Poodles have gotten a bad rap over the years.
Many of those who heard about them but never spent time with a poodle are thinking about them that they are some nappy and nervous little dogs having weird haircuts.
But among the owners and breeders, the poodle is well known for its intelligence.
Due to their high-strung nature, these dogs need appropriate training to become even-tempered and to be pleased by their owners.
History The poodle's history is somewhat unclear, although poodles or their ancestors have been around for a long time.
Some sources say they originate in Asia.
It was originally used to retrieve game balls shot in water.
The poodle is an intelligent animal with an unusual appearance and this is why it was used as a circus dog, performing clever tricks for numerous audiences.
The poodle is considered to be a wonderful pet due to its sweet natural ability to form attachments to people.
Physical Features Poodles do have an unusual appearance compared to other dogs.
They have squared bodies with sizes from under ten inches - toy poodle, to over fifteen inches - standard poodle.
Poodles generally have dark oval eyes set well apart, ears that hang down the head to slightly below eye level, and a long, straight muzzle.
Their long necks are muscular.
Most poodle lovers note that poodles have an air of dignity unmatched in other dogs.
The main feature that sets them apart of any other dog breed is their characteristic fur.
Poodles come in many different colors including black, white, brown, gray, silver, red, etc.
Their fur may be curly or corded (small clumps of ringlets) and their tails are usually docked (cut) to about half their original length.
They all need frequently professional grooming.
Tips About Their Temperament These dogs are intelligent and good natured, they love attention and quickly establish bonds with their owners and their families.
There are dogs that can stay alone for long of the day time.
But the poodle is craving for attention and love.
Poodles enjoy learning new things and showing off their new discoveries and tricks.
It's a dog of stability and daily routine.
They attach to the owner and his family and are shy or even anxious with strangers.
They are good guard dogs because they use to bark at unknown persons.
A Poodle in the Home Their owners should spend much time and effort with these adorable pets.
You should plan to spend at least an hour a day with your poodle, grooming it, walking it, playing with it, teaching it or simply sitting and stroking its fur.
As they are intelligent dogs you should challenge them all time.
They need consistency and the routine of daily activities.
They go high strung or nippy, even anxious when living in a chaotic environment.
You must teach your children to be gentle with the poodle, how to hold it and how to pet it.
Young children should only play with the poodle under supervision.
The dogs of the poodle breed are perfect in elderly families.
You're probably wondering how the sweet little dog with bows in its fur was once a formidable German hunting companion.