Simple Guide for Understanding the Different Types of Poodles
While some believe that the poodle family is comprised solely of fluffy black and white dogs, there are in fact several different types of poodles. From the tiny tea cup all the way up to the standard, poodles come in all shapes and sizes. For more information on the different types of poodles recognized by the American Kennel Club, read further.
General Poodle Information
Regardless of the classification, poodles are intelligent and loyal dogs. They make excellent family pets since they are friendly by nature and d very well in households with children. Their intelligence makes it very easy to house train them, much more so than most other breeds of dogs.
Although they are most commonly portrayed as being black or white with a puffy coat of curls, poodles come in several colors. Aside from the norm, they can also be found with brown, red, gray, blue, or apricot colored coats. As for the fluffy texture, poodles can also be found with corded coats, although these types are not usually found in America. Corded coats resemble mop heads or dreadlocks.
Standard Poodles
Of the three types of poodles, standards are the largest with a shoulder height of at least 15 inches. Some standards even reach heights as tall as 20 inches at the shoulder or taller.
Like all large dogs, the standard poodle runs a high risk of hip dysplasia. In addition to this, standards are also prone to other health problems. This type of poodle runs a high risk of being born with a disorder called Addison’s disease. This disease is a disorder that affects the hormones and can lead to cardiac arrest and death if left untreated.
Additionally, the 12 year life span of the standard poodle may also be cut short due to various types of cancer. Studies show that cancer is responsible for 40% of standard poodle deaths. Be sure to get your pet regular vet checkups to help spot any problems before they get serious.
Miniature Poodles
Slightly smaller than the standard, miniature poodles range in height from 10 inches to 15 inches at the shoulder. Because they are smaller their lifespan is considerably longer, on average up to 15 years provided they are in good health and well nourished.
Their size also makes them ideal pets for people dwelling in apartments or homes with small yards. This breed does very well in metropolitan areas, and because they have a tendency to bark when they get worked up or nervous, many people favor them as a smaller guard dog.
Although they do not run the risk of hip dysplasia like the standard, the miniature poodle is genetically prone to some illnesses. It is not uncommon for miniature poodles to potentially go blind due to certain eye diseases. They can also develop epilepsy in some cases. More commonly, however, is a tendency to suffer from knee problems.
Toy Poodles
Toy poodles are the smallest types of poodles and according to the AKC must have a shoulder height of 10 inches or less. Some varieties of toy poodles, the tea cup poodle for instance, can be incredibly small. These poodles are a favorite among retirees and many metropolitan dwellers.
Aside from the obvious benefits that the small size would bring, toy poodles also have the longest lifespan of the three types. With proper care, grooming, and nutrition these dogs can live up to 18 years. Some health problems and risks still exist in this type, so it is still very important to schedule regular trips to the vet.