Poodles

Poodles are one of the most popular breeds among pet owners. Not only are they beautiful dogs, but they are also intelligent and easy to train. They can learn many tricks. They want to please and can be extraordinarily obedient.

The poodle breed is very active. Poodles enjoy long walks and lots of exercise. They are eager to run, play dog sports, and swim. They like to stay busy.

Poodles generally do not bark excessively. They do not shed much because they have a single layer coat rather than a double layer like most breeds. Due to this, their fur can get tangles or matting. Grooming is required to keep their fur soft.

Poodles can be a variety of colors including brown, black, silver, white, red, and cream. They are divided in name by their size.

Standard Poodle Puppies

Standard Poodle puppies have a "boxy" build. They have straight long legs and a lengthy head and muzzle. They typically have dark oval eyes and ears that hang close to their face. They will grow to be medium sized dogs that will range in height from 15 to 24 inches at the shoulder. Weight will depend upon their height, but Standard Poodles tend to weigh an average of 60 pounds. They are generally a healthy breed with a life expectancy of approximately 12 years.

Standard Poodle puppies are good with calm kids and like to stay close to their owners. They are very loyal and not easily distracted by other people. Poodles are sensitive dogs and prefer a gentle voice and handling. They require supervision around other dogs.

Training should begin as soon as the puppy arrives at their new home. Standard Poodle puppies learn quickly and should be socialized with close neighbors and other family pets. Because of their desire to be active, Standard Poodles are not a breed to leave alone all day. They must stay active or they may get bored and become depressed or destructive.

Miniature Poodle Puppies

Poodles that measure less than 15 inches at the shoulder are considered Miniature Poodles. Miniature Poodle puppies will weigh between 15 and 17 pounds when they are grown. They have a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years.

Miniature Poodles are one of two builds. They can have a "boxy" or square build similar to the Standard Poodle – meaning that their height and length are about the same. Other Miniature Poodles are lower to the ground. They have shorter legs and longer backs. Both breeds require grooming and frequent clipping.

A common misconception about Miniature Poodles is that they are "dainty" or frail. They may not be the largest dog on the block, but they may very well be the most athletic. They are thinking dogs that require attention and mental stimulation. They like to play games. They are smart and are easily trained. They do not do well alone and are not the type of dog that can be left alone outdoors.

Miniature Poodles puppies are affectionate toward their owners. They are also accepting of other pets, but some Miniatures can be reserved or distant around strangers. They make excellent watchdogs and will alert their owners to footsteps approaching the front door and to squirrels out the back window. Too much stimulation can make Miniature Poodles anxious. They are sensitive dogs that prefer a calm environment.

Teacup and Micro Teacup Poodles

Many people may be looking for the smallest possible poodle they can get. These people are looking for teacup or micro teacup poodles. It can be difficult to find these for sale. It’s highly unlikely that they will be available via a rescue organization.

These puppies are bred incredibly small for cuteness. This also makes them incredibly expensive. The smaller the puppy, the more expensive it’s going to cost  as well. There’s also a trade off. Dogs bred for their incredible small size often have a lot of health problems. In addition, their life span is much smaller. Like everything in life, there’s a tradeoff. They are certainly adorable creatures, but the expense and potential health problems may prove too much for some people.

Buying and Adopting a Poodle Puppy

Some families choose to forgo a puppy in order to adopt a Poodle from an animal shelter or rescue organization. By adopting an adult, owners are able to see the exact build and temperament. Grown Poodles have no history of negative behaviors associated with adapting to a new home.

Other families want the bonding and the fun experience that comes with raising a puppy. Poodle puppies can be purchased from individual breeders. Make sure to choose a reputable breeder. One way to recognize a responsible breeder is by asking if both parents are on premises. Serious breeders will have health records and pedigree records for the parents and the puppies.

Breeders who only raise puppies for dog shows may not be as inclined to breed for temperament as breeders who are focused primarily on family pets.