Breed Group: Non-Sporting Group
Shoulder Height: 9-24 in. (depending on variety)
Weight: 6-70 lb. (depending on variety)
Life Span: 11-20 years
Colors: Apricot, black, blue, brown, cream, gray, red, silver, silver beige, white
Interesting Facts
- The Poodle is the seventh most popular dog in the United States
- Breed originated in Germany, but the French gave poodles their distinct coat
- Comes in three different varieties: standard, miniature, and toy
- The dog most commonly associated with high culture
- The Poodle is the national dog of France
Overview
When somebody thinks of culture and class, the poodle is the first breed that comes to mind. Featuring a firm and curly coat that can be arranged in virtually any style, it is the breed of choice for people who want to beautify their pet.
While they are extremely intelligent and possess hypoallergenic coats, poodles have a definite mean streak about them. They require a very firm hand to keep them under control and, even with good social training, they are possessive of their people. They do not get along well with other dogs and lose patience with small children. They also require a lot of exercise to keep them happy.
Whether you have a poodle for the beauty value or not, they are difficult to groom either way. Their firm hair requires a wire brush and a lot of strength in order to keep it manageable. On the flip side, though, they are easily trained and do not shed.
Health Facts
Poodles are a fairly healthy breed and can live a long healthy life.
- Poodles are among the longest-living breeds recognized by the AKC, with some managing to survive into their twenties with proper exercise, a good diet, and medication
- Addison’s disease, an autoimmune disorder of the adrenal glands, is a common affliction with poodles
- Gastric dilatation volvulus, or GDV, is another relatively common affliction with poodles
Notable Animals
- The author John Steinbeck owned a poodle, as did Patrick Swayze
- The dog owned by Buffalo Bill in Silence of the Lambs was a poodle
- Poodles were favored war dogs of French officers during the Napoleonic era as well as during the Middle Ages
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