There are 3 different size variations of the Poodle breed:
Standard: typically 15 inches or more in height, 45 to 70 pounds in weight
Miniature: 11 to 15 inches in height, 15 to 17 pounds in weight
Toy: up to 10 inches in height, 6 to 9 pounds in weight
No matter the size, these dogs have the same features in regards to their muzzle, ears, body, tail, and coat.
Their muzzle is relatively long or straight.
Their ears are long and hang down along the face.
Their body is always the same in length in comparison to their height at the withers.
Their tail typically sits high.
Their coat is curly and relatively soft.
You can find this breed in the following solid colors:
white
black
brown
blue
cream
gray
silver
red
apricot
café-au-lait
Temperament
In general, this breed is a highly intelligent.
These dogs can be quite loving and affectionate toward their master.
Due to their eagerness to be with people, this breed is a considered a good family dog.
If ignored or left alone for long periods of time, this breed can become restless and destructive.
These dogs are agile and enjoy outdoor activities.
They may do better with older, more responsible children (especially the Toy breed).
These dogs are normally good with other dogs and household pets.
This breed also tends to be good watch dogs.
Living Standards
Due to their size, the Standard dog may do better in a house with a small to medium size yard. But this is not a requirement.
The Miniature and Toy dogs would also do well in a home with a small yard. However, these small dogs will do fine in an apartment as long as they get plenty of exercise.
Exercise
These dogs should be walked on a regular basis.
As mentioned earlier, they enjoy outdoor activities. Thus, be sure to play fetch with these dogs and provide them with dog toys and bones to chew.
They also enjoy the water and will swim if given the opportunity.
Allow these small dogs to run in a safe open area as well.
Litter Size
This breed’s litter-size depends on the size of the dog.
Standard: typically 5 to 7 pups per litter
Miniature: typically 3 to 5 pups per litter
Toy: typically 2 to 4 pups per litter
Health and Life Expectancy
This is a moderately health breed.
Certain health issues related to this dog breed include:
The life expectancy of these dogs is typically between 12 and 15 years of age or more.
Trainability and Obedience
Due to their intelligence, these dogs are known as one of the easier breeds to train.
They have a knack for understanding what you want from them.
They are quite eager to please their masters and with the right guidance will do just that.
Show that you are the leader.
Be firm and consistent (not overly aggressive).
For the best result, begin training and socializing this breed when they are pups.
Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.
Poodle Grooming Instructions
Grooming these dogs as your pet as opposed to grooming them for show is a lot less demanding.
Simply brush them on a regular basis.
Clip the coat short every 12 weeks or so.
These dogs shed very litter hair.
Be sure to check their eyes and ears for any debris.
For show, it is recommended to see a professional groomer (possibly someone who specializes in grooming Poodles).
History
The origin of the Poodle is uncertain.
This breed however, dates as far back as the 15th century Europe.
Although the word "Poodle" originated from the German word “pudelin” (meaning “to splash in water”), this breed is considered the national dog of France.
They were originally used as water retrievers and soon thereafter, for hunting truffles.
Due to their intelligence, these dogs became quite common in circus-acts as well.
To date, this dog is one of the more popular breeds.
