Although the Poodle is the national breed of France, it actually originated in Germany where it was used as a water retriever. Many believe the name "Pudel" comes from the German word "pudel" which means "one who plays in water."

In fact, the famous "Poodle Clip" was created by hunters to help the breed swim faster and more efficiently. The clip was not created as a decorative element. It was created to protect certain vital organs and joints of the breed in cold water.

The term "French Poodle" comes from France's capitalization of the breed's intelligence, trainability and eagerness to perform. The French turned poodles into popular circus performers where they gained notoriety and became Louis XVI and Queen Anne's court favorites. They have long since been associated with royalty. Even America's President, Grover Cleveland, owned a poodle.

The Standard Poodle, the largest of the three recognized varieties, is the oldest of the breed. All of the poodle's ancestors were water dogs known for their swimming abilities.

The poodle is the only breed that comes in three AKC registered varieties. The three recognized types are the Standard Poodle, the Miniature Poodle and the Toy Poodle. The Standard is the tallest, measuring over 15 inches. The Miniature is 15 inches or under, but a minimum of 10 inches. The Toy is under 10 inches.

The breed comes in a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray.

The Poodle is an exceptionally intelligent dog that excels in obedience training. Its intelligence and ability to learn makes it one of the most popular breeds in the world. It is considered one of the easiest breeds to train. Also, its hypoallergenic coat makes it a favorite amongst owners. It does not shed, but does require grooming on a regular basis. The breed adapts well to any living conditions, making it an ideal pet for apartments. However, it is an active dog and does require daily exercise.

The Poodle carries itself proudly and has a very distinct air of dignity. The word "elegant" is most often used to describe the breed. The Poodle is known to be shy, but sharp at the same time. Poodles are reserved with strangers and unless trained at an early age, can bark excessively.

The Standard Poodle is considered to be a large dog of high intelligence and trainability. Elegant, strong and good natured, it makes an excellent family dog. It has a thick, soft, curly coat that does not shed but requires daily grooming. The ears are wide and hang close to the head. The eyes are very dark and alert. The feet are compact and the breed has an effortless and delightful gait (like walking on air.)

The Standard Poodle is pleasant, happy and generally easy to maintain. It is a loyal companion but unlike the Miniature and Toy varieties of the breed, can be less sensitive to its surroundings and does not bond to one owner or one household as much.

The Standard Poodle is considered the calmer of the Poodle varieties. They are friendly and excellent with children and other dogs.

Height: 15 inches
Weight: 45-70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

The Standard Poodle is inactive indoors and even a small yard is acceptable to them. However they do require daily walks. They are not overly demanding but their temperament is based on their living conditions.

This is a long lived breed but it is subject to certain genetic diseases like most dogs. Cataracts, skin conditions (from allergies to certain shampoos,) hip dysplasia, runny nose and ear infections are common. Also, the breed is subject to bloating, so only feed it two to three small meals a day instead of one or two large meals.

The Miniature Poodle is considered to be a medium dog of high intelligence and trainability. More cheerful and playful than the Standard variety of poodle, it has a thick, soft, curly coat that does not shed but requires daily grooming. The ears are wide and hang close to the head. The eyes are very dark and alert. The feet are compact and the breed has a spunky gait.

The Miniature Poodle is an amusing, often curious dog. It is a loyal companion that insists on being included in all of its owner's activities. It can learn tricks effortlessly.

It is considered less calm than the Standard Poodle, but not as feisty as the Toy Poodle. Most Miniature Poodles love children and other dogs but will exhibit jealous tendencies and can display sharp reactions.

They can be over playful and must be trained early on, that there is a limit to play time. Overall, they are friendly and make excellent pets.

Height: 11-15 inches
Weight: 15-17 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

The Miniature Poodle is a good dog for apartment life. They are active indoors but do fine without a yard. However they do require daily walks. They are not overly demanding but their temperament is based on their living conditions.

This is a long lived breed but it is subject to certain genetic diseases like most dogs. Cataracts, skin conditions (from allergies to certain shampoos,) hip dysplasia, runny nose and ear infections are common. Also, the breed is subject to bloating, so only feed it two to three small meals a day instead of one or two large meals.

The Toy Poodle is considered to be a small dog of high intelligence and trainability. More sensitive than the Standard and Toy varieties, it is also considered the smartest of the three.

It has a thick, soft, curly coat that does not shed but requires daily grooming. The ears are small and long and hang close to the head. The eyes are very dark and alert. The feet are compact and the breed has a perfect gait.

Toy Poodles are sensitive but extremely intelligent. They are very responsive and alert. They can be a delight, but also demanding. They do not like strangers and are reserved around children and other dogs. They are known to snap if they are teased, surprised or not handled properly.

