Poodle | Define Poodle at Dictionary.com poodle noun 1. one of a breed of very active dogs, probably originating in Germany but regarded as the national dog of France, having long, thick, frizzy or curly hair usually trimmed in standard patterns, occurring in three varieties (standard, miniature, and toy) differing only in size, and originally used as a water retriever. Origin of poodle 1815-25; < German Pudel, short for Pudelhund, equivalent to pudel(n) to splash (see puddle ) + Hund hound 1 Dictionary.com Unabridged Examples from the Web for poodle Expand Contemporary Examples He insisted that far from being America's poodle on this, he was an enthusiastic collaborator with Mr. Bush. The ‘Real Housewives’ Land in London Tim Teeman May 14, 2014 Darren Criss of Glee guest stars in the video as the angry bulldog boyfriend of the poodle.

Archie Comics: Corporate Brawl Over-Sexual Harassment Charges Nancy Hass February 1, 2012 Historical Examples He shook a dirty finger in the poodle's face, and it obediently stretched its mouth, to show all its little gold-filled teeth. British Dictionary definitions for poodle Expand noun 1. a breed of dog, with varieties of different sizes, having curly hair, which is often clipped from ribs to tail for showing: originally bred to hunt waterfowl 2. a person who is servile; lackey Word Origin C19: from German Pudel, short for Pudelhund, from pudeln to splash + Hund dog; the dogs were formerly trained as water dogs; see puddle, hound1 Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Word Origin and History for poodle Expand n.

1808, from German Pudel, shortened form of Pudelhund "water dog," from Low German Pudel "puddle" (cf. pudeln "to splash;" see puddle (n.)) + German Hund "hound" (see hound (n.)). Probably so called because the dog was used to hunt water fowl. Figurative sense of "lackey" (chiefly British) is attested from 1907. Poodle-faker, British army slang for "ingratiating male," is from 1902, likely euphemistic. Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper | History | Poodle, Were, His, Poodles, Have History HISTORY OF YOUR POODLE Information Presented By PoodleMaineia Kennel 2008 Some trace the Poodle back to Roman times through bas-reliefs, mosaics and paintings, but unfortunately none of these exist now, and no mention is made of it in Roman writings, as is true of some other dogs. So we must look to the Middle Ages as a starting point.

Of the three different-sized Poodle, the standard is undoubtedly the oldest because it had a purpose, that of being a water retriever. Back in the days when wild game, especially waterfowl, was valued as meat for the table everyone prized a dog that helped to obtain it. During the Feudalistic Middle Ages the noblemen controlled the land and all the rights to it, including the privilege of hunting. The finest dogs belonged to them, and these were often exchanged as gifts and present with other noblemen in distant lands. At times they were even demanded as ransom as part of a military victory, and of course they were often used to gain the ear of a lord or a duke when asking a favor. The Poodle was undoubtedly held in high esteem, for it appears in the art and writings of so many countries in the 16th, 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Over and over again we meet the Poodle in Germany, France, Russia, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, England, even the Low Countries of Belgium and Holland - from Durer in 1510 to Goya and Landseer, the renowned English animal painter, to Toulouse-Lautrec.

Landseer painted his famous "Laying Down the Law", which is dear to the hearts of all Poodle breeders, for it shows a judicious white Standard Poodle giving a legal lecture to several other breeds of dogs on their transgressions. Toulouse-Lautrec painted the circus Poodle, a black tuft gamin which he knew so well. Writers too have used the Poodle. In 1780 Goethe portrayed Mephistopheles as returning to earth as a black Poodle, and stories of other Poodles lace through literature from Dickens to Alexander Woollcott. No other breed can claim to have reached such high favor in so many different places as the Poodle. In fact, most of the other breeds trace their origin back to one specific country, even a tiny area of that country - the Weimaraner from Germany and the Brittany spaniel from France, for example. But not the Poodle. He really seems to be ubiquitous, probably helped along by sea captains and circus performers who dealt in dogs on the side, carrying them to and from various ports and cities to sell to wealthy noblemen and merchants.

