Breed Information
Poodles Come in Three Sizes
- The Standard Poodle: over 15 inches at the shoulder — most are in the 22-27″ range
- The Miniature Poodle: over 10 inches and not over 15 inches at the shoulder – most are in the 13-15″ range
- The Toy Poodle: 10 inches and under at the shoulder
The original Poodles were water dogs used for retrieving. To this day, their conformation and the texture and pattern of their coats reflect the purposes for which they were bred. Miniatures and Toys have been bred down from the larger Poodles and they exhibit the same general characteristics. The Poodle is an active, intelligent, ruggedly-built dog which is at the same time elegant and refined. Well-bred Poodles in all three varieties have steady, calm nerves, hardy constitutions and they can be easily trained. A Poodle is a “person” and he expects to be treated as one. Each one is a character and for that reason they make wonderful companions.
Exercise, Grooming, and Feeding
A Poodle should be a member of the family. Prospective owners of Poodles should be equipped to provide a fenced-in area in which the Poodle can exercise or be prepared to walk the Poodle regularly on a leash. Poodles permitted to roam are likely to be stolen or killed. Poodles require regular clipping and grooming; a dexterous owner can readily learn how to groom his own dog or he can take the Poodle to a professional grooming shop. Poodles are not finicky eaters, unless made so by indulgent owners. They thrive on simple, prepared dog foods.
Finding a Poodle
The best place to buy a Poodle is from a Poodle breeder. A reputable breeder tries to produce the ideal Poodle as described in the Standard of the Poodle. He or she plans breedings to produce a sound, healthy dog, excellent in conformation and temperament, one which will be both an ideal show dog and an ideal companion. This breeder has spent much time and effort in study, breeding and selection; his or her breeding program is based on accumulated knowledge of which dogs to use to produce the best Poodles.
Not all puppies in a litter will satisfy the definition of a show prospect. Maybe in a litter only one or two puppies will be retained for showing; the others will be classified as “pet puppies.” The differences will be so small that only an expert judge will be able to make the distinction; the eyes may be a bit too light, the tail a bit gay or the hocks a bit straight. All Poodles in the litter will display essentially the same characteristics, the same quality of construction, personality and health. For a pet price, a prospective buyer can purchase a well-bred, professionally raised Poodle, backed by the integrity of the breeder and accompanied by helpful advice, instructions and the enduring interest of the breeder in the welfare of the dog.
For Referrals on all 3 varieties of poodles please contact:
Tom Carneal
660-582-4955
