Poodle

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Poodles are known to be impressive dogs, very intelligent and graceful.

With their beautiful haircuts, elegant appearance and innate ability to perform, they are the best show dogs. Poodles are very affectionate family dogs and have a reputation for being very talented.

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These dogs are usually purebreds, but you can always find them at rescue stations, and they are often mixed with other breeds such as Maltese. In fact, the Maltese is very similar to the Poodle, making them a useful substitute. These dogs are very intelligent and easy to train, making sure they behave well with their owners. They need to keep busy, and too much free time can lead to destructive behaviors.

The different types of poodles fall into three main categories – standard, miniature and toy. Informally, there's also the teacup breed, which is rather small, not even as big as the very small toy poodle.

History and Origin

The Poodle is an older dog breed whose origins can be traced back to the 1400's in various lands across Germany. It is speculated that their main purpose is to aid in duck hunting, which requires good intelligence and awareness to take a soft bite when catching felled birds. The French were the next to continue developing the early poodle into what became known as the Caniche, which literally translates to "duck dog." As a breed, they quickly became the favorite dogs of European aristocrats.



As the poodle grew in popularity, breeders developed toy and miniature poodle versions. The Standard Poodle continues to be used for hunting, while the Mini is for truffle hunting, and the Toy is a rich man's pug.

The Poodle was registered with the Kennel Club in England in the 1870s and by the American Kennel Club in the 1880s. They became very popular in the United States after World War II.

Poodle Health and Recreation

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Poodle-1

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Different Types of Poodles and Poodle Mixes

Poodle crossbreeds run the gamut. Also known as "oodles," there are more than 40 poodle cross breeds, including:

  • Maltipoos – Maltipoos are cute, playful and intelligent little dogs. They are a cross between a Maltese and a poodle or miniature poodle. Depending on how strong or weak the Maltese gene is, Maltipoos may be hypoallergenic dogs, like poodles. The breed is great with children and enjoys spending time with the family. Maltipoo may have curly or scruffy coats. White, cream and silver are the most common coat colors, but they can also be blue, gray, black or brown.
  • Sheepadoodle – Learn more about the Sheepadoodle.
  • Havapoo – Read more about Havapoo.
  • Bernedoodle – Read more about the Bernedoodle.
  • Schnoodles – Schnoodles are a crossbreed dog that is a cross between a Poodle and a Schnauzer. Since poodles come in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and schnauzers also come in three sizes (miniature, standard, and giant), the breed varies widely in size. This breed is loving and loyal. They are also very intelligent and may have inherited the paranoia of Schnauzer parents. A Schnoodle's appearance will vary depending on the specific genes they inherit, and they may have a silky, wavy coat, straight or curly hair. They can also come in a variety of colors, including black, black and white, gray, silver, apricot, or sable.
  • Irish Graffiti – Read more about Irish Graffiti.
  • Saint Berdoodle – Read more about the Saint Berdoodle.
  • Labrador Retriever – The Labrador Retriever breed was created in 1989 by a man named Wally Conlon. He originally crossed the two dogs to create a service dog for a woman whose husband was allergic to the standard Labrador Retriever used as a guide dog. Today, they are highly sought after as family pets around the world. While all dogs are different, Labradors are generally easy to train. However, they are an intelligent breed, so be prepared to be independent and some stubborn when training.
  • Cavapoo – Read more about Cavapoo.
  • Peekaboo – Read more about Peekaboo.
  • Bordoodle – Read more about Bordoodles.
  • Pugapoo – Learn more about Pugapoo.
  • Cockapoo – Learn more about Cockapoo.
  • Poogle – Learn more about Poogle.
  • Doxiepoo – Read more about Doxiepoo.
  • Corgipoo – Learn more about Corgipoo.
  • Toy Poodle – Read more about the Toy Poodle.
  • Yorkie Poo – For Yorkie Poos, both parent breeds are the most popular breeds in America. When you combine them, you get the Yorkshire Poo, a very affectionate and vibrant combination. It does not have any recognized standard, but its general characteristics are a small and dainty body and a very expressive face. The soft coat can be curly or straight and comes in a variety of colors and markings, including black, white, cream, chocolate, apricot, and gray.
  • Chipoo – Read more about Chipoo.
  • Ausiedoodle – Ausiedoodles are a family of cute, furry animals. Aussiedoodles are born extremely intelligent animals and are very intelligent. It's also a fairytale cooperation dog that's almost as easy to train. The Aussiedoodle is fun to keep the family entertained and active. This is a great pet for an active family with a nice yard or nearby dog park.
  • Huskydoodle – Learn more about the Huskydoodle.
  • Newfypoo – Read more about Newfypoo.
  • Great Danoodle – Read more about the Great Danoodle.
  • Shepadoodle – Read more about Shepadoodle.
  • Australian Labrador Retriever – Learn more about the Australian Labrador Retriever.
  • Westiepoo – Westiepoos are social, intelligent dogs with a lot of curiosity. They are the result of crossing West Highland White Terriers with Miniature Poodles. These dogs date back to the 1970's. They are thought to have originated in the United States. These playful little dogs are a hit with families. They are loyal and protective of those they love.
  • Giant Schnoodle – Learn more about the Giant Schnoodle.
  • Boxerdoodle – Read more about Boxerdoodle.
  • Bassetoodle – Read more about Bassetoodle.
  • Springerdoodle – Learn more about the Springerdoodle.
  • Eskipoo – Read more about Eskipoo.
  • Dalmadoodle – Read more about the Dalmadoodle.
  • Weimardoodle – The Weimardoodle is a combination of a Weimaraner and a Poodle. Both Weimaraners and Poodles are friendly, strong and intelligent breeds, but they do have physical differences. When you combine them, you usually end up with a lean dog with a long, narrow muzzle, flapping ears, and a long, shaggy tail. The most common colors are black, white, cream, gray, brown, beige, and combinations of black and white.
  • Siberpoo – Read more about Siberpoo.
  • Miniature Labrador – Read more about Miniature Labradors.
  • Whoodle – Read more about Whoodle.
  • Poochon – Learn more about Poochon.
  • Pyredoodle – Read more about Pyredoodle.
  • Airedoodle – Learn more about the Airedoodle.
  • Bichpoo – Read more about Bichpoo.
  • Goldendoodle – Goldendoodles are medium sized and usually have a furry, shedding coat. Because it is a mix of two dogs, it has the sweet and lovable nature of a golden retriever and the intelligence level of a poodle. Although they may be acquired from breeders for a premium price, they may also be found in shelters with lower adoption fees.
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3 Pros and Cons of Ownership