Undoubtedly the two features, which made the Poodle different from other dogs and accounted for its extraordinary growth, were its coat and intelligence. Its wiry, almost waterproof coat was ideal protection for hunting around marshes and rivers. When someone clipped its hindquarters, supposedly to allow it more mobility in water, leaving a longhaired ruff around the chest and heart for protection and buoyancy, there lay the base for the chic haircuts and grooming procedures we have today. Where looks might have made him merely a fad, his brains and sense of humor endeared him to both royalty and the bourgeois. First written mention of the Poodle as a breed appeared in northern Germany and western Russia. In 1524, the German writer Gesner describes a dog called a Pudel as a retriever, specifically for waterfowl, in which task, he says; the dog has no superior. In fact the German word Pudel, from whence comes our word Poodle, means to splash in water. A large dog similar to our standard of today, he was usually black or brown, occasionally white, particularly the Russian variety. In Belgium and Holland he was known as Poedel and used for the same purpose.

In France, the large Poodle was first known as the Barbet, the origin of which word is confusing. It may relate to the French word barb, meaning, "Bearded", or to a species of bearded duck known to have existed in France in early times, or to the Barbary Coast (North Africa, specifically Morocco). This last point doesn't seem to make sense until you realize the sultans of Morocco were great animal breeders of ten thousand horses; at this stable were most likely Godolphin breeders. One sultan in the early 18th century owned a stable Arabian, one of the three founding sires of the English Thoroughbred race horse. I mention this only to point out that the Arabians bred great animals, possible even a breed of dog that could have contributed directly or indirectly to the Poodle's origin. History records the fact that in 1636 Prince Rupert of the Palatinate (Rhine River area of Germany), in aiding Charles I of England against the Roundheads, brought along his pet Poodle named Boye.

Van Dyck was commissioned to paint them, and in 1643 a pamphlet entitled "Observations upon Prince Rupert's White Dogge Called Boye was printed in London. It is a discussion between another dog and Boye on the merits of the Cavaliers and the Roundheads. This early German Poodle, shown in the engraved frontispiece with some Cavalier troops and his master, who is urging him to attack a group of Roundheads, was supposed to have been invulnerable in battle and able to put a hex on the enemy. When this celebrated White Standard Poodle died at the battle of Marston Moors in 1644, such was his mystical influence that witches, sorcerers; the Pope and even the Devil were invited to mourn at his funeral to commute him to eternity. The great early German authority on dog breeds, Dr. Fitzinger, listed six varieties of Poodles in his area: Gros Pudel, Mittlere Pudel, Kleine Pudel, Kleine Pinsch, Schnur Pudel and Schaf Pudel.

The word Schaf means "curly and the word Schnur means, "corded", a separate breed, which we shall describe in a moment. The Gros Pudel was called Can Barbone by the Italians and Grand Barbet by the French. It was the largest type, equal to our standard Poodle of today, and probably even included our royal standard, the super size that we occasionally see now. The Mittlere Pudel was called the Barbet in France and is currently known there as the Caniche. It is not a miniature but merely a shade smaller than our ordinary standard of today, the word caniche coming from canard, the French word for "duck". The French claim the Poodle for their own, rejecting all claims that its origin is in Germany or elsewhere. Though the facts tend to dispute them, we in the United States have gone along with them for so long that the breed is unofficially but automatically called a French Poodle here. And one might easily put forth a sound argument in defense of this claim on the grounds that the Poodle is certainly more French than German in manner.

He is full of joie de vivre and humor, not methodically serious or precise like the other German hunting dogs - the Shorthair, Weimaraner, etc. - which closely parallel the German temperament. The corded Poodle was an interesting 19th century variation within the breed. Whether this was merely a way of training the coats of some especially longhaired Poodles or a separate strain is open to debate. In any case, they're developed around 1850 in England and on the Continent two distinct types of Poodles - curly and corded. The curly variety is what we have today, for though the coat of a Poodle looks straight from constant brushing, it will curl when left unattended or clipped about 1/2 inch long, as in the Kennel clip. The corded coat was entirely different, consisting of hundreds of coils of hair slightly smaller than a pencil and dangling from all parts of the body to the floor. These corded Poodles were quite a fad in their time. In fact, the first Poodle to be crowned champion in England was a cord named Achilles in 1890.

