The Poodle Standard, which is the official blueprint for Poodles, describes the key characteristics that make the Poodle special.

Poodle characteristics arise from the Poodle’s history across the centuries in a wide range of roles as a partner with people:

• as a water retriever

• as a circus and show business performer

• as a truffle hunter

• as a personal and home companion

• as a modern show dog and

• as a performance dog in Obedience, Agility, and Dancing with Dogs.

It’s easy to understand why the Poodle is a dog of choice for most situations when you consider its long and varied history and development. See the Poodle History page on this site.

You can read more about Poodle Characteristics in the ANKC Poodle Standard and by reading the ANKC Extended Breed Standard. You can see the extended standard by visiting the above Poodle Standard link to the ANKC website and click on the link “Click to view breed extension PDF.”

Please read the Poodle Standard carefully to gain a sound understanding of the characteristics of the Poodle. Read as widely as you can, visit shows and observe Poodles and talk to breeders and exhibitors. All have their individual ideas about interpreting the Poodle Standard and it is good to learn as much as you can.