Poodle
Dog breed
An exceptionally intelligent, proud, and elegant dog with athletic bearing and curly hypoallergenic coat. Originally bred as a water retriever, this athletic breed excels as a companion and in various dog sports.
More about the Poodle
The Poodle, called the Pudel in German and the Caniche in French, is a breed of water dog. The breed is divided into four varieties based on size, the Standard Poodle, Medium Poodle, Miniature Poodle and Toy Poodle, although the Medium Poodle is not universally recognised. They have a distinctive thick, curly coat that comes in many colours and patterns, with only solid colours recognised by major breed registries. Poodles are active and intelligent, and are particularly able to learn from humans. Poodles tend to live 10–18 years, with smaller varieties tending to live longer than larger ones.
Living with a Poodle
Brilliant, elegant, and endlessly trainable, far more than a fancy haircut.
Personality & fit
Highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please, Poodles bond closely and love learning. They come in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes but share the same sharp, playful mind.
Exercise & energy
Active and athletic, daily walks plus mental stimulation. Standards especially need real exercise; all sizes love games and learning tricks.
Grooming & coat
High-maintenance coat: that curly, low-shedding fur needs brushing every few days and professional grooming every 4–6 weeks to prevent matting.
Training
One of the smartest breeds, quick, obedient, and a joy to train. Great for first-timers who enjoy an engaged, clever dog.
Health to watch
Prone to hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and (especially Standards) bloat; smaller ones can have knee (patella) issues. Regular grooming also keeps ears healthy.
Good to know
Low-shedding and often tolerated by allergy sufferers, but the grooming commitment, and its cost, is real.
General guidance to help you get to know the breed, not veterinary advice. Always consult your vet for your own pet.
🏠 Adoptable near you
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Personality
At a glance
Breed traits from The Dog API · summary from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA). General guidance only, every individual pet is unique.