Poodle Breeders

There are many beloved dog breeds in existence today. One of the most talked about is the Poodle. Whether standard, miniature or toy in size, the Poodle is regularly a champion in competition and is viewed as a superb example of a purebred dog. Poodle breeders fawn over their Poodles. Other dog breeders may mock Poodles for the elaborate show clips they present in competition. Because of their long-legged, delicate appearance and regal carriage Poodles are natural showstoppers.

The history of the Poodle is much less intricate than one would think. Poodles have their origins in the 15th century. They are thought to have come from Russia and Germany. Germans called the Poodle Pudelhund, or splashing dog. The closely curled, dense coat of the Poodle served the purpose of insulating the dog from cold water. Poodles were used as retrievers and duck hunters. Their clich' trim actually served a functional purpose of keeping them warm around their joints while mobile in other areas when immersed in water.

Knowing Poodles are named after a simple puddle makes the breed seem less intimidating already. Poodles most likely originated in Eastern Europe and they have been popular throughout Europe for hundreds of years. However, it is the French who are given credit for the breed. French Poodle breeders successfully cultivated all three sizes of Poodle: miniature, toy and standard.

Poodles have other defining traits such as delicate limbs and muzzles, graceful oval feet, dark eyes, an alert, intelligent and active temperament, and a regal carriage. Poodles can also have health problems specific to the breed such as a condition called Addison's disease, gastric problems, kidney and thyroid problems, and cancer. Breeders will not continue to breed any Poodle found to have a hereditary medical condition.

Poodle breeders breed for overall traits such as high energy level, intelligence, proud or regal carriage, straight, delicate muzzle, small, oval feet, and curly, dense fur among other characteristics. There are many champion lines of Poodle due to the many winners of American Kennel Club and other canine association competitions. Purebred Poodles should come with a documented pedigree or ancestry showing evidence of past champions in the genetic line.

Buyers can find reputable Poodle breeders by asking for referrals from local animal shelters. The American Kennel Club or local dog clubs and organizations are other good places to begin. Buyers must research Poodles and have a good understanding of Poodle information so that nefarious breeders won't take advantage of them.

Good Poodle breeders will run their own kennels and encourage potential buyers to visit and meet not only the puppies but the parents as well. The kennels should be clean and allow good socialization. Reputable breeders will also give new owners lots of information out Poodles, especially car and feeding instructions.

Buyers can avoid bad breeders by asking to see the kennel where puppies are raised, requesting pedigree information, registration papers and medical records, and by interviewing breeders to make sure they do not mass market puppies or sell them to pet stores. Good Poodle breeders will interview buyers to make sure they can give Poodles a good home.