Poodles: A Marvel of Intelligence and Versatility

Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast

In this episode, we introduce you to the wicked smart, Swiss Army Knife of breeds, the beloved Poodle.

Over the centuries, Poodles were bred as hunting companions but their versatility and intelligence led them to starring roles such as fashion plates, status symbols, comedians, rescue heroes, and crimefighters. Though often underestimated, underrated, and misunderstood, Poodles make excellent guide dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs. Join us as we plunge into the history of these excellent swimmers and treasured family members.

Bonafide Bits:

• In the 19th century, the French fell in love with the Poodle making it a cultural icon and the national dog of France.
• French legend has it that a black Poodle named “Moustache” earned a grenadier’s per diem and received a hero’s burial after faithfully serving his country.
• In 1875, the Poodle first appeared in the Kennel Club’s stud book.
• In 1935, Duke, a white Standard Poodle, was the first Poodle to win Best in Show at Westminster.
• Elvis Presley gave Poodles as gifts to girlfriends.

Featured Breeds:

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Poodle (Standard)

Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as frou-frou dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Poodles at AKC’s Poodle (Standard) Breed Biography.

Poodle (Miniature & Toys)

Poodles come in three size varieties: Standards should be more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder; Miniatures are 15 inches or under; Toys stand no more than 10 inches. All three varieties have the same build and proportions. At dog shows, Poodles are usually seen in the elaborate Continental Clip. Most pet owners prefer the simpler Sporting Clip, in which the coat is shorn to follow the outline of the squarely built, smoothly muscled body.

Discover more about Miniature Poodles at AKC’s Miniature Poodle Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• The traditional Poodle cut is more function than fashion.
• Poodles have been featured in artworks dating back to the 14th century.
• Poodle coats can also be corded and encouraged to grow into locks up to 20 inches long.