When most people hear the word poodles, they think of tiny dogs,
but
standard poodle
puppies can grow to be quite large. According to AKC (American Kennel Club) standards, they must stand over fifteen
inches at the shoulder, but many of them stand twenty inches or
taller.
Standard poodles are lovely dogs. Like other types of poodle,
they are intelligent, friendly, proud, and fiercely loyal. Standard
poodles, however, carry a heavy genetic burden. Their average
life span is around twelve years, several years shorter than the
smaller varieties of poodle. Around 40% of standard poodles die
as the result of some type of cancer, although there is no clear
trend as to any one type that especially affects this breed.
Standard poodles also run high chance of being born with Addison's
disease, a hormonal disorder which, if untreated, can lead to
cardiac arrest and death. Like all larger dogs, standard poodles
are also at risk for hip dysplasia.
Miniature Poodles
According to AKC standards,
miniature poodles stand taller than
ten inches at the shoulder, but no taller than fifteen inches.
The miniature poodle is a wonderful dog for apartment dwellers
as it does not demand a large yard to play in. It is known for
barking when nervous, and therefore makes a fine watchdog.
Like other poodles, miniature poodles tend to get along well
with all ages of humans and with other pets. Their average lifespan
is around fifteen years. Genetic problems that plague them include
problems with the knees, a disease of the eyes which can lead
to blindness, and epilepsy (seizure disorder).
Toy Poodles
The smallest of the poodle breeds, toy poodles stand ten inches
tall or less at the shoulder. Some toy poodles, such as the
tea cup
poodle, are much smaller. The longest lived of the poodle breed,
toy poodles can live for up to eighteen years as long as they
have good care, nutrition, etc.
Poodle Coats
There are two types of poodle coats. By far the most common type
is the curly coat that you see on show poodles.
Poodle coats can also be corded, which produces a look not unlike
dreadlocks on humans. Corded poodles are relatively rare in the
United States.
Poodle Colors
The most common colors for poodles are black or white, but poodles
exist in almost any color you can imagine including brown, the
Apricot Poodle,
silver, beige, cream, blue, and even a
Red
Poodle. In order to compete in AKC dog
shows, poodles must be one uniform color.
Not only are poodles truly charming dogs with their innate intelligence
and friendliness, they also come in every size and color you could
imagine. With so many choices, it should be easy for you to find
the right poodle friend.
Attention: To discover how
YOU can have the Happiest, Healthiest and Best Behaved Poodle,
get a copy of this Poodle Guide
NOW!
