The Poodle is commonly thought to have come from France, although it is descended from several different rough-coated water dogs that were distributed in Hungary, Russia, Asia and France. These early dogs were used for herding. It is the version of the Poodle that originated in Germany that we most think of today as a Poodle. The word even comes from the German "pfudel", meaning "splash".
These early Poodles were prized for their duck hunting abilities, herding talents, military service and as circus performers. They eventually became popular as elegant companions for wealthy ladies. The coat was shorn off for swimming – except for the chest, which helped to keep the body warm. It’s thought that the other puffs of hair were added during its circus performing as decoration.
Poodles need regular grooming to avoid mats and tangles in the long fur, which doesn’t fall out, but becomes tangled in the surrounding hair. However, it isn’t necessary to have them groomed in the fancy clip. A "puppy clip" leaves them looking very nice and is easier to maintain. For the same reason, we do not advise attempting to kennel these dogs outside.
The Miniature Poodle should stand under 15” tall and weigh around 20 pounds, while the Standard Poodle is between 15 and 21” tall and between 45 and 65 pounds. There is no standard color for the Poodle – as long as it is a solid color.
The Poodle is smart, playful and eager to please. An amiable companion, it is sensitive to its owners’ moods and tends to become devoted to one person. Usually good with children, and other pets, it can be reserved with strangers.
