The poodle is one of the best known dog breeds in the world, due to its elegance, intelligence and balanced character. According to the International Cynological Federation (FCI), poodles are classified into four varieties according to their size: toy, miniature, medium (or standard) and giant. However, other cynological associations may have different criteria. For example, the American Kennel Club (AKC) only recognizes three varieties of poodles based on their size: standard, miniature, and toy.
Origins
This is one of the many French dog breeds, although its origin is uncertain and controversial. It is thought that the ancestor that most influenced the modern poodle was the barbet, a spaniel that was widespread in Europe and especially in Germany.
Before the 16th century, the poodle and its ancestor were used as spaniels, to hunt and recover the killed prey. It is in the 16th century that poodles began to gain popularity as companion dogs, and they became very frequent in European courts and especially in France. Their great intelligence and elegance made poodles one of the most popular breeds in history.
Currently, poodles are excellent pets, whatever the variety to which they belong, and they are also very appreciated dogs in dog shows.
Characteristics
The body of these dogs is proportionate and slightly longer than it is tall. They are usually lighter than other breeds of similar sizes and according to the official FCI standard, the heights for the different varieties are as follows:
- Large Poodle - 17.5 to 23.5 inches at the withers.
- Medium Poodle - 13.5 to 17.5 inches at the withers.
- Miniature Poodle - 11 to 13.5 inches at the withers.
- Toy poodle 9.5 to 11 inches at the withers.
The coat of the poodle is abundant, fine-textured and wooly. It can be curly or in tufts and it is always one color. One of the great advantages of these dogs is that they hardly shed, making them excellent dogs for people with allergies. Their lifespan ranges from 10 to 15 years.
Temperament and behavior
Generally speaking, Poodles are highly intelligent, loyal, happy, and playful dogs. In fact, they are considered one of the ten most intelligent dogs in the world. They learn very easily and love to run, swim and pick up things with their mouths (they are good retrievers). The two larger varieties are usually a bit quieter than the two smaller varieties.
Poodles are very easy dogs to train but they need a lot of company otherwise they can suffer from separation anxiety. When they don't receive the proper physical and mental stimulus, these dogs get bored and can become barkers and/or destructive. In addition, those of the small varieties have a certain tendency to bark excessively.
Health
Although the Poodle tends to be a healthy dog in general, there are some diseases that are common in this breed. Among these diseases are sebaceous adenitis, gastric torsion and Addison's disease. Less frequently, cataracts, hip dysplasia and epilepsy.
For more information, talk to one of our Pet Experts and get customized advice by submitting a request in our Mavyn app or Mavyn Pet page.
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