Lisa Chelenza shares more about the miniature poodle breed in this edition of Pet Pointers.
Shadow is a 3-year-old grand champion miniature poodle from Canada. Competing for the first time in the U.S. and by all accounts he’s doing very well and will likely move up the ladder.
The exact origin of the poodle is a mystery. They were recognized by the AKC in 1887 after becoming very popular in France and brought to the US. While France claims them as their own, the Poodle was at first used in Germany hundreds of years ago as a hunting companion and water retriever.
The traditional “poodle cut” may seem like a froo-froo creation by an eccentric French hair dresser but this is not the case, it was created for practical reasons. The fluffy cuffs around their ankles and puffs on their hips, was thought to keep joints warm and aid in swimming.
The poodle is thought to be descended from ancient water retrievers and they are excellent swimmers. The English word poodle comes from the German “pudel” to splash in water.
Poodles come in a wide variety of colors and three sizes, the standard, weighing around 60-70 pounds for a large male, the miniature, weighs around 15-20 pounds and then the smallest, maxing out at less than 10 pounds, the toy.
While the standard poodle is larger and thought to be more outgoing, the toy and miniature poodle is smart, energetic, athletic, highly trainable and affectionate. Poodles are known for bonding with their human families but may seem shy around strangers. They excel in the show ring as well as on the agility course, make good therapy dogs and make great family pets.
Remember before you bring home any animal be sure you have the time energy and resources to care for them properly