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History
The standard poodle is the oldest variety amongst the three poodle
varieties: standard, miniature and toy. It originated in Germany as a water
retriever. The English name is derived from the German word, pudelhund
referring to its development from a water dog.
What we know as the stylish ‘poodle cut’ was actually meant to aid his
hunting capabilities as it helped him wade through water with ease. The
patches of hair left on the body had a specific purpose of protecting his
vital organs and his joints from cold.
General Description
He can be in various solid colors that include black, gray, white and
apricot. The standard poodle never has patches colored differently. The
poodle has a single coat of dense curly fur. A poodle’s fur is referred to
as hair just like humans because he does not have a plush double undercoat
like other dogs. Curly fur is harsh and dense throughout. It may also be
sometimes corded in tight even cords of different lengths.
At the skin the coat is of even solid color, the fur however, may show
varying shades of the same color. This natural variation in color, due to
darker feathering of the ears and/or a tilt of the ruff, is not considered
to be a fault in the breed.
His neck is well proportioned and strong and the length of the neck allows
the head to be carried high and in dignity. He walks effortlessly without
making a sound in a straightforward trot with head and tail carried up.
The Standard Poodle carries himself proudly and with dignity. He stands out
among other breeds in an identifiably distinctive manner.
Temperament
The poodle is considered to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds. He is
extraordinarily smart and lends very well to obedience training. He is also
very active and skilful even in herding.
The standard poodle has a characteristically keen sense of instinctive
behavior, especially in marking and hunting drives. He is highly energetic
and gets bored pretty easily. If fact, he is known to be creative in finding
mischief. On the other hand, he is people-friendly and generally shows an
intense desire to please. He tends to be good to children, adaptable and
easy to train.
Animal health is a major consideration. Improper care and ignoring health
issues has serious long term consequences. There are inherited disorders in
every living being that are prone to manifest late in life. The standard
poodle is no exception either.
Generally, standard poodles live well into their teens if they are provided
with adequate nutrition and cared for properly.
The common serious health issues for poodles are Addison's disease, gastric
dilatation volvulus (abnormal twisting of the intestines), thyroid problems,
tracheal collapse, epilepsy, sebaceous inflammation, retinal atrophy, hip
dysplasia, and cancer.
Ear infections, though too minor to report at the registry, are a common
problem with standard poodles. These can be avoided with proper ear care and
regular grooming otherwise these can turn into a major problem.
Home care involves learning how standard poodles should be grromed.
Responsible owners also need to gather information regarding physical and
bhavioral symptoms and their implications. As a general rule, regular
grooming and keen observation thereof along with periodic visits to the
veterinarian should be enough for your standard poodle to live his full life
healthily.
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