Poodle

Utility

Size:

Grooming:

Exercise Level:

Trainability:

Barking Level:

Good with Children:

Good with other pets:

Affectionate:

Protective:

Height: 50 - 58cm M | 50 - 58cm F

Weight: 20 - 31kg M | 20 - 31kg F

Life Expectancy: 14 - 15 Years

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Introduction

The Poodle originated in Germany and is thought to have existed since the 15th to 16th centuries. Poodles are purposely bred to be water dogs specialising in retrieving games from cold waters like lakes and rivers.

There are 3 different types of Poodle breed sizes: Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles, and Standard Poodles. All 3 variations look the same except for their sizes. They are all playful, friendly, smart, responsive, and eager to please.

Most people know the Poodle dog breed as a pampered pet. However, he is more than that. Poodles are incredible multipurpose dogs that excel at dog sports. They are also incredibly smart, making them one of the most intelligent breeds in the world.

A high-maintenance pet, the Poodle dog breed may require regular trips to the groomer. Because he is an athletic canine, daily exercise is necessary to keep him from becoming destructive. The life expectancy of the breed is around 14–15 years.

Are you planning to buy a Poodle puppy? Here is a brief background on this elegant dog breed.

History

The Poodle dog breed is one of the oldest breeds believed to have originated in Germany. The word poodle comes from the German term pudel, which means “to splash in water.” The water dog had graced 15th- to 16th-century paintings and artefacts all over Europe.

In the late 18th century, the Poodle breed became the principal pet dog in Spain as shown in the paintings of the Spanish artist, Francisco Goya. At the same period, Poodles were the pampered favourites during the reign of King Louis XVI of France.

With his elegant and charming appearance, the Poodle dog breed’s genes have been utilised to develop other dog breeds such as the Miniature Schnauzer, Standard Schnauzer, and other Bichon-type dogs. The Standard Poodle is recognised by breeds clubs like the American Kennel Club and the Kennel Club.

What were Poodles bred for?

Poodles were bred as water retrievers who fetch game from lakes and rivers. They are also duck dogs who excel in duck hunting. Over the years, they proved to be useful and versatile dogs. They were also used as guard dogs, military dogs, guide dogs, circus performers, and wagon pullers for entertainers.

Appearance and Grooming

The breed has been bred in 3 sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard Poodles.

Adult Toy Poodles measure around 20–25 centimetres (8–10 inches) tall and weigh about 2–4 kilos (6–9 pounds).
Adult Miniature Poodles stand approximately 27–38 centimetres (11–15 inches) tall and weigh around 6–7 kilos (15–17 pounds).
Adult Standard Poodles grow about 50–58 centimetres (20–23 inches) tall and weigh about 20–31 kilos (45–70 pounds).

Poodles have an athletic body, square build, elegant appearance, and noble carriage. These water retriever dogs have a round and narrow skull, long muzzle, and oval-shaped eyes that are either brown or black.

Poodles sport long flat ears that flop forwards near the cheeks and a tail that is carried high.

The coat of the Poodle dog breed is naturally curly, harsh, and dense throughout. According to the breed standards, his coat colours include black, cream, white, silver, red, apricot, brown, and fawn.

The aspects of Poodle breed grooming include dental care such as brushing the teeth regularly and checking for signs of gum disease and bad breath. Keep on top of cleaning the ears to avoid wax build-up and infection.

Trim the Poodle’s nails every week or two to prevent painful overgrowth that can cause cracking and splitting.

Do Poodles shed?

Yes, but Poodles do not shed much. Dog grooming includes regularly clipping their curly coats about every 6–8 weeks. They are high-maintenance dogs since their coats form matts and tangle quite easily, which may require Poodle owners to hire a professional groomer.

Are Poodles hypoallergenic?

Yes, Poodles are one of the most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds. Their low-shedding coats lower the chances of dander and other allergens accumulation. They are good options for people with allergies.

Temperament and Intelligence

The Poodle breed is a friendly, easy-going family dog that likes to be with people and other canines. He is a funny creature and a natural-born entertainer. He loves nothing more than to be the centre of attention.

The Poodle dog breed is also amongst the smartest dogs capable of outsmarting his owners. The breed’s intelligence often translates into stubbornness if he is not trained or socialised early.

Although the Poodle breed comes in different sizes, all of the types share the same temperament except for some minor differences in behaviour. For example, Standard Poodles are active and lively, but also a bit aloof and like to have something to do.

Miniature Poodles, on the other hand, are the most active amongst the 3 sizes and are a bit more mischievous. Whereas Toy Poodles are the ideal companion dogs because they are confident and small enough to dwell in city apartments.

The Poodle dog breed is a great family dog for households with children. However, Toy Poodles are more suitable for households with older children who know how to handle small delicate dogs.

As with all dog breeds, children should be taught how to approach and treat dogs. Always supervise any interaction between the dogs and the children, so no one gets hurt.

When it comes to other pets, they get along with all dogs and even small animals, especially those that they grow up with.

Are Poodles aggressive?

No, Poodles are not aggressive dogs, but they do have mild protective instincts. When they are around strangers, they may either be friendly or reserved but not vicious. Socialising Poodle puppies at an early age will keep them from becoming overly cautious or shy.

