ALL THINGS POODLE
The Poodle is the national dog of France; however, there is no such breed as the "French Poodle." In France, Poodles are known as the Caniche, or "duck dog." Despite the Poodle's association with France, the breed originated as a duck hunter in Germany, where the word "pudelin" refers to splashing in water.
The Standard Poodle began its development as a retrieving water dog more than 400 years ago. With a crisp, curly coat as protection against the elements, superlative swimming ability, and off-the-charts intelligence, the Poodle was, and still is, a magnificent retriever.
The flamboyant Poodle “show” coat served a practical purpose in the breed's early years. Hunters wanted their dogs to have free range of movement in the water, but they also wished to protect vital areas of the anatomy from the cold. They shaved the poodle’s legs, neck, and tail but left the chest, hips, and leg joints coated. The rounded tufts on the legs, hips, and tip of the tail are called pompons.
(Note the spelling: Cheerleaders have pom-poms; Poodles have pompons.)
The Poodle's many fine qualities allowed it to move from the lake to the lap of luxury. Elegant Poodles of the Standard and Miniature varieties found favor among the nobles of France and, eventually, all of Europe. The breed's showy looks and trainability made it a natural entertainer, and Poodles have long been associated with the European circus tradition. An excellent nose brought the Poodle additional work as a truffle hunter.
Poodles rank #2 among all dog breeds in working and obedience intelligence. According to the landmark intelligence survey by canine psychologist Stanley Coren, only the Border Collie is considered smarter. This ranking applies to all poodle sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Listed below are three reasons why Poodles rank so high.
Learning Speed: Poodles understand new commands with fewer than 5 repetitions.
Obedience: They obey the first command given to them 95% of the time or better.
Problem-Solving: Originally bred for retrieving waterfowl, poodles possess excellent cognitive and reasoning abilities.
Poodles are incredibly intelligent and emotionally intuitive dogs. They typically paw at you to demand attention, request food, or signal that they need to go outside. Because they are highly dexterous, they use their paws as a primary communication tool to strengthen your bond and ask for what they want. Listed below are the most common reasons your poodle paws at you:
Attention and Play: Poodles are known as "handsy" dogs. If they are bored or want to play, pawing is their way of saying, "Pay attention to me right now!"
Reciprocating Affection: If you are petting or cuddling them, they might place a paw on your arm or leg to keep you close or gently "pet" you back.
Expressing Needs: Pawing is a classic cue to remind you that their water bowl is empty, it's dinner time, or they need a potty break.
Empathy: Poodles are deeply connected to their owners' emotions. If you are feeling sad or stressed, they may paw at you to offer comfort and support.
For a full breakdown of how different breeds measure up, you can explore the Wikipedia Dog Intelligence Ranking article.
Poodles typically come in three size variations: Standard, Mini and Toy. All three varieties have the same build and proportions. Royal (larger than standard) and Moyen (size between standard and mini) are also recognized among the poodle communities but not as universally mentioned.
Standard (Over 15 inches / 40+ lbs): Known as "gentle giants". Once they get adequate daily exercise, they have an "off switch" and tend to be quiet, loyal, steady companions and were bred down to the Miniature.
Miniature (10–15 inches / 10–15 lbs): Very bright and social, but frequently higher-strung. They often retain puppy-like hyperactivity into adulthood and can be prone to nervous energy. The Miniatures were bred down to achieve the Toy poodle.
Toy (Under 10 inches / 4–6 lbs): Highly affectionate and lap-oriented, but often very energetic, alert, and prone to manipulation or separation anxiety if not carefully trained. The Toy poodle was first bred in America, in the early 20th century, as a city-dwelling companion dog.
*****Note: Individual temperaments vary, and proper socialization and exercise play the biggest role in how calm any dog will be. Always look for reputable breeders or trusted rescue groups.
At dog shows, Poodles are usually seen in the elaborate Continental clip; however, most pet owners prefer the simpler Sporting clip, in which the coat is shorn to follow the outline of the squarely built, smoothly muscled body.
Forget any preconceived notions about Poodles you may have: Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart dogs of remarkable versatility. Well-bred specimens of each variety are exact replicas of each other and are bred to the same standard.
The Standard Poodle is widely considered the calmest, most even-tempered size. While all poodles are energetic and highly intelligent, Standards are generally more relaxed indoors, mature faster, and are less prone to separation anxiety compared to their smaller Miniature and Toy counterparts. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success.
