Description

The Poodle's coat may be groomed into three basic styles: the "pet clip" (or puppy clip), with relatively short hair all over the body, the "English saddle" clip, and the "Continental" clip with the rear half of the body shaved, bracelets left around the ankles and pom-poms left on the tails and hips. All other clips are not admissible in shows. The coat is either curly or corded. All solid colors are permissible. Examples: black, blue, silver, gray, cream, apricot, red, white, brown, or cafe-au-lait. The tail is set high and docked to half its length or slightly less. Dewclaws are generally removed. The feet are small, oval and webbed, with arched toes. The ears are long, flat, and wide, laying close to the head. The eyes are black or brown, with a lively expression. The head is long and the neck is solid and slightly arched. A good Poodle has a square silhouette, with approximately the same length as the height at the withers.

Origin

Although the Poodle has been known throughout Western Europe for at least 400 years, its origin is controversial. Whether it was developed in France, Germany, Denmark, or the ancient Piedmont is uncertain. Despite the claims of several other countries, France has now been officially recognized as its country of origin, and the breed occupies a special place in the affections of the French. It is certain that the Poodle is descended from a now nearly extinct French water dog, the Barbet and possibly the Hungarian Water Hound. The name "Poodle" probably derives from the German word "Pudel," which means one who plays in water. The Poodle was used as a gun dog and originally was used in Germany and France as a retriever of waterfowl. Hunters clipped the dog's thick coat to help him swim, leaving hair on the leg joints to protect them from extreme cold and sharp reeds. The French capitalized on the breed's high intelligence, trainability, and innate showmanship, and made the Poodle into a circus performer. His great popularity in that country led to the breed's common name "French Poodle." In France, however, the Poodle was called the "Caniche," or duck dog. The Poodle has been used to sniff out truffles lying underground in the woods. Poodles are depicted in 15th century paintings and in bas-reliefs from the 1st century. Toy Poodles became Miniature Poodle varieties were bred down from larger dogs, today known are judged by the same standard. Today, the Poodle is primarily a companion and show dog, though he can learn almost anything. Some of the Miniature Poodle's talents include: retrieving, agility, watchdogging, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.

Temperament

The Miniature Poodle is a cheerful, super smart, sensitive and highly trainable companion dog. The breed is great at learning tricks, and a favorite in the circus ring. The Poodle will feel slighted if it is left out of family activities. He is very amusing and clever. Many owners feel this dog understands speech in an uncanny way. Some love to play with children, but some are sensitive and nervous. They can be somewhat high-strung. Be careful where you buy your puppy. Purchase from parents you have met and liked, and even ask to see the grandparents if possible. They tend to be quite reserved with strangers and should be socialized as a puppy. Any effort the owner puts into training and socializing will be well rewarded. This is a very good watchdog for its size, seldom becoming aggressive. They do tend to bark a lot. Poodles are friendly with other dogs and non-canine pets.

Height

Height: 11-15 inches (28-38 cm.)

Weight

Weight: 15-17 pounds (7-8 kg.)

Known Health Problems

A long-lived breed, Poodles are, nevertheless, subject to many genetic diseases. Cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy may cause blindness. Allergies and skin conditions are common - possibly due to unskilled use of clippers or allergies to shampoo and/or color reinforcer. Runny eyes and ear infections are also common. They are also prone to PRA, diabetes, epilepsy and heart disease. Brown Poodles tend to become prematurely gray. Also IMHA (Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia)

Conditions for Living

The Miniature Poodle is good for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Exercise Requirments

of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced in yard. They adore water and love sessions of play.

Life Expectancy

About 12-15 years.

Grooming

Extensive grooming is needed. They must be bathed regularly and clipped every six to eight weeks. The ears should be checked regularly for mites and the ear hair should be pulled out if necessary. The traditional clips were developed to lighten the weight of the coat for swimming and protection to the joints and major organs from cold, but many owners opt for the plain lamb clip - the same length all over, because it is easier and more economical to maintain. The teeth need regular scaling. Poodles shed little to no hair and are good for allergy sufferers. (See description for different styles of clips.)

Group

Gun Dog, AKC Non-Sporting