Poodle puppies are often loved for their fluff-ball appearance during their youth. In their adolescence and adulthood, they’re lauded for their regality and elegance. Not only are these pups bound to be gorgeous, but they also make phenomenal family pets. Here are some facts about Poodles:

1. Poodles Come in Three Sizes

Poodles come in three distinct sizes – Standard, Miniature, and Toy. This is true for the US and the UK. In the EU, there is a size between Mini and Standard called the Moyen. The breed standard stays the same, but the sizes differ.

Standard Poodles are over 15 inches, but usually average 22-27 inches tall and weigh 40-70 pounds. Mini Poodles average 10-15 inches tall and weigh 10-15 pounds. Although smaller, one of the facts about Miniature Poodles is that they are athletic little dogs.

Perhaps not as high-energy as Standard Poodles, Mini Poodles are still known to hold their own when it comes to activities. Toy Poodles are usually under 10 inches tall, tend to average 7-10 inches tall, and weigh 6-9 pounds.

2. Standard Poodles Are a German Dog Breed

Although the Poodle is commonly associated with France and is the national dog of France, they are actually a German dog breed. This breed originated in Germany hundreds of years ago where they were bred for hunting on land and in the water.

In fact, the Poodle breed name comes from the German words pudel or pudelin. These roughly translate to “to splash in water”. Knowing that, it’s no surprise that Poodles are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water.

3. Poodles Were Bred For Hunting

Although they may seem like an unconventional hunting dog, the Standard Poodle was initially trained for duck hunting by the Germans. They are extremely active dogs with an energy level that allows for sustained hunting. The athletic build of Standard Poodles performs exceptionally well in competitions involving jumping and retrieving.

Specifically, Poodles excel in retrieval from bodies of water – they were bred for swimming after ducks, after all. Although they can sometimes have a pampered look and reputation, these dogs are active, energetic, sturdy, and athletic. They are even one of the dog breeds that make good running partners because of their athletic abilities and endurance.

4. They Have a Unique Look

As one of the most popular show dog breeds with one of the most famous pedigrees, Standard Poodles can become fairly large in size. They get to weigh from 40 to 70 pounds and grow to be about two feet tall. Noted for their well-structured bodies that emanate pride, these pups are fit for a wide variety of environments.

The famous Poodle fur has two distinct varieties: curly and corded. Curly Standard Poodles have uniform fur that is thick throughout their body, while the Corded Standard Poodle reflects the pattern Poodles are most recognized for.

Plus, there is an even wider variety of clips and trims that give Poodles even more unique looks. But, each of these haircut styles follows specific rules about placement, length, and more. This is particularly true and especially strict for dog shows.

5. The Poodle Coat Comes in a Variety of Colors

Although most dogs are classified by just a handful of colors, the Poodle is defined by more than a dozen! There are even “shaded” varieties of several colors out there. While black and white are the most popular, poodles can also come in silver, gray, blue, cream, and red hues. The Poodle coat is one of the reasons why there are so many Poodle mixes, but the variety of coat colors is why it can be hard to predict or standardize coat colors in those crosses.

6. Poodles Have Hair, Not Fur

Getting into semantics, Poodles have hair, not fur. Fur grows to a certain length and sheds. Although hair is known to fall out and “shed”, it keeps growing. Poodle hair does the same; it will continue growing until it is cut.

This is one of the reasons why regular grooming and clipping is so important for Poodles. Hair is also affected by hormonal changes, which is also true for Poodles. For example, female Poodles can have thinning hair or hair loss in response to hormonal changes after they have puppies.

7. The Pompons Have a Purpose

Although it’s common to see Poodles with full coats, the shaved coat with puffs still comes to mind. Those puffs of hair are called pompons; not pom-poms, which are used by cheerleaders. This style of haircut may seem like it’s more for fashion than function, but its origins are completely functional.

When working as water retrievers, less hair would make for less waterlogged dogs and more efficient swimmers. However, a complete shave would leave a Poodle too susceptible and vulnerable to cold water.

The strategic compromise was to leave these pompons of hair over joints and around the upper torso to protect joints and insulate vital organs. This helped keep a Poodle’s core warm and joints fluid when they plunged into cold water for retrieval.

8. Grooming is Very Important For Poodles

Standard Poodles have a unique combination of curly hair while also being a non-shedding breed. Although they are non-shedding, their coat is one of the more high-maintenance dog coat types.

Poodles are also one of the fluffiest dog breeds. Without daily brushing and proper care, tangles can quickly turn into mats. This makes regular grooming and maintenance necessary to prevent the hair from becoming matted. A trip to the dog spa every so often will leave your pup looking gorgeous.

9. They Are Perfect For Loving and Energetic Homes

Do you have an active family, maybe with a few little ones running around? Then, a Poodle pup would be a great fit! Not only do they get along well with children and are able to keep up with your energetic lifestyle, but they’ll also look good doing it and have a lot of fun too. In fact, Poodles are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners, which makes them a popular choice.

10. Poodles Are Versatile Working Dogs

Poodles are one of the smartest dog breeds. Their intelligence, athleticism, and large size (if they are a Standard Poodle), make them versatile working dogs. Not only are they still used in some areas as hunting dogs, but they also make great service dogs, therapy dogs, and more. They are also known to excel at several dog sports including dock diving, flyball, agility, obedience, and more.

11. They Have Been Trained as Truffle Hunters

Tangentially related to their hunting dog background, some Poodles have even been trained to be effective truffle hunters. These dogs can be trained as early as four months old to sniff out truffle mushrooms. They have even been able to master a soft bite that allows them to retrieve delicate truffles without damaging them.

Is a Poodle Puppy Right For You?

Poodles are one of the most popular dog breeds and these are just a few facts about Poodles. These dogs can be great fits for single owners and families that can give them the daily exercise and attention they need to be active and involved members of the family.

If you think this dog breed is the right fit for you, learn more about them, then check out the available Poodle puppies. Who knows? You could end up finding your new best friend!