Standard Poodle

There’s nothing standard about the Standard Poodle! Learn all about this highly intelligent, versatile, and athletic breed- because there’s much more to them than poofy haircuts.

Country of Origin

France
Breed Group

Non-Sporting (Utility)
Height

Male 18-23 In
Female 14-18 In
Weight

Male 44-70 Ib
Female 22-33 Ib
Life Span

12-16 years

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In a Nutshell

The Standard Poodle is the “original” and larger breed size (since the Giant Poodle isn’t an officially recognized separate size, only the name used to describe larger Standard Poodles). They’re close to the Moyen (medium) size, between the Miniature and Toy Poodles.

The Standard Poodle is popular thanks to their intelligence, playfulness, and trainability. They make excellent competition and therapy dogs, adapt well to various living conditions, and are very loyal and loving to their family. Despite their fancy appearance, Standard Poodles are athletic dogs who enjoy running, swimming, and playing games.

Life With a Standard Poodle

Low (1) High (5)

Energy level

Trainability Level

Amount of Shedding

Tendency of Barking

Exercise Needs

Kid Friendly

Pet Friendly

Looks & Personality

The Standard Poodle is known for their curly coat, which is often groomed and styled. They come in various solid colors, such as black, white, brown, and apricot. Dogs of this breed have a simultaneously elegant and athletic build, long ears and tails, and narrow muzzles.

Personality-wise, Standard Poodles are highly intelligent, friendly, and eager to please. This makes them both easy to train and excellent pets for active families. They are sociable dogs who love nothing more than to take part in family activities. Their sharp intellect means they thrive on mental challenges, including obedience training, agility courses, and puzzle toys. You’ll have a great time teaching these dogs new tricks, but you must also ensure they get plenty of physical and mental exercise daily.

Common Health Problems

The Standard Poodle’s sturdy build and muscular frame allow for endurance and agility, making them excellent athletes. These dogs can jump, “walk”, and swim quite well.

Did you know?

Enrolling in Animalia Pet Insurance
while your pet is healthy is a wise decision.

Waiting until a disease develops means it won't be covered.

A tip from a vet

Dental hygiene is important when you have a Standard Poodle, because Poodles tend to accumulate tartar relatively quickly. Luckily, thanks to their intelligence and easygoing nature, owners are able to brush their teeth, even daily.

A tip from a trainer

Dogs as active and intelligent as the Standard Poodles require mental stimulation alongside physical exercise. Consistent training with positive reinforcement from a young age will ensure they develop into happy, thriving, well-behaved adults.

Did You Know

The Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds, along with the Border Collie, German Shepherd, and the Retrievers – Golden and Labrador.

Author John Steinbeck wrote a book about his journey across America with his Standard Poodle, Charley. The book ‘Travels with Charley: In Search of America’ is now a beloved classic.

President John F. Kennedy’s Standard Poodle was named De Gaulle (Gaullie for short) after the French President, Charles de Gaulle.

In The News

In 2016, a Standard Poodle named Crystal Diamond RD made headlines when she gave birth to a litter of 16 puppies, tying the record for the largest Standard Poodle litter ever recorded!

The History Behind the Breed

People often associate this breed with France because they’re the country’s national dog. However, the Standard Poodle’s history dates back hundreds of years and actually begins in Germany! The dog was bred as a water retriever, and their name comes from the German word for “water splash”. French breeders refined and standardized the Poodle, forming the stylish and trainable breed we know today.

Poodles’ intelligence and agility made them excellent hunting companions, while their hypoallergenic coat allowed them to live close to humans as their beloved pets. In modern times, these qualities still contribute to the breed’s popularity, and Poodles are admired for their beauty, obedience, agility, and loyalty. They win both competitions and their owners’ hearts. The Standard Poodle sets exceptionally high standards!

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