Whether Standard, Miniature, or Toy, and either black, white, or apricot, the Poodle stands proudly among dogdom's true aristocrats. Beneath the curly, low-allergen coat is an elegant athlete and companion for all reasons and seasons.
While Poodles are loving family dogs that bond with everyone, they are renowned for choosing one specific human as their "person." To this favorite individual, the Poodle usually becomes their constant shadow or affectionately known as their "velcro dog."
Poodles base their ultimate loyalty on a few key factors:
The Primary Caregiver: The person who feeds them, walks them, and handles their training is often the top choice.
Quality Time: Poodles gravitate toward the person who plays, engages their active minds, and offers the most attention.
Energy and Vibe: Highly sensitive and intelligent, poodles often bond deeply with the person who matches their calm energy and treats them with a gentle hand.
When a poodle picks their favorite human, you will notice distinct behaviors:
Following Everywhere: They act as your shadow, trailing you from room to room—even into the bathroom.
Greeting You First: When you come home, they will seek you out to celebrate your return before saying hello to anyone else.
Snuggling and Sleeping: They prefer to rest their heads in your lap, sit directly at your feet, or sleep in your bedroom at night.
If you want your poodle to share their affection more evenly among family members, everyone in the house should participate in the daily routine. Have different people rotate through feeding times, take the dog on walks, and practice training exercises. This helps build an equally strong bond with multiple household members.
The “Best” Poodle Color
Many people wonder what is the “best” poodle color. Ultimately, the "best" poodle color comes down to your lifestyle, as temperament remains the same across all shades. Silver is highly praised for hiding dirt and fading gracefully, while Black is classic and low maintenance. White is striking but requires frequent bathing to stay pristine.
The rarest solid poodle colors are Red and Apricot. These shades are caused by recessive genes, requiring both parents to carry the specific color trait to produce a puppy. Blue and Brindle are also highly uncommon, and true Albino Poodles exist but are incredibly rare.
The Rarest Standard Colors
Red: Considered by many breeders to be the rarest saturated poodle color in the world. Caused by the "Rufus" modifier gene, true red puppies are a deep mahogany or copper that sometimes fades to apricot as the dog ages.
Apricot: Another highly sought-after shade. It is a dilution of the red gene, appearing as a pale, creamy orange or ginger. It is often considered one of the final colors developed in the breed.
Other Rare & Unique Colors
Blue: A genetic variation of black. These pups are born black but fade into a distinct, deep gunmetal gray-blue.
Silver: Another genetic variation of black and are often confused with "blue" poodles. Silvers are born completely black. They require two copies of a progressive "fading" gene (often called the G-locus) that alters their melanin over time. True metallic silvers require a highly specific genetic pairing to achieve.
Albino: A genetic mutation resulting in a total lack of melanin. Albino poodles have completely white coats, pink skin, and light pink or blue eyes. Responsible breeders do not intentionally breed this trait, as it is linked to increased sensitivity to UV exposure.
Brindle, Merle & Parti: Patterned coats (brindle stripes or multi-colored patches) are rare in the traditional show ring, though gaining popularity in companion breeding.
Cost and Color Seem to Go Hand in Hand
The most expensive poodle colors are typically red, blue, and apricot. While base colors like black and white are the most common, rarer color variations driven by recessive genes—along with specific patterns like phantom—often command premium prices ranging from $3,000 to well over $10,000 from specialized breeders.
Red and Apricot: These are highly sought-after, trendy, and relatively rare. A saturated, deep red is particularly prized, as these coats can naturally fade into apricot as the dog matures.
Blue: Blue poodles result from a recessive gene. They are born looking black but fade to a striking gunmetal or steel blue. Due to their unique, status symbolic appearance, they frequently cost upwards of $10,000.
Patterns: Parti (multi-colored) and phantom (distinct tan markings) are less common in the standard show ring and are often priced higher as highly desired "designer" or unique pets.
The Biggest Factor: Bloodline and Health
While coat color plays a large part in a puppy's price, the true cost of a poodle is always determined by pedigree, health screenings, and breeder ethics. Reputable breeders who perform genetic tests for hereditary conditions (like PRA or hip dysplasia) typically charge $2,500 to $5,000 and more regardless of the color.
If you are currently looking for a poodle, always prioritize verified health testing over color. You can research ethical breeders and litter availability through the Poodle Club of America.
Top Four Categories to Consider Regarding Your Preferred Poodle Color:
Easiest to Maintain: Black, Silver, and Brown. These darker, earthy coats do an excellent job of hiding dust and dirt from daily walks.
