Poodle (Standard)

Standard Poodles at a glance

The Standard Poodle is a popular, water-loving dog breed used for centuries as a bird dog and popular pet. Poodles are eager, athletic, and smart dogs of remarkable versatility. They also have an amazing ability to learn, and they might just surprise you with their desire to complete tasks, as well as their innate intelligence. Known for both this exceptional intellect, as well as their friendly and active nature, Poodles make very sweet-natured companions. 

If you are considering adopting a Poodle, or just want to know more about them, we’ve compiled all the information you might need to make informed decisions regarding their care. We’ve included details about this breed’s physical characteristics, health risks, nutrition, and more. At the bottom of this guide, check out our comprehensive list of all the health conditions we test for here at Embark.

About Standard Poodles

Poodles were established in Germany by the 15th century. Despite their French reputation, Poodles hail from Germany, where they were called pudel, which is German for “puddle.” This relates to their love for splashing about in water, according to the AKC. Poodles were the most popular dog breed in the United States throughout the 1960s and 70s and are still quite popular today, owing to their intelligence, trainability, and non-shedding coats.

Elvis Presley loved dogs, and he lived with quite a few Poodles at Graceland. According to PawedIn, one special Poodle named Nala presented an awe-inspiring story of intelligence among this breed — although never trained to operate an elevator, Nala somehow figured it out on her own and uses it to visit the residents at a local nursing home.

Physical characteristics

The Standard Poodle is the largest type of Poodle. These pups are extremely athletic, a trait that is evident in their graceful and proud appearance. The lifespan of this breed is around 12 years, their height is 18 to 24 inches and their weight can range between 45 to 70 pounds.

Bringing your new Poodle home

Your dog’s first week at home should be quiet and comfortable. Your pup might adjust more quickly with a consistent routine beginning on their first day with you. Give your new family member ample time to become familiar with their new surroundings. They will need to become acquainted with both you and their new digs (there are so many different smells!). If your new pup is younger than 3 or 4, be sure to take some extra precautions by keeping electrical wires, household plants, and other easily accessed items out of their reach.

Nutrition

Give particular attention to portion size when feeding your Poodle. According to All Poodle.com, the exact age of a furry friend, his or her health status, activity level, and individual metabolism are all factors in regards to how much your pup needs to eat. The best thing you can do for your Poodle when it comes to diet is to talk to your veterinarian about a meal plan.

Playtime

Poodles are highly active and require plenty of exercise. According to the website All Poodle Info, when a dog is exercised on a regular basis, it increases blood circulation, helps maintain proper muscle tone, and can help slow the development of arthritis. Most Poodles enjoy a variety of activities, including, but not limited to, catch, follow the leader, and hide and seek. These pups are happiest when they feel included in day-to-day activities. If you’re headed to the beach, watching movies on the couch, or stepping out for a run, your dog will be eager to join you.

Grooming

Unlike dogs that shed, the Poodle will grow fur continuously, according to VetStreet. Poodles can be easy to maintain, but be sure to give particular attention to their coat. These pups require grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Some Poodle owners learn to use clippers and do the job themselves, but most rely on professionals. Either way, this aspect of their grooming is essential. Without regular clipping, it could become matted and cause painful skin infections at the roots. Your pup’s nails will also require regular trimming if they are not worn down naturally through outside play and regular activity.

Health and aging for Standard Poodles

Your senior Poodle will likely maintain great health when given the correct care by you and your vet. Regardless, they might experience several changes in their health, behavior, and abilities as they age. Some of these changes could include altered vision and hearing loss, changes to their coat, increased separation anxiety, sensitivity, and longer periods of sleep. Getting your pup tested with Embark will arm you with the information you need to ensure your dog is healthy for longer, while potentially avoiding preventable diseases.

An Embark Dog DNA Test looks at the following health conditions in Poodles (Standard):

Do you own a Standard Poodle or do you think your dog might be part Poodle? Learn more about your dog with Embark’s Dog DNA Tests, the most accurate on the market.