The Toy Poodle
 Kajora Kennels |
The Poodle undoubtedly originated as a water retriever. In fact the unclipped Poodle of today bears great resemblance to the old Roughhaired Water Dog of England. There is little difference in the Irish Water Spaniel and the Poodle. The Irish Water Spaniel is born with short hair on its face and tail, unlike the Poodle.
Despite the Standard Poodle's claim to greater age than the other sizes of Poodle, there is some evidence to show that the smaller types developed only a short time after the breed assumed the general type by which it is recognized today. The smallest, Toy, was known in England in the 18th century.
The Standard, Miniature and Toy are sizes only, they are all the same breed, and governed by the same standards. In addition to the differences in size and color, the Poodle enjoys another characteristic unique among doggy kinds, namely, a coat which lends itself to a great variety of styles.
Their top coat is wiry in texture with thick, close curls. The undercoat is woolly and warm. The various clips is a matter of taste of the average owner, and needs groomed about every 4-6 weeks. The colors of the Poodle are even solid colors, blues, grays, silvers, browns, cafe-au-laits, apricots and creams.
Standard Poodles should be over 15 inches tall at the withers, Miniatures should be 15 inches or under, and Toy Poodle's should be 10 inches or under.
Poodle's should carry themselves very proudly. They are active, intelligent, and very loving dogs.
Health concerns in the breed include eye problems, luxating patella, epilepsy, diabetes, thyroid disorder and allergies.