Most Eye-Catching: Red and Apricot. These striking, warm tones range from golden peach to deep mahogany, though their coats can sometimes be softer and cottony compared to standard textures.
Best for Creative Grooming: White. White poodles act like a blank canvas, making them the most popular choice if you plan on doing creative styling or using safe, temporary dog-safe dyes.
Most Unique: Blue, Silver Beige, Parti and Phantom. These harder-to-find shades develop beautifully as the puppy matures, usually around age 2-3 years old.
One important factor to remember is that poodle colors frequently change as they grow. For example, a pure black puppy might progressively fade into blue or silver, while a rich chocolate brown can lighten into a Café au lait, another uncommon/rare color, over time.
To explore the AKC recognized shades, visit the American Kennel Club Poodle Breed Standard webpage.
What To Expect When Caring for a Poodle (Standard)
Owning a dog is not just a privilege; it’s a responsibility. They depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more. When you take a dog into your life, you need to understand the commitment that dog ownership entails.
An adult Poodle can be left alone for 8 hours, provided they are properly trained, well-exercised, and do not suffer from severe separation anxiety. However, because Poodles are exceptionally intelligent and people-oriented, 8 hours is the absolute maximum limit for regular daily stretches.
Managing this schedule requires proper preparation to keep your poodle happy and healthy:
Age Matters: Adult Poodles (over 1 year old) can usually hold their bladders for 8 hours, but puppies require much more frequent bathroom breaks.
Energy Burn-off: Poodles require mental and physical stimulation. Take them for a long, energetic walk or play a vigorous game of fetch before you leave. A tired Poodle is far more likely to sleep the day away.
Combat Boredom: Poodles are highly prone to getting bored. Provide interactive puzzle toys, like a stuffed KONG, to keep their minds engaged while you are away.
Provide Comfort: Leave a piece of unwashed clothing that smells like you, provide soothing background noise (music or a TV), and make sure they have a comfortable "den" or bed to rest in.
If you are unsure how your dog handles the time alone, you can set up a pet camera to monitor their behavior during the day. For comprehensive tips on crate training and soothing your pet, consult resources like the American Kennel Club or the ASPCA. Below are some important tips for success in raising your poodle:
Gradual Training: Do not suddenly leave a dog or puppy alone for an entire workday. Start with short 10-to-15-minute intervals and gradually build up their alone time.
Mid-Day Assistance: If you find 8 hours is too long for your dog to hold it, or they show signs of stress (like excessive barking, chewing, or potty accidents), consider hiring a dog walker or dropping them off at doggy daycare once or twice a week.
Consider a Companion: Many owners find that keeping two dogs helps alleviate boredom and severe separation anxiety.
Healthy and Happy
Most Poodles live long, happy, healthy lives thanks to the efforts of dedicated, responsible breeders who routinely test all breeding stock. As with all breeds, some health issues can occur, including hip dysplasia and several eye disorders.
Idiopathic epilepsy, sebaceous adenitis, von Willebrand’s disease, and immune-mediated disorders are also seen in the breed on occasion. Two orthopedic problems, Legg-Calve-Perthes and Luxating Patella, are more likely to occur in Toy and Miniature Poodles than in Standards. The Standard variety is more at risk for gastric dilatation with volvulus (bloat) and sebaceous adenitis. Listed are several recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club:
Hip Evaluation
Ophthalmologist Evaluation
DNA Test for Neonatal Encephalopathy with Seizures (NEwS) or clear by parentage (Standard only)
Autoimmune Thyroiditis Evaluation (Standard Only)
Von Willebrand Disease I (VWDI) - DNA Test
Hypoallergenic but Grooming is required
Unless you plan to keep your Poodle clipped in a short trim, you will need to learn how to brush them daily to keep their coat from matting. If you do not brush and comb a full-coated Poodle completely to the skin, the hair will mat near the roots and will have to be shaved off to start all over with new growth. Most pet owners opt to keep the Poodle in a shorter trim. Some owners learn to do this clipping and trimming themselves, while others choose to take their dog to a professional dog groomer every four to six weeks for a bath, grooming, and nail trim. The breed's relatively non-shedding coat makes the breed a good choice for people with allergies.
Before bringing a puppy home, be sure to budget for the coat maintenance of a poodle. Because of their non-shedding hair, professional grooming is required every 4 to 6 weeks, which can cost $80 to $150 or more per session.
Highly energetic
Poodles of any size are very active dogs who require good exercise every day to suit their high energy level. Poodles are eager for all kinds of activities, and they enjoy keeping busy. Swimming is great exercise for them, and most poodles love to get in the water. Bred as hunting dogs, their impulse is to retrieve, so tossing toys, sticks, or balls for them will exercise both their mind and body. They also thrive on going jogging or long walks with their human.
