Dog breed – Poodle
Poodle
Intelligent and loyal, Poodles are smart dogs with a playful nature.
Poodles at a glance
Intelligent, active and loyal
At least two hours of exercise a day
Life expectancy of 12-15 years
Medium to large, between 20 and 32kg
Poodle temperament and personality
Poodles are intelligent and loyal dogs. They’re also known to be playful and responsive, making them a good choice for families with children.
Poodle training and exercise
Poodles are smart dogs and often respond well to training. Like many dog breeds, using positive reinforcement with treats can also encourage learning. Their intelligence also means that they may enjoy more challenging activities, such as interactive games and puzzles.
You should give your Poodle about an hour of exercise a day, but you may find that they need a little more than this in their younger years.
Common Poodle health conditions
Poodles can commonly suffer from the following illnesses:
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
- gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV)
- epilepsy
- patella luxation
- Addisons disease
- hypothyroid thyroid issues
While certain health issues are genetic or age-related, you can reduce the likelihood of certain illnesses by feeding your Poodle a healthy diet, taking them for regular vet check-ups and giving them enough exercise and stimulation.
Poodle feeding and nutrition
Poodles need a balanced diet that consists of protein, carbohydrates and fats, as well as vitamins and minerals to keep them healthy.
Poodle grooming
Poodles have wiry, curly coats that need to be brushed regularly to prevent irritation and matting. Their eyes and ears also need cleaning to stop them from getting infected.
You should also take them to a groomer every month or two, as it’s best to leave your Poodle’s haircuts to a professional.
Things to know before you buy or adopt a Poodle
Before you buy or adopt a Poodle, there are some things to remember:
- Poodles are often very active and need daily exercise and at-home entertainment (such as toys and interactive games).
- You shouldn’t leave your Poodle alone at home for more than a few hours.
When does a Poodle stop growing?
Poodles are considered adults at 18-24 months old, though it may take them less time to reach their full-grown size.
Are Poodles good around children?
Poodles are active and responsive animals, making them a great fit for families with children. Your Poodle can provide your children with a lot of play time, though they will likely need some rest after an hour or so of exercise.