The Poodle is an elegant, well-proportioned, breed with a frizzy and curly coat.
Group: Companion
Lifespan: 10–18 yr
Height: 8–15 in
Weight: 7–28 lb
Care
Poodles have hair instead of fur. That means—unlike fur coats that grow to a point and then shed—a Poodle’s hair keeps growing. Similar to human hair, this breed’s hair does still fall out. But it usually falls back into their coats (instead of all over the house). Because of this minimal shedding, Poodles may be a good choice for people with allergies.
Though Poodles don’t shed a lot, their coats still need regular grooming. To keep their hair free from mats and tangles, brush a few times a week. And because their hair grows continuously, plan on haircuts every month or so.
Miniature and Toy Poodles are particularly at risk for dental issues due to their small mouths and crowded teeth. So, regular dental care—including at-home teeth brushing and professional dental cleanings—is critical. These pups may require more frequent cleanings beginning at an earlier age compared to other breeds.
Beyond that, they thrive on high-quality dog food formulated for their life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, senior). And a diet created for small-breed dogs will have the appropriate blend of nutrients and a smaller kibble size that helps them properly chew and digest their food. Foods developed specifically for Poodles are another great option to consider.
Always visit a professional veterinarian if you believe your dog may have health issues.
