Why Poodles are Good Dogs
Poodles may look like dandy lap dogs, but they are actually one of the most athletic and intelligent of dog breeds. The Standard Poodle was originally bred for hunting, and that says a lot about their demeanor and strength. These highly trainable dogs are beloved all over the world. And, these days, are crossbred to create some of today’s popular breeds, such as the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle. Here are our top reasons why poodles are good dogs:
They Were Bred for Work & That Makes Them Outstanding Communicators
Poodles are the national dogs of France! However, the breed originated in Germany as duck hunting dogs. This retrieving water dog began nearly 400 years ago, according to the American Kennel Club.
Why are they good water dogs? Their curly coat protects them from the elements, allowing them to swim with comfort and ease. Poodles are known for their incredible intelligence. That’s why Poodles are good dogs for retrieving. They communicate well with their handlers. The Poodle’s ability to communicate are what make them wonderful family pets, too.
They are Hypoallergenic
When you think of Poodles, a vision of a big white dog with shaved legs probably comes to mind, but Poodles are shaved for practical reasons, not just for show. Hunters preferred their Poodles to have easy movement in the water while protecting important areas of the body (such as the chest and joints). These fun rounded tufts of fur are referred to as “pompons.”
One of the features of Poodles that make them popular dogs is their hypoallergenic coat. They have a single coat with low dander, and they don’t shed – making them ideal pets for people with mild to moderate allergies.
Poodles Come in 3 Sizes!
For the most part, choosing the right size Poodle for your household is a matter of choice for your lifestyle. Very few dog breeds have this kind of variation. Poodles come in three sizes:
- Standard: More than 15 in. tall from the shoulder
- Miniatures: 15 in. and under
- Toys: Below 10 in.
All three sizes are considered the same breed and have similar characteristics, such as energy level and intelligence. As we will discuss further, each size will have different exercise needs.
They are Fun and Active
As a general rule, the bigger the breed, the more exercise they’ll need. For the Poodle, that’s also true! Standard Poodles are athletic and share those hunting traits with their ancestors. The Miniatures will require a little less exercise, but don’t be fooled — they are still an energetic bunch. However, your daily walks may be a bit shorter than the Standard Poodle would require. The same goes for the Toy size. These small but mighty dogs will require exercise, but you’ll have some flexibility here as you can play with them indoors or outside. The Toy Poodle is perfect for apartment-dwellers and people looking for a dog with fewer exercise needs.
Poodles are good dogs, but they need to be trained and socialized to maintain positive behaviors. That’s why they should attend training and play sessions as puppies. Daycare is another great way to make sure your Poodle is getting the attention they deserve while you’re working.
The Doodle Phenomenon
Poodle mixes are extremely common these days. Why? Poodles are good dogs! That’s why breeders mix them with other dogs, in the hopes of getting the best of both breeds. Here are the top 10 most popular Poodle mixes:
- Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever & Poodle)
- Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever & Poodle)
- Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel & Poodle)
- Schnoodle (Schnauzer & Poodle)
- Yorkipoo (Yorkshire Terrier & Poodle)
- Bidoodle (Bichon Frise & Poodle)
- Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog & Poodle)
- Shih Poo (Shih Tzu & Poodle)
- Peekapoo (Pekingese & Poodle)
- Pomapoo (Pomeranian & Poodle)
Bring Your Poodles and Doodles to K9U
Whether you have a Poodle or one of the fun-loving mixes previously mentioned, we’re the place for your pup! Our Logan Square Daycare services are convenient for customers who need to work or travel. We even have transportation services for those who need it. Poodles and Poodle mixes are good dogs and known for their energy. We offer a variety of services to keep your Poodle or Doodle well-stimulated and exercised.
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