dilatation volvulus, a potentially fatal condition in which the stomach twists on itself, trapping air inside. Dogs that are bloating require immediate veterinary attention and usually surgery to correct the problem.

Because most dogs that bloat once will bloat again, the surgeon may also recommend a procedure known as "stomach tacking," or gastropexy, as a preventive measure. A skin problem that can affect Toy and Standard Poodles is sebaceous adenitis, an inflammation of the sebaceous glands that leads to hair loss and skin problems. It can be diagnosed with a skin biopsy, but the effectiveness of treatment varies. Hip dysplasia is an orthopedic problem that begins in puppyhood. It is a malformation and poor fitting of the hip’s ball and socket joint. It can be a minor issue or a life-altering disability. Treatment can range from something as simple as daily medication to major surgery, even a hip replacement. Finally, Standard Poodles have a higher incidence of certain cancers, including insulinoma and hemangiosarcoma, compared with some other breeds. Not all of these conditions are detectable in a growing puppy, and it can be hard to predict whether an animal will be free of these maladies, which is why you must find a reputable breeder who is committed to breeding the healthiest animals possible.

They should be able to produce independent certification that the parents of the dog (and grandparents, etc.) have been screened for these defects and deemed healthy for breeding. That’s where health registries come in. According to the PCA, every puppy buyer must be given copies of the genetic tests done on the parents. For Toy and Miniature Poodles, this includes Optigen testing results for the eye disease progressive retinal atrophy (PRA); for Standard Poodles, a buyer should get certification that the parents are free of hip dysplasia . This clearance must be from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or the University of Pennsylvania (PennHip). OFA certification of the knees is required for the Toy Poodle. Additionally, for all varieties of Poodle, the eyes of the puppy’s parents should have been certified once each year by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF). Standard Poodles should have recent OFA clearance of the thyroid as well. The PCA participates in the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC), a health database. You can look up the CHIC tests that are required for Toy , Miniature , and Standard Poodles , and see if your puppy’s parents are listed.

Careful breeders screen their breeding dogs for genetic disease and breed only the healthiest and best-looking specimens, but sometimes Mother Nature has other ideas and a puppy develops one of these diseases despite good breeding practices. Advances in veterinary medicine mean that in most cases the dogs can still live good lives. Grooming The Basics of Poodle Grooming Grooming is a significant consideration in Poodles. The fine, curly coat that worked well when the Poodle spent his time in the water needs to be clipped regularly, typically about every 6 to 8 weeks, depending on his owner’s preferences. It mats easily and requires regular brushing at home, even with professional grooming. Left untrimmed, the coat will naturally curl into cords, though some people prefer that look. Dental care is important, particularly for Toy and Miniature Poodles. Keep on top of it by brushing teeth with a vet-approved pet toothpaste and having a veterinarian do regular dental checks. Trim the nails as needed, usually every week or two. They shouldn’t get so long that you can hear them clicking on the floor.

Finding Finding a Poodle Whether you want to go with a breeder or get your dog from a shelter or rescue, here are some things to keep in mind. Choosing a Poodle Breeder Finding a good breeder is a great way to find the right puppy. A good breeder will match you with the right puppy and will, without question, have done all the health certifications necessary to screen out health problems as much as possible. She is more interested in placing pups in the right homes than making big bucks. Good breeders will welcome your questions about temperament, health clearances, and what the dogs are like to live with, and come right back at you with questions of their own about what you’re looking for in a dog and what kind of life you can provide for him. A good breeder can tell you about the history of the breed, explain why one puppy is considered pet quality while another is not, and discuss what health problems affect the breed and the steps she takes take to avoid those problems. The Poodle Club of America is a good place to start your search for a responsible breeder.

Look for a breeder who abides by the club’s ethical guidelines , which prohibit the sale of puppies through brokers, auctions, or commercial dealers such as pet stores. Breeders should sell puppies with a written contract guaranteeing they’ll take back the dog at any time during his life if you become unable to keep him and with written documentation that both the puppy’s parents (and if possible, his other close relatives) have had their eyes, hips, knees, and blood (for von Willebrand’s) examined and certified by the appropriate health organizations. It’s important to know that “royal” or “teacup” are marketing terms designed to fool you into thinking you’re getting a special or rare Poodle, when what you’re getting is a dog who is quite a bit over or under the usual size of the breed. Extremely tiny dogs in particular are often plagued with severe health problems and rarely live a normal lifespan. Avoid breeders who seem interested only in how quickly they can unload a puppy on you and whether your credit card will go through.

