Award Winning Poodle Breeders

Though the Poodle's exact ancestry is largely disputed, the French are most commonly credited for the breed's origins. Poodles are likely descendents of the French Barbet, which was a water dog. Poodles are highly fond of water and were once used as gun dogs that retrieved waterfowl in water and on land. The name Poodle comes from the German Pudel or Pudelhund, which means splashing or splashing dog. The word Poodle is related to the English word puddle. French Poodle breeders are given credit for breeding these dogs successfully in all three sizes of Poodle called the Miniature, Toy and Standard.

Poodles are thought to have originated in the 15th century. Though it is debated whether the breed comes from Russia, Germany or France, the French are given credit for the breed. French Poodle breeders effectively bred Poodles into their three sizes. The word Poodle comes from the German word Pudel, which means splashing or water.

The elaborate fur clip seen in competition began as a functional way to lighten the weight of the curly, dense coat while insulating the joints from cold water. Poodles were used as retrievers and duck hunters and the breed still adores water.

Good Poodle breeders are aware of Poodle breed standard characteristics. They breed Poodles that have the best genetic makeup and pedigree and do not breed Poodles with genetic defects. Some of the traits desired in Poodles are dense, curly or corded fur, delicate limbs, graceful, straight muzzles, small, oval feet, dark eyes, an alert expression, intelligence, loyal temperament and elegant carriage. Some of the traits that breeders do not wish to see in Poodles are gross hyperactivity, aggression and medical conditions such as anemia, allergic conditions, gastric, kidney or thyroid problems and cancer.

Before considering a purebred Poodle for a pet, potential buyers should research the breed and find out all the Poodle information and history they can. After viewing common Poodle health problems and the requirements of caring for a Poodle, buyers can decide if their home is a good match for a Poodle.

The AKC defines breed standard traits for all breeds registered in its competitions. For all three sizes of Poodle (Miniature, Toy and Standard) the following traits must be evident: an energetic appearance, alert expression, elegant walk, intelligence, corded or curly fur, dark eyes, oval-shaped feet, straight muzzle and a deep, wide chest. These are just a few of the stated requirements. Poodle breeders will breed for these characteristics and breed out any irregularities in appearance, behavior and health.

Unfortunately, this is necessary to distinguish the good breeders from the many disreputable breeders working only to make a profit. Buyers do not want to buy a puppy mill Poodle, which is a Poodle born and raised in a cage borne of parents who have been neglected, over-bred, and often abused. Backyard breeders continuously breed adult dogs with no regard for the health or happiness of the parents or puppies.

Breeders should be willing to allow buyers to visit their kennels and to meet Poodle puppy parents. A good breeder will never sell a Poodle to a pet store. No good breeder is in the business just to make a profit. Good Poodle breeders want Poodle puppies to go to loving, permanent homes.

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