A summary of the History, Characteristics, and Versatility of the Poodle

HISTORY

The Poodle, in all three sizes, has had a long and interesting history. Companion to Genius (George Washington, Charles, Dickens, Winston Churchill, John Steinbeck, Gertrude Stein, Neil Simon and many others), war dog (in the English civil war in the 1640s, the Cavalier leader Prince Rupert’s famous white Poodle Boy was said to be a witch), circus performer, hunter/retriever and general companion. No wonder that the Poodle is known for superior intelligence and exceptional learning ability.

In fact, the sport of Obedience competitions was initiated through the efforts of a founder of the Poodle Club of America, Mrs Whitehouse Walker (Carillon Poodles) and her assistant Blanche Saunders with the support of Mrs Grace Boyd of the famous Piperscroft Poodles in the UK.

You can see more about the breed History in the History drop down box under this tab, or by visiting www.poodlehistory.org

CHARACTERISTICS

The characteristics of the Poodle have evolved as a result of its History, and the evolution continues into the present as breeders select breeding stock that meet their preferences. The most concise statement of Poodle Characteristics is from the Poodle Standard, which can be viewed in the drop down page under this tab :

Characteristics: A very active, intelligent, well balanced and elegant looking dog with good temperament, carrying himself very proudly.

You will find a detailed discussion of Poodle Characteristics at the Characteristics drop down box under this tab. You can also read more by visiting the ANKC website , place your cursor over the Breeds tab, click on Group 7 (Non Sporting) in the side menu, scroll down to Poodle (Standard) and click on it, then click on the link “Click to view breed extension PDF.”

VERSATILITY

The question is not “what can Poodles do?” but “what can Poodles not do?”

The Poodle is the perfect glamorous show dog, the most charming, affectionate and beautiful companion, a successful water retriever and truffle hunter, an efficient performer in obedience, agility and herding, a responsive partner in dancing with dogs and in any other human activity where a dog is a useful companion to people.

For more information see the activities tab or visit www.vipoodle.org

You will find more information by looking at the drop down pages under this tab and following the links. Please be patient – some of these pages are at a very early stage of development.