The Poodle, though often equated to the beauty with no brains, is exceptionally smart, active and excels in obedience training. The breed comes in three size varieties, which may contribute to why Poodle is one of the most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration statistics. Poodles can be a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray, but never parti-colored.
A Look Back
The breed originated in Germany as a water retriever. The stylish "Poodle clip" was designed by hunters to help the dogs move through the water more efficiently. The patches of hair left on the body are meant to protect vital organs and joints which are susceptible to cold. The Standard variety is the oldest of the three varieties. The Miniature variety may have been used for truffle hunting. The Toy Poodle was often used in performances and circuses.
The breed originated in Germany as a water retriever. The stylish "Poodle clip" was designed by hunters to help the dogs move through the water more efficiently. The patches of hair left on the body are meant to protect vital organs and joints which are susceptible to cold. The Standard variety is the oldest of the three varieties. The Miniature variety may have been used for truffle hunting. The Toy Poodle was often used in performances and circuses.
Right Breed for You?
The Poodle can accommodate nearly any size living quarters. His hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but requires regular professional grooming. The Poodle is an active breed and requires daily exercise.
The Poodle can accommodate nearly any size living quarters. His hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but requires regular professional grooming. The Poodle is an active breed and requires daily exercise.
Source: American Kennel Club - www.akc.org
Grooming
General: Poodles have a curly coat that does not grow to a specific length, it keeps growing; so it needs regular grooming every 4 – 6 weeks. Poodles are known as the hypo-allergenic dog because of the lack of dander. Poodles actually do shed and need to be brushed on a regular grooming routine.
Ears: Poodles have long pretty ears that need monthly upkeep. Ear Powder is used to help grab the hair that grows down into the ear canal. Pulling ear hair will help prevent ear infections. Do not pull ear hair unless you are properly trained how by your vet or groomer. Follow up with Ear Care to remove dirt and debris form the ear canal. Do not clean further than you can see.
Eyes: Optisoothe should be on hand incase the eyes need to be flushed. Use opti soothe after shaving the face to help remove and tiny hairs which might have gotten into the eyes.
Coat Care: Brushing is a must for a poodle. Mats need to be removed before the bath. Be sure you can get a comb through the hair before the bath. Mats are like wool and shrink down to the skin as they dry. Once they shrink down they are very difficult to remove and the dog might have to be shaved down by the groomer. Use tools listed below for the best coat care. Aloe Hydrating Spray should be sprayed on the coat before brushing. Brushing a dry coat will cause the coat to break. Detangling and dematting Spray or Quick Finish Spray on the tangled areas will help get the brush and comb to get through the trouble spots.
Bathing: After combing out the dog you are ready to bathe. The first bath is for general cleaning to take off the dirt and grime. Any of the Classic Care or Professional Care products are ideal. Follow up with the second bath and target the need of the dog. Poodles with normal skin and coat can be bathed with any of our wonderful scent renewal products for long lasting fragrance. Be sure to end the bath with conditioner. This will help with brushing out your pet and keep the coat hydrated to protect against harsh weather conditions.
Paws: : Paw Balm should be used weekly as well, paw pads that are soft and pliable are less likely to dry and crack due to weather conditions or from rocks or stickers in the field.
Show Dog Tips: Freeze! Hair Gel can be administered at the base of the coat of the top knot and the bevels of the feet before drying and brushed while fluffing to help create the perfect profile. Boost! Volumizing Spray can be sprayed in as well to add in volume to help hold up the topknot. Quick Finish Spray as a finishing spray while scissoring makes for the perfect scissored profile.
Tools: : A brush and a comb are basic essentials to keep your Poodle in tip top shape. After brushing you need to check the dog over with a metal comb to be sure the coat is mat free. Your groomer may need to use a dematting tool to help remove the tangles, if the tangles are too bad shaving might be the best option.