You should also bear in mind that buying a puppy from a website that offers to ship your dog to you immediately can be a risky venture, as it leaves you no recourse if what you get isn’t exactly what you expected. Put at least as much effort into researching your puppy as you would into choosing a new car or expensive appliance. It will save you money in the long run. Lots of reputable breeders have websites, so how can you tell who’s good and who’s not? Red flags include puppies always being available, multiple litters on the premises, having your choice of any puppy, and the ability to pay online with a credit card. Quickie online purchases are convenient, but they are almost never associated with reputable breeders. Whether you’re planning to get your new best friend from a breeder, a pet store, or another source, don’t forget that old adage “let the buyer beware”. Disreputable breeders and facilities that deal with puppy mills can be hard to distinguish from reliable operations.

There’s no 100% guaranteed way to make sure you’ll never purchase a sick puppy, but researching the breed (so you know what to expect), checking out the facility (to identify unhealthy conditions or sick animals), and asking the right questions can reduce the chances of heading into a disastrous situation. And don’t forget to ask your veterinarian, who can often refer you to a reputable breeder, breed rescue organization, or other reliable source for healthy puppies. And before you decide to buy a puppy, consider whether an adult Poodle might better suit your needs and lifestyle. Puppies are loads of fun, but they require a lot of time and effort before they grow up to become the dog of your dreams. An adult Poodle may already have some training and will probably be less active, destructive, and demanding than a puppy. With an adult, you know more about what you’re getting in terms of personality and health and you can find adults through breeders or shelters. If you are interested in acquiring an older dog through breeders, ask them about purchasing a retired show dog or if they know of an adult dog who needs a new home. If you want to adopt a dog, read the advice below on how to do that.

Adopting a Dog From a Poodle Rescue or Shelter There are many great options available if you want to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or breed rescue organization. Here is how to get started. 1. Use the Web Sites like Petfinder.com and Adopt-a-Pet.com can have you searching for a Poodle in your area in no time flat. The site allows you to be very specific in your requests (housetraining status, for example) or very general (all the Poodles available on Petfinder across the country). AnimalShelter.org can help you find animal rescue groups in your area. Also some local newspapers have “pets looking for homes” sections you can review. Social media is another great way to find a dog. Post on your Facebook page that you are looking for a specific breed so that your entire community can be your eyes and ears. 2. Reach Out to Local Experts Start talking with all the pet pros in your area about your desire for a Poodle. That includes vets, dog walkers, and groomers. When someone has to make the tough decision to give up a dog, that person will often ask her own trusted network for recommendations. 3. Talk to Breed Rescue Most people who love Poodles love all Poodles.

That’s why breed clubs have rescue organizations devoted to taking care of homeless dogs. The Poodle Club of America can help you find a dog that may be the perfect companion for your family. You can also search online for other Poodle rescues in your area. The great thing about breed rescue groups is that they tend to be very upfront about any health conditions the dogs may have and are a valuable resource for advice. They also often offer fostering opportunities so, with training, you could bring a Poodle home for a trial to see what the experience is like. 4. Key Questions to Ask You now know the things to discuss with a breeder, but there are also questions you should discuss with shelter or rescue group staff or volunteers before you bring home a pup. These include: Toy Dog Breeds : Dog Breed Selector : Animal Planet Toy Dog Breeds Luckily for the toy breeds, providing companionship for humans has counted as suitable employment through the ages. This has ensured the survival of breeds without practical skills, such as the Chihuahua, pug and Pomeranian. Many toy breeds, such as the miniature pinscher, the toy poodle and the English toy terrier appear to be miniaturized versions of larger breeds.

Ranging between under 6 pounds (3 kilograms) in the tiniest Chihuahua and 20 pounds (9 kilograms) in the stockiest of pugs, these diminutive dogs have made for loving companions since they were first bred centuries ago. Later, some toy breeds were the lapdogs of European royalty. Today their stature makes them excellent pets for people without a lot of extra space in their homes. And despite their tendency toward yappiness, they are considered the best dogs for novice owners, though their fragility can make them less than ideal pets for families with small children. This breed's love of attention serves them well outside of their loving homes too. Loyal and intelligent, they are great at learning tricks, and many excel in obedience competitions. Poodle Poodle Best Suited For: Families with children, singles, seniors, houses with yards Temperament: Intelligent, easy to train, obedient, playful Comparable Breeds: Miniature Poodle, Puli New Search Cat Dog When you think of a poodle, what kind of dog do you think of? Many of us immediately imagine the Toy Poodle, one of the different types of Poodle. But as a breed, the Poodle has a surprising amount of variety and versatility.