Incredibly intelligent and easily bored
Poodles are extremely intelligent and are easily trained. They are agile and graceful as well as smart, and they enjoy and excel in a variety of canine sports, including agility, obedience, and tracking. They are excellent water-retrievers and also compete in dock diving and retriever hunt tests. Poodles are very people-oriented, and if your training routines are fun and positive, they are quick to please you. Just be sure that you are being consistent with what you ask.
Quality nutrition is best
No matter which size Poodle has stolen your heart, you will want to feed him or her the best possible dog food. Your vet or breeder can help you decide on the right food for your dog’s age, activity level, and size.
Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. If you choose to give your dog treats, do so in moderation. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Never feed a dog cooked bones or fatty table scraps. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet.
Have Realistic Expectations
As puppies head to their new “FUREVER” homes, a common issue that many fellow breeders have come across with new owners is unrealistic expectations of what “puppy life” is going to be like for them and their family and friends. People see the breeder's pictures and videos of the pups being social, or the pups are quiet and calm in the pen. The breeder shows videos of the pups being totally relaxed, happy, and playful. It all looks amazing, and the puppy heads to its new home with its new family.
Then reality hits for the puppy AND the new family….the puppy is crying in the crate for the first few nights which can make anyone tired and agitated. The happy social puppy is refusing to greet the overly excited friends invited to their new home or the overly excited playful children that live in the home. The puppy also refuses to walk on a leash. Many new pet owners wonder, “How did my perfect puppy turn into a nightmare?”
Let’s get real for a minute…. First of all, the puppy has been in the breeder's home since birth. It had its mother, and often times littermates. It had a routine, taught expectations, and was completely in its comfort zone. Now, suddenly it is taken to a totally new environment, alone. Picture yourself being dropped into an unknown country; you know only a few words of the native language. There are different smells, temperature, trees, animals, and different people. Now, in the middle of this, someone switches up your routine, decides to have a party with people you don't know, and asks you to do jobs you have no idea about. Your new reality would be overwhelming to say the least.
This is what every puppy goes through when going to their new home. Stress manifests in different forms. From not eating, reluctancy to play and greet people, being apprehensive at the vet’s office or as strangers reach for them to diarrhea, vomiting, and depression.
Time to acclimate is VITAL
Most puppies take 3-4 weeks to acclimate to their new home. Repeat after me, THREE to FOUR WEEKS sometimes even longer! Not 1-2 days.
Limit guests during the first week of being in its new environment. Understandably, you are excited to show off your new fur-baby, but it needs time to adjust. Plan on waiting 1-2 weeks before inviting people over.
Ask guests to sit on the ground or floor and let the puppy approach them. No squealing and/or grabbing the puppy.
Set up a good routine. Be consistent with feeding, toileting, playing or exercising and napping schedules.
Restrict the puppy to a small area of the house. This not only reduces them being overwhelmed but also allows you to watch them.
Don’t expect an 8 to13 week old puppy to walk on a leash. Instead, work at home with a leash where they are comfortable. Let them drag the leash and use treats to encourage them to walk with you.
If your puppy refuses to walk, give them time. Plan short walks first, think less than half a block distance. Lots of time is needed for your puppy to take in a different environment. Only move when they initiate the movement. The first walks may involve a lot of stopping and starting and possibly some carrying on your part. Try to keep the same walk path and distance the first few weeks for your puppy to become comfortable with the environment on your route.
Understand your puppy needs time to see you as family. Expecting an immediate bond is unrealistic. Place an article of your worn clothing with your puppy’s things to help with bonding.
Train your puppy. This not only helps you to bond but helps the puppy to look to you for direction and input. Research local pet stores or online for training and obedience classes or courses. Be consistent with the training.
Keep an eye on your puppy at all times when around children. Children are big stressors to tiny fragile puppies.
Be patient. Patience is key! Don’t declare, “Omg, there’s something wrong with this dog.” Nothing occurs overnight. You are now living on “puppy time”. Remember if the puppy was wonderful at the breeder’s house but seems to be struggling now, you as the owner, need to help your puppy adjust, which takes time, patience, and training.
Give the puppy positive experiences. Each puppy is an individual, so don’t compare your current puppy to past pets; don’t judge its behavior based on how another dog handled or reacted to things.
Try to see things from your puppy’s perspective and adjust situations accordingly.