If you are looking for a tiny sport dog breed that is quite agile, intelligent, obedient and easily trainable, any kind of Poodle might be the pooch for you.
Origin
The breed is believed to have originated in Germany, where it was known as the Pudelhund, however, the Poodle as we know today was standardized in France, where it was commonly used as a water retriever.
Since the breed became extremely popular very quickly, it became established as its national breed.
Description
They come in a variety of sizes, but The Fédération Cynologique Internationale, or FCI, recognizes four standard sizes of the breed: standard, miniature, and toy.
According to the American Kennel Club, sizes are listed as follows: Standard – over 15 inches (38 cm); Miniature – 10 to 15 inches (25.4 to 38cm); Toy – under 10 inches (25.4cm).
As far as their coat is concerned, poodles have a single layer coat composed of dense and curly fur. They shed minimally. The Poodle comes in various colors, however, the standards include white, black, brown, parti, silver, gray, silver beige, apricot, red, cream, sable, and patterns such as phantom and brindle.
When it comes to their temperament, Poodles are highly intelligent, energetic, and sociable breed, requiring both physical and intellectual activities on a daily basis. At first they are reserved with strangers, but later should gradually become warm and personable.
Pros
- intelligent
- trainable
- excellent watchdog
- highly adaptable
Cons
- hypoallergenic
- prone to gas problems and stomach “bloats”
- susceptible to Addison’s disease
- require a lot of grooming
Should I adopt/buy a Poodle?
If you are in the need of an excellent small breed watchdog, the Poodle is probably number one choice.
Thanks for the information. We used to have a poodle a while back. She was definitely one of my favorite dogs that I’ve owned. She was extremely intelligent and a great watchdog. She lived till she was 14 years old, and had minimal health problems. I’ll definitely be buying another as soon as the kids are a bit older. Thanks again.