Contrary
to popular belief that poodles are made up to look like
they just stepped out the local hairdressers the breed's
typical cut or "clip" arose from their original role
as working dogs
For centuries,
poodles were loyal companions to hunters, who began to clip their
thick coats to help them gain better mobility through the water
on duck hunts. Only the coat around the face, head, leg joints,
and tail remained to keep them warm.
In modern
times, the classic poodle-do remains not so much a symbol of vanity,
but more as a reminder of their heritage as common retrievers.
The name poodle, or in the original German Pudelhund, means
"splashing dog".
Poodles are intelligent, easy to train, loyal and affectionate, and remain one of the Top Ten most popular dog breeds in Europe and America either
in toy, miniature or standard size breeds.
Poodle behavior
& personality
The standard
poodle's typical long legs give it a somewhat bouncing gait and
a dignified air, but their basic personalities are fun loving
and athletic.
Left to their own devices, poodles are energetic outdoor adventurers.
They can also
turn mischievous if left to their own devices. They are very
adaptable to big families, and are usually gentle around small
children, but are often highly territorial - making them additional
candidates for excellent watchdogs.
Care & Health
That
the thick-coated poodle doesn't shed is a common misperception.
Rather, hairs remain inside the coat and if not frequently brushed
the result is often a messy, matted coat.
Although not
as common a disorder in humans, canine Addison's
disease plays a bigger role in major health issues affecting
poodles. The adrenal gland disorder is marked by symptoms such
as general lethargy, an inability to deal with stress. Although
serious in it complications Addison's disease in poodles is notoriously hard to spot by veterinarians.
Bloat (GDV), or gastric dilation volvutus, is another common health issue along with thyroid problems, kidney disease and hip dysplasia
as the poodle matures.
Poodles fun facts - DID YOU KNOW?
Hunting poodle,
16th century.
• The French have had a love affair with the breed since Renaissance times and eventually proclaimed the Poodle as the national dog of France.
• Although best known for their luxurious coats, Poodles still maintain the physical strength and dexterity for which they were originally bred, and are even sometimes still seen using their paws to pick up small objects.
More about poodles around the Web:
Poodle
- Check out this extensive Wikipedia guide to the breed with photos, information
on temperament and behavior, common illnesses and diseases, the
poodle in history & pop culture, related resources.
Poodle
Club of America - Find breed information & referrals, tips
& advice on health issues, photos, rescue & adoption resources.