Poodles can be athletic, rambunctious, energetic – just about anything under the sun, at least relative to the expectations of Poodles that many people bring to the table. This surprisingly varying breed is not just a toy dog, but it can also make a great pet. A lot of people have tons of fun with their Poodles and enjoy the extra bit of grooming that its coat requires as just another way to invest some quality time with the dog they love. But does that mean the Poodle is a right choice for you and your family? Let’s take a closer look at this breed. As a breed, this dog has a surprising amount of variety and versatility. Origin The Poodle actually started out as a water dog, the kind of dog that is capable of retrieving and assisting in the owner’s hunting trips. Believe it or not, that makes the early Poodle a type of retriever. The German word of “pudel,” in fact, actually refers to the splashing a Poodle would make, with the word “Poodle” as an English equivalent. There are three varieties of Poodle, and according to the American Kennel Club, the oldest of these varieties is large or Standard.

The Poodle was bred to have a water-resistant coat – which helps explain the quality of the current dog’s coat – that was eventually groomed and patterned according to taste and style rather than worrying simply about functionality. Today, we know this as the hallmark of many Poodles. We expect Poodles to have a specific type of coat that is usually highly groomed and stylized. If you are going to see a Poodle in a dog show, you’re expecting to see something that pops out immediately. That’s what the Poodle is today, even if its history has not been exclusively about its appearance. Other types of Poodle today include Toy and Miniature. Pedigree Since there are three varieties of Poodle, two of those varieties – the Toy and Miniature – actually take its pedigree from the oldest of these varieties, the large or Standard Poodle. Many of today’s Poodles have its pedigree strongly taken into account because Poodles are considered to be predominantly a show dog rather than a guard dog or a hunting dog. Poodles have been around for centuries and have ancestors across countries in Europe like Germany, England, and Spain.

Food / Diet The Poodle does not widely differ from other dogs in its diet – but the size of your individual dog will obviously have a big effect on how much it is capable of eating. The breed will enjoy meat, vegetables, and some typically human foods – although these are usually only okay in moderation. Training Poodles can sometimes be a handful, but the breed is perfectly capable of being responsive enough to training to participate in a number of dog shows. In recent years, Poodles have been champions at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show as well as the World Dog Show. The Poodle’s temperament is often about energy. Weight Weight for Poodles will vary depending on the type. Toy and Miniature sizes can weigh very little while the Standard size can get up to around 40 to 70 pounds depending on a number of factors. Temperament / Behavior The Poodle’s temperament is often about energy. From the Standard to the Miniature, you can expect your dog to be full of energy and capable of plenty of exercise – often enough to work up quite an appetite. Even Toy and Miniature Poodles will display frequent instinctual behaviors – for example, small Poodles have been known to point birds.

Common Health Problems Poodles can run into a few nasty health problems including Addison’s Disease, thyroid issues, and cancer. Like almost all dogs, this breed can run into problems with the joints such as hip dysplasia. Life Expectancy A standard Poodle should have a life expectancy of around 12-15 years. The same approximate life expectancy can be expected of Miniature Poodles, which gives them plenty of time to grow up along with your children if you’re considering getting this breed as a family pet. Exercise Requirements Being energetic as they are, this breed will like a good deal of exercise and enjoy living up to their hunting and pointing instincts. As former retrievers, Poodles should be able to enjoy chasing balls and Frisbees, as well. The American Kennel Club lists this dog as an “active” breed. They will require at least daily exercise and might be able to go a long time before tiring out. The Poodle, though often equated to the beauty with no brains, is exceptionally smart, active and excels in obedience training.

AKC The American Kennel Club’s description of the Poodle reads as follows: “The Poodle, though often equated to the beauty with no brains, is exceptionally smart, active and excels in obedience training.” Coat The coat of the Poodle is, of course, one of its defining characteristics. Its coat will have plenty of room for grooming and will in fact require regular grooming. Many people will groom their dog stylishly and in extravagant ways – if you’re just taking in this dog as a pet, however, basic grooming is all that’s really required. From Miniatures to Standard, Poodles are a great breed if you really want to find a dog that can stand up to a lot of grooming and styling. Puppies An energetic breed, you can imagine how lively a puppy can be as it grows up. Make sure that you are careful in reaching a good balance between exercises that uses the dog’s instincts for being outside and retrieving/pointing, while also being sure not to over exercise them as its body grows. Photo credit: Eric Isselee/Shutterstock

Question: Standard, Miniature and Toy are all breeds of which dog?
Answer: Poodle