Poodles: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Poodle breed

The Poodle!

The Poodle is a foremost embodiment of the pampered, even spoiled, pet. There are three recognized varieties of the Poodle, the differences of which remain in size and some functions. Both the miniature and toy varieties were sized down from the standard Poodle, and also gained popularity among dog-lovers soon after the breed became well liked among nobility. The elegant Poodle has squared proportions, which it holds quite pompously with an effortless gait. Its tail is usually docked short or about half its actual length.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
12 to 15 years

Energy Level:
Average.

Living Conditions:
Indoor only. Miniature and Toy are ideal for apartments.

Barking:
Average.

Exercise Needs:
Standard Poodle: daily 30 minute walk; occassional swim
Miniature Poodle: daily 20 minute walk
Toy Poodle: Minimal; short walks

Breed Group:
Standard Poodle: Non-Sporting
Miniature Poodle: Non-Sporting
Toy Poodle: Toy

Size:
Standard Poodle: Medium
Miniature Poodle: Small
Toy Poodle: Small

Height:
Standard Poodle: 15 + inches
Miniature Poodle: 11-15 inches
Toy Poodle: less than 10 inches

Weight:
Standard Poodle: 45-70
Miniature Poodle: 15-17 pounds
Toy Poodle: 6-9 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
All pure colors, such as black, gray, cream, blue, apricot, white, red, or brown.

National breed club:
Poodle Club of America

Fun Poodle Sites:
Poodle Breed Guide

Poodle Skills

In the past, the Poodle was a valued water retriever, and favored performer, as it was taught to perform circus tricks at times. While the standard variety may still be trained for hunting, the breed is generally preferred as a reliable companion and graceful show dog.

Poodle Personality

The Poodle is a highly intelligent and very trainable breed. They tend to be friendly towards children and strangers, though the smaller varieties tend to be livelier than the standard.

Exercise Needs

Short walks and indoor play does the trick for the toy poodle, while the miniature and standard varieties do well with a routine opportunity to stretch its legs with a good workout. The standard Poodle may also appreciate the chance to apply its swimming skills.

Living Conditions

Life indoors is recommended for the Poodle, and access to a small yard would suffice, though the standard may need more breathing room. It tends to be inactive indoors, so it needs to be taken out for its exercise needs.

Grooming Requirements

Regular bathing is required for the breed, as well as clipping every one and a half months. Having the coat clipped the same overall length is fine, though some may prefer the traditional clip, which exposes parts of the skin and was designed for the dog’s efficiency in water. The ears must be checked and cleaned often for excess wax and hair growth to prevent infection.

Health Issues

Poodles can be prone to some eye and skin conditions, ear infections, hip dysplasia, and bloating. The smaller varieties may be even more prone to disease.

If you liked this dog…

You might also like the Lhasa Apso, a slightly more active breed that has moderate exercise needs. This breed is also suited for apartment living.