Country/Region of Origin: France
Life span: 10 – 15 years.
Weight: 10 – 31.7 kg (22 – 70 pounds)
Gestation: 61 - 65 days
Health issues in Poodles:
Legg-Perthes disease
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Lacrimal duct atresia
Patellar luxation
Von Willenbrands disease
Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Glaucoma
Cataracts
Epilepsy
Interesting facts about Poodles
The word Poodle derives from the German word ‘pudel’ and 'pudelhund', meaning “water dog”.
The famous haircut often seen on show dog poodles was started by earlier hunters to help the poodle cope better with swimming.
The bottom half of the body was shaved to make the poodle lighter as the wet fur of the poodle would get very heavy and slow them down when swimming.
The fur on the upper half of the body was left to grow and help keep the vital organs warm in the cold water.
The fur on the ankles was also left to protect the joints from rheumatism.
Poodles are descendants of the French water dog which is now close to extinction.
Today the Poodle it is known as the dog of France, hence the name “French Poodle”.
In France it is the national dog.
Poodles are extremely intelligent and easy to train and for hundreds of years they were used in circuses and street acts to perform.
The first Poodle recognised by the AKC was in 1887 and today (2012) is ranked as the 8th most popular dog in the US.
There are four different sizes of Poodle, the Teacup Poodle, Toy Poodle, Miniature and Standard Poodle. The Poodle Club of America does not recognize the Teacup Poodle.
Poodle sizes:
Teacup Poodle: 9 inches or less from the shoulder.
Toy Poodle: Under 10 inches from the shoulder.
Miniature Poodle: Between 10 and 15 inches under the shoulder.
Standard Poodle: Over 15 inches from the shoulder.
