According to the AKC’s list of the most popular dog breeds, the Poodle is one of the top 10 most popular. Poodles—which were used originally as retrievers of small game from water—have come to be known as small, cute, and cozy companions in today’s families. Just as it surprises many when they hear that Poodles were used to retrieve game, it also surprises people when they hear Poodles got their start in Central Asia, not in France.

The Poodle’s interesting story continues when we see that Poodles serve as guide dogs, guard dogs, military dogs, dogs who pull the wagons of performers, and even as circus performers. Many people recognize Poodles as fashionable companions for women; indeed, it is this service that led to the breed being favored so much by French aristocrats that it became France’s official dog. Poodles were popular in showrooms in the late 1800’s, and their popularity grew so that they are currently one of the most popular pets.

Most Poodles are either the standard type or the miniature version. The Miniature Poodle is obedient, smart, amiable, and eager to please. While a Poodle can be sensitive and find satisfaction in devotion to one person, the dog can also be a great fit in a family setting—especially because it is fantastic with children and gets along amiably with other pets.

The Standard Poodle is ranked as one of the most obedient and intelligent dog breeds. This breed has some great characteristics, including adventurousness and playfulness. These characteristics, joined to this breed’s irresistible, adoring personality, make a Poodle a great pet. The Standard Poodle enjoys retrieving, running, and swimming. Like the Miniature Poodle, the Standard Poodle is fantastic with children.

Upkeep And Maintenance

Both Standard Poodles and Miniature Poodles need lots of interaction with humans. Also necessary for the happiness and health of Poodles is daily physical activity and mental games. Play sessions that are challenging coupled with walks that are brisk make an ideal activity routine for Poodles. The Standard Poodle will obviously require more exercise than the Miniature Poodle, but both greatly enjoy retrieving games—especially in shallow water.

Living arrangements for the Poodle should be limited to the indoors. Neither the standard Poodle nor the Miniature Poodle is suited to living outside. A Poodle’s ideal living situation is living in the house and sharing the company, love, and physical affection of the family.

Health Information

In regards to the health of the Standard Poodle, major health concerns include gastric torsion, Addison’s disease, and sebaceous adenitis. Potential health concerns for Miniature Poodles include PRA, Legg-Perthes, patellar luxation, and epilepsy. Veterinarians recommend that both types of Poodles should be tested for DNA for vWD, hip dysplasia, and potential eye problems. The average lifespan of a Poodle who remains active and healthy during its lifetime is 13 years; however, the Miniature Poodle can live longer.