Toy Poodles usually bond with one owner for life and are extremely loyal to that individual and will defend them at all cost, despite their size. However, a true "lap dog," the Toy Poodle expects an equal amount of loyalty and love in return.

The Toy Poodle adapts better to one dog households and does not do well with small children. They are considered the least calm of the three poodle varieties.

Height: up to 10 inches
Weight: 3-8 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

The Toy Poodle is a good dog for apartment life. It adapts very well to "city life."

Toy Poodles require little indoor or outdoor activities but nonetheless, should be socialized with a daily walk. They are demanding dogs and can bark excessively if left alone for long periods of time.

This is a long lived breed but it is subject to certain genetic diseases like most dogs. Cataracts, skin conditions (from allergies to certain shampoos,) hip dysplasia, runny nose and ear infections are common. Also, the breed is subject to bloating, so only feed it two to three small meals a day instead of one or two large meals.

Thinking about getting a puppy?

First, choose the right dog for you. I really can't stress enough the need to research the right breed.

The one and only book I recommend to help you choose the dog to fit your lifestyle is "How to Choose the Right Dog for You!" by Marcel Cobs.

There is no better book, no better guide out there today. No one can compete with Marcel Cobs. He knows his stuff. You can get the book (with audio CD's included) when you Click here!

Once you've decided on the type of dog you are getting, I suggest you check your local shelter. I'd start with the Humane Society of the United States which this website supports finacially. You can go to the Humane Society's website by Clicking Here!

There are thousands and thousands of dogs in need of good homes and yes, some are pure breed dogs. It's a misconception that only "mutts" can be found in shelters (by the way....some of the best dogs I've owned or simply known, were mutts!)

The name of your local shelter can always be found in your Yellow Pages or online. Call the shelter and ask them to notify you if a specific type or breed of dog comes in. Many are more than happy to keep you on a notify list, but some are not.

Second, I recommend you contact breed rescue organizations.

You can google breed rescue organizations by simply typing in the name of the breed and then the words "rescue organization."

These organizations have dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to find homes for purebred dogs and yes, many times THEY DO have puppies.

Finally, if you have not found what you are looking for at a shelter or through a rescue organization, I recommend you find a reputable breeder in your area.

How will you know if they are reputable?

Do some research and do a little homework. Also, try to visit more than one. Don't just buy the first puppy you see.

Here are some helpful hints:

General
Check the Better Business Bureau. It's amazing how many people forget to do this! It's free and it takes about two seconds. Do it!

Health
1. Do the puppies look clean and do they appear healthy?
Puppies should be bright eyed, active, playful and have an outward appearance of good health (good skin and coat, no unusual odor, clean ears, etc.)

2. Have the puppies been checked for worms?
The puppy should have been examined for worms and the breeder should present you with proof that it has received at least one vaccination before it goes home with you.

3. Have the parents been x-rayed for hip dysplasia?
This is a genetic disorder that many dogs are prone to. The breeder should know all about hereditary diseases and should breed healthy dogs with good temperaments.

Early Socialization
1. Are the puppies friendly? Do they seem happy to be around you?
Puppies should be outgoing, begging to be picked up, competing for attention, and love being held and played with. A very timid puppy might tug at your heartstrings but chances are it's not in good health.

2. Insist on seeing the mother. Is she friendly and attractive?
At 6 weeks old, the mother should no longer be overprotective of her puppies. Insist on seeing the father. How is he with visitors? DO NOT buy puppies whose parents do not have good temperaments.

3. How old are the puppies?
Puppies should not be removed from their litters before 6 weeks. They need to be around their littermates for at least that long. Seven or eight weeks is even better. However, there is a limit. A puppy that is kept with its littermates past the age of 10 weeks may have become too dependent on its mother.

4. Has the breeder begun to socialize the puppies?
You can tell if a breeder has given each puppy some individual attention, care, and training. Don't be shy. Ask the breeder about this! Ask him, "what have you done to begin socializing this puppy?"

The Breeder
1. Is the breeder experienced with the breed?
The breeder should be able to answer any questions about the breed and agree to help you with any problems. After all, this is why you are buying from a breeder and not a pet shop.

2. Has the breeder gone over both the good and bad characteristics of the breed?
Every breed has good points and bad. No breed can be considered "perfect." The breeder should be honest with you. Some of the best breeders I know refuse to sell certain breeds to families with small children or owners who live in apartments, etc. It seems harsh and unfair, but actually they are doing you and their puppies a favor. Don't fall for the hard sell. There is no reason to be pressured in any way. If you feel like you are going through a hard sell, walk away.