He became a legend in his time and was described as standing 23 inches at the shoulder with cords that hung down for 30 inches, and he carried his huge heavy coat with splendid dignity. He must have looked like a locomotive or a gigantic Yorkshire terrier. The hair on these corded Poodles was never combed out but allowed to grow. It was continually rolled and twisted by means of Vaseline and paraffin to cause longer and longer curls or cords to form. Cords hung from the ears, tail, and body like spaghetti, and the dog's figure was almost completely hidden as a result. This fad was supposedly German in origin, and Lyris, the German-imported father of Achilles, is said to have had an ear spread of 37 inches when his ears were held out straight and measured. Some of these corded Poodles had coats which swept the ground for several inches behind them, but all this went out of style just prior to WWI because of the weight and inconvenience of such immense coats (they had to be tied up in linen bags and kept in oil outside the show ring).

Also, since the coat could not be combed or washed (the result would have been a catastrophic tangle), the dog was always dirty and greasy, prone to all kinds of insects and highly malodorous. The Kennel Club StudBook of England shows its first registry of Poodles in 1874. Shortly thereafter, Poodles from Russia, Germany and France were registered. In 1876, the Poodle Club of England was formed, and there began a war between the curly fanciers and the corded fanciers, for both types were exhibited in the same classes though they looked entirely different. It was a long and bitter battle which culminated in 1910 in the division of Corded and Non-Corded classes and the recognition of the miniatures as a separate group. Before this time all Poodles, regardless of size, color, and coat, had been registered only as Poodles and all were shown in the same classes. Now the miniatures were a separate entity as were the cords, which soon passed out of existence because of the difficulty in maintaining them. Undoubtedly they were clipped and crossed into the curly Poodle lines, which we see today, although, this was deplored.

But even now you can sometimes see the background of the old corded Poodle in certain dogs whose coat on damp day begins to roll into ringlets, and unless they are brushed out, they quickly turn into knots and mats. Some corded Poodles came to the United States for showing in the 1890s, but they weren't popular here because of the coat problem. The first Poodle registered with the American Kennel Club was Czar in 1886. Imported by W. Lyman Biddle of Philadelphia, he was a black standard. But Poodles were exhibited several years before that; the first record was of a show in Boston in 1878, where eight formed the class. The breed had obviously been in America for some time as a working hunter, for W.R. Furness wrote glowingly about it. In his "American Book of the Dog", he mentioned that the Poodle has extraordinary power in the water and "excels all his race in that element, at least, being able to distance the strongest water spaniel and swim round and round a Newfoundland".

During the Gay Nineties, Poodles mostly of the standard size became popular in the eastern part of the United States, but in the rugged West it was the hunting dog and the snappy terrier that best suited the personality of that era. In 1896 the Poodle Club of America was formed, and in 1931 reorganized into the club it is today. During the 33-year interim, the Poodle declined sharply in popularity; very few were seen at shows or registered by the American Kennel Club. But most of the new founders of the Poodle Club in 1931 were conscientious breeders dedicated to promoting the Poodle in and out of the show ring. Standards were the popular size of the 1930s, with a few miniatures on the scene and almost no toys. The reputation of the Poodle was pretty much that of a frou-frou bauble, the ideal gift for one's mistress but not much more. Then came the turning point as the result of one great dog, the emperor of all Poodles - International Champion Duc de la Terrace. He was a colossal white standard with an awe-inspiring presence and grace in every movement.

Those who saw him for the first time stopped and stared at him; those who made his acquaintance still described him in unforgettable terms. He was born and raised in Switzerland, choice of a litter bred by Mme. Emile Warney at La Terrace Kennels from a bitch of the world-famed Labory Kennels of Mme. Reichenbach. With his magnificent stature and showy conformation, the Duc pulverized the opposition throughout Europe, winning four Continental championships. Then he was purchased and brought to England by Miss Jane Lane, owner of the famous Nunsoe Kennels. Again he swept everything before him, gained his English championship, contributed strongly to the standard Poodle blood lines in England and had his name changed to Int. Ch. Nunsoe Duc de la Terrace, the kennel prefix. Finally purchased by Mrs. Whitney Blake as a gift for her daughter, Mrs. Sherman Hoyt, the mighty Duc came to America. When Mrs. Hoyt went to the ship to pick him up she was immediately struck by his dignified bearing, the confidence he showed by gently taking her hand in his mouth.

