The Poodle is one of the most popular breeds of dogs. Poodles are highly intelligent, adaptable and have a remarkable sense of humour. They come in three sizes, many colours, don't shed and are tolerated by many allergy sufferers. With so many wonderful qualities, it is easy to understand why the Poodle has so many admirers.

According to breed scholars, the Poodle's origins most likely took place in Germany where it was known as PUDELIN (meaning "to splash") because of its love of water. It was the French, however, who honored the dog -at home, in court circles and on the battlefield thus earning the dog the popular, but incorrect title, "French Poodle".

THE TOY POODLE

Of the three varieties, the Toy is the smallest. It is popular with apartment owners, retired people who enjoy traveling with their pet and those who prefer a very small dog. By definition, the Toy Poodle should not be taller than 11" at the shoulder. There is also no such thing as a registered Teacup Toy Poodle. This term is used as a marketing gimmick to imply that your puppy will be extra small. Any Poodle which is 11 inches or under at the shoulders is called a Toy Poodle. The very tiny dogs often have serious health problems, which is the reason they are so small.

THE MINIATURE POODLE

The Miniature Poodle is the medium size variety. Ideally not taller than 15" at the shoulder, this sturdy size is small enough to suit apartment living and large enough to be a rough and tumble child's companion.

THE STANDARD POODLE

The Standard Poodle has no upper height restriction although the majority are usually between 23" and 27" at the shoulder, with females leaning towards the lower end of the range. The Standard, originally a water retriever, is now enjoying a myriad of roles; hospital therapy dog, hunting dog and loyal companion. He is ideal for those individuals who prefer a larger dog. There is no such thing as a registered Royal Standard Poodle. The term is used as a marketing gimmick to imply that your puppy will grow extra large.

DON'T BUY ON IMPULSE

Buying a dog SHOULD NOT be done on impulse. Learn as much as you can about the breed in which you are interested. Every breed has advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Owning a Poodle

*Three sizes from which to choose
*Highly intelligent and adaptable
*Delightful, clever temperament
*People oriented
*Non-shedding
*Breed of choice for many allergy sufferers
*Many colours from which to choose

Disadvantages of Owning a Poodle

*Demands grooming on a regular basis
*The Toy variety can be fragile and may not be suitable in homes with very young children.

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

There are hereditary health problems in ALL breeds of dogs. Below are some of the more common hereditary health problems in each variety of Poodle.

The following genetic disorders have been diagnosed in all three Poodle varieties: hip dysplasia, PRA and cataracts (leading to blindness), epilepsy (seizures), and inflammatory bowel disease.

The Toy Poodle may also have loose stifles (knee caps) [known as luxating patella] and Legg-Perthe's Disease (disease of the hip joint).

The Miniature Poodle may have knee, hip, eye and thyroid problems.

The Standard Poodle may be subject to gastric torsion/bloat, von Willebrand's Disease, sebaceous adenitis (skin disorder) and autoimmune problems such as Addison's Disease and autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

Through research DNA tests are being developed to help in identification of the genes which produce some of these diseases. There are currently tests for von Willebrand's disease and progressive retinal atrophy. Tests are near to identify the gene for Addison's disease, epilepsy, hip displasia and others.

A written report should be furnished by the breeder upon request with the results of x-rays, blood tests, eye examinations and punch skin biopsies for the sire and the dam of the puppy.

Responsible, conscientious breeders screen all breeding stock for hereditary health problems for which we have testing available prior to utilizing ANY dog in a breeding program and are delighted to answer any questions about the health of the puppy's sire and dam.

However, even when the sire and dam have been tested and found free of specific hereditary health problems, there is no iron-clad assurance that the puppy will not develop one of these problems. (This is the nature of biology). Buying a puppy from a breeder who tests breeding stock considerably increases your chances of getting a healthy puppy.

SHOW QUALITY VERSUS PET QUALITY

A show quality puppy is one which, in the breeder's opinion, should be able to become a champion. A pet quality puppy is less likely, in the breeder's estimation, to become a champion. However, when buying a puppy (8 weeks to 16 weeks), trying to guess what that puppy will look like when it is an adult is just that...a guess.

A pet quality puppy is one that has a minor fault which would disqualify it from being shown; i.e., a white spot on the chest (or elsewhere), only one descended testicle, oversize or undersize Toys or Miniatures, or an improper bite.
However, the feature(s) which disqualify these puppies from the show ring will, in no way, affect their ability to be a wonderful companion.

Most pet quality puppies are sold with the ANKC's limited registration form and spay/neuter contracts. The limited registration form is a simple way of saying that although your pet is an ANKC registered pure-bred dog, it cannot be bred. And if it is bred, the offspring cannot be registered with the Australian National Kennel Club. Using this form is the breeder's way of ensuring that the puppy will not be bred and pass along the disqualifying feature to future generations. Neutering your dog also increases its chances of leading a longer, healthier and happier life.

GUARANTEES/CONTRACTS

What should you expect in writing from the breeder?
The ANKC registration papers (At least a three generation pedigree)
Copies of the test results of genetic screening for health problems of the sire and dam
Copies of applicable testing done on the puppy
A printed contract including:
-Health guarantee
-A timeframe (2 days to a week) to determine if the puppy will fit the buyer's household
-A time period for the buyer to secure a veterinary check (24 48 hours)
-A statement of the breeder's refund/return policy
-Feeding instructions
-Vaccination and worming schedule - when given and when due - and what products were used

Many breeders provide pictures of the sire and dam, photos of the entire litter, and puppy manuals which give housebreaking hints, training advice and information on health. These are an added bonus but not absolutely necessary. A small quantity of puppy's food-enough to last for several day-is helpful.

SHIPPING THE PUPPY

Many puppies are shipped safely by air or ground transportation to their new homes. The puppy buyer is responsible for the cost of the shipping and shipping crate. Many breeders may ship the puppy in a "loaner crate" which the buyer must send back to the breeder ASAP. If the buyer chooses to return the puppy for any reason, the cost of the return shipping is the responsibility of the buyer.

Recommended Reading
The New Complete Poodle by Mackey J. Irick, Jr.
The Book of the Poodle by Anna Katharine Nicholas
How To Be Your Dog's Best Friend by the Monks of the New Skete
Poodle Clipping and Grooming by Shirley Kalstone
Training You To Train Your Dog by Blanche Saunders
Mother Knows Best by Carol Lea Benjamln