Poodle – Pure doggy genius
Featured image by © bigstockphoto.com / Richard Peterson
What is a Poodle?
The intelligent Poodle comes in 3 varieties Miniature, Toy and Standard. All three varieties have the same build and proportions. Poodles are super smart, eager to learn, athletic and highly trainable. Their name was derived from a German word meaning ‘puddle’ because they were excellent water dogs used for hunting. The poodle has been present in Europe for centuries in some form or another, though the origin of the breed is still debated. Lively discussions are abound as to whether the poodle descends from the French Barbet, or as a type of water dog from Germany. Interestingly enough, back in the they were clipped very little as it helped them in the water. Nowadays, we see all sorts of ridiculous poodle haircuts. Fashion vs utility I suppose.
Pros and Cons
- Virtually non shedding dog
- Best for people with allergies
- Highly intelligent. Easy to train and housebreak.
- Lively, playful and sociable with other dogs
- Various sizes available to choose from.
- Requires vigorous exercise
- Requires frequest grooming and clipping
- Exuberant jumping, romping and barking
- Serious potential health issues
- Can be skittish and emotionally sensitive.
Appearance
Group: Utility Dogs
Height:
Toy : 10 inches
Miniature: 11 – 14 inches
Standard: 18 – 23 inches
Weight:
Toy: up to 11 pounds
Miniature: 15 pounds
Standard: 48 pounds
The Poodle’s appearance is that of an active, intelligent and elegant dog, squarely built, well proportioned, and carrying himself confidently. They have a double coat of profuse, woolly, curly hair, which can and often does get clipped into some rather interesting and bemusing designs. Their colors range from black, white, brown, silver, silver-beige, cream and apricot. It is very interesting to notice that a lot of puppies are born one color, and as they mature, slowly changes to white.
Poodle Temperament
The Poodle ranks as the second smartest dog, behind the Border Collie, and is eager and willing to learn anything you teach it. Its friendly demeanor makes the Poodle an excellent companion, especially for children, as the Poodle is known for clowning around. As far a hunting goes, the breed has acute hearing and an excellent sense of orientation. They are active, athletic, loyal and enjoy the water.
However, beware of a temperamental problem that can arise. Poodles can become obstinate and resentful if force is used when training, or if they get spoiled too much. Take care to train the dog correctly and be consistent.
Grooming
Regular grooming plays a very important part of the Poodle’s regimen as their continuously growing coat can become matted into cords and smell. Unless you plan on keeping your Poodle’s coat short, you will need to brush daily to avoid matting. These dogs love the water and bath time. Baths should be given about once a week or so, and regularly clipping every four to six weeks. It is also important to ensure that they also have their nails clipped and their teeth brushed regularly.
Health
Although generally healthy and long lived, the Poodle can suffer from some pretty serious conditions. One of the more common disorders with the breed is chronic skin problems. The breed is also known to suffer from stomach rotation or bloat, due to their anatomy. The miniature and toy Poodles can suffer from slipping kneecaps, early gum disease. Sometimes this may happen by 4 years old, but can be prevented with a raw diet supplemented with raw meaty bones. Other notable conditions worth mentioning are hip dysplasia, retinal atrophy, epilepsy and Addison’s disease.
Life Expectancy
Poodles have a long lifespan of around 12 – 15 years depending on variety type.
5 Fun Facts About Poodles
- The poodle is France's national dog, where its called "caniche" or the "duck dog"
- Poodle actually originated in Germany
- Poodle fur will never stop growing, and as such requires regular grooming.
- Poodles are one of the smartest breeds. They rank second behind the Border Collie.
- The Poodle's hypoallergenic qualities has led to the creation of multiple cross-breeds. ex the Labradoodle
Environment
Alert, intelligent, instinctual, and hypoallergenic, they are a perfect companion to any allergy sufferers, and less likely to trigger an allergic response in people than other breeds. Playful and energetic, they are adaptable to large and small homes alike. They make great and tireless playmates for most children, and are a joy for the whole family. The Poodle likes peace and harmony in its environment. It make a good watchdog, though it is not an aggressive breed, and is accepting of other household pets and cats.
Adopt a Poodle
Looking to add a Poodle to your family? Consider adopting one instead.
http://www.poodleclubofamericarescuefoundationinc.org/