A crowd of spectators gathered to view this magnificent animal, which soon created a furor in the United States and became a national figure. Shown in this country 18 times, the Duc was never defeated in his breed, won 16 groups and 9 Best in Shows against all other breeds, including Best at Westminster in 1935, the first time a Poodle had ever won top prize at Madison Square Garden. Again his name changed, this time to Int. Ch. Nunsoe Duc de la Terrace of Blakeen, to include his owner's famous kennel. Stories were written about him. The tremendous publicity sparked an interest in the Poodle breed that has never subsided. Since then, other great Poodles of all sizes and colors have come along, but none have ever outdone the Duc, none were ever quite so colorful, none have precipitated the whirlwind of international recognition or achieved such rapport with the general public. Duc was to poodledom what Justin Morgan and Man-o'-War were to horsedom.

As you have seen, most of the foundation blood of our modern Poodles has come from England, although importation's from Germany, Switzerland and France continue to be made whenever the individual specimen is of superior quality. Many prominent Poodle breeders and handlers are invited to England to judge, and many English judges come here to reciprocate impartially. Top Poodles are also sent to England from America, despite the 6-month quarantine. Some of the best standards currently winning in the British Isles were bred in Canada and the United States. So the working relationship which has flourished for more than a hundred years continues to prove helpful to both groups. The history of the Poodle has been long and noble, one that could continue on through several more books and one of which you can be justly proud. There have been famous war poodles like Moustache, who fought in the Napoleonic wars, was decorated for bravery by Marshall Lannes and died in combat beside his beloved Grenadiers in Spain.

There were the white standards, which graced the court of Louis XIV, and when Marie Antoinette was imprisoned, her miniature Poodle visited her faithfully every day outside her prison window until she was guillotined (Marie, not the Poodle). And numerous are the writers who have shared their lonely hours with Poodles. To name but a few: Alexander Pope, George Sand, Booth Tarkington, Mignon Eberhardt, Gertrude Stein, Alexander Woollcott, Quentin Reynolds, and John Steinbeck, whose "Travels With Charley", his black Poodle, was a best seller. The Poodle plays its roll in show business too, not only on the stage but also as a companion and faithful friend to many stars. Helen Hayes, Claudette Colbert, Joan Crawford, Duke Ellington, Barbara Streisand, Jack Lemon, to name but a few, know the warmth and affection of this age-old companion. And one of the greatest men in modern history gained solace and comfort with his Poodle. In the hours of great decision, and later in the years of peaceful retirement, Winston Churchill and Rufus were inseparable companions.

So you can be sure that, wherever you go and no matter how long you're gone, your Poodle will welcome you back with a bouncing leap of joy, a wagging tail and a bark or two of proper recognition. The French have and old expression that describes him - "fidele comme une caniche"--- "faithful as a Poodle". Copied from The Poodle Book- Jeff Griffen- 1968 Poodles | Article about Poodles by The Free Dictionary Poodles | Article about Poodles by The Free Dictionary Also found in: Dictionary , Thesaurus , Medical , Wikipedia . poodle, popular breed of dog probably originating in Germany but generally associated with France, where it has been raised for centuries. There are three varieties, differing in size only. The standard poodle, classified in the nonsporting-dog group (see nonsporting dog nonsporting dog, classification used by breeders and kennel clubs to designate dogs that may formerly have been bred to hunt or work but that are now raised chiefly as house pets and companions. ..... Click the link for more information. ), stands over 15 in.

(38.1 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs from 40 to 55 lb (18.1–24.9 kg). The miniature, also listed in the nonsporting-dog group, stands from 10 to 15 in. (25.4–38.1 cm) high at the withers and weighs from 14 to 16 lb (6.4–7.3 kg). The toy poodle, which is classified as a toy dog toy dog, classification used by breeders and kennel clubs to designate very small breeds of dogs kept as pets. Some are selectively bred diminutive forms of larger breeds and others are naturally small. ..... Click the link for more information. , stands up to 10 in. (25.4 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs about 6 lb (2.7 kg). The profuse coat is dense and hard-textured and may be any solid color. If left untended, the coat will grow out in matted, ropelike cords.

The poodle is clipped in a variety of styles (e.g., the puppy trim, the continental clip, and the English-saddle clip), a practice now carried out largely for show or aesthetic purposes but originally for utilitarian value. The poodle was widely used in France as a waterfowl retriever, but its heavy coat required clipping so as not to hinder the dog's progress through water. The poodle has also been raised as a circus and vaudeville performer and as a hunter of truffles. Today it is usually kept as a companion and pet. See dog dog, carnivorous, domesticated wolf (Canis lupus familiaris) of the family Canidae, to which the jackal and fox also belong. The family Canidae is sometimes referred to as the dog family, and its characteristics, e.g. ..... Click the link for more information. . Poodle a breed of nonsporting dogs. Poodles are sometimes used as guard dogs or circus dogs. Their origin has not been precisely established, but they are thought to be descended from European sheepdogs and hunting dogs. Prior to the breeding of pointing dogs, poodles were used for hunting swamp game.

