Standard Poodle Standard Poodle

The Standard Poodle is a highly intelligent dog, in fact of all dog breeds he is the most likely to understand the spoken word. This breed is great with children and other dogs. Don't be fooled by this breed's good looks; he can run, swim, and retrieve with the best of all of the other breeds. He needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation if you are to keep him happy.

This breed is great for those who are allergic to dog dander or dog hair because they don't shed. It is thought that their hair does not ever stop growing! Be prepared to spend countless hours grooming this breed, or alternatively a visit to the groomer every four to six weeks. They are generally quite calm and patient on the grooming table, but it is important to start their grooming experience at a young age.

Due in part to his circus past, the Standard Poodle loves to entertain and evoke laughter from those around him. The Standard Poodle has a solid personality, is extremely devoted, and intelligent beyond belief. For those who would like to add another "human" to their family, this breed is the closest that you'll come.

The origins of the Standard Poodle are somewhat mysterious, though it most assuredly did not originate solely from France. In fact his name comes from the German word "pudelnass" which means to splash in water. The greatest influence on the modern day Poodle comes from the German version of the Barbet water dog.

Originally he was used for guard dog work, retrieving, and protecting sheep. In the 18th century he left the marshes and swamps and started a new life in the fashionable salons of France. He became very popular with the French aristocracy, and eventually became the national dog of France.

The Standard Poodle entered the show world in the late 1800's, with the early specimens showing with corded coats. In the 1920's the breed almost died out in North America, but by the 1930's it was staging a comeback. The Standard Poodle has served many roles over the decades including military, guide work, guarding, retrieving, circus performing, and sniffing out truffles.