Sizes and Appearance
Poodles come in several recognized size varieties and share many physical traits.
| Variety | Height at shoulder | Weight | Key Looks & Coat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Poodle | More than ~15 inches (≈ 38 cm) | ~ 40-70 lbs (≈ 18-32 kg) | Curly, dense coat; long muzzle; stylish, proud posture. Coat often clipped or trimmed for show/comfort. |
| Miniature Poodle | ~ 10-15 in (≈ 25-38 cm) | ~ 10-20 lbs (≈ 5-9 kg) | Similar build scaled down; energetic; often used as companion dogs. |
| Toy Poodle | Up to ~ 10 in (≈ 25 cm) | ~ 4-7 lbs (≈ 2-3 kg) | Very small, delicate; similar features, highly companion-oriented. Grooming & handling require care. |
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Coat: dense, curly or tightly waved. There’s a woolly undercoat plus a top coat. Many solid colours are recognized: black, white, grey, apricot, cream, brown, silver etc.
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They are often considered "low – shedding" (less free hair falling out) which makes them more tolerable for people with mild allergies. But note: less shedding doesn’t mean “no allergens”. Grooming is needed to maintain the coat.
Temperament & Behaviour
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Poodles are highly intelligent, often ranked among the smartest of dog breeds. They learn quickly, respond well to training.
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They are lively, energetic, and need both physical exercise and mental stimulation. Boredom can lead to mischief.
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Generally friendly and affectionate with their family. They can do well with children and other pets if socialized early.
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They are alert dogs; good watchdogs in that they notice new things, but not aggressive by nature. Barking can sometimes be a trait if not managed.
Life Expectancy & Health
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Lifespan ≈ 10-18 years, depending on size, health care, genetics. Typically, smaller varieties live longer.