advantage! shortcoming!
Poodles are intelligent dogs, making this a great choice if you're looking for a dog that is both intelligent and affectionate. Poodle grooming has to be fairly regular, which means you as the owner have to make sure you make time for your poodle on a regular basis.
These dogs are easy to train and happily complete any task assigned to them. Poodles are prone to many health problems and can get sick easily.
These dogs shed very little, so in the long run you don't have to worry about making a mess and cleaning up afterward. If the physical and mental health of these dogs is not taken care of, they can develop destructive behaviors.
Three poodles sitting side by side
Poodles are intelligent dogs, making this a great choice if you're looking for a dog that is both intelligent and affectionate.

© Chen Dongshan/Shutterstock.com

size and weight

Toy poodles are about 10 inches tall, miniature poodles are 11 to 15 inches tall, and standard poodles are about 15 to 22 inches long. Female poodles weigh approximately 45 to 60 pounds. Although the minimum size of the males is the same, when they are fully grown, they will be a little heavier than the females, reaching 70 pounds. The size varies depending on the type of poodle the owner gets, considering how small teacup and toy poodles can be in full size.

male female
high 15-22 inches tall 15-22 inches tall
weight 45 to 70 pounds, fully grown 45-60 lbs, fully grown
Poodle
Poodle size depends on the type, but a standard poodle weighs between 45 and 70 pounds and stands between 15 and 22 inches tall.

©Dulova Olga/Shutterstock.com

common health problems

These dogs are prone to many health problems, even if the pet owner chooses to purchase purebred puppies from a breeder. One of the most common problems they face is bloating, which is caused by a buildup of gas in the stomach.

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Addison's disease is another common condition that affects a dog's hormones. Although the Standard Poodle is the most widely known, all varieties are susceptible. This occurs when the adrenal glands become damaged, preventing their little bodies from producing enough aldosterone and cortisol. Thyroid disease is also common in this breed.
Poodles can also develop hip dysplasia, causing severe pain in the deformed hip muscles. These dogs are often at risk for epilepsy, although this is more common as the dog ages.

Therefore, some of the most common health problems they suffer from are:

  • bloating
  • Addison's disease
  • Thyroid disease
  • hip dysplasia
  • epilepsy
Woman giving medicine to miniature poodle
One of the most common problems faced by poodles is bloating, which is caused by a buildup of gas in the stomach.

© Varvara Serebrova/Shutterstock.com

temperament

These dogs are known to be extremely intelligent and loyal. They are loyal and easy to train. Plus, they make great family dogs and take commands quickly.

Standard Poodles are known to be very energetic. However, they are known to be more reserved than miniature poodles and toy poodles. Of the three varieties of the breed, the miniature poodle is the most active.

Miniature Poodles are also the most playful and best for children. Toy and Miniature Poodles have been known to be more mischievous than standard Poodles.

Poodle
Standard Poodles are known to be very energetic. However, they are known to be more reserved than miniature poodles and toy poodles.

©nieriss/Shutterstock.com

how to care for a

Like any other pet, these dogs have their own set of special needs. So, before buying a poodle, you should be able to figure out how to care for these dogs. Here are some things you should know:

The best dog food for them

These dogs can be fed muscle meat usually from turkey, beef, and duck, and other meat sources may include sheep, bison, and moose. They can also eat organ meats. The meat should be cooked first, as this breed has not been bred to be eaten raw. Steaming and boiling are the easiest cooking methods without adding any extra oils to the digestive system.

Adults can be fed about 1 to 2 times a day, while puppies should be fed 4 to 5 times a day because their stomachs are smaller and cannot digest large amounts of food at one time. Check out our list of all the best foods for poodles for all life stages.

