The Poodle is one of the most loved and hated dog breeds. Often seen fully coiffed either in competition or strolling with their owners, their fur simultaneously pouffed high and trimmed close, poodles appear to be a haughty and decadent dog breed to the Poodle layman.

Surprisingly, the history of the poodle is actually very down-to-earth. Poodles are water dogs. They are naturals at hunting birds in water and on land. The name Poodle comes from the German words Pudel or Pudelhund, which means splashing and splashing dog respectively. The name for Poodles is related to the English word puddle.

Knowing Poodles are named after a simple puddle makes the breed seem less intimidating already. Poodles most likely originated in Eastern Europe and they have been popular throughout Europe for hundreds of years. However, it is the French who are given credit for the breed. French Poodle breeders successfully cultivated all three sizes of Poodle: miniature, toy and standard.

The three sizes of Poodle: miniature, toy and standard have similar traits of all Poodles but differ in height and weight. Miniature Poodles are fifteen to seventeen pounds and eleven to fifteen inches in height at the shoulder. Toy Poodles are six to nine pounds and up to ten inches at the shoulder. Standard Poodles are forty-five to seventy pounds and over fifteen inches at the shoulder.

The style of fur required for competition is a puppy cut for dogs twelve months and under and either an English Saddle or Continental clip for adult dogs. There are various requirements of each type of cut, which the AKC clearly defines. Dogs that are not competing are trimmed down considerably to reduce maintenance. Dogs in full fur require at least ten hours of brushing weekly.

Poodles, like other purebred dogs, have some common genetic flaws, which lead to medical conditions. Poodle breeders should discontinue breeding any line found to have these conditions. Some of the likely health problems are: Addison’s disease, gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), thyroid and renal conditions, hip dysplasia, and cancer. Poodles are probably one of the more expensive breeds, and a Poodle puppy bought from a champion line may cost as much as two thousand dollars. When searching for Poodle breeders, it is important for buyers to shop around and ask a lot of questions.

Buyers should first educate themselves about Poodle history, health and behavior to make sure this is the breed desired. Next, they should ask local shelters or rescue centers for referrals to good Poodle breeders. The American Kennel Club’s website is another excellent source of information on various, certified breeders.

Buyers can avoid bad breeders by asking to see the kennel where puppies are raised, requesting pedigree information, registration papers and medical records, and by interviewing breeders to make sure they do not mass market puppies or sell them to pet stores. Good Poodle breeders will interview buyers to make sure they can give Poodles a good home.