Standard Poodle

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Standard Poodle is the oldest of the three varieties that come under Poodle breed. Other two varieties, the miniature and the Toy Poodles, were developed from larger Standard Poodles. Originated in Germany, this dog was developed as a type of water dog but since then, has transitioned into a versatile dog that can perform a variety of tasks such as agility, obedience, tracking, herding. The Poodle is an ancient breed that was documented in 15th century paintings. Exact origin of this breed is debatable with some consider Germany as its place of origin while others believe France is the country of origin of this dog where it is declared as National Dog.

The Standard Poodle has a graceful, medium-sized frame with a rounded skull, a long head and muzzle, dark oval eyes and wide, close-hanging ears. They have long legs that give them a springy step, docked tails (usually) and compact feet. The coat is sometimes curly and wiry, sometimes soft and wavy, and can be any solid color.

This dog stands about 15+ inches and weighs between 45-70 pounds. This breed is recognized by AKC and other major kennel clubs like FCI, ANKC, KC(UK), UKC, CKC, NZKC and many other dog registry associations.

Color

The Standard Poodle comes in many different coat colors. Some of the more common coat colors are white, black, grey, silver brown, silver beige, apricot, red, cream, sable, phantom and brindle.

Coat

The coat of Standard Poodle is always curly but can range from coarse and wooly to soft and wavy. This breed has a single layer, dense coat that is almost hypoallergenic with minimal shedding.

Personality

Very smart and one of the best trainable breeds around, the Standard Poodle is a very popular breed of dog. It is a lively and very energetic breed that will be happiest when working or playing. These dogs are extremely intelligent and eager to learn. They can learn many tricks and are readily used in circus. Very people oriented, they like to spend most of the time with their family and do not like to be left alone for longer time periods. If left alone or not given proper attention, the Poodles can get bored fairly easily, and have been known to get creative about finding mischief. Poodles like to be in the center of things and are easily trained to do astonishing tricks involving both brains and agility. The Standard Poodle is generally lower energy and often calmer than the smaller varieties of Poodles, but will become high strung if you do not give them the proper amount and type of exercise. They are sensitive to the tone of one's voice and will not listen if they sense that they are stronger minded than their owner, however they will also not respond well to harsh discipline. Owners need to be calm, yet possess an air of natural authority. Standard Poodles are ideal family dogs, being both patient and playful with children. They also make superb watchdogs, barking zealously when strangers approach the home.

Care

Regular brushing is required to avoid knots and tangles that may form in the coat and can damage the skin. Ears should be checked for infection. Nails should be trimmed regularly. Be sure to provide this dog not only physical but also mental stimulation to keep it healthy and happy.

Training

The Standard Poodle will respond well to gentle yet firm and consistent training. It is known as one of the most trainable of dog breeds around. With high intelligence levels and inherent desire to learn and please its owner, the dog can benefit from training that challenges not only its body but also its mind.

Activity

The Standard Poodles is relatively low energy dog as compared to Miniature and Toy variety but still it needs fair amount of both physical and mental stimulation. This breed can adjust in an apartment lifestyle as long as it is provided with sufficient exercise.