The Standard Poodle is over 15 inches (38.1 cm) at the highest point at the shoulder. Any poodle 15 inches (38.1 cm) or less in height shall be excused from competition as a Standard Poodle. If excused at three shows for this reason, the dog then has the same status as a disqualified dog.
Many people look at Poodles and think “froufrou.” It must be the hairdo, I guess, and the fact that sometimes the hairdo includes bows. A Poodle may even wear nail polish, which does make it hard for him to look “macho.” Or maybe the Poodle get its feminine label because people used to, or still, refer to Poodles as French Poodles, with the connotation that a French dog is dainty and above everyday doggy pursuits such as chasing a ball or chewing a stick. In reality, the Poodle was bred as a working farm dog ready, willing, and able to kill rats, herd livestock, and retrieve fallen game. Although the exact origin of the breed is unknown, the Poodle likely originated in Germany, not France. Early breeders designed the froufrou hairdo as a way to lighten the weight of a waterlogged coat while providing warmth and protection for vital organs and joints. Can you say the same for your designer cut? And as for the bows? Well, maybe they’re used to attract affection.
When researching a Poodle to add to your family, one of the most important decisions you make is whether to go small, medium, or large (sorry, no supersizing). The following list breaks down the three Poodle varieties:
- A Standard Poodle, according to the breed standard (see the following section and Chapter 2), measures over 15 inches tall at the withers (the highest part of the back, between the shoulder blades). Most Standards are between 23 to 25 inches, and you may see some that are 27 to 28 inches. Females weigh between 40 and 45 pounds, and males weigh between 50 and 55.
- Miniature Poodles stand between 10 and 15 inches at the withers and weigh between 12 and 15 pounds. Toy Poodles measure less than 10 inches at the withers and weigh between 5 and 10 pounds.
As dogs go, a Poodle has a relatively long life span, living anywhere from 14 to 18 years. Standards usually come in at the lower end, and Toys commonly have the longest lives. All Poodles should be lively, friendly dogs who get along well with other dogs and with people, and every dog has his own unique personality. The following list presents the different personality traits that the different varieties may exhibit. Remember that you’re dealing with a living creature, so there are no hard and fast rules:
- Standard Poodles are a bit more reserved and self-contained than Minis and Toys, and they appreciate having jobs to do. Yes, they enjoy work! They also may be a bit calmer. I’m not saying that Standards are mellow and laid-back; they have tons of energy and enough bounce for any family.
- A Miniature Poodle wants to be active all the time, whether that activity involves playing with a ball, taking a walk, chasing a Frisbee, or going for a swim. Because Minis are small but still sturdier than Toys, they often are an excellent choice for families that have children but aren’t able to meet the space and exercise needs of a Standard.
- A Toy Poodle is happy to cuddle, though he’s active when he needs to be. Many professional breeders and handlers consider the Toy to be a natural in the show ring, with personality plus to charm judges.
All Poodles, no matter the size or type, have a sense of humor. They like to have fun, and they want to make you laugh!
Have you done your research to determine whether a Poodle is the right dog for you? Are you ready to go out and get your Poodle? Have you scoured the Internet for cute doggie merchandise? Not so fast! First, you should pick out the traits you would like: Puppy or adult?, Toy, Miniature, or Standard?, Male or female? Which color?
You can go to a breeder to buy a Poodle, or you can check out shelters and rescue groups in your area. However, you should stay away from pet shops. Among other pitfalls, you don’t get to see the mother’s temperament, you don’t receive a health guarantee, and the price is sky high. Registering your dog with a reputable organization, such as the American Kennel Club or the United Kennel Club, gives you proof that your dog is a purebred Poodle. This proof is important if you plan to breed your Poodle. Even if you have no plans for breeding, your Poodle will need to be registered if you want to show in conformation. If you just want a pet and have no plans for breeding or competing, then you don’t need to register your Poodle.
Life with a Poodle is wonderful, but there are adjustments to make when you add a new member to your family. You need bowls, beds, toys, and a collar and lead, for starters. You also need to consider where in your home your Poodle will spend his days and nights, and you need to introduce him to other family members, both two- and four-legged. Whether you decide to feed your Poodle commercial dog food, make home-cooked meals, or opt for raw food, make sure you provide your Poodle with a balanced diet that includes the proper proportions of nutrients. Always watch your dog’s weight; extra pounds can lead to arthritis, heart problems, and diabetes.
Training Poodle
At the top of your “to do” list will be housetraining, and Poodles quickly learn this important lesson. Be consistent, and give your Poodle plenty of opportunities to do the right thing, in the right place. The same intelligence that makes Poodles easy to housetrain also means that without proper training, they’ll try to run their homes themselves. This attitude leads to all kinds of trouble. A yappy, illmannered Poodle dog, no matter his size, isn’t cute. I don’t mean to sound like a puppy drill sergeant. Just because you’re training doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. In fact, training means you can have more fun! The better trained your dog is, the more places you can go and the more activities you can try. For instance, you’ll have an easier time socializing your Poodle, or you can travel with your Poodle.
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