Bred down from the Standard Poodle are three other sizes of Poodle: toy, miniature, and medium (although the medium is not recognized by some kennel clubs). The smaller varieties have always been companion dogs, and were popular in the French court between the reign of Louis XIV and Louis XVI. An elegant dog, the Poodle is energetic, playful, affectionate, and eager to please. It is also very adaptable, equally at home in the city or the countryside. The dog’s non-shedding coat makes it popular with allergy sufferers, although it does need regular brushing and clipping.

The Breed History 

“Poodle” likely derives from Pudel, a German term describing one who plays and splashes in water or puddles. The exact lines of genetic origin are obscured, but ancient breeds such as the Irish water spaniel, Rough haired water dog and others contribute to the type, and perhaps the first of the smaller types of poodles originated by crosses with terrier type for use in truffle hunting. German history records poodle type dogs in the 15th century. The toy version of poodle first widely entered the history record in the 18th century. Very early records in the Mediterranean place poodle type dogs in the first century. Though often referred to as the French poodle, the breed is not though to have originated there. AKC recognition occurred in 1887.

Physical Characteristics

All three types share the same breed standard, only the size and weight varies between the three.

Toy Height at Withers:
Female up to 10” (25.4 cm)
Male up to 10” (25.4 cm)

Weight:
Females 6-9 lb (2.5-4 kg)
Males 6-9 lb (2.5-4 kg).

Miniature Height at Withers:
Female 10-15” (25.5-38 cm)
Male 10-15” (25.5-38 cm)

Miniature Weight:
Females 15-17 lb (7-8 kg)
Males 15-17 lb (7-8 kg)

Standard Height at Withers:
Female 15 “ (38 cm) or more
Male 15” (38 cm) or more

Standard Weight:
Females 45-60 lb (20-27 kg)
Males 45-70 lb (20-32 kg)

Coat: All solid colors accepted (e.g., apricot, black, gray, silver, blue, café-au-lait, cream) and the coat is dense, wiry and curly. If left unclipped, it tends to form ringlets (cording) and waves. There are specific clips used in show, and their coat is a distinguishing breed feature.

Longevity: 12-15 years. The smaller types may reach 15-17 years on average.

Recognized Behavior Issues and Traits

Extreme intelligence, sociability, and excellent trainability are well known poodle traits. Very lively, they do tend to bark, and need to be socialized to other pets and people or else they can potentially be nippy. They need close human companionship and tend to be aloof with strangers. They are good alarm barkers.The poodles require regular clip and grooming (every 6-8 weeks), and are low shedding and low allergy dogs. They tend to need more frequent dental care. They do well in town or country and need moderate levels of exercise. They are high activity around the house, though the standard poodles are often less active indoors.