Poodle. S. Meyer Clark

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      I once owned a large chocolate Standard who was very protective of home and family. On two separate occasions, he leaped through a glass window to chase away suspected prowlers on my property. Fortunately for the individuals, I was at home on both occasions and stopped the dog from further action against the men. However, they didn’t linger about to find out how serious and strong the dog was.

      Standard Poodles are large enough to tolerate the pulling and pushing of toddlers who cling to their soft coat for support when they’re learning to walk. The dogs are also gentle enough, when raised with children, to be sympathetic to children older than toddlers who run and squeal as they play.

      The Miniature Poodle is an active, agile, alert dog of medium build whose appearance suggests a curious interest in everything in his environment. Miniature Poodles are people-pleasers from the word “go.” They are also great alarm dogs, warning of the approach of strangers. They are small enough to travel well, adapt to any type of dwelling from small apartment to large estate and friendly enough to join any group at a social gathering. Children and adults alike respond to their quick wit and pleasant attitude toward all who know them.

      The Miniature also serves as an alternative size for people who have spent their lives loving Standard Poodles but find that they no longer can maintain such a large dog. Their love of Poodles in general is life-long, so changing to Miniature Poodle ownership is a natural step.

      Finally, we come to the Toy Poodle, also a great alarm dog, if slightly higher pitched. The Toy looks the part of a lovely, delicate toy with an intense awareness of his owners and others in his world. These diminutive little treasures fill very special needs for special people. Because they’re so small, they can be carried easily wherever their owners want to take them. Hotels usually accept them with no trouble; trains, ships and airplanes allow them to travel right along with the passengers rather than in cargo areas. In addition, they can be trained to eliminate indoors, thus diminishing the need to walk them outdoors daily. People who live in severe climates and those who live in big cities where walking alone outdoors at night can be unsafe can own a Toy Poodle without worry. As for exercise, games and activities indoors can supply Toy Poodles with adequate exercise and stimulation. They also make ideal companions for elderly people with limited ambulatory ability.

       Poodles welcome children as playmates, provided the children are well behaved and understand that Poodles deserve considerate, special treatment.

       Lovely lady...lovely Poodle. Poodles have been favorites of ladies for generations. While ladies usually favored Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles also became popular because they are more adaptable and sporting than the Toys.

      Finally, tiny Toy Poodles make ideal partners for people who enjoy active lifestyles yet want to include their dogs in everything they do. A client of mine, for example, has a tiny apricot Poodle that rides around in a canvas bag that she carries over her shoulder. If you were to meet her in the market, you’d never know that hidden in that bag is her best friend, Toby. Apparently, Toby enjoys the gentle swaying of the bag as his owner walks along, so he snuggles into his soft blanket and naps throughout the entire shopping trip.

OWNER SUITABILITY

      First and foremost, the new Poodle owner must consider the grooming requirements of Poodles, regardless of size. This is a life-long need and one that cannot be ignored. Some owners choose to groom their Poodles themselves and purchase the necessary tools to keep their dogs neat and tidy at all times. Others use professional groomers to keep their dogs looking their best. Either way, the Poodle must be fully groomed about every six to eight weeks, along with daily brushing and weekly bathing. The time and costs that this will entail must be considered before purchasing the dog.

       Poodles are more fun to collect than postage stamps or coins! What could make your household more exciting than oodles of Poodles?

      Some Poodle owners elect to combine the two grooming methods. They have their dogs professionally groomed every eight weeks and, in between grooming, they do a lot to maintain that elegant appearance. They learn to trim toenails, clean ears, brush properly and bathe regularly. By taking care of the routine grooming between professional appointments, the owner assures that the coat will not become knotted or matted (the groomer will charge dearly to remove mats from the coat).

      An ideal Poodle owner should be a person who enjoys the intelligence and versatility of the breed. Poodles do not make good “couch potatoes.” Regardless of size, they are active dogs that need to keep busy and be challenged and stimulated on a daily basis.

      They also do not fare well with owners who don’t spend time with them. The Poodle who has to stay home alone for hours on end and then remains alone even after the owner has finished his work day will not be a happy dog. Poodles have large egos and need to be active parts of their owners’ lives, whether that life includes hiking in the park or strolling along the seashore, or anything in between. Accompanying their owners when visiting friends is another favorite pastime of Poodles, and they make great house guests!

       Although larger than the ultraportable Toy, the Miniature Poodle is willing and able to accompany his owner most anywhere.

      One of the Poodle’s favorite activities can be attending obedience classes or entering obedience trials. In every country where obedience trials are conducted, Poodles rank high on the lists of winners because of their intelligence and willingness to please.

      Finally, the Poodle owner should be a person who loves life, enjoys laughter and looks forward to greeting each new day as much as his Poodle does.

       Poodle owners should be people who appreciate the finer qualities of their dogs. A sense of humor and an exuberant love of life are among the traits that owner and Poodle should share.

       Poodle puppies are affectionate and outgoing charmers—one cuddle and you’ll be hooked!

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