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What do the poodle and the Chow Chow have in common? No, not a blue tongue. Only the Chow has that. No, not a stilted action. That's the Chow too. Give up? Well, believe it or not, both should present a squarely built appearance, the poodle measuring roughly the same from breastbone to point of rump as top of shoulder (withers) to the ground. Just like the Chow should!

The poodle is the epitome of elegance, intelligence and dignity. Properly clipped and groomed, he has a distinguished, proud air that is not matched in many other breeds. And to make things even better, they come in three sizes and several designer colours blues, greys, caf-au-laits, apricots, creams the list goes on. Match one to your favourite outfit! An even, solid, single colour at the skin, the coat may show varying shades of the same colour, frequently having somewhat darker feathering on the ears and ruff tips. Brown and caf-au-lait may have liver-coloured noses, eye rims and lips with dark toenails and dark amber eyes. Apricots may have the same features but may have amber eyes. All other colours should have (but including apricots which MAY have) black bits and pieces and very dark eyes.

The three sizes are Standard (over 15 inches), Miniature (over 10 inches and up to and including 15 inches) and Toy (10 inches and under). All are measured from the highest point of the shoulder.

The skull is moderately rounded with a long, fine muzzle. The very dark, oval eyes create a lively, intelligent expression. The ears should be thickly feathered (without the feathering being too long), and lie close to the head. The neck is long and strong, with no suggestion of a ewe neck, and holds the head high and proudly. Apart from a slight hollow just behind the shoulder, the topline is level. The chest is deep, the loin short, broad and muscular. The tail is carried up but not over the back. Straight parallel forelegs (viewed from the front) and hind legs (viewed from the back) should end in rather small feet, oval shaped with well arched toes and thick firm pads. The overall impression is of grace and elegance; a well proportioned dog, moving effortlessly with a light, springy action and an air of distinction. The average litter size is 3-8 puppies and the lifespan is usually in the vicinity of 12-18 years depending to some extent on the size of the dog ie Toy, Miniature or Standard.

The curly coat is dense throughout and of harsh texture. If corded, the cords should be tight and even.

There are four different

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