Standard Poodle: The Best Dog Breed Ever

If you want to buy an intelligent dog that won't make you break out in hives from an allergic reaction, you may want to take a look at the Standard Poodle. If you are under the impression that Standard Poodles are not real dogs, because you've seen those ads where the woman in the pink dress is walking along the street with her matching pink Standard Poodle, take another look at this breed. These big dogs are not silly or shallow. They are loyal, spunky, and smart. In fact, the Standard Poodle was originally created to be a working dog, and many hunters still use this versatile dog to retrieve waterfowl.

Standard Poodles are big dogs, standing at least 15 inches tall and weighing over 45 pounds. Their floppy ears, curly coats, and dark eyes give them a gentle appearance. You can find these dogs in a wide range of colors, from black to parti-colored. Interestingly enough, I have noticed that many of these dogs are more nervous and high strung if they are white or cream colored, while most black Standard Poodles are dependable, calm dogs.

If you want your Standard Poodle to be happy and well adjusted, you will need to be prepared to teach him obedience. These dogs love to learn and excel in both obedience and agility trials. Standard Poodles are eager to please and do better with positive reinforcement, such as clicker training, than with negative forms of training.

Be on the look out for common puppy shenanigans, such as "counter surfing" or stealing. Standard Poodles like to eat and quickly learn to stand on their hind legs a few feet away from the counter to see what food is available. Once they see where the food they want is located, they will quickly steal it. If your fresh bread has vanished overnight several days in a row, your puppy may be a counter surfer.

The biggest drawback of the Standard Poodle breed is the amount of grooming required. You will need to brush your dog's coat out several times a week to avoid mats and tangles. When your puppy begins to develop an adult coat, it will require daily brushing, because the changing coat tangles constantly. Your dog will also need to be clipped. You can try a puppy clip or go for a more exotic lion or lamb clip. If you can find someone to teach you how to groom your dog, you can buy a good pair of clippers and do the job yourself. Otherwise, you will need to set aside $60 or more for monthly trips to the groomer.

So, if you want a big dog that loves kids, gets on well with other dogs, and spends his life trying to make you happy, you may want to take a close look at the wonderful Standard Poodle.