The standard Poodle is a highly intelligent, proud and good natured dog. They are good watch dogs and are generally good with other pets and other dogs. They are usually good with older children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog. They do need plenty of exercise and a properly fenced in enclosure is ideal. They need extensive grooming.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the standard Poodle is 22 to 27 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 45 to 70 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the standard Poodle is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), Epilepsy (common in many dogs), stifle problems and ear infections. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The standard Poodle has a long double coat. The outer coat is wiry curls. The outer coat is wooly and thick. They need extensive, professional grooming.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

*Life Span. The standard Poodle can live between 10 and 13 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The standard Poodle comes from France where they were used for hunting and bird retrieval. They were designated the national dog of France. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1887.

Some Registries:

*Poodle Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 3 to 8 Poodle puppies

Category: Non Sporting

Terms To Describe: Intelligent, active, elegant, proud, distinction, dignity, outgoing, friendly, vain

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Make a good watch dog.

Make a medium guard dog.

They do not shed.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

*Other Names Known By: Barbone, Caniche, French Poodle

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.