There are standard (45–70 cm in height), miniature (35–45 cm), and toy (less than 35 cm) varieties. Poodles have a long, soft coat that forms locks (cords); some have a shorter curly coat. The coat may be black, white, brown, or silver; it is usually clipped in a traditional fashion on certain parts of the body. Poodles are popular throughout the world. poodle a breed of dog, with varieties of different sizes, having curly hair, which is often clipped from ribs to tail for showing: originally bred to hunt waterfowl poodle - definition of poodle in English | Oxford Dictionaries Definition of poodle in English: poodle noun 1A dog of a breed (of which there are several varieties) with a curly coat that is often ornamentally clipped. Poodle breeds are classified by size: see standard poodle, miniature poodle, toy poodle.

, and See also miniature poodle Example sentences ‘Other tests in development include one for progressive blindness which afflicts a number of breeds, including poodles.’ ‘Some of the dog breeds with the ability to signal an epileptic seizure include, the poodle, German shepherd, golden retriever, and the Rottweiler.’ ‘The dachshunds, terriers and poodles of the world have waged a high-tech war against the Siamese, Persian and tabbies.’ ‘A woman walked past me, leading a miniature poodle with a tartan coat.’ ‘Babe brings together dogs and cats, pink poodles and pit bulls.’ ‘We don't want our nation overrun by a host of poodles, corgis or pit bull terriers.’ ‘The second defendant has said that there are 18 dogs on the premises including five adult shepherd dogs, one poodle and the rest are adult dachshunds.’ ‘She bred poodles and even brought one round for my children but I didn't want it.’ ‘Make room for doodles, the latest designer dogs - a mix of a poodle with another breed.’ ‘The most popular breed of designer dog is the Labradoodle - originally a cross between a Labrador retriever and

 a poodle.’ ‘To ease her loneliness, she also spent a lot of time with her French poodle and dachshund.’ ‘Avoid environmental offending agents such as rugs, cats, dogs (although some dogs such as poodles and Yorkies are ok) and feather pillows.’ ‘The poodle, Bedlington terrier, and Kerry blue terrier have long, wooly or coarse coats that tend to shed less.’ ‘Children make these cognitive leaps by noticing coincidences - Labradors and poodles and other dogs bark, pant with their tongues on hot days and, in cities at least, appear on leashes led by humans.’ ‘Dy Witt has shown, bred and trained standard poodles for 25 years.’ ‘Among the Alsatians and poodles in the household dogs section at the Walter Rothschild Museum in Tring stands Mick the Miller, the world's most famous greyhound.’ ‘The dogs included shih-tzus, dachshunds, Lhasa apsos, bearded collies, corgis, chihuahuas, poodles, Pekinese and Yorkshire terriers.’ ‘To the one on her right, Louise said, no, she would not sit for his dog - a t

affy-toned poodle with a puppy cut that answered to the name of Roy.’ ‘Gypsies prefer small and very little dogs, such as toy poodles and Chihuahuas, which can share the cart with their masters.’ ‘Animal salons shape dogs into brilliantly hued canine topiaries; orange and pink are the most popular colors, especially for poodles whose dyed coats complement their owners' wardrobes.’ 2British A person or organization who is overly willing to obey another: ‘the council is being made a poodle of central government’ More example sentences ‘Reading this front page coverage makes me wonder if he knows the issues or if he is merely a press poodle for the politician.’ ‘It is well known that the US government - like that of her British poodle - favour universities as a method of recruiting spies.’ ‘I'm tired, and a lot of others are tired, of people like Mr.

