Poodle Care

The poodle is one of the most popular dog breeds kept as a pet today. They are extremely intelligent which makes them one of the most trainable breeds. Poodles also love to be around people and make extraordinary pets.

The origin of the poodle is not really known. It is unclear whether it was developed in Germany, France, the ancient Piedmont, or Denmark. However, France is the country that is recognized as the poodle's origin. The poodle is a descendant of a French water dog called the Barbet and the Hungarian Water Hound. The word "poodle" comes from the German word "pudel". Pudel means "one who plays in the water". Poodles were originally kept in France and Germany to retrieve waterfowl. Later, the French made the Poodle a circus performer because of their intelligence. The Poodle has been around for at least 400 years.

There are three different types of poodles: Standard Poodles, Miniature Poodles and Toy Poodles. The toy poodle became very popular with royalty in the 1700s. The only thing different about the three types of poodles is size. The Standard Poodle weighs around 45 pounds. The Miniature Poodle weights around fifteen pounds and the Toy Poodle weighs around seven pounds.

The Poodle is most well known for its intelligence, but it is also a very pleasant, perky, lively and happy breed. Poodles are very trainable and love to be with people as well as other pets and dogs. They are sometimes shy around strangers though. Poodles do tend to bark a lot, but you can train them not to do this. They also don't need excessive exercise. You don't have to have a yard to own this dog. Poodles love walks and will be much healthier if you take them on short walks.

When you get your poodle, make sure you socialize it at a very young age to prevent behavioral problems. You should also start training at a young age. Some poodles can be timid or high-strung if you don't do this. Poodles are not recommended for small children because they may snap if they are teased by children. It is better if your children are older and more considerate.

Some poodles tend to get runny eyes, ear infections, digestive problems, heart problems, skin problems and slipped stifle. Make sure you take your dog to the vet regularly to prevent any problems from developing.

The hardest part of keeping a poodle is the grooming you will have to do. They must be given a bath regularly and clipped at least every two months. You will also need to check and clean the ears a lot so that they don't get ear infections. Any hairs that grow in the ear canal must be pulled out. Poodles' teeth also need scaling regularly. If you have allergies, this breed will be good for you because they don't shed hardly anything.

If you decide to get a poodle, you will have a great companion. They can live to be twelve to fifteen years old and make a delightful, amusing pet. Just make sure you know that they can be demanding as well.

By Michael Russell, Your Independent guide to Dogs
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