There are many beloved dog breeds in existence today. One of the most talked about is the Poodle. Whether standard, miniature or toy in size, the Poodle is regularly a champion in competition and is viewed as a superb example of a purebred dog. Poodle breeders fawn over their Poodles. Other dog breeders may mock Poodles for the elaborate show clips they present in competition. Because of their long-legged, delicate appearance and regal carriage Poodles are natural showstoppers.
The history of the Poodle is much less intricate than one would think. Poodles have their origins in the 15th century. They are thought to have come from Russia and Germany. Germans called the Poodle Pudelhund, or splashing dog. The closely curled, dense coat of the Poodle served the purpose of insulating the dog from cold water. Poodles were used as retrievers and duck hunters. Their cliché' trim actually served a functional purpose of keeping them warm around their joints while mobile in other areas when immersed in water.
Good Poodle breeders are aware of the history of the Poodle breed as well as the breed standard characteristics. They should be able to educate a potential buyer on the Poodle to ensure that the buyer and Poodle are a good match. The Poodle's fur is its most noticeable trait. It is dense, coarse and curly to wiry. Poodles have other defining traits such as delicate limbs and muzzles, graceful oval feet, dark eyes, an alert, intelligent and active temperament, and a regal carriage. Poodles can also have health problems specific to the breed such as a condition called Addison's disease, gastric problems, kidney and thyroid problems, and cancer. Breeders will not continue to breed any Poodle found to have a hereditary medical condition.
Breeders may specialize in toy, miniature or standard Poodles. The difference in the types of Poodle is their size and weight. Toy Poodles are six to nine pounds and up to ten inches in height at the shoulder. Miniature Poodles are fifteen to seventeen pounds and eleven to fifteen inches in height at the shoulder. Standard Poodles are forty-five to seventy pounds and over fifteen inches in height at the shoulder.
When interviewing Poodle breeders, buyers should bring a list of questions to determine a reputable breeder from a bad breeder. Buyers should do their homework in advance and be ready to commit to Poodles at the time of purchase. Some excellent questions to ask to help buyers find good Poodle breeders include do you maintain your own kennel and can I visit it, can I meet the parents and receive pedigree papers, can I get medical and immunization records and do you offer a warranty. Good Poodle breeders will run their own kennels and encourage potential buyers to visit and meet not only the puppies but the parents as well. The kennels should be clean and allow good socialization. Reputable breeders will also give new owners lots of information out Poodles, especially car and feeding instructions.
Good Poodle breeders will care where the puppies are going and what kind of care they will receive. Expect to have answers for the breeder as well to questions about your home and environment.
Finding Poodle breeders begins with asking the right questions. Tips on how to find Poodle breeders and basic Poodle information is provided in this article.
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