Keene and his Raleigh lap poodle Mike Regan using our religion for political purposes.’ ‘The clean, dry perfumes of newsprint, ink and decent analysis are replaced by the whiff of political poodles marking their territories.’ ‘In James Naughtie's book, far from being America's poodle, the British Prime Minister emerges as America's Alsatian, a watchdog which forewarns of danger and then helps combat it.’ ‘From this perspective, however, his appointment came at a sensitive time - in the week that Labour was lambasted for replacing tough committee chairpersons with poodles.’ ‘When the poodle gets out of politics, they should start measuring his neck.’ ‘This decision was taken by a small number of New Labour poodles.’ ‘Blair, content with a kennel full of poodles in the Commons, will never allow such a thing.’ ‘More worryingly, perhaps he did not know the actual cause for the delays when he ranted about ‘political poodles.’’ ‘Away with talk of poodles, leave that to the Government.’ ‘But secondly, with the SNP continually waiting the chance to describe him as London's poodle, there is the political imperative for him to do so, in order to prove

 them wrong.’ ‘Symbian's rivals have been tagging the company as Nokia's poodle for a couple of years now, and the deal is being widely seen as confirmation.’ ‘He steadfastly maintained his independence and never allowed the Bank to become a poodle of political causes.’ ‘Particularly stinging is the… suggestion that the government has been playing poodle to its American masters.’ ‘Because he's been such a toy poodle for corporations that now are proving to be systemically corrupt, Harvey's been taking heat, including bipartisan demands that he resign.’ ‘Parsons said recently that he has seen the committee described as ‘the pampered poodles of the management board’ and he had found himself unable to disagree with that phrase.’ ‘Why don't you and your poodle of a Foreign Minister try setting up a democracy with individual liberties in, say, France first.’ ‘He has resisted efforts by Labour ministers to stop him acting like America's poodle - or at least to hide it better.’ ‘She knows that going into government as Fianna Fáil poodle would be even more damaging than being stuck out on the wilderness of the Opposition benches.’ Synonyms subordinate, deputy, auxiliary, second, second in command, number two, lieutenant, right

-hand man, right-hand woman, wingman, aide, personal assistant, pa, attendant, mate, apprentice, junior Poodle Dog Breed Profile Poodle Dog Breed Profile By Jenna Stregowski, RVT Updated November 14, 2015.

Poodles are highly intelligent, energetic dogs with good temperaments. Poodles are among the most popular dog breed. Thus may, in part, be due to the breed's three size varieties: standard, miniature, and toy, all of which are considered the same dog breed and are held to the same breed standards (only differentiated by size). Caring for Your Poodle Like all dogs, the Poodle requires proper training and socialization in order to be happy and well-adjusted. Because Poodles are extremely smart dogs, they can easily be trained to perform a variety of commands and tricks. This is part of the reason Poodles are widely known as performing dogs. Poodles have beautiful, unique hair coats. Because their coarse, curly hair is constantly growing, much attention must be placed on proper grooming , including regular haircuts and brushing. The Poodle has a moderate to high energy level and requires daily exercise . Establish a routine that includes walks and fun activities like games to keep your Poodle mentally and physically stimulated. This, along with a healthy diet and routine veterinary care will help keep your Poodle healthy for many years. Poodles are sometimes considered to have a lifespan longer than the average dog (especially miniatures and toys).

Poodle History Poodles are believed to have originated in Germany, though they have been known as French dogs for many years. Their name is derived from the German word pudel, meaning "to splash in water." Standard Poodles are considered the oldest form of this breed. Their history of use as retrievers and water dogs led to the well-known Poodle haircut. This unique pattern was designed to protect joints from cold water temperatures. Miniature and Toy Poodles were also good swimmers and hunters. Eventually, small Poodles were noted as pampered companions of French aristocrats, thought they have also been known as performing dogs. Poodle Information Size: The Poodle has three size categories: Standard: 45-70 pounds Miniature: 15-18 pounds Toy: 5-9 pounds Patellar Luxation Who Should Get a Poodle? Poodles can be affectionate dogs that make truly wonderful companions for almost anyone. These dogs tend to adapt well to nearly any kind of household. When raised properly, Poodles can do well in families with children . The Poodle is one of many hypoallergenic dog breeds and, therefore, may be suitable for those who are mildly or moderately allergic to dogs.

