Dog breed · Non-sporting / Utility
Poodle (Standard)
An elegant water retriever with an exceptional mind. Low shedding suits some allergy-affected households, but no breed is genuinely hypoallergenic.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Non-sporting / Utility
- Origin
- Germany and France
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 20–32 kg (45–70 lb)
- Height
- 45–60 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Dense curly single coat; continuously growing
- Temperament
- CleverAthleticSensitivePlayful
History
Developed as a water dog in Germany (Pudel, 'to splash') and elaborated into a fashionable companion in France.
Appearance
Square outline, long muzzle and a tightly curled coat that is clipped in many patterns.
Exercise and activity
An hour or more daily; swimming, retrieving and training games are ideal.
Care and grooming
Brush to the skin every day or two and book a professional groom every four to six weeks; neglected coats mat painfully.
Health considerations
- Hip dysplasia
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
- Addison's disease
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Sebaceous adenitis
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Poodle (Standard)
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: An hour or more daily; swimming, retrieving and training games are ideal. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Hip dysplasia, Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), Addison's disease, Progressive retinal atrophy, Sebaceous adenitis), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime. Bloat has no screening test: learn its emergency signs and ask about prevention.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice