Poodle Dog Breed: Characteristics, Facts and Names

The poodle is an elegant dog breed known for their intelligence and skills. They very proudly compete in shows and dog sports. In general, they are multi-talented dogs. Poodles are known to be of three varieties namely Standards, Miniature, and Toys.

They are differentiated on the basis of their size and built. We may be mistaken if we think that a poodle is fragile and sassy. Instead, this dog is versatile. They have great strength and do very well in dog sports.

Poodle Dog Breed Overview

poodle dog breed overview

Group: Non-Sporting
Size: Large (45-65 pounds)
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Best Suited For: Families
Temperament: Alert, Active, Intelligent, Loyal
Exercise Needs: Moderate
Drooling Potential: Low
Grooming Needs: High
Similar Breeds: Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, Labrador Retriever

1. Basic Features

poodle and her pups

The Poodles are active dogs which have a square built. They have dark eyes with an intelligent expression on them always. Their ears are set at eye level and fold close to their heads. Furthermore, poodles have a curly coat which is dense. Most of them have a lion-cut or are shaven in some similar fashion.

Most common colors in a poodle are white, black, brown, gray, and cream. They may have other colors as well.

Poodles are known for their great sense of humor and smartness. They excel at activities and are certainly everybody’s favorite.

2. Poodle Origin

These smart creatures originated in Germany. It is believed to be a very old breed.

Based on their size they were used for duck hunting or to sniff out truffles or to serve as a companion dog.

After being introduced in France the Poodle served as a military dog, guide dog and a guard dog for long. They eventually began to be used as circus dogs. They became famous among French aristocrats and soon became the national dog of France.

It became quite famous in the US too only to go extinct in the 1920s. However, they did make a comeback and instantly became the most liked dogs in America.

3. The Personality of Poodle

Poodles are happy dogs who love making new friends. The Poodle is known to be a people-pleaser. Known for their sense of humor, poodles love being loved. Above all, they are extremely smart dogs who will learn a number of tricks to please you and gain everyone’s attention.

They’re forever active and will always have a high energy. Poodles like involving themselves in activities. They pick up new tricks rather easily and take pride in showing them off.

4. Poodle Behavior

poodle in wild

Poodles are known for their friendly behavior and are one of the best companion dogs. They are very intelligent and may turn mischievous if their energy is not channelized in a positive manner. Therefore, it is important to keep a Poodle’s mind busy in some activity.

They are highly sociable but may be a little reserved in the first meeting. They do well in obedience training.

Poodles are good with children and are considered nice with toddlers. Poodles like being involved in family activities and hate being left alone. They may get anxious about being left alone.

They are protective of their home and family and will bark at strangers and will sense danger.

5. Exercise Requirements

Poodles are active dogs with high energy. They need a good amount of exercise every day to match their high energy.

Poodles really enjoy staying busy and indulging in all kinds of activities. They will take up any activity they enjoy.

They will love taking long walks with their human. Poodles love water and will enjoy swimming. Since they are intelligent dogs, it is important to keep a Poodle’s mind busy as well. Indulging him in mental activity will help keep his mind busy.

6. Diet Needs

Due to their active lifestyle, Poodles require a diet which is rich in protein. They also require fats in their diet which would act as a fuel for these high energy dogs.

How much food your dog needs also depends on his lifestyle, daily activity, and age. However, every diet should include all the important components namely proteins, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats in the right amount. Feeding foods containing fruits and vegetables to your Poodle may also be a good idea as this serves as an excellent source of fiber.

Finally, healthy oils should be an essential component too as it keeps the coat thick, shiny and soft.

7. Trainability

poodle in a show

Poodles, as we know are highly intelligent and thus respond very well to training. These dogs are highly trainable and obedient when it comes to training. They are good at sports and enjoy doing a variety of activities.

Poodles enjoy positive training methods. They are people oriented and will love training if you keep it fun. Because they are people pleasers, they will not take long to please you.

8. Common Health Problems

Though the Poodle is a fairly healthy breed, they are prone to some genetic health conditions. Thyroid issues, Addison’s disease, Gastric dilatation, epilepsy are some of them.

Addison’s disease is a condition in which the Arenal glands do not produce sufficient adrenal hormones. This leads to vomiting, poor appetite, and lethargy in dogs. This disease may not be diagnosed until later stages.

Epilepsy, where the poodle gets seizures another common health issue. However, seizures can also be caused by metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, and head injuries. Also, the Poodle may also be at risk to a bloat.

Hence, it is important to diagnose these health conditions before it becomes dangerous for your pooch.

9. Who should Adopt a Poodle?

Poodles are adaptable and do well in all kinds of homes. They do well in apartments as long as their regular exercise is provided to them.

Poodles are excellent with children and are preferred for families with children. It is important to make him a part of your family and indulging him in activities with yourself.

Above all, Poodles long for a human companionship, so make sure you have enough time to give to your dog. This is one important thing to keep in mind before you get this amazingly intelligent dog home!

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