As with any breed, if you think the Poodle is right for you, be sure to do plenty of research before adopting one. Talk to other Poodle owners, reputable Poodle breeders and Poodle rescue groups to learn more. How 13 Dog Breeds Got Their Names | Mental Floss How 13 Dog Breeds Got Their Names Beth Anne Macaluso Like us on Facebook Every dog owner knows why they gave their dog its name, but how well do you know the story behind their breed names? Let's take a look at where a handful of common breeds found their monikers. 1. Jack Russell Terrier Yep, Jack Russell was a real guy. John Russell was born in Dartmouth, England in 1795, and over the years he became quite a hunting enthusiast. While he was studying to become a clergyman at Oxford, he met a milkman who had a white terrier bitch named Trump who seemed to be the perfect dog for fox hunting. After convincing the milkman to sell him the dog, Russell began breeding Trump to develop a line of terriers with the stamina to hunt foxes all day and the courage to go after game that had slipped into holes. Russell actually has two dogs named after him.

We're all familiar with the Jack Russell terrier, but the Parson Russell terrier, a similar breed with longer legs, also takes its name from Russell and is recognized as a separate breed. 2. Lhasa Apso The little dog's name sounds funny, but its origins are pretty straightforward. The Lhasa Apso was originally bred as a watchdog for Tibetan palaces and monasteries; it was hard for an intruder to sneak in past the watchful, yipping pooches. The "Lhasa" in the name comes from the city of Lhasa, Tibet's longtime capital. Apso is a Tibetan word meaning "bearded," so the breed's name signifies that it's a longhaired dog that originated in Tibet. 3. Basset Hound The lovable big-eared hounds don't get their name from a person named Basset. Rather, "Basset" comes from the French word bas for "low" and refers to the dogs' low-slung statures. 4. Cairn Terrier These feisty little terriers originated in the Scottish Highlands, where they were renowned for their abilities as hunters of rats and other small prey like rabbits.

The dogs were particularly adept at hunting in the cairns, manmade piles of stones that dot the region as navigational markers. Thus, the breed became known as the Cairn terrier. 5. Dalmatian The spotted breed takes its name from Dalmatia, an Adriatic region that lies mostly within modern-day Croatia. Dalmatians have long been used as sentinels and guard dogs in the region, but it's not entirely clear that they originated there. Paintings and writings show Dalmatian-like dogs in various regions of Europe as far back as the 14th century, and the dogs have been used in Dalmatia since at least the 18th century. Since the dog was most commonly associated with the region, it became widely known as the Dalmatian. 6. Labrador Retriever You guessed it: labs originated in the region of Canada that's now the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Oddly, they actually came from Newfoundland, though. Fishermen perfected a breed they called the St. John's water dog, which were prodigious swimmers who would hit the water and haul fishing nets back to shore.

In the early 19th century the Earl of Malmesbury began bringing these hard-working dogs to his English estate and training them to retrieve the ducks he hunted. The Earl referred to his pack of pooches as his "Labrador dogs" in a confused reference to their home region, and the name stuck as their popularity grew. 7. Poodle The poodle may be thought of as a fancy, snooty dog today, but it actually had fairly rough-and-tumble origins as a gun dog. Their name reflects their early work as retrievers who would swim out after fallen waterfowl. Pudeln was a Low German word that meant "to splash," so these brave retrievers were known as pudelhund, or "water dogs." The word eventually evolved into the English "poodle." 8. Weimaraner The beautiful grey dogs with the expressive eyes have probably only been around since the 19th century. According to tradition, that's when Grand Duke Karl August of Weimar began to selectively breed hunting dogs that were fast, had strong noses, wouldn't back down from large game like wolves or wildcats, and were smart.

Karl August's breed allegedly became fashionable among his fellow Weimar noblemen, and the breed gained popularity as a bird-hunting dog as well. [Thanks to Michael Surtees of Design Noted for letting us use Madison's picture.] 9. Cocker Spaniel Spaniels have been around as far back as the 14th century, and these popular pets also got their starts as gun dogs. English hunters prized the dogs' particularly skilled tracking of woodcocks, so the dogs became known as "cockers." 10. Bouvier des Flandres This herding dog's name is pretty straightforward if you know a bit of French. The breed originated in Flanders, and French farmers who prized their working spirits named the Bouvier des Flandres, which translates into "Cow herder of Flanders." 11. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel This spaniel takes its name from King Charles II of Britain, who was often depicted in paintings and tapestries in the company of a small spaniel and was reportedly "seldom seen without his little dogs." 12. Dachshund The dachshund is another breed with an unexpectedly ferocious origin.

When the breed was first created in the early 17th century, hunters were attempting to create a fearless, elongated dog that could dig its way into a badger's hole and do battle with the tenacious little mammals. Their name reflects this early purpose; "dachshund" means "badger dog" in German. 13. Beagle The exact origins of the word "beagle" are a bit mysterious, but anybody who has spent much time with the breed will believe the most commonly accepted story. The American Kennel Club traces the name back to the 16th century, when the hounds became associated with the French word becguele ("noisy person") thanks to the din of their howls during hunts. Poodle History Project Poodle History Project The goal of this project is to illuminate the tasks which the Poodle (and his cousins) were "bred to do". Any breed's job description defines good temperament, which is always breed-specific. Since form follows function, good breed-specific conformation makes the designated tasks easier to perform.

For a development of this thesis, see: Dorothy Macdonald, Poodles: past, present & future, Poodle Club of America Foundation Seminar, 1997, videotape available for purchase from PCA . A comprehensive history of the Poodle does not exist. Neither does this exist for the several other varieties of European water spaniel, although evidence in art history indicates that these were a familiar sight as early as the High Middle Ages. Prior to ca 1870 our knowledge is sketchy, excepting certain brilliant examples. Meanwhile, we make do with a series of fascinating sources, which are presented here as an annotated bibliography in quasi-essay format, organized by function. We welcome receipt of additional sources. in the Poodle History Project Preliminary conclusions: Poodles and their "water-dog" cousins are the original versatile hunting dogs. Water-dogs predate the use of firearms in waterfowling; to understand their behaviour--what they were "bred to do"--we must examine what they did before 1600. Members of the European water-dog family, identified by the dense, curly, ever-growing coat, are closely related.

Please note: For the purpose of this bibliography, "if it walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it's a duck." Which is to say, if it looks like a Poodle, or a Poodle-cousin, or a proto-Poodle, we include the reference. These days, the term "water dog" or "water spaniel", which would be an accurate English-language tag for many of the long-ago dogs in this bibliography, has been largely obscured by "poodle" in English. This everyday tag seems to have shifted gradually: Markham (1621) writes about water dogges (see Markham ); "Poodle" Byng was given his popular schoolboy nickname in the late 18th century at Eton and retained this all his life (see Companions ). In 1837, this semantic shift remained worthy of comment: "Pudel, or as we spell it in English, poodle, is a German word, and is used to designate that race of dogs which formerly used to be called water-dogs." ("Instructions for Truffle Searching" by V. F.

Fischer, and translated from German by Francis Mascall, The Gardener's Magazine..., J. C. Louden, ed., vol. III (London 1837) , p. 402.) We confidently use "poodle" here in our broad catch-all of references. If you are an art historian wondering if the art dealer who named Stubbs' Poodle in a Punt after the break-up of a stately home at Bristol should instead have called this Water Dog in a Punt, we can only say that this is also, and perhaps more, accurate. If you are wondering if this should be called Norfolk Water Dog in a Punt, you're upping the ante, because although it is certain that water dogs were widely used in swampy Norfolk, this raises the question that maybe this specific dog was brought back from the Continent, having been bought during the European tour by which many English young men from stately homes finished their educations, so maybe it's a Pudel, Poedel or Caniche (all of which are, of course, water dogs).

To take this line of thought further, it seems very precious and presumptious in the Poodle History Project to call all the Dutch Poodles, for example, Rembrandt's, "Poedels" and Oudry's "Caniche" especially since the latter might have been considered Barbets. All of which is a long way of saying, for the purpose of the Poodle History Project, they're all-- unashamedly--"poodles". The Poodle History Project is edited and co-ordinated by pet-Poodle-owner Emily Cain, who is responsible for all errors and omissions. To contribute to, or correct, the Poodle History Project, please e-mail The head-piece on this page is a woodcut from: Gervase Markham, Hungers Prevention (London, 1621), p. 70; for microfilm information, see "...Visuals" : Anon. Markham. ________________ * Rosa Engler, Pudel (Cham, Switzerland: Muller, 1995) is the best beginners' orientation to the breed, and contains lots of wonderful photographs of Poodles doing things.

Even if you don't read German, you'll enjoy it using this English-language crib by Elizabeth Glew and proofread by Bryan Crow--and Rosa Engler herself. Easy way to order the book: send a $US20. bill and a legible return address to: Rosa Engler, Baiergasse 47, CH-4126 Bettingen/BS, SWITZERLAND. This crib is also linked to our Poodle History Project volunteers section . 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:

Question: The word poodle for the breed of dog originated from which language?
Answer: German