<b>History:</> The Poodle is most likely descended from early German water retrievers but also may be related to spaniels from the Iberian Peninsula. The name "poodle" probably derives from the German word "Pudel" (one who plays in the water). Hunters clipped the dog's thick coat to help him swim, leaving hair on the leg joints to protect them from extreme cold and sharp reeds. The French capitalized on the breed's high intelligence, trainability and innate showmanship to use the Poodle as a circus performer. The breed's great popularity in that country led to the common name, "French Poodle". In France, however, the Poodle is called the "Caniche", or duck dog. The Poodle has also been used to sniff out truffles lying underground in the woods.
Poodles are depicted in 15th century paintings and in bas-reliefs from the 1st century. Toy Poodles became royal favorites, particularly in the 18th century. The Toy and Miniature Poodle varieties were bred down from larger dogs, today known as Standard Poodles. The three sizes are considered as one breed, and are judged by the same standard. Today, the Poodle is primarily a companion and show dog, though he can learn almost anything.
<b>Description:</> The Poodle's dense curly coat may be groomed into three basic styles, pet clip (or puppy clip) which is mostly relatively short hair all over the body, English saddle clip, or the continental (lion clip) with the rear half of the body shaved, bracelets left around the ankles and pom-poms left on the tail and hips. The tail is docked to 1/2 its length or slightly less. Dewclaws are generally removed. Always a solid color, the poodle may be black, blue, silver, gray, cream, apricot, red, white, brown or cafe-au-lait. His feet are small, oval and webbed, with arched toes. The ears are long, flat and wide, lying close to the head. The head is long with dark, almond-shaped eyes and an alert expression. A good poodle has a square silhouette, with approximately the same length as the height at the withers.
<b>Notes:</> Buy from OFA certified stock and ask questions about the hips and knees of parents and grandparents. Prone to PRA, runny eyes and ear infections. Ears should be cleaned regularly and excess hair removed from the insides. For the longer grooming styles, the coat requires brushing several times a week. Unless trained otherwise, the Miniature Poodle tends to bark a lot. This breed is extremely popular. Be sure to buy from a reputable breeder to avoid serious personality problems.
<b>Personality:</> The poodle is a cheerful, super smart, sensitive and highly trainable companion dog. The breed is great at learning tricks, and a favorite in the circus ring. He is very amusing and clever. Many owners feel this dog understands speech in an uncanny way. Some love to play with children but some are sensitive and nervous. Can be somewhat high-strung, be careful where you buy your puppy. Purchase from parents you have met and liked, and even ask to see the grandparents if possible. Tends to be quite reserved with strangers--socialize extensively as a puppy. Any effort the owner puts into training and socializing will be well rewarded.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Best with older, considerate children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Reserved with strangers.
<C>Trainability:</C> Very easy to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Moderately dependent on people.
<C>Dominance:</C> Low.
<C>Other Pets:</C> Generally good with other pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Friendly with other dogs.
<C>Noise:</C> Likes to bark.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> Extensive grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> Professional trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Curly coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Very light.
<C>Docking:</C> The tail is customarily docked.
<C>Exercise:</C> Moderate exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> A fair jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Very active indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Good for apartment living.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> Does all right without a yard.
<C>Climate:</C> Does well in most climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Good for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).
<b>Talents:</> retrieving, watchdog, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.
<b>For More Information:</>
Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute.
<b>Photo Caption:</> MINIATURE POODLE
Photos copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.
