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One of the most beloved dog breeds is the Poodle. Standard, Miniature and Toy sized Poodles are regularly champions in dog competitions. Poodles are widely remarked upon for their elaborate fur clips, especially when primping for show. The American Kennel Club requires that Poodles be clipped in either the Continental or English Saddle styles (for adult Poodles) or the puppy clip (for Poodles under twelve months of age).

Poodles are thought to have originated in the 15th century. Though it is debated whether the breed comes from Russia, Germany or France, the French are given credit for the breed. French Poodle breeders effectively bred Poodles into their three sizes. The word Poodle comes from the German word Pudel, which means splashing or water.

The elaborate fur clip seen in competition began as a functional way to lighten the weight of the curly, dense coat while insulating the joints from cold water. Poodles were used as retrievers and duck hunters and the breed still adores water.

Good Poodle breeders are aware of Poodle breed standard characteristics. They breed Poodles that have the best genetic makeup and pedigree and do not breed Poodles with genetic defects. Some of the traits desired in Poodles are dense, curly or corded fur, delicate limbs, graceful, straight muzzles, small, oval feet, dark eyes, an alert expression, intelligence, loyal temperament and elegant carriage. Some of the traits that breeders do not wish to see in Poodles are gross hyperactivity, aggression and medical conditions such as anemia, allergic conditions, gastric, kidney or thyroid problems and cancer.

Poodle breeders may specialize in Toy, Miniature or Standard Poodles. Each Poodle has requirements in height and weight. Toy Poodles must be six to nine pounds and a maximum of ten inches in height, miniature Poodles must fifteen to seventeen pounds and eleven to fifteen inches in height and standard Poodles must be forty-five to seventy pounds and over fifteen inches in height at the shoulder.

Buyers can then begin contacting local Poodle breeders and rescue centers. Buyers should look for AKC certified breeders or breeders with references, and should interview Poodle breeders before purchasing a purebred Poodle. By doing this, buyers can ask specific questions to weed out any illegitimate Poodle breeders.

Purebred Poodles should come with a documented pedigree or ancestry showing evidence of past champions in the genetic line. Poodle breeders should make documentation of ancestry and medical records available to buyers. They should educate buyers on common health problems, historical facts, and proper care and grooming of Poodles.

Documentation such as medical records, immunization records and pedigree registrations should be provided upon purchase. Inquire about any warranty or guarantee, including any return policies. Ask is the breeder is associated with any breeder registries (such as the AKC) or rescue and animal shelter groups. A good Poodle breeder should also be able to supply you with information about the history of the breed and be helpful with information about the care, grooming and training of your new pet.

Tags: Dogs

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