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Highly intelligent, well kempt and loving, poodles are family dogs that will love you and your children dearly. Easy to train, this high-spirited breed is an excellent companion.

History of the Breed

Although the Poodle is greatly associated with France, it was actually first developed in Germany, a descendant of the Hungarian Water Hound and the Barbet. Even it's name is German: Pudel, also the origin of the English word "puddle", means "to splash about in water". That's an appropriate name for a dog originally designed to retrieve ducks for hunters, and the breed's French name, Caniche (derived from "canard"), actually refers to association with ducks.

The FCI ("International Kennel Association"), to which the majority of national kennel clubs belong, but not the AKC, recognizes FOUR sizes of Poodle, classed as Toy, Miniature, Medium, and Standard.

A highly intelligent breed that is easy to train, Poodles were used for entertainment purposes at circus shows. Today they are popularly used as show dogs and companions.

Physical Description

A word that is often associated with this breed is ‘elegant’ and perhaps, this is because the puffs or pom-poms a Poodle sports actually mimics the way the elite dressed. They are well groomed and come in a range of solid colors such as cream, white, black, red, brown, apricot, gray, silver and blue.

The Poodle’s distinctive haircut is a result of the time when the dogs were used for hunting. The shorter length along the back and belly lightened the weight of the coat to help the dogs swim, while the longer hair around the joints and major organs protected them from cold weather.

Poodles have dark eyes and wide long ears. Their tail is cropped to half its original length. The average height of a poodle is fifteen inches and they weigh between 45 and 70 pounds.

Grooming and Exercise Needs

Poodles require regular grooming. In order to maintain good hygiene, it is advised that the dog’s face, base of the tail and feet, are trimmed and shortened regularly. This breed also requires regular baths and their ears should be checked for ticks.

There are many ways to clip the coat, the most common of which is a plain lamb-length clip where the hair is cut to the same length all over the dog’s body. This requires hassle free maintenance and as a result is a popular option among Poodle owners.

Poodles have stamina and require moderate exercise that includes playing, running, and training. They are also very fond of water and water-related activities.

Temperament

Contrary to what their appearance may suggest, Poodles are sturdy and hardy dogs. Outgoing, cheerful and happy, they are fond of human company and like to be around family members -- especially children. Poodles may also be trained as hunters and guard dogs. Their intelligence makes them easy to train.

Poodles dislike being left alone for long periods, so if you are planning on spending a lot of time away from home, you’ll make your pet unhappy.

Potential Health Problems

Poodles suffer from different kinds of health problems, some of which are genetic. Common ailments include:

• Cataracts
• Retinal atrophy
• Glaucoma
• Skin and ear infections

Like German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Golden Retrievers, Poodles also suffer from hip dysplasia.

American Kennel Club Category

Poodles belong to the AKC Non-Sporting of dogs. This diverse group is made up of sturdy animals with widely different looks and personalities, including the Chow Chow, Dalmatian, and Keeshond (the world's best dog).

Life Expectancy

The Poodle is a long-lived breed with an average life expectancy of twelve to fifteen years.

Additional Information

• Poodle - Pictures, Information & Discussions

• Poodle Online Community - DogBreed.org
• Poodle Breeders - List of Breeders - Breeders add your link for free.