by Christine Costlow

Created on: February 05, 2009

Poodles have enjoyed a long tenure as one of America's most popular dogs. The name is most likely derived from the German word "pudel" which alludes to their origins as water dogs bred for hunting. And boy, can most poodles swim a great lap around the kiddie pool in the summer! The miniature breed was perfected in France, primarily as a companion animal. And a more agreeable companion than a poodle would be hard to find.

Nearly everyone has heard of the hypoallergenic qualities of a poodle's coat. Simply put, the single coat of a poodle functions more like human hair than fur, and therefore does not cause an allergic reaction in humans like other dog's fur. The poodle coat also never falls out, eliminating the constant layer of hair on clothing, carpets, and small children who have not yet learned to walk upright. Poodles require regular haircuts, either from the neighborhood groomer or through the careful application of a clipper set purchased at your local pet supply store, like Petco. Trust me, clipping you own dog is a wonderful bonding experience, even if the first few trims look like you used the hedge clippers. There is a reason that poodles reqularly do well in the National Dog Shows; who can resist such excellent haircuts on those doggie divas?

If high fashion haircuts are not your style, just ask your groomer for a regular puppy cut. It simply trims the hair to a uniform length, and leaves a little fluffyiness on his ears and head. The tail poof is optional. Cuts in most cities costs around twenty to forty dollars, which is a small price to pay for the freedom from lint brushes and vacuum cleaners that most other breeds require.

These dogs come in a number of sizes, and can be chosen to reflect an owners lifestyle and activity level. My miniature poodle is a dynamo, he jogs regularly with me and can tolerate several miles of activity. If you don't wish to exercise strenuously, perhaps the toy poodle, or it's tiny cousin the teacup poodle, would be the right size. These tiny dogs, averaging less than 7 pounds, would be perfect for the occasional stroll around the block.

A standard poodle, with it's adventuous spirit, would be an excellent companion for the outdoorsey, hiking type. With energy to spare, this dog could handle biking, hiking, running or similar types of activities. A close cropped cut would even eliminate the collecting of brambles, sticks, and other detritus that the longer haired breeds collect on the trail.

All poodles share a lively intelligence, and an ability to provide companionship to the entire family. Poodles are certainly crowd pleasers, and my groomer informs me that most poodles generally perform a variant of the "poodle dance." They rise on their hind legs, and frantically wave their fromt paws in a rapid, up and down motion when they want you attention. Perhaps that's why they are so easily trained as circus performers.

Poodles love human companionship, and will generally leap up and fill any lap that presents itself. They also make fierce protectors, even though a 7 pound guardian may be hard to take seriously. Poodles temperment requires them to investigate strange noises and people. Well trained poodles should cease their investigation upon the owner's command. There simply is no drawback to owning a poodle.

Even president Obama has been photographed holding a small white poodle as part of an awareness campaign for the SPCA. If he chooses wisely, next puppy in the White House will be a one of America's most popular dog breeds, the poodle. Perhaps you should consider on for you family as well!

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