Pertinent Facts About French Poodle Dogs






by Pierre Fontaine


The elegant and showy nature of the French poodles and the French bulldog make their owners feel boastful enough of owning them. A larger part of the people tells that the French poodle is a native of France. Several others believe that it belongs to Iberia or to Russia. However, it was the French who are responsible for the evolution of the present breed of the French poodles.

In the German language, the term 'Pudelhund' that means 'water dog' has been shortened to 'Pudel' and thus the name poodles originated. The original purpose of the French poodle was to aid in hunting waterfowl, and this perhaps led to the German name it now possesses.

The French Poodle is in reality, full and thick coated but hunters clipped the dog's thick coat to help him swim, leaving hair on the leg joints to shield them from extreme cold and sharp reeds. This clipping caught on as a signature characteristic for the French Poodle but the form of the clipping largely depends upon the owner which range from the positively beautiful to the downright bizarre, based upon the owner's and the viewers viewpoint.

Everyone has individual opinions -a style liked by one person may not be loved by another and vice-versa. Only the fundamental styles of the 'pet' namely the 'Continental' and the 'English Saddle' are permitted for the French poodles which take part in dog shows.

The Toy, the Miniature and the Standard are the three common varieties of the French poodle. The height of the adult's shoulder is the only attribute that can be used to distinguish them. They are bred in various colors such as apricot, white, black, blue/charcoal. The French poodle that possesses more than one color or varying shades of colors does not find recognition in the American Kennel Club.

The presence of unique features is an exceptional quality of the French poodles and they make them easily recognizable. The Standard breed of the French poodle is higher than 15 inches, whereas the Toy breed is smaller than 10 inches. The Miniature breed has an intermediate height which range from 10 to 15 inches. The French poodle has quite a lengthy body, with ears that are flat and long. With deep-looking eyes, that are either black or brown, they go about in an upright and dignified manner.

The French Poodle, just like the Blue French bulldog, is happy-go-lucky, amusing, remarkably smart and sensitive. The breed is an obedient one and is good at learning tricks and can be seen in circuses, predominantly as a star attraction, where they perform in pomp and splendor. That the French Poodle seems to have an uncanny knack for understanding human speech is the considered opinion of many a French Poodle owner.

With their faithful and friendly nature, French poodles are comfortable with every family member whether they are old or young. With improper attention, they feel neglected, but are very defensive animals inclined to give good protection. Hence they form vigilant guard dogs.

For the French Poodle, being active is an absolute must, with a necessary daily walk. They like a good frolic in open spaces, are exceptionally attracted to water, true to its derived name. Grooming is also another must. Usually the "lamb" clipping, bringing the coat to look rather like a lamb is preferred since it is easier and cheaper to maintain instead of the more fancier ones that require the assistance of an outsider. All in all, the French Poodle is an adorable dog that can be reared for its versatility.




About the Author: