Should You Buy A

 Standard Poodle?

Remember that saying, A bad haircut can make anyone look stupid? You might have seen it next to a picture of Einstein in a hair design ad, but it goes for the Standard Poodle, too.

Though their distinctive fluffy cut makes them look silly to some, the Standard Poodle is considered by many people to be the most intelligent dog breed in the world, with the reasoning ability of a three year old child.

Hard Working Hair Style

These dogs look a bit frivolous in the show ring, but they were originally bred for hard work in the water. The Poodle clip did not begin as mere hairstyle (though it may seem that way now); it was developed with long fluffy sections to protect the dogs joints and vital organs in cold water, and the rest cut close to make swimming easier. Thats where the custom began of clipping to pattern, which so enhanced the style and appearance of Standard Poodles that its sponsors, particularly in France, were captivated by it, and it became thought of as the national dog of France.

Retired to Non-Sporting

Because the breed is not commonly used as a working dog today, the American Kennel Club classifies the Standard Poodle as part of the Non-Sporting Group. These dogs weigh 45 to 70 pounds and stand over 15 inches tall.

The Standard Poodle has a muscular body under all that hair. Its ears are long and fold over close to the head, and its tail is docked and stands erect. The Standard Poodle comes in a wide range of colors, including apricot, black, cream, red, blue, gray, silver, brown, parti-color, and white. Overall, the white and cream-colored Standard Poodles seem to be a bit more high-strung and nervous than the others, while black Standard Poodles seem calmer.

Everybodys Best Friend

The Standard Poodle does best in family settings and is extremely devoted to its family's children. This breed is also an excellent choice for families with more than one dog, as the Standard Poodle rarely meets a dog it doesn't like. If you have a cat, be prepared for your dog to rampage through the house giving chase, although when he finally catches up to the cat, he only wants to play.

If you live in an apartment, you will need to take your dog on a long walk or go for a romp in the park every day. These dogs can live in apartments, but they do much better in a home with a fenced yard.

Top Marks In Training

This breed of dog enjoys learning because of its high intelligence, and should attend puppy obedience classes. Standard Poodles also need to be socialized as puppies, or their natural aloofness with strangers can turn to fear. Your puppy will work hard during classes, because he will want to please you. If he can't figure out what you want him to do, he will wrinkle his brow and try again. If he still can't figure it out, he may start to get depressed and frustrated. If this happens, give him a command he already knows, and after he joyfully obeys he will be ready to try the new command again. Many Standard Poodles and their owners go on to take advanced classes and compete in obedience and agility trials.

Chow Hound

The Standard Poodle breed has several common health problems. Addison's disease, hip dysplasia, and epilepsy are prevalent enough that many breeders screen their parent dogs to be sure they don't carry these genetic faults. Your dog could also suffer from renal disease, bloat, and skin problems.

Standard Poodles are big dogs with big appetites. If you've never had a big dog before, be prepared for a noticeable increase in your grocery budget. These dogs also should receive daily vitamins, including vitamin C, which many veterinarians say can help prevent hip dysplasia.

Quality Time Required

If you do not want to spend time grooming your dog, don't buy a Standard Poodle. These dogs need to be brushed daily, and, with their large size, it can take an hour or more. Also, you will either have to learn to cut your poodle's hair, or youll need to take him to a professional groomer every six weeks.

The Standard Poodle is an intelligent, fun-loving dog. If you don't mind brushing your dog while you watch the evening news, this may be the right breed of dog for you.

Dog Training Made Easy! Sick of having your dog not listening to you? Frustrated with your uncontrollable dog? I can help you! Read my dog training guide and TRANSFORM your dog’s behavior NOW! Click here for more.