The Poodle appeared so early in various parts of the world that there is some doubt to the land of origin. It is supposed to have come from Germany, where it is known as the Pudel or Canis Familiaris Aquatius. For years it has been regarded as the national dog of France, where it is known as the Caniche (duck dog).
The Poodle undoubtedly originated as a water retriever. In fact the unclipped Poodle of today bears great resemblance to the old Roughhaired Water Dog of England. There is little difference in the Irish Water Spaniel and the Poodle. The Irish Water Spaniel is born with short hair on its face and tail, unlike the Poodle.
Despite the Standard Poodle's claim to greater age than the other sizes of Poodle, there is some evidence to show that the smaller types developed only a short time after the breed assumed the general type by which it is recognized today. The smallest, Toy, was known in England in the 18th century.
The Standard, Miniature and Toy are sizes only, they are all the same breed, and governed by the same standards. The Standard Poodle should be 45-70 pounds for males, females should be 45-60 pounds. In addition to the differences in size and color, the Poodle enjoys another characteristic unique among doggy kinds, namely, a coat which lends itself to a great variety of styles.
The Standard Poodle is proud, elegant, dignified and good-natured. These dogs are highly intelligent and one of the most trainable breeds. They are pleasant, happy and sensitive. The Standard Poodle tends to be a bit calmer than the smaller variety of Poodles. They need to be with people and dislike being alone. For the most part they are generally friendly toward strangers, and are excellent with children. The Standard Poodle is good with other dogs. Some Standards are good guard dogs and some can be trained as hunters.
Although they adore water and love to go for walks, Poodles are not demanding as far as exercise goes. They however, will keep in better spirits and be fitter if given regular opportunities to run and play off the leash in a safe area. The Standard retains its sporting instincts, has great stamina, and needs more activity than the smaller varieties.
Their top coat is wiry in texture with thick, close curls. The undercoat is woolly and warm. The various clips is a matter of taste of the average owner, and needs groomed about every 4-6 weeks. The colors of the Poodle are even solid colors, blues, grays, silvers, browns, cafe-au-laits, apricots and creams.
Standard Poodles should be over 15 inches tall at the withers, Miniatures should be 15 inches or under, and Toy Poodle's should be 10 inches or under.
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