Poodle : 10 Most Common Questions
The Poodle may be one of the most misunderstood breeds, as many people will think only of a show Poodle that is trimmed and dainty. This is a very active and hardy dog that was originally bred to work with the hunter to retrieve water fowl and other game. The Poodle is one of the most intelligent breeds as well and should be very good at learning tricks and activities for competition.
We have put together 10 of the most common questions asked about Poodles and have provided answers for each.
1. What is the history/background of the Poodle?
Though this dog is often thought of as a French Poodle, it is really a very old breed, with roots that go back hundreds of years. Its origin is still in questions but some trace it to Russia or Asia.
The Portuguese water dog is a related breed. There is some evidence that a similar type of dog was part of Egyptian and Roman life centuries ago.
2. Where does the name come from? Why is it called Poodle?
The name originates with the Old German word “pudel,” which means “to splash about.” The Poodle was originally bred to be a gun dog or water dog, for retrieving game. In France, this breed is known as the caniche.
3. How big does the Poodle get?
There are three recognized sizes or varieties in the Poodle breed. They are the toy, the miniature and the standard. The toy Poodle will usually weigh less than10 pounds and stands less than a foot tall at the shoulder.
The miniature will be a few inches taller and weigh up to 15 pounds. The standard may be 20 inches tall or more and can weigh 45 to 70 pounds.
4. I see all types of trimming and grooming on Poodles. What is best?
The unique trimming of the Poodle coat was originally done by leaving some parts of the coat long to protect parts of the body. Other parts were cut very short to avoid tangling the coat when the dog worked in the outdoors.
Many owners clip the Poodle for show in styles such as the English Saddle with leg bracelets and the Continental or lion clip.
5. What is a “corded” poodle?
This occurs when the curly or short coat is allowed to grow longer and the cords hang naturally. This is actually recognized as one of two distinct types of coat in national registries. Histories of the breed show that the corded or “wavy” coat is the older of the two types.
6. Are Poodles really very intelligent?
Some consider this breed to be the most intelligent of all purebred dogs. The Poodle is certainly very intelligent and excellent at learning tricks and activities for competition. The Poodle is also a rather mellow dog overall, especially the standard variety as an adult.
This breed has a natural hunting instinct, though even toy Poodles will point birds. Poodles are so intelligent that they may become bored quite easily if not challenged or given some chance to play and exercise regularly.
7. I have heard they do not shed much. Is this true?
Poodles do not shed nearly as much as many other breeds. However, the coat will require regular attention to keep it from matting and getting unmanageable. A good pair of scissors is often enough to keep a pet Poodle in trim.
Show poodles may need professional grooming.
8. Are Poodles good family pets and watchdogs?
The short answer to this question is yes. Poodles are excellent watchdogs due to their intelligence and overall alertness. They generally bond with all family members rather than one person and can be great with children.
They are very smart and eager to learn, so they can be fun as pets.
9. How long do Poodles live?
Smaller dogs tend to live a bit longer than the larger breeds. Poodles may live as long as 15 to 20 years with good care and proper nutrition.
However, this breed can be subject to some inherited diseases such as hip dysplasia and retinal atrophy, so new owners should consult with the breeder and a veterinarian about these conditions.
10. What can Poodles do other than as a house pet?
Most Poodles today are kept as pets, but the breed was originally an active outdoor animal, used in hunting and even in tracking.
Some Poodles are now used for hunting, as guide dogs and in some cases for finding truffles.
Read More About Poodle
- Poodle Breed Information
- Poodle Training Guide
- Poodle Health Guide
- Owning a Poodle : Breeder Recommendations
