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Standard Poodles
About the Breed
History
It is believed that the Poodle originated in Germany, and the dog they refer to is roughly equivalent to the Standard Poodle variety. It is claimed it was known in Germany from the Middle Ages, and it was Germany’s water dog, just as England had the English Water Spaniel, France, the Barber, Ireland, the Irish Water Spaniel and the Netherlands, the Wetterhoun. Among the evidence to support this theory is the indisputably Germanic name for the breed, Poodle or ‘Pudel’ in German (meaning to splash) However others believe the breed originated in France where it is known as the ‘Caniche’ (meaning duck dog) and that the breed descends from the Barbet.
Whatever the Poodle’s country of origin, both their German and French breed names indicate the modern Poodle’s ancestors were widely used by waterfowlers both to retrieve shot game as well as to recover lost arrows and bolts that missed their mark. The breed’s distinct lion coat clip developed as a practicality when they were used as waterfowler’s dogs with the long hair around their chest providing insulation for the dog’s vitals in freezing water, while the shorn hindquarters reduced drag whilst swimming.
Temperament
A typical Poodle should be reserved and a little aloof with strangers upon first introduction, but after a while slowly reveal a warm and personable disposition, once the dog realises the new person is trustworthy and means no harm. They are not suitable guard dogs because they are neither territorial nor aggressive however a well loved Poodle will reciprocate with devotion and loyalty an s protect its family if danger is near. This breed makes a great family pet, as long as it's exercise requirements are met. They are very loving and charismatic dogs who will fill your heart with joy. Once you have been loved by a Poodle, you will be smitten for life.
Appearance
Life Expectancy 12- 14 years
Height over 15"
Weight 20-32kg
Grooming
Unless you plan to keep your poodle clipped in a short trim, then you will need to learn how to brush him daily to keep his coat from matting. if you do not brush and comb a full coated poodle completely to the skin, the hair will matt near the roots and will have to be shaved off to start all over with new growth.
Most pet owners opt to keep their poodle in a shorter trim. Some owners learn to do the clipping and trimming themselves. while others choose to take their dog to a professional dog groomer every 4-6 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.
Exercise
Standard Poodles are active dogs who require good exercise very day to suit their high energy level. Poodles are eager for all kinds of activity and they enjoy keeping busy. Poodles love the water, bred as hunting dogs, their impulse is to retrieve, so tossing toys and balls for them will exercise both their. mind and body. They also enjoy going on long walks with their family.
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