Poodle
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Seemingly bred for a life of pure luxury and indulgence, the Poodle is actually a working breed with a latent love for water buried in its genes. Whether they come in the standard, miniature or toy varieties, these dogs make for lovely additions to the family. And if you are interested in arranging Poodle pet insurance, PIA is ready to assist.
The Poodle was most likely developed in Germany. Even its name is of German origins. The original ‘pudelhund’ (‘pudel’ being a cognate of the modern English word, ‘puddle’) indicates that this was a dog that enjoyed splashing about in water. You may even note that a full-sized (i.e. standard) Poodle bears some resemblance to other water-based retrievers, such as the Curly Coated Retriever or the Portuguese Water Dog.
In keeping with its presumably German roots, this breed was well-known on the European mainland before making its way to the UK.
It was a favourite house pet in Spain in the 1700s, and Toy Poodles were kept by Louis XVI.
An early propensity to work followed by later development as a privileged indoor pet have created a unique breed, indeed. Poodles are energetic and highly intelligent, but they also thrive on human interaction and can get along well indoors.
Poodle: Fast Facts
Average Height
Toy: 24-28 cm
Miniature: 28-35 cm
Standard: 45-60 cm
Average Weight
Toy: 3-4 kg
Miniature: 7-8 kg
Standard: 20-30 kg
Temperament
Alert, active, faithful, intelligent and highly trainable
Lifespan
12-15 years
Known Genetic Issues
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, von Willebrand’s Disease, thrombopathia
Country of Origin
Germany (and later France)
Exercise Requirements
Regular exercise such as a long walk or extended playtime is essential to the mental health of this breed.
Coat
Long, single-layer coat with dense, curly hair
Coat Colours
White, black, sable, grey, red, cream, sable, blue, silver and apricot
Specific Care Requirements
Poodles are slightly emotional creatures that genuinely crave human contact and may act out by biting or chewing if left unattended for long periods.
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Poodle Characteristics
This is an ancient breed with well-defined standards. However, it’s also worth noting that there are three generally accepted classes of Poodle – standard, miniature and toy. The Standard Poodle is certainly the oldest, but the toy variety was already under development in 18th-century England.
Poodles are intelligent, loyal, loving and – at times – mischievous. They have what many describe as an ‘air of distinction’, and seem to see in themselves as worth pampering or even spoiling. And given their penchant for reverse training their masters, many Poodles are able to secure such a lifestyle for themselves.
This playful breed also loves well-structured games and activities that challenge its mental prowess. Regular exercise helps to manage the breed’s natural energy, and a Poodle insurance policy ensures that they’ll be covered in the case of accidents or injuries along the way.
Our Pet Insurance Cover Options
Pet Essentials
Includes emergency boarding fees, overseas pet travel insurance & more
Comprehensive Cover
Covers up to 80% of eligible vet bills, offers multi-pet discounts & more
Major Medical Cover
Includes routine care cover, covers up to 80% of eligible vet bills & more