The Poodle is a distinct dog breed with its own history, purpose, physical traits, and care needs. It also appears in the family tree of one or more Doodle crosses featured in this directory.
Breed Background
The breed was originally developed for water retriever, performance dog, and companion.
Size And Lifespan
Typical height: Toy up to 10 in; Miniature 10-15 in; Standard over 15 in.
Typical weight: Toy 4-6 lb; Miniature 10-15 lb; Standard 40-70 lb.
Typical lifespan: 10-18 yr.
Temperament And Activity
Common temperament tendencies include highly intelligent, active, responsive, versatile. Individual dogs still vary.
Typical activity level: High.
This is an active parent breed. Most adults benefit from daily walks, training, play, and mentally useful activities matched to their health, age, and original function.
Coat And Grooming
Typical coat: dense curly single coat.
Typical shedding: low.
The Poodle reference coat is dense curly single coat, with low shedding. Routine brushing and combing, nail care, dental care, ear checks, and coat-specific trimming or professional grooming may be needed. Exact care depends on coat length, texture, lifestyle, and clip.
Training And Daily Life
Breed references describe common tendencies such as highly intelligent, active, responsive, versatile. Training should account for the breed's history as a water retriever, performance dog, and companion, while still treating the individual dog in front of you. Clear reinforcement, appropriate social development, and consistent handling matter more than labels alone.
Health Considerations
Health topics commonly discussed for this breed include variety-specific risks include hip disease, patellar luxation, eye disease, thyroid disease, sebaceous adenitis, cardiac disease and PRA. A veterinarian can help explain what is relevant for an individual dog.