Do Poodles bark a lot?

No, Poodles are moderate barkers and will bark at anyone approaching the house. Avoid this behaviour from becoming a nuisance by training Poodle puppies to inhibit barking whilst they are young.

The Poodle breed is highly intelligent, thus they will quickly learn through consistent training.

Do Poodles like to cuddle?

Yes, Poodles love to cuddle. These dogs are affectionate animals and will not mind showing their love for their human companions. They are great pets for families who want expressively loving canine friends.

Can Poodles be left alone?

Yes, Poodles can be left alone but not more than 8–9 hours. However, they should receive enough exercise before you leave, or else they may become hyperactive and destructive.

Hire a pet sitter or ask a friend to take care of your Poodle if you are planning to be away from home for more than a few hours. If left for too long, he may develop separation anxiety, just like any dog.

Nutrition and Feeding

A typical serving for adult Poodles will vary depending on their size:

Standard Poodles – 1 1/2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry dog food
Miniature Poodles – 3/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry dog food
Toy Poodles – 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry dog food

If you want to be sure that you are providing the exact amount and the right balanced diet, consult a veterinarian.

The typical daily calorie needs of adult Poodles with average sizes and weights:

Standard Poodles (20–31 kilos/45–70 pounds):

Senior and less active: up to 1,340 calories
Typical adults: up to 1,500 calories
Physically active/working dogs: up to 1,670 calories

Miniature Poodles (6–7 kilos/15–17 pounds):

Senior and less active: up to 470 calories
Typical adults: up to 530 calories
Physically active/working dogs: up to 590 calories

Toy Poodles (2–4 kilos/6–9 pounds):

Senior and less active: up to 267 calories
Typical adults: up to 300 calories
Physically active/working dogs: up to 330 calories

Always provide the Poodle dog breed with the nutritional requirement he deserves. Make sure that you buy commercial dog food formulated for his size.

Also, always check to make sure that one of the top ingredients of the dog food includes animal protein. It is essential in providing him with enough energy and keeping his coat and skin healthy and shiny.

Health and Exercise

The Poodle dog breed generally has a 14 to 15 year lifespan. He can reach his maximum age if he is provided with everything he needs to be healthy and happy. However, like most dogs, the breed is also prone to certain genetic health issues such as:

Sebaceous Adenitis

This immune-mediated skin disease causes the inflammation of the sebaceous glands of the skin. It causes the skin to become dry and the coat to turn brittle.

Standard Poodles are more prone to this health problem than Miniature and Toy Poodles. There is no definitive cure to this skin issue, but it can be managed through medications.

Hip Dysplasia

This is a painful bone and joint problem that is common in large dog breeds, but it can afflict any dog. The Poodle dog breed is susceptible to this condition, especially if proper exercise management at a young age is not observed.

Overexercising Poodle puppies can strain their joints, causing hip dysplasia. This health issue can be treated by medications or surgery.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is an incurable ocular problem that can lead Poodles to become permanently blind. Since its effects are irreversible, dog owners should make adjustments in their homes for their afflicted pet. The home should be safe for dogs with vision loss to navigate from room to room.

Gastric Dilatation Volvulus

This is a fatal stomach problem more known as dog bloat. Although it usually occurs in large dog breeds, this health problem can develop in all dogs regardless of their size. Poodles with dog bloat should be taken to the vet immediately as it can be life-threatening if treatment is delayed.

The Poodle dog breed is a highly energetic canine that requires 60 minutes of exercise daily. You can also provide him with a short and challenging play session or take him for a swim.

The Poodle can also benefit from obedience sessions, so he can be mentally stimulated. He can even participate in dog shows if trained properly

Cost of Ownership

If you are planning to buy a Poodle puppy, you would need to pay £2,000–£3,000 for a well-bred pedigree puppy. Monthly food costs for your pooch can cost around £40–£60.

Before bringing home a Poodle puppy, buying his essentials such as lead, collar, and food and water bowls is important. Prepare to pay around £100–£400 for these items.

Owning a Poodle puppy entails getting him checked by the vet regularly. Every check-up session will cost you £30–£60. Get him protected against deadly canine diseases through vaccination.

You will need to spend £100–150 for the first round of vaccine shots, whilst £50-£60 for annual vaccine boosters. Spaying or neutering your Poodle puppy will set you back around £110–£400.

Getting your Poodle insured will aid in decreasing his medical fees. If you opt for time-limited insurance, its monthly fees will be around £45. On the other hand, if you choose a lifetime insurance, you will be paying around £53 per month.

This pricing may change depending on your Poodle puppy's age and health. Old and sickly dogs tend to have more costly insurance fees than healthy and young dogs.

Poodle Breed Highlights

The Poodle dog breed is an incredible multipurpose dog that excels at canine sports.
The breed comes in 3 sizes, which include Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles, and Standard Poodles.
Poodles are friendly, easy-going family dogs that like to be with people and other pooches.
This dog breed is also amongst the smartest dogs.
Regardless of size, Poodles are good watchdogs and will bark at anyone approaching the house.