When time to buy a puppy or even an adult dog, there are many things to learn and consider. Sadly, while the Poodle is probably one of the most recognized dogs in the world, many people still think of this breed as being one that barks a lot and does not like children but nothing could be further from the truth.
To dispel these rumors and show you some of the many reasons owning a Poodle dog breed is a great choice, we provided information.
Information and History about Poodles
Of all dog breeds, the Poodle is rated as one of the most intelligent. Because of this, both training and teaching a dog of this type tricks could not be easier or more enjoyable. Originally, the Poodle dog breed came from Germany although at that time, the only size was the Standard Poodle.
There are three sizes of Poodles to include:
- Standard – This size is the original from which the other two were bred down. The Standard Poodle, which is obviously the largest of the three, stands about 15 inches tall and weighs anywhere from 45 to 70 pounds.
- Miniature – The Miniature Poodle, which is the one most people think of, stands on average between 10 and 14 inches tall and weighs around 18 pounds at maturity
- Toy – Then, there is the Toy Poodle that is around 10 inches in height and weighs six pounds or less once full grown.
The Poodle dog breed actually dates back as far as the 15th century at which time it was called a Pudel. Initially and even today, this breed is considered and registered as a sporting dog because of its ability to hunt but also swim.
While there is some debate as to what breeds were mixed to ultimately create the Poodle, most experts believe this dog was the result of crossing the Water Spaniel with different Russian breeds. One of the most interesting facts about the Poodle is that France named it the national dog, giving it the new name Poodle, which translates “to splash in water.”
While it is rare in the United States to see people using the Poodle as a retriever for duck hunting and other water activities, the truth is that this breed does an exceptional job, even better than any other retrieving breed. As mentioned, because this breed does not shed, the fur must be clipped.
For people who show Poodles, cuts are quite extravagant but in the early years, the only reason the Poodle was clipped was to make it more buoyant in the water. Because the Standard Poodle is a large dog and due to growing demand for the same character and physical traits but in smaller form, breeding was able to produce both the Miniature and Toy varieties.
Pros of the Poodle Dog Breed
The list of positive attributes associated with the Poodle dog breed is quite long. Again, this dog is extremely smart and dedicated. Therefore, training of any kind would be readily accepted and mastered in a very short amount of time. We also mentioned that without shedding, the dog is the perfect choice for people with certain health issues.
While this may not matter to everyone, it is nice to have a wide selection when it comes to color. For instance, the Poodle comes in solid colors of white, gray, black, brown, apricot, cream, silver, and café-au-lait.
You would also find what are called Party Poodles, which have a combination of more than one color. Now, if you simply want an amazing family pet or companion, a Party Poodle would be fine but if your intention were to show or breed the dog, AKC sees this color combination as a flaw.
Because of this, a Party Poodle would be disqualified from being shown but also, this type of Poodle could never be registered nor could puppies born to her.
Another benefit of choosing a Poodle dog breed is the temperament. Most often, especially after being groomed, this breed possesses an air of arrogance but when it comes to personality and behavior, it passes all tests.
This dog is excellent with children, regardless of age, does everything possible to please its owner, is loving and affectionate, and gets along incredibly well with other animals if introduced while young.
Cons of a Poodle Dog Breed
Typically, grooming needs would be considered unimportant but since haircuts would be required every five to six weeks, you want to keep in mind the added expense.
Additionally, while not negative for everyone, the Poodle requires exercise so unless you have a fenced backyard or someone in the family who would be willing to provide daily walks and playtime, the Poodle may not be the right choice. On the other hand, if the activity needs of this breed could be met then this would not be an issue.
The last consideration that could be seen as a con is that unfortunately, the Poodle dog breed is susceptible to a number of health problems broken down by the specific variety as shown below:
- Standard – The Standard Poodle would be at risk for Sebaceous Adenitis, Addison’s disease, Hip Dysplasia, Epilepsy, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Von-Willebrand’s Disease, and Hypothyroidism.
- Miniature – For this size Poodle, health risks would include Hip Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Patella Subluxation, Epilepsy, Hypothyroidism, Cryptorchidism, and Legg-Calve-Perthes.
- Toy – This size would face the same risks as the Miniature Poodle with the exception of Hip Dysplasia.
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