Poodles make ideal pets. Their variety of sizes will allow you to choose one that’s perfect for your lifestyle and they have a fascinating history. Read the Poodle facts below to see if this lively, highly intelligent breed is right for you!

The 3 sizes of poodles identified by the American Kennel Club are - the Standard Poodle, the Miniature Poodle and the Toy Poodle. The biggest among the breed is the Standard Poodle that stands over 15 inches at the top of theshoulders. Miniature Poodle is the middle size and stands 10 inches at the top of the shoulders. Toy Poodles are the smallest and stands under 10 inches and usually weighs around 6 to 8 pounds.

But there are even smaller than Toy Poodles, the Tiny Toy and Teacup Poodles. These two varieties are becoming popular pets although their size variation is not recognized by the AKC. The Tiny Toy only weighs about 4 to 6 pounds while the Teacup is the lightest that only weighs 2 to 4 pounds.

One of the more interesting pet Poodle facts will come as a relief to allergy sufferers. Poodles make superb pets because they do not molt their hair nor does their dander cause allergies. Another plus for poodles as pets is the dogs don’t have a doggy scent.

Poodles are one of the oldest breeds and have been the m ost popular in America since the 1960’s. They were part of ancient history as illustrated by the Greek and Roman coins carved with dogs that resemble Poodles. This breed was recognized by the AKC in 1890.

Poodles date back to the 1500’s and were favorites in France, Germany and Russia. They remain the national dog of France. Germans utilized Poodles for hunting and water retrieving, and the name Poodle derives from the German word Pudel which is an abbreviation of Pudlehund (”splashing dog”). The Standard Poodle was the first variety of Poodle to be bred.

The Poodles unique coat that ranges from coarse and wool like to soft and wavy. This coat can be done in a variety of cuts and clips. We all know the Poodle show clip, but in addition there is a puppy clip, an English saddle clip, a continental clip and a pet clip. You can also cord a Poodles hair like a Komondor.

Poodles are an intelligent, spunky, and high energy breed of dog. They love to interact with their humans as much as possible. Poodles need challenging toys and activities that keep them from being bored. Poodles are good protectors and field dogs. Potty training a poodle is easier than most other breed due to their quick learning skills.

Fortunately for poodle lovers, the breed tends to have a lengthy lifespan. According to some of the Poodle facts available, the Standard Poodles average an 11.5 year lifespan, Miniature Poodles often live to 14 and Toy Poodles can live for as long as 17 years! Of course, these averages assume that the dog is of normal weight and has an active, healthy lifestyle.