3. Has the breeder suggested further obedience training?
Many responsible breeders make this a requirement for the sale. All dogs need training. Don't be put off by this. This means they have the best interest of the dog in mind.

4. Does the breeder offer any kind of "starter kit"?
The breeder should give you some materials to take home. The "kit" will probably include some dog food, instructions on the care and feeding of your pup, a list of necessary supplies to have at home, dog care books, and some information on Veterinarians and dog training schools.

5. How about the paperwork? Is it all in order?
You should receive a contract (signed by both you and the seller), and a pedigree. You should not have to pay extra for the pedigree.

Your Part In All This
1. Are you willing to make a long term commitment to this puppy?
When you purchase a puppy, you are making a very serious, long term commitment to the care, training and love of this dog. This animal will live for a dozen years or more and it is your responsibility to do everything possible to keep it well and happy for its entire life.

Training any dog can be a real challenge. You can go into it with a positive attitude, great intentions and a lot of patience and still fail. Why? Inexperience. It's as simple as that.

It would be like me showing up at Symphany Hall ready and willing to play the piano but never having taken lessons. I might WANT to play. I might be WILLING to play. But can I? Nope. I have no experience!

Why reinvent the wheel? There are some really really good products out there that can help you train your dog.

I have been reviewing dog training courses, books, manuals for over twenty three years and there are very few that I will actually recommend. Here are a few that have made my list. Rest assured these have been tried, tested, analyzed and generally "beaten up" by me and have withstood my scrutiny. Notice there are only a few? That's because not many make the cut.

1.General Training-

Dove Creswell's Dog Training Guide. Available when you Click Here!

This is one proven, highly effective, guide to general dog training. I've found this to be the best general training guide out there. It's great for first time dog owners and young families. Read it BEFORE bringing home your puppy and you'll have a well behaved, well trained puppy in no time.

2.Housebreaking-

Potty Training Your Dog in 7 Days. Available when you Click Here!

No one does it better than this. Your dog WILL be potty trained if you follow this guide. I haven't found any that surpass this technique. It even has printable potty training schedules.

3.Behavior Problems-
Kingdom of Pets: SitStayFetch. Available when you Click Here!

If your dog has specific behavior issues, than this is the guide to use. This one's for the dog that has problems. I've been amazed by some of the success stories. This one has saved many dogs from being sent to shelters, etc. It gives dogs and owners a second chance at happiness. This one really does work miracles, that's probably why it's been the number one training and behavior product on the net for 3 years.

Stop Your Barking Dog. Available when you Click Here!

This guide WILL stop your dog from barking, guaranteed. Don't hire someone when you can do it yourself. This one does work. I've used it myself.

Here is the American Kennel Club standards for the Poodle Breed!

Proportion - To insure the desirable squarely built appearance, the length of body measured from the breastbone to the point of the rump approximates the height from the highest point of the shoulders to the ground.

Substance - Bone and muscle of both forelegs and hindlegs are in proportion to size of dog.

Head and Expression
(a) Eyes-- very dark, oval in shape and set far enough apart and positioned to create an alert intelligent expression. Major fault: eyes round, protruding, large or very light.

(b) Ears-- hanging close to the head, set at or slightly below eye level. The ear leather is long, wide and thickly feathered; however, the ear fringe should not be of excessive length.

(c) Skull-- moderately rounded, with a slight but definite stop. Cheekbones and muscles flat. Length from occiput to stop about the same as length of muzzle.

(d) Muzzle-- long, straight and fine, with slight chiseling under the eyes. Strong without lippiness. The chin definite enough to preclude snipiness. Major fault: lack of chin. Teeth-- white, strong and with a scissors bite. Major fault: undershot, overshot, wry mouth.

Neck, Topline, Body
Neck well proportioned, strong and long enough to permit the head to be carried high and with dignity. Skin snug at throat. The neck rises from strong, smoothly muscled shoulders. Major fault: ewe neck.

The topline is level, neither sloping nor roached, from the highest point of the shoulder blade to the base of the tail, with the exception of a slight hollow just behind the shoulder.

Body
(a) Chest deep and moderately wide with well sprung ribs. (b) The loin is short, broad and muscular. (c) Tail straight, set on high and carried up, docked of sufficient length to insure a balanced outline. Major fault: set low, curled, or carried over the back.

Forequarters
Strong, smoothly muscled shoulders. The shoulder blade is well laid back and approximately the same length as the upper foreleg. Major fault: steep shoulder.

(a) Forelegs - Straight and parallel when viewed from the front. When viewed from the side the elbow is directly below the highest point of the shoulder. The pasterns are strong. Dewclaws may be removed.

