When you think about getting a dog for a loving, best-friend pet, have you thought about a Poodle? Poodles have much more than just great looks. They are smart, affectionate, great with children and so devoted. Poodles are extremely people oriented. In fact, they do not do well without human companionship. Poodles are also friendly with other dogs and non-canine pets. They are very loving and loyal and will defend their home and people with their lives when threatened.

Poodles are non-shedding dogs and considered hypoallergenic, so this makes them wonderful dogs for people with allergies. Poodles are adaptable and easy to train. In fact, Poodles are among the most intelligent dogs you can own. As puppies, they do not usually need a lot of exercise although some daily exercise is recommended. Although they adore water and love to go for walks, Poodles are just not demanding as far as exercise goes.

Poodles are sensitive to their owner's emotions, ready to be your best friend and quietly sit by your side when you are sad or equally ready to go play ball when you're happy. Poodles are clowns and prance around with a toy or a dog biscuit in their mouths to greet you or to play with you. Above all, Poodles think they are human. They love their owners faithfully and want to be with them.

Many people think that Poodles originated in Germany. The name "Poodle" comes from the German word "Pudel," which is short for "Pudelhund," which means "splashing dog". Others are certain that the Poodle is actually descended from a now nearly extinct French water dog, the Barbet and possibly the Hungarian Water Hound. These dogs have a very long history. Poodles are depicted in 15th century paintings and in bas-reliefs from the 1st century. They were used extensively throughout Europe through the ages for retrieving game, (especially in the water.) Toy Poodles became royal favorites, particularly in the 18th century.

Poodles come in three recognized sizes, the Standard Poodle being the largest, the Miniature Poodle and the Toy Poodle (the smallest). Toy, miniature, and standard Poodles are distinguished by adult shoulder height. Toy Poodles are 10 inches or under at the highest point of the shoulder, and typically weigh less than 12 pounds. Miniature Poodles are taller than 10 inches and up to 15 inches at the highest point of the shoulder. For those who prefer a large dog, Standard Poodles are over 15" at the shoulder, with some reaching as much as 30" at the shoulder. "Standard" Poodles (the big ones) are usually between 45-60 pounds (Female) and 65-80 pounds (Male. Other designations, like the "Royal Poodle" on the large end of the spectrum, and the "Tiny Toy" and "Teacup" are not officially recognized sizes, but are used for convenience and descriptive purposes. Among the Toy Poodles, most breeders say "Tiny Toy Poodles" are 4 to 5 pounds, "Teacup Poodles" are 2 to 4 pounds, and the regular Toy Poodle is 5 to 8 pounds at maturity.

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