Poodle Breeders and Buyers

The Poodle is one of the most loved and hated dog breeds. Often seen fully coiffed either in competition or strolling with their owners, their fur simultaneously puffed high and trimmed close, poodles appear to be a haughty and decadent dog breed to the Poodle layman. Surprisingly, the history of the poodle is actually very down-to-earth. Poodles are water dogs. They are naturals at hunting birds in water and on land. The name Poodle comes from the German words Pudel or Pudelhund, which means splashing and splashing dog respectively. The name for Poodles is related to the English word puddle. Knowing Poodles are named after a simple puddle makes the breed seem less intimidating already. Poodles most likely originated in Eastern Europe and they have been popular throughout Europe for hundreds of years. However, it is the French who are given credit for the breed. French Poodle breeders successfully cultivated all three sizes of Poodle: miniature, toy and standard.

Good Poodle breeders are aware of the history of the Poodle breed as well as the breed standard characteristics. They should be able to educate a potential buyer on the Poodle to ensure that the buyer and Poodle are a good match. The Poodle's fur is its most noticeable trait. It is dense, coarse and curly to wiry. Poodles have other defining traits such as delicate limbs and muzzles, graceful oval feet, dark eyes, an alert, intelligent and active temperament, and a regal carriage. Poodles can also have health problems specific to the breed such as a condition called Addison's disease, gastric problems, kidney and thyroid problems, and cancer. Breeders will not continue to breed any Poodle found to have a hereditary medical condition.

Breeders may specialize in toy, miniature or standard Poodles. The difference in the types of Poodle is their size and weight. Toy Poodles are six to nine pounds and up to ten inches in height at the shoulder. Miniature Poodles are fifteen to seventeen pounds and eleven to fifteen inches in height at the shoulder. Standard Poodles are forty-five to seventy pounds and over fifteen inches in height at the shoulder. Poodles are probably one of the more expensive breeds, and a Poodle puppy bought from a champion line may cost as much as two thousand dollars. When searching for Poodle breeders, it is important for buyers to shop around and ask a lot of questions. Buyers should first educate themselves about Poodle history, health and behavior to make sure this is the breed desired. Next, they should ask local shelters or rescue centers for referrals to good Poodle breeders. The American Kennel Club's website is another excellent source of information on various, certified breeders.

Two things that are always red flags warning buyers of bad breeders are breeders who sell to pet stores and breeders who don't interview buyers to ensure Poodles will be going to a good home. No good Poodle breeder is in the business just for money. Good Poodle breeders love animals and want their Poodle pups to go to loving, permanent homes.

Lisa Collins has worked with several purebred dog breeders and learned that Poodle breeders have the same characteristics as Samoyed and German Shepherd breeders. Finding Poodle breeders begins with asking the right questions. In this article are tips on finding good Poodle breeders and locating Poodle information.