Poodle Breed description: Character & Co
Poodle
Facts & Origin
What is the origin of the poodle?
Cynologists assume that the first poodles already existed more than 2,000 years ago in Persia and ancient Rome. At the beginning of the Middle Ages they were widespread, especially in France. Because of their enthusiasm for the wet element and their talent for swimming, they were used, among other things, to hunt ducks and other water birds. On the French and Portuguese Atlantic coasts they also helped fishermen to haul in their nets. Their love of water also gave them their name: "Puddeln" in Old High German meant to splash around in the water. Later, the poodle caused a furore among circus people: Since they quickly picked up tricks, they were real crowd pullers. A milestone was the year 1889, when the breed standard was defined.
What are the breed characteristics of the poodle?
If you suffer from allergies, the poodle is your perfect match. Its typical curly coat grows all year, so there is no change of coat. It is not only its characteristic appearance, but also its intelligence that makes this dog stand out. With his adaptability it is suitable for life in the city as well as in a house in the countryside. The four-legged friend always radiates a good mood and never shows aggressive behaviour. Therefore, it also gets along well with other dogs. Most of the time it greets people by wagging their tail, if necessary though, it will defend its family by barking loudly.
| Alternate Name | Caniche, Poodle, Standard Poodle |
| Origin | Germany |
| Life expectancy | 12 - 15 years |
| Care requirements | high-maintenance |
| Activity level | high |
| FCI group | Poodle |
| AKC group | non-sporting group |
| KC group | utility group |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
What are typical character traits of the poodle?
Poodles are among the most uncomplicated housemates you can imagine. They adapt to any surrounding and are affectionate companions in all situations of life. Thanks to their moderate urge to move, they also feel comfortable with older people who take them for leisurely walks. Important for this breed, however, is to stimulate them mentally. When learning tricks, your darling will present itself at its best. Dog sports like obedience training or agility are also fun activities for the animal. Poodles also appear to be fearless and remain calm even in tumultuous situations. This is one of the reasons why you can take them with you wherever you go. Most representatives of the breed also don't mind car journeys. Since the poodle is always in the mood for adventure, it is the perfect companion for children. If it stays healthy, it will remain playful until old age.
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
What are typical poodle diseases?
The following hereditary diseases can occur in poodles:
- Progressive retina atrophy: the retina slowly deteriorates
- Cataract
- Patella problems
- Epilepsy
If you choose a poodle mixed breed, hereditary diseases are rare.
What is to be considered in regards to poodle breeding?
Since the poodle tends to have eye problems, it is best to pay special attention to the parents' visual organ when you are breeding. If you buy a poodle in need, you are doing a good deed. The poor animal, which probably ended up in the shelter due to difficult circumstances, will thank you forever. A poodle from breeding can sometimes cost up to 2000 Euro.
Appearance and coat of the poodle
The curled coat makes the poodle unique. When you stroke it, the fur should not give way to the pressure of your hand and should remain elastic. A poodle pointer looks completely different, half poodle and half pointer. With him the coat is wiry and very dense. If you want to buy a purebred poodle, you can choose between the colours black, brown or white. Although the poodle does not shed a lot of hair, it needs regular grooming. It is better to get a poodle puppy used to keeping still during the procedure early on. The best way to do this is to start by brushing the wool with a soft brush. As with other training steps, positive reinforcement pays off. Later on, take your darling to the dog salon every six to eight weeks. In these intervals the coat must be shorn. With a little practice you will certainly be able to bring the coat into shape yourself. Animals with lion shearing are particularly striking: only the hind legs and the back are sheared down to the ribs. The rest of the coat remains, which gives the animal a lion-like appearance.
What is the average size and weight of a Poodle?
Today, the poodle is available in four different sizes and therefore the maximum weights of the dogs also vary. In the following table you can see the maximum weight and the approximate height measured at the withers:
| Giant Poodle | 45-60 cm | 28 kg |
| Small Poodle | 35-45 cm | 17 kg |
| Miniature Poodle | 28-35 cm | 6 kg |
| Toypoodle | 24-28 cm | 3 kg |
What is the average age of a Poodle?
Poodles reach an age of 13 to 17 years.
| Fur length | medium |
| Fur | curly |
| Ear shape | Floppy Ear |
| Tail | lang |
| Anatomy | slim, sporty |
| Size ♀ | 45 - 60 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 18 - 28 kg |
| Size ♂ | 45 - 60 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 18 - 28 kg |
| Suitable For | suitable for allergy sufferers, Beginner, Blind people, Children, Seniors |
Colors
Known Diseases
Eye diseases
Often occur with allergies and intolerances.
Epilepsy
Definition: Dog has epilepsy if, for example, at least two epileptic seizures occur more than 24 hours apart.
Cataract
Cataracts are still one of the most common causes of blindness, even in dogs.
Patellar problems
Problems with the Patellar can be a displacement or weak kneecap, which is one of the most common causes of lameness in dogs, also because of overweight.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a slowly progressive death of the retina in dogs.
FAQ
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Large Poodle, Small Poodle, Toy Poodle and Standard Poodle or Miniature Poodle.
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No, poodles are not aggressive.
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The coat of the Poodle is called hairiness. He sheds very little to not at all and is therefore considered a "hypoallergenic breed".
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Depending on the type, a poodle can cost between 1500 and 4500 euros. Especially large or king poodles are among the most expensive dog breeds.
Other medium dogs
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