In addition to producing lovable sheepadoodle pups, we’re also proud to produce Standard Poodle puppies right here in the heart of Luray, Virginia. Unlike sheepadoodles, Standard Poodles are a classic breed—they’re purebred dogs that are commonly seen in shows. Standard Poodles of today were originally bred in Germany and France as a sport or hunting dog, known for excellent swimming skills. Poodles typically come in three sizes, Standard, Miniature, or Toy, in colors of black, white, or apricot. The Poodle stands proudly among dogdom’s true aristocrats. Beneath the curly, low-allergen coat is an elegant athlete and companion for all reasons and seasons.
Hawksbill Farm Kennel breeds AKC registered Standard Poodles, which are the largest of the three sizes, typically 15 inches or more at the shoulder.
Keep reading to learn more about Standard Poodles’ personalities, care requirements, and whether a Standard Poodle might be the perfect fit for your family.
Where do Standard Poodles Come From?
The origin of Standard Poodles is a bit fuzzy. A popular theory is that the poodle’s early ancestor was an Asian herding dog that traveled west with tribes of Goths to eventually become a German hunting animal; another theory of the breeds origin as it finding its way from Asia to Portugal in the 8th century with the Moors. What we do know is that the earliest ancestors of the Poodle were said to be curly-coated dogs of central Asia.
The version of Poodle we see today were bred in France and Germany as retrievers or “gun dogs,” and are still used by hunters in that role. Their coat is moisture-resistant, which helps their swimming. The Poodle is currently the national dog of France.
Forget the stereotypes of Poodles as sissy dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and super smart “real dogs” of amazing versatility. The Standard Poodle has the greater size and strength and is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success.
Standard Poodle Characteristics
Standard Poodles are a very active, intelligent and elegant-appearing dog. They are squarely built, well proportioned, move soundly, and carry a proud stature. Properly clipped in the traditional fashion and carefully groomed, the Standard Poodle has about him an air of distinction and dignity peculiar to himself.
Poodles of any size are very active dogs who require good exercise every day to suit their high energy level. Poodles are eager for all kinds of activity, and they enjoy keeping busy. Swimming is great exercise for them, and most Poodles love to get in the water.
Caring For Standard Poodles
Unless you plan to keep your Poodle clipped in a short trim, you will need to learn how to brush him daily to keep his coat from matting. If you do not brush and comb a full-coated Poodle completely to the skin, the hair will mat near the roots and will have to be shaved off to start all over with new growth.
Most pet owners opt to keep the Poodle in a shorter trim. Some owners learn to do the clipping and trimming themselves, while others choose to take their dog to a professional dog groomer every four to six weeks for a bath, grooming, and nail trim. The breed’s relatively non-shedding coat makes the breed a good choice for people with allergies.