Dog class - Non sporting
Average height - 15 to 26 inches
Average weight - 48 to 66 pounds
Size - Medium
Average life span - 10 to 12 years

The Poodle is a lively and sensible dog that can be somewhat excitable (more so for the toy and miniature varieties, less so for the standard poodle). They are extremely responsive to obedience training and will be able to learn almost anything. Standard poodles are playful, enjoy being with children, are generally quiet, and make excellent family dogs. They have very curly coats and come in a variety of solid colors such as grey, white, black, cream, red, apricot, chocolate, blue or silver. Because of the curly coat and the fact that they are groomed frequently, poodles are good for people who have allergies to dogs.

The general consensus is that the breed originated in Germany with an outside possibility of Russia. The Poodle is known as Puddlen or Pudel in German, which means a dog that likes to splash water. In France, it is known as the Caniche or Duck Dog. The Poodle's ancestors are all good swimmers. Poodles come in a variety of sizes but are all considered the same breed.

Poodles love to be with people and make wonderfully intelligent pets. There is a good reason they are often used as circus dogs - they're very smart and love to learn tricks.

Fine in either the city (given enough exercise) or the country. The Poodle is good with other animals and has basically no behavioral problems. In addition, Poodles have a remarkable sense of humour and love people. They also come in a variety of colors from which to choose. Often overlooked, Standard Poodles are one of the better family dogs.

Poodles make wonderful pets for allergy sufferers, as they don't shed their hair.

As in most dogs, hip dysplasia, PRA, cataracts and epilepsy can affect Poodles. Standard Poodles are subject to gastric torsion/bloat, von Willebrand's Disease, skin disorders and autoimmune disorders.

The Poodle requires a very strict grooming schedule. In addition, the small toy variety can be fragile and very young children could inadvertently harm the dog.

Drawings from the first century depict the Poodle much as it is today. It has also been seen in art from the 15th, 16th, and 18th centuries and proves to be a favourite of artists.

Further Poodle Dog Resources