Poodle
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The poodle is a breed of dog; specifically, it is a gun dog noted for its ability in the water. The English name comes from the German Pudel, or Pudelhund – from pudeln, meaning "to splash about". In France the poodle is known as a caniche.
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Appearance
The breed comes in three sizes (as described by most breed registries):
- Standard: Over 38 cm (15 in) at the shoulder
- Miniature: Over 28 cm (11 in) high, but under 38 cm
- Toy: Under 28 cm (11 in)
The American Kennel Club has a slightly different standard, with the maximum for Toys and the minimum for Miniatures at 25cm (10 in). The FCI standards divide poodles into four groups: Large (45 to 60 cm), Medium (35 cm to 45 cm), Miniature (28 cm to 35 cm) and Toy (less than 28 cm with an ideal size of 25 cm).
The fur is harsh, either in tight curls or corded. Breed standards call for a coat of solid color, one of black, white, brown, grey, blue, or apricot. The nose colour matches the coat. "Parti", "phantom" and other coat colors exist, but are not acceptable in the show ring.
The coat can be clipped in various styles: the Continental or Lion clip (with the instantly-recognisable 'mane'), the English Saddle clip (with leg bracelets), the Kennel clip (fur same length all over) and other styles, generally variants of the Continental.
The 'bracelets' of longer fur on the leg joints are said to date back to winter hunts, where most of the fur was clipped short to facilitate swimming but the joints needed protection from the cold.
Temperament
Poodles are generally intelligent, alert, and active. Breed standards call for a dignified, elegant carriage.
Care
Poodles make good companions and are extremely loyal, sometimes to the point of being possessive. The owner should be a competent trainer, as poodles can be willful if trained poorly. Poodles do not shed and are considered a hypoallergenic breed. (See list of Hypoallergenic dog breeds) They do require plenty of grooming to keep the constantly growing hair at a manageable length and to prevent it from matting.
History
The poodle is often thought of as a typically French breed (it is frequently referred to as the "French Poodle"). However, it is an old breed and its region of origin is a matter of contention. Most experts believe the poodle originated in Germany or Russia, but it may have come from Iberia. Related breeds are the Portuguese Water Dog and Irish Water Spaniel.
Use
Today, Poodles are generally kept as pets. However, they are a versatile breed capable of hunting, tracking, protection, or entertainment. French customs, for instance, uses Poodles to search for illegal substances. Because of their small size, they are more unobtrusive, when searching cars and train compartments, than bigger breeds such as the German Shepherd.
Their intelligence and athletic build has made them popular as trick dogs or circus performers. They can compete well in some dog sports, such as dog agility, although their independent or playful nature can sometimes distract them from the focus and drive needed for these sports.
Miscellaneous
Hybrids
Many hybrids have been created by crossing a poodle with another breed, such as Labradoodles and Cockapoos.
Main article: see Poodle hybrids.
Famous Poodles
- Algonquin from Elvira, Mistress of the Dark
- Foo-Foo, Miss Piggy's pet on the Muppet Show
- Charley, pet of John Steinbeck
- Georgette from Oliver and Company
- Vicki, pet of Richard Nixon
- Boye, pet of Prince Rupert of the Rhine
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