The Poodle is regarded as one of the most intelligent breeds of dog. The poodle breed is found officially, in toy, miniature and standard sizes, and in many coat colours. Originally bred as a type of water dog, the poodle is skilful in many dog sports, including agility, obedience, tracking, and even herding. Poodles are elegant in the conformation ring, having taken top honours in many shows, including “Best in Show” at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 1991 and 2002, and at the World Dog Show in 2007.
Appearance
Most poodles have a dense, curly, non-shedding coat that requires regular grooming. Since poodles do not have the plush double coat of many breeds, their fur is often referred to as “hair”, a term usually reserved for humans. Most poodles are solid-coloured, and many registries allow only solid colours in conformation shows. “Parti” (short for parti-coloured) poodles have large patches of colours different from the main body colour. “Phantom” poodles have the colour pattern of a black-and-tan dog, although not necessarily black and tan. Solid-coloured poodles may either “hold” their colour (i.e., stay more or less the same throughout their lives) or “fade” or “clear” to a lighter shade. Usually the ears and the thicker guard hairs hold more of the original colour than other hair.
The tail is usually poofy, often docked in the US and less often in Europe; the practice is illegal in the UK and Australia. Tails, when docked, are left much longer than in the past. “Bunny-like tails” (very short-docked tails) are now rarely seen except among puppy mill pet shop dogs. Poodles have drop ears which are never cropped.
Temperament
Otherwise notable is this breed’s keen sense for instinctual behaviour. In particular, marking and hunting drives are more readily observable than in most other breeds. Even Toys will point birds. Classified as highly energetic, poodles can also get bored fairly easily and have been known to get creative about finding mischief. Poodles like to be in the centre of things and are easily trained to do astonishing tricks involving both brains and agility. They have performed in circuses for centuries, beginning in Europe, and have been part of the Ringling Circus in its various forms from its inception. The Grimaldis, the famous British clowns Kenneth and Audrey Austin, “developed a stronger circus act” with a clever Poodle named ‘Twinkle,’ the success of which allowed them to continue performing even as octogenarians.”
Poodles are extremely people-oriented dogs and generally eager to please. Standard Poodles in particular tend to be good with children. Poodles are adaptable and easy to train. Like most dogs, they appreciate daily exercise, such as a walk or a play session. Most are fairly agile and athletic.
Toy Poodles will play ball and love to fetch. Play time is vital, but one must be sure that they get plenty of rest following long play periods and that fresh water is available at all times.
Housebreaking can be difficult in many dog breeds, but the poodle is one of the easiest to train. Whether going outside or being trained on a pad, they learn quickly where to defecate. They are still animals, however, and they need time to understand what is desired of them. It may take a while, but poodles are quite smart and learn more quickly than most dogs.
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