Dogs

Poodle

Introduction

The Poodle, also known as the Pudel, the Caniche (which means “duck dog”), the Chien Canne (meaning “reed dog”), the Barbone (which means “barbered”) or the canis familiaris aquatius, is one of the most famous of all dog breeds and is known to be proud, intelligent and elegant. “Pudel” refers to playing in water. Supposedly originating in Germany, the Poodle is more known for its association with France. Both the French and German names for this breed pertain to its keen ability to hunt and to retrieve waterfowl. Also called the “French Poodle,” this breed actually developed and achieved its fame as a hunting retriever and a circus trick dog. He also for a time was used to sniff out the famous truffle mushrooms. The Poodle is now best known as an intelligent companion and show competitor. The Poodle was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1887. The Standard Poodle (and the Miniature Poodle) are members of the Non-Sporting Group, while the Toy Poodle is a member of the Toy Group. They are each considered to be members of the same breed, with the smaller varieties having been bred down in size from the Standard Poodle.

The Standard Poodle is over 15 inches at the withers. The Miniature Poodle is 15 inches or less at the withers, but over 10 inches in height. The Toy Poodle is 10 inches or less at the withers. When competing in the show ring, the Poodle’s coat requires immense attention. However, when trimmed in a companion “puppy” clip, it is a very low maintenance breed and is practically non-shedding. The Standard Poodle is known to be the most stable, affectionate and sensitive of the poodle family. It is very good with children and other dogs and is the calmest of the poodles.

History

Despite its “froo-froo” reputation, the Poodle actually was bred as a working water retriever. It is said to have descended from the Barbet and the Hungarian Water Hound. The elaborate, exaggerated trims seen on Standard Poodles in the show ring today are actually a quite practical adaptation of trims developed to facilitate its life as a tough working water dog. Its dense coat was shaved to facilitate its progress and speed, and to provide protection and maintain warmth in key areas, while it was retrieving in icy water. This led to the clipping pattern that it is known for and shown in today. It remains one of the best waterfowl retrievers. The Standard Poodle was also admired for its ability to sniff out truffles, a prized mushroom that remains a culinary delicacy to this day. Poodles were common in Europe well before the eighteenth century, particularly in Spain, Germany and France. There are three distinct varieties of Poodles today: the Toy, the Miniature and the Standard. They come in black, white, brown, cream, blue, gray, silver, apricot and any other solid color. However, despite the size differences, this is still one breed, governed by the same standard. The Standard is the foundation for all other poodles.

Poodles are known for their extreme intelligence, athleticism and trainability, and they are remarkable family companions. Despite their fancy reputation, Standard Poodles are terrific outdoor dogs. They enjoy and excel at all types of outdoor activities, including field trials, agility, fly ball, rally, obedience and other outdoor sports. The Standard Poodle remains a skilled retrieving and hunting dog and thrives in the conformation ring, as well.

Health

The average life span of a Standard Poodle is 10 to 15 years. Breed health concerns may include epilepsy, hip dysplasia, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, patent ductus arteriosis, dilated cardiomyopathy, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, sebaceous adenitis, a number of skin problems, renal disorders and von Willebrand disease.

Personality

Poodles have a reputation for being “sissies.” They way their hair is cut for shows probably doesn't help that image, but Poodles are by no means fragile, shrinking violets. They are outgoing, friendly dogs who love to run and romp, and interestingly, they were originally used to assist hunters of water fowl. They are true family dogs who can play hard with children all afternoon, then curl up in the living room for an evening of relaxation. Poodles make excellent watchdogs, they are alert and curious and will sound the alarm that a person or animal is approaching. They make an excellent choice for families of all sizes and ages, and are great for first time dog owners.

Activity Requirements

Standard Poodles are large dogs who need lots of room to move, both indoors and out. They are well-behaved inside, which can make them attractive for people who live in cities or in condominiums, but unless a commitment is made to exercising your Poodle, these may not be the best environments. Daily walks and the chance to run can keep your Standard Poodle happy and healthy.

They are a smart breed who need to use their minds as much as their bodies, so it is important to give your Poodle lots of interesting activities to do during the day, and you should consider enrolling your Poodle in agility activities where they can use both mind and body at the same time.

Trainability

Poodles are highly trainable dogs. They catch on very quickly to patterns and don't require much motivation beyond praise and a couple of treats. Poodles should never be treated harshly as they will simply stop listening to you. They are natural learners, however, so they shouldn't test your patience too far during training sessions.

Once basic obedience has been mastered, Poodles should graduate on to advanced obedience, trick training, or the agility course. They are thinking dogs and will appreciate the opportunity to learn new things.

Behavioral Traits

The biggest mistake Standard Poodle owners is not exercising them enough. The breed's reputation for being dainty leads novice owners to believe these dogs don't require vigorous activity, but they need to run daily. Poodles who don't get enough exercise can be anxious or destructive.

Poodles are sensitive dogs who like to live in peaceful environments. If your house is full of chaos, it can cause your Poodle unnecessary stress. Though they are good with kids, they often don't do well in homes with lots of children where there may be a great deal of yelling and tension.

Appearance

Standard Poodles are elegant, squarely-built, proud dogs who may be medium to large in size. The coat is thick, curly and wiry in texture and may be worn in a variety of clips. The muzzle is long, the skull is rounded and there is a slight stop. The wide-set ears hang close to the head. The eyes are oval in shape and are dark in color, except for brown, cafe-au-lait and some apricot colored Poodles, who have dark amber eyes. The topline is level, though there is a slight depression behind the withers. The tail is customarily docked to half its original length. All solid colors are permissible including, black, blue gray, silver, white, brown, cafe-au-lait and apricot. Standard Poodles should have a springy gait and carry themselves with pride at all times.

Size and Weight

Standard Poodles should stand 15 inches or taller at the highest point of the shoulder. Those who are shorter are not qualified to compete in the show ring as a Standard. Typically, the breed weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. There is no specific weight requirement, but the dog's weight should always be in good proportion.

Coat and Color

Standard Poodles wear a dense coat of curly, wiry-textured hair. They do not shed, which makes the breed an excellent choice for people who suffer from allergies. They may come in colors of black, blue, white, gray, silver, cafe-au-lait, brown, apricot or cream. Black, blue, white, silver or gray dogs will have black noses and eye rims, while cafe-au-lait, brown or apricot dogs have liver noses and eye rims.

Grooming needs

Standard show Poodles are allowed a few distinct grooming styles, including puppy, English saddle and Continental, but household Poodles can be clipped, trimmed or shaved in just about any style imaginable. Regardless of the style, a Poodle needs to be brushed regularly. While they do not shed, the hair grows constantly, so loose hair and tangles need to be prevented and removed so that mats do not form. Bathing and trimming is required every three weeks. Many owners prefer to use the services of a professional groomer, while others learn to use the clippers themselves, in order to save money.

Check the ears on a regular basis for signs of wax buildup, irritation or infection. Clean the ears with a cotton ball and a veterinarian-approved cleanser; never use a cotton swab in a dog's ear canal. Teeth should be brushed on a weekly basis to prevent tartar buildup, promote gum health and keep bad breath at bay. Trim nails monthly if the dog does not wear the toenails down naturally outdoors.