Poodle

Poodle - Ancient breed

The poodle comes in several different sizes and in Norway, there are four approved varieties: large poodle (king poodle), medium-sized poodle, dwarf poodle, and toy poodle.

The Poodle has existed since the early Middle Ages, and although its origin is somewhat unclear, one theory is that the breed originated from old hunting dogs that were mixed with the Hungarian breed, the Puli.

Today's poodles also contain elements from Portuguese Water Dog and Irish Water Spaniel. It is believed that Germany is the true place of origin of the breed. However, the breed was further developed in France, which has been adopted as the official place of origin.

Versatile working and companion dog

Many people choose a poodle as a companion dog, which works fine. But it is easy to forget that the breed is also a skilled working dog. They are great at track/search work, agility and obedience, amongst other things.

Thanks to the poodle's characteristics, and docility, they also work excellently as service and therapy dogs.

There are also examples of poodle sniffer dogs.

The poodles as a family dog ​​

Poodles are happy, social, and playful dogs. The breed is known for forming strong ties to its family (they like children). Though, the poodle can be somewhat reserved towards strangers.

Of course, there are variations within the breed. For example, some may be more independent than others, and some may be more vigilant than others. All poodle breeds have the potential to get along with other animals, both dogs, and cats.

One of the world's most intelligent breeds (give them enough tasks and activities)

All poodle breeds are intelligent dogs that learn quickly. Although not scientifically proven, the poodle is claimed to be the most intelligent breed in the world, beaten only by the Border Collie.

The owners should use their intelligence because poodles love to learn and can be trained to perform many different tasks. Since poodles have a background as retriever dogs, you can train them to retrieve things for you.

It is important to give the poodle enough stimuli. Daily walks are required but are at least as important as giving them mental challenges. As the Poodle Club points out: 30 minutes of brain bogglers can be at least as stimulating as a two-hour walk in the woods.

The poodles do not shed, but require a lot of maintenance.

Poodles have a soft, frizzy coat that does not shed. But you have to trim and groom the dogs at regular intervals, either on your own or with a dog groomer.

One should practice bathing and grooming from an early age so the dog gets accustomed to it.

In short: a lot of fur work is required when you own a Poodle, especially if you are going to use the dog in a show.

Poodles are among the breeds that are claimed to be allergy-friendly.  They do not cause as strong reactions in allergy sufferers as some other breeds.

However, Lildog points out that there is no scientific basis for calling some breeds allergy-friendly. Some reports that the poodle causes fewer allergic reactions compared to other breeds,  but there is no guarantee that you will not react if you are allergic.

Size and weight

Although much of the mentality is similar between the different types of poodles, there is a big difference in size.

The largest poodles usually weigh between 18-35 kilos, while the smallest weighs between 2-3 kilos.

The poodle's health

Most poodles are generally healthy dogs, but unfortunately, there are some diseases and other health problems.

Examples of conditions that can affect us are: