Standard Poodle
Origins: The Poodle was originated in Germany and was first used as a water retriever. The breed's name comes from the German word “pudelnass” or puddle. He is now kept as a companion dog and a showdog.
Description: The Standard Poodle stands 15 inches or taller at the shoulder and weighs 50 to 65 pounds. The coat is curly and non-shedding and needs to be clipped every two months. The English saddle clip and the continental clip are high-maintenance show cuts. The sporting clip is easiest to maintain. In this style the hair on the body is about an inch long, there is a pompom on the tip of the tail, a topknot of hair remains on the head, and the face, feet, and tail are clean-shaven. Daily grooming includes using a wire-pin pneumatic brush and a wire-toothed metal comb. The colors may be black, white, apricot, gray, chocolate, or cream.
About the breed: This breed is an obedient, intelligent, alert, agile dog that is always friendly and eager to please. He has a good-temperament and is normally good with strangers and yet he makes an effective watchdog. He has a character that is full of fun but sometimes gets him into trouble. The Poodle's high level of energy is not for those who seek a lazy, easygoing dog. He needs plenty or exercise, particularly retrieving which is a constructive, enjoyable exercise in which he can excel.
Poodles learn quickly. Many are seen in the obedience ring and in agility competitions. They will respond well to training as long as you avoid heavy-handed techniques. The Standard Poodle can be one of the best family dogs around and can get along wonderfully with children. Again, Poodles need regular clipping, and it will be wise if you begin the handling, nail-clipping, and brushing sessions early in the dog's life.
Feeding: Recommended feeding for the this breed is about 1 ˝ cans (13.3oz) of high-quality meaty product with biscuit added in equal part or 3 cupfuls of a complete, dry dog food.
Ideal home: The Standard Poodle needs a house with a fenced yard. The owner of this breed should be a patient, consistent leader who prefers a smart, happy, energetic dog capable of excelling in obedience. This breed is very light on his feet and therefore makes a good jogging partner. He enjoys the company of children. Spoiling this dog could encourage stubborn, nippy behavior. Time to train and exercise this breed should be available. The elderly and the disabled may have a hard time controlling this big and active breed.
