Description

The Standard Poodle is an active, intelligent and elegant-appearing dog, squarely built, well-proportioned, moving soundly and carrying themselves proudly. Also known as Barbone and the Caniche, the Standard Poodle still retain their ability as a gundog and swims well. Intelligent and being eager to learn makes the Standard Poodle popular in obedience trails. Steady, smart and loyal he will do anything an owner could wish for including obedience, shows, tricks, hunting and retrieving. A happy good tempered dog who makes a good family pet. Favored among people that suffer from asthma because of his wooly coat.

Size of Male: Height: 15-21 inches Weight: 45-70 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 15-21 inches Weight: 45-65 pounds

Temperament

The Standard Poodle is proud, elegant, dignified and good-natured. Standard Poodles are highly intelligent and one of the most trainable breeds. Standard Poodles are pleasant, happy and sensitive. The Standard Poodle tends to be a bit calmer than the smaller variety of Poodles. They need to be with people and dislike being alone. For the most part they are generally friendly toward strangers, and are excellent with children. The Standard Poodle is good with other dogs. Some are good guard dogs and some can be trained as hunters.

Living Conditions

Standard Poodles are relatively inactive indoors. Standard Poodles will be okay in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. A small yard will suffice. Do make sure to bring your dog out for daily exercise though if you live in an apartment.

Upkeep

All Standard Poodles need a lot of interaction with people. Standard Poodles also need mental and physical exercise. A brief but challenging obedience or play session, combined with a walk, should be part of every Standard Poodle’s day. Standard poodles will need more exercise and may especially enjoy swimming. No poodle should live outdoors. The show poodle should preferably be brushed every day or weekly for shorter coats. Poodle hair, when shed, does not fall out but becomes caught in the surrounding hair, which can cause matting if not removed. The pet clips are easier to maintain and can be done every four to six weeks.

Health

Major concerns: sebaceous adenitis, gastric torsion, hypocorticism

Minor concerns: distichiasis, entropion, cataract, hip dysplasia, epilepsy

Life expectancy: 10 – 13 years