Feet - The feet are rather small, oval in shape with toes well arched and cushioned on thick firm pads. Nails short but not excessively shortened. The feet turn neither in nor out. Major fault: paper or splay foot.

Hindquarters
The angulation of the hindquarters balances that of the forequarters.

(a) Hind legs straight and parallel when viewed from the rear. Muscular with width in the region of the stifles which are well bent; femur and tibia are about equal in length; hock to heel short and perpendicular to the ground. When standing, the rear toes are only slightly behind the point of the rump. Major fault: cow-hocks.

Coat
(a) Quality--(1) Curly: of naturally harsh texture, dense throughout. (2) Corded: hanging in tight even cords of varying length; longer on mane or body coat, head, and ears; shorter on puffs, bracelets, and pompons.

(b) Clip-- A Poodle under 12 months may be shown in the "Puppy" clip. In all regular classes, Poodles 12 months or over must be shown in the "English Saddle" or "Continental" clip. In the Stud Dog and Brood Bitch classes and in a non-competitive Parade of Champions, Poodles may be shown in the "Sporting" clip. A Poodle shown in any other type of clip shall be disqualified.

(1) "Puppy"--A Poodle under a year old may be shown in the "Puppy" clip with the coat long. The face, throat, feet and base of the tail are shaved. The entire shaven foot is visible. There is a pompon on the end of the tail. In order to give a neat appearance and a smooth unbroken line, shaping of the coat is permissible. (2) "English Saddle"--In the "English Saddle" clip the face, throat, feet, forelegs and base of the tail are shaved, leaving puffs on the forelegs and a pompon on the end of the tail. The hindquarters are covered with a short blanket of hair except for a curved shaved area on each flank and two shaved bands on each hindleg. The entire shaven foot and a portion of the shaven leg above the puff are visible. The rest of the body is left in full coat but may be shaped in order to insure overall balance. (3) "Continental"--In the "Continental" clip, the face, throat, feet, and base of the tail are shaved. The hindquarters are shaved with pompons (optional) on the hips. The legs are shaved, leaving bracelets on the hindlegs and puffs on the forelegs. There is a pompon on the end of the tail. The entire shaven foot and a portion of the shaven foreleg above the puff are visible. The rest of the body is left in full coat but may be shaped in order to insure overall balance. (4) "Sporting"--In the "Sporting" clip, a Poodle shall be shown with face, feet, throat, and base of tail shaved, leaving a scissored cap on the top of the head and a pompon on the end of the tail. The rest of the body, and legs are clipped or scissored to follow the outline of the dog leaving a short blanket of coat no longer than one inch in length. The hair on the legs may be slightly longer than that on the body.

In all clips the hair of the topknot may be left free or held in place by elastic bands. The hair is only of sufficient length to present a smooth outline. "Topknot" refers only to hair on the skull, from stop to occiput. This is the only area where elastic bands may be used.

Color
The coat is an even and solid color at the skin. In blues, grays, silvers, browns, cafe-au-laits, apricots and creams the coat may show varying shades of the same color. This is frequently present in the somewhat darker feathering of the ears and in the tipping of the ruff. While clear colors are definitely preferred, such natural variation in the shading of the coat is not to be considered a fault. Brown and cafe-au-lait Poodles have liver-colored noses, eye-rims and lips, dark toenails and dark amber eyes. Black, blue, gray, silver, cream and white Poodles have black noses, eye-rims and lips, black or self colored toenails and very dark eyes. In the apricots while the foregoing coloring is preferred, liver-colored noses, eye-rims and lips, and amber eyes are permitted but are not desirable. Major fault: color of nose, lips and eye-rims incomplete, or of wrong color for color of dog.

Parti-colored dogs shall be disqualified. The coat of a parti-colored dog is not an even solid color at the skin but is of two or more colors.

Gait
A straightforward trot with light springy action and strong hindquarters drive. Head and tail carried up. Sound effortless movement is essential.

Temperament
Carrying himself proudly, very active, intelligent, the Poodle has about him an air of distinction and dignity peculiar to himself. Major fault: shyness or sharpness.

Major Faults
Any distinct deviation from the desired characteristics described in the Breed Standard.

Disqualifications
Size-- A dog over or under the height limits specified shall be disqualified. Clip-- A dog in any type of clip other than those listed under coat shall be disqualified. Parti-colors-- The coat of a parti-colored dog is not an even solid color at the skin but of two or more colors. Parti-colored dogs shall be disqualified.

Value of Points
General appearance, temperament, carriage and condition.......30
Head, expression, ears, eyes and teeth.......20
Body, neck, legs, feet and tail.......20
Gait.......20
Coat, color and texture.......10

Approved August 14, 1984
Reformatted March 27, 1990