One of the most beloved dog breeds is the Poodle. Standard, Miniature and Toy sized Poodles are regularly champions in dog competitions. Poodles are widely remarked upon for their elaborate fur clips, especially when primping for show. The American Kennel Club requires that Poodles be clipped in either the Continental or English Saddle styles (for adult Poodles) or the puppy clip (for Poodles under twelve months of age).
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.
Poodle breeders understand Poodle breed standard characteristics. They follow the American Kennel Club's standards when preparing Poodles for AKC competitions. For example, dogs under twelve months of age can be groomed in a puppy cut, which is an all-over trim with fur of the same length.
Adult dogs must be groomed in either the Continental or English Saddle styles which involve shaving the dog's back half while leaving pom-poms of fur on the hips, legs, and tail as well as styling the head fur in an intricate pompadour.
Buyers should approach Poodle breeders with a list of questions. Good Poodle breeders will also have questions for buyers. Buyers must first educate themselves on Poodle information and history so they can verify whether breeders know what they are talking about.
Before buying from Poodle breeders, buyers should ask many questions to distinguish the bad breeders from the reputable breeders. Buyers must come armed with knowledge of Poodle information and history so that breeders cannot mislead them. A few good questions to ask to help buyers determine whether Poodle breeders are reputable include whether or not you can visit the kennel in person and meet not only the puppies put the parents as well.
Buyers can avoid bad breeders by asking to visit the kennel where puppies are born and raised, requesting documentation of Poodle pedigree and medical records, and by asking breeders if they broker or sell puppies to pet stores. Good Poodle breeders will never treat a puppy as merchandise to be shipped and sold to anyone.