Since Poodles are susceptible to endocrine/adrenal issues such as thyroid disease and Addison's disease, carefully consider the ingredients in your food. Here at AZ Animals we recommend Royal Canin Poodle Adult Breed Specialty Dry Dog Food.

On top of that, this food contains pyridoxine hydrochloride, which is a source of vitamin B6, necessary for ideal hormone regulation. Glucosamine and chondroitin to protect your poodle's joints, plus fatty acids and optimal protein levels for poodles.

Follow the links below to shop Royal Canin for Poodles on Chewy and Amazon.

best overall

Maintenance and Grooming

These dogs require a lot of grooming. You need to comb their hair every day. Proper grooming sessions need to be done every three to six weeks, although some people groom their dogs more frequently to maintain some grooming.

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However, strands that tangle and are difficult to comb and straighten should be cut with scissors – very carefully. A quality groomer is essential for pet owners who are unsure how to perform this maintenance themselves.

It's important to bathe your dog regularly, especially if he gets dirty after playing outside for too long. Depending on your specific needs, you should be able to find the right shampoo for your poodle online or at a dog store.

You'll also need to brush your dog's teeth and clip his nails. However, all of this must be done carefully lest you end up injuring your dog.

poodle with bow tie
Proper grooming sessions need to be done every three to six weeks, although some people groom their dogs more frequently to maintain some grooming.

©iStock.com/Nynke Van Holten

train

These dogs are easy to train. They are smart dogs and will easily take your commands. You can start by teaching your dog to call their name and slowly introduce other simple commands like sit, stand, and come when called. These dogs are eager to please and show off, but they need an adequate trainer.

Most Poodles will follow your commands and complete tasks assigned to them. They have a lot of energy and you'll love giving them tasks.

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exercise

These dogs need about an hour of exercise each day. A good walk usually does wonders for them. You can also engage them in an energizing game, which is sure to fill their exercise routine. With plenty of room to move, this physical activity reduces the risk of chewing and scratching.

puppy

Puppies are raised and cared for in the same way. However, puppies need to be fed 4-5 times a day compared to 1-2 times a day for adults because their stomachs are small and usually cannot digest large amounts of food at one time.

Standard poodle puppy in a basket
You should feed your poodle puppies 4-5 times a day as they have small stomachs and usually cannot digest much food at one time.

©Jennifer Stidham/Shutterstock.com

with children

These dogs make great family dogs. However, only miniature poodles are best suited for children. They are very playful and energetic and are considered good children in the family. Other breeds may be less patient and require more training to be considered family dogs.

The smartest dog breed - poodle
Poodles make great family pets.

© Anna_Bondarenko/Shutterstock.com

similar dog

While poodles can be beautiful additions to a home, they're not for everyone. Here are some dogs that are similar to poodles and may suit some pet owners better.

  • Afghan Hound: Although considered a hound breed, this dog is a similar size and weight, but has long, straight hair. It still needs a lot of work to keep it looking good. They are not as playful as poodles, but they are quieter. If the owner can satisfy their desire to chase anything that piques their interest, the Afghan Hound may be a good choice.
  • American Water Spaniel: Like the Poodle, the American Water Spaniel loves apartment living, and they are not well suited for some travel. They require about half as much food as a poodle, but they are just as easy to train.

famous example

Several celebrities have been known to have owned poodles, but teacup poodles are the most popular pets of them all. These include Walt Disney, Elizabeth Taylor, Lucille Ball, Katharine Hepburn, Jackie Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe.

The poodle has appeared in films such as Breakfast at Tiffany's and The Secret Life of Pets in the animated film series.

Do Poodles Shed cover image
Poodles have appeared in many movies and are a favorite pet choice of celebrities.

© Natallia Yaumenenka/Shutterstock.com

Here are some popular names for these dogs:

  • Charlie
  • Bella
  • cocoa
  • oliver
  • maximum

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Poodles typically cost between $700 and $1,200. Maintenance costs are typically around $1,500 per year, but it's not uncommon for purebred dogs like Maltese and Golden Retrievers to be expensive.

Only the miniature poodle is considered the best for taking care of children.

Yes, poodles make great family pets. They are very loyal by nature.

Poodles don't usually bark very often. However, these dogs sometimes let out bursts of barking when they are around strangers or when these dogs are excited.

No, these dogs are generally not aggressive. However, they have mental and physical needs. If these needs are not met, it can trigger destructive behavior in these dogs.

Yes, Poodles are known to be very smart and intelligent.

No, poodles are generally not smelly dogs.

Poodles are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and other animals.

Poodles belong to the animal kingdom.

Poodles belong to the class Mammalia.

Poodles belong to the phylum Chordate.

Poodles belong to the canine family.

Poodles belong to the order Carnivora.

Poodles belong to the genus Canis.

Poodles are covered in fur.

The scientific name of the poodle is Canis lupus.

The main difference between Poodles and Labradors is their parents.

Unlike Poodles, Labradors are mixed breed. They are the product of a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. Therefore, poodles are expensive and require a lot of time and effort.