October 7th is Poodle Day! Poodles are one of the most recognizable and iconic dog breeds. These wonderful dogs have excellent temperaments, and really make top-notch pets and companions. A vet offers some insight on Fido in this article from Armitage Animal Clinic, your Newmarket, ON animal clinic.
Breed Origins
No one is exactly sure where Poodles originated from. There’s a good chance that Fido came from Germany. In fact, the word ‘poodle’ may have evolved from the German ‘pudel’, which means ‘to splash’ or ‘puddeln.’ This makes sense, especially given that poodles are excellent swimmers.
Basics
Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. There’s also a medium, though they aren’t officially recognized. Fido is known for being super smart. In fact, Poodles were renowned circus dogs, who became very popular due to their ability to perform complex tricks.
Coat
Fido’s most distinctive trait may very well be his coat. It’s not only unique because it’s curly, but also because of its coarse texture. That pretty fur has led to a few misconceptions. For instance, many people think Poodles are hypoallergenic. That isn’t exactly accurate: Poodles aren’t technically hypoallergenic. However, they do shed less and produce less dander than most dogs, and often spark only mild reactions in people with allergies. They can also sport a variety of pretty colors. You can also customize your canine buddy’s look: these sweet dogs can sport more than 50 different haircuts.
Temperament
Poodles are known for being smart and friendly. In fact, Fido has ranked as the second most intelligent dog in some surveys! These guys tend to be easy to train, and are often extremely responsive to their humans’ emotions and needs. However, they do need lots of activity and stimulation. Otherwise, they can get bored and restless.
Health
Many breeds are prone to specific health conditions. That is true with Poodles as well. Some of the things poodles are susceptible to include bloat, Addison’s Disease, thyroid issues, and hip dysplasia. Ask your vet for specific care tips, including potential warning signs to watch for.
Celebrating
Do you have a Poodle? Be sure to treat your canine pal to something special, whether it’s a treat or a new toy. This is also a great time to snap some adorable pictures of your four-legged friend. Share on social media to spread the word about these sweet dogs.
Do you have questions about Poodle care? Contact Armitage Animal Clinic, your Newmarket, ON animal clinic, anytime!
