7 Things You Didn’t Know About the Poodle

Poodles are poufy and proud, and they’re #6 on our list of most popular dog breeds. The popular show dogs are known for their intelligence, grace and of course, their beautiful curly coats. We bet you don’t know it all when it comes to this breed, though. Here are 7 facts you need to know about the Poodle!

1. They’ve got beauty and brains.
Poodles are not only lovely to look at; they’re also highly intelligent. They’re the second-smartest dogs in the world according to the AKC, just under the Border Collie.

2. They’re a good choice for people with allergies.
Because their curly coats resemble hair more than fur, Poodles are considered virtually hypoallergenic, odorless and tend to be a good choice for those with allergies to shedding dogs. However, like human hair, their fur grows continuously and needs to be managed accordingly.

3. They come in three sizes.
The poodle is the only dog that comes in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. However, they are all the same breed. Standard poodles weigh 40-70 pounds, miniature poodles 15-17 pounds, and toy poodles a miniscule 6-9 pounds.

4. There’s a reason for those bulbous hairdos.
Your first image of a Poodle is most likely the meticulously groomed pooch with perfectly shaped spheres of fluff. Turns out there’s a specific use for what’s known as the “Poodle clip.” Relevant to its history as a water retriever, the Poodle’s fancy haircut is meant to strategically protect its joints and vital organs in cold water. Interesting, huh?

5. They’re globally coveted dogs.
While the breed originated in Germany, many think of Poodles as a French breed because of the widespread popularity Toy Poodles have achieved, starting in France under the rule of King Louis XVI. They even hold the title as the official dog of France! Poodles continue to receive worldwide allure; recently, toy brown poodles have become the current pet trend in Asia.

6. They’re athletic.
Despite their reputation as prim and proper dogs, Poodles love to get down and dirty. They’re great swimmers, and were originally bred to hunt water fowl. Along with their strong, springy legs, they also have plenty of energy to do the tricks you’ll see them perform at dog shows.

7. They were the pet of many famous celebrities.
Poodles are a favorite among both past and present celebrities, the list of which includes famous figures like Elizabeth Taylor, Barbara Streisand, Jackie Kennedy, Debbie Reynolds, Walt Disney and Rihanna. Perhaps the biggest celebrity Poodle enthusiast in history was King of Rock and Roll Elvis Presley, who gifted the popular pooches to the special ladies in his life.

Westminster Insight
At the 2017 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, a Minature Poodle named “Danfour Avalon As If” took the winning spot in the Non-Sporting Group.

Do you have a Poodle? Comment below and share what you love about Poodles!

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