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 clich’ 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.

All Poodles must appear energetic, alert, and elegant, must have a regal carriage, must be intelligent, and must have physical characteristics such as: curly, dense and coarse fur trimmed in the appropriate style, proportionate features, dark eyes, oval-shaped feet, straight and delicate muzzle and deep, wide chest.

The style of fur required for competition is a puppy cut for dogs twelve months and under and either an English Saddle or Continental clip for adult dogs. There are various requirements of each type of cut, which the AKC clearly defines. Dogs that are not competing are trimmed down considerably to reduce maintenance. Dogs in full fur require at least ten hours of brushing weekly.

Poodles, like other purebred dogs, have some common genetic flaws, which lead to medical conditions. Poodle breeders should discontinue breeding any line found to have these conditions. Some of the likely health problems are: Addison’s disease, gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), thyroid and renal conditions, hip dysplasia, and cancer. Poodles are probably one of the more expensive breeds, and a Poodle puppy bought from a champion line may cost as much as two thousand dollars. When searching for Poodle breeders, it is important for buyers to shop around and ask a lot of questions.

Unfortunately, there are breeders working only to make a profit with no regard for the health or happiness of the dogs they produce- or their potential buyers. These backyard breeders raise Poodles in puppy mills where they breed dogs continuously, keeping the mothers and puppies in cages with little socialization and no freedom or play.

Two things that are always red flags warning buyers of bad breeders are breeders who sell to pet stores and breeders who don’t interview buyers to ensure Poodles will be going to a good home. No good Poodle breeder is in the business just for money. Good Poodle breeders love animals and want their Poodle pups to go to loving, permanent homes.