Poodle - Breed Information

Have you always wanted a dog but were unable to get one due to allergies? If so, then you can never go wrong with a Poodle. Unlike most other dog breeds, the coat of a Poodle is hypoallergenic which is ideal for allergy sufferers.

Appearance

The standard Poodle is a medium/large non-sporting dog that grows at least 15 inches in height and weighs 45 to 70 pounds.  They live for about 12 to 15 years and sometimes longer.

Among the distinctive features of a Poodle include a round skull and an extended muzzle with brown/black oval eyes. These dogs have long flat ears and tail. Their coat can either be corded or curly depending on the owner's preference and come in all shades and pattern variations.

History

Poodles are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world and are widely speculated to have started in Germany as early as the 15th century.  The name is taken from the German term "pudel" which means "one who plays in water" and fittingly so. Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers which explain the unusual coat trim that helps them safely swim through cold waters.

There exist two variations of the Poodle dog breed - the Miniature and Toy poodle. Both were bred from Standard Poodles over many generations due to the preference of smaller size.

In 1887, the American Kennel Club recognized the Poodle and all its' variations as a distinct dog breed.

Temperament

One of the best things about getting a Poodle for a pet is that they are very intelligent. Most people will not find it difficult to train them to perform tricks, and they are eager to please. Nevertheless, these dogs require firm and consistent handling to prevent undesirable behavior.

Poodles do not like being left alone for a long time and often results in separation anxiety. Hence you should not get one if you plan on keeping them in a Kennel or confined to a yard for most of the day. These dogs love to be around their owners and are great companions for children which makes them good household pets.

Potential Health Problems

With regards to health, there are some illnesses that Poodle owners ought to be aware of as they are relatively common to the breed. Such diseases include the following:

• Progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and other common eye problems
• Hip dysplasia
• Blood clotting diseases (Von Willebrand’s Disease)
• Bloating
• Allergies and skin diseases

While the health problems mentioned above won't necessarily affect every Poodle, owners will do well to have their pet checked regularly for such illnesses.

Care and Grooming

Unlike their smaller counterparts, standard Poodles require exercise on a daily basis. They like to play in the water as their German namesake suggests, but most are content with daily walks. Poodles are not active indoors and require a small outdoor area to keep them happy.

Grooming can be a challenge for most Poodle owners which is why they almost always resort to professional grooming services save for a few who opted to learn how to do it themselves.

These dogs do not shed their coats which is what makes them hypoallergenic. Unfortunately, this also means that their coat needs to be trimmed regularly.  Poodles that are kept primarily as household pets are given a short puppy clip trim. Showdog Poodles, on the other hand, are shaved while leaving certain areas of the coat intact.

Get a Poodle calendar with grids large enough for recording upcoming events and schedules.