Poodle — temperament, care and breeding in Dog Kennel Simulator

History

The Poodle most likely comes from Germany, where it is called the “Pudel”; the FCI and a minority of experts place it in France, where it is called the “Caniche”. Similar dogs date back to at least the 17th century. It began as a water dog: larger Poodles retrieved game from water for wildfowl hunters, while smaller ones were once common circus performers.

The breed has several varieties — Standard, Medium, Miniature and Toy — although the Medium is not universally recognised. This page describes the Standard Poodle; Standard Poodles are often called Standards. The American Kennel Club lists it in the Non-Sporting Group and recognised it in 1887.

Temperament

AKC describes the Poodle as active, proud and very smart, and it likes to be vocal. AKC rates its energy level 4 of 5, its trainability 5 of 5, its mental stimulation needs 5 of 5 and its barking level 4 of 5.

AKC calls it extremely intelligent and easily trained; it excels at agility, obedience, tracking, dock diving and retriever hunt tests.

Care

According to AKC, the Poodle is very active and needs good exercise every day. Most Poodles love water, so swimming is great exercise, and their retrieving instinct makes fetch a good game.

The thick, curly coat comes in many colours, but major registries recognise only solid colours. A full coat must be brushed daily to the skin or it mats; most pet owners keep a shorter trim, often with a professional groom every 4–6 weeks. The coat is relatively non-shedding: AKC rates its shedding level 1 of 5 and its grooming frequency 4 of 5.

The Standard Poodle stands over 38 cm; males weigh 27–32 kg and females 18–23 kg. The life span is given as 10–18 years, and smaller varieties tend to live longer.