Breed: Poodle - Miniature
Description: Non-sporting Group, Small
Height: 10 in - 15 in. (Height is less than 15 in but more than 10 in.)
Weight: 14-17 lb
Poodle is a breed of dog, and is regarded as one of the most intelligent breeds of dog. The poodle breed is found in small, medium, and large sizes, and in many coat colors. Originally bred as a type of water dog, the poodle is skillful in many dog sports, including agility, obedience, tracking, and even herding. Poodles are elegant in the conformation ring, having taken top honors in many shows, including Best in Show (BIS) at the Westminster Kennel Club show in 2002 and BIS at the World Dog Show in 2007.
Appearance
Most poodles have a dense, curly, low-shedding coat that requires regular grooming. Since poodles do not have the plush double coat of many breeds, their fur is often referred to as "hair", a term usually reserved for humans.Most poodles are solid-colored, and many registries only allow solid colors in conformation shows. "Parti" (short for parti-colored) poodles have large patches of colors different from the main body color. "Phantom" poodles have the color pattern of a black-and-tan dog, although not necessarily black and tan. Solid-colored poodles may either "hold" their color (i.e., stay more or less the same throughout their lives) or "fade" or "clear" to a lighter shade. Usually the ears and the thicker guard hairs hold more of the original color than other hair.
The tail is usually docked in the US, less often in Europe, and tail docking is now illegal in the UK and Australia. These days, tails, when docked, are left much longer than in times past. "Bunny like tails" (very short-docked tails) are now rarely seen except among puppy mill pet shop dogs. Poodles have drop ears, which are never cropped.
Poodle's Size
Unlike many breeds, poodles come in a variety of sizes, distinguished by adult shoulder (withers) height. The exact height cutoffs among the varieties vary slightly from country to country. Non-Fédération Cynologique Internationale kennel clubs generally recognize three sizes, standard, miniature, and toy, sometimes as sizes of the same breed, and sometimes as separate breeds. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale recognizes four sizes of one breed, standard, medium, miniature, and toy. Only the Fédération Cynologique Internationale describes a maximum size for standard poodles.
The terms royal standard, teacup, and tiny teacup are marketing names, and are not recognized by any major kennel club.
History
A Standard poodle retrieving a gamebird.
Poodles are retrievers or gun dogs, and can still be seen in that role. The breed's English name has German origins. (The name poodle comes from the German word short for pudelhund or , reflecting the breed's development from a water dog; the word pudel is related to the English word puddle.) However, most sources concur that the French are responsible for developing the modern breed into its current form, and developing the different sizes. The French name for the poodle is caniche, referring to ducks and the poodles' water dog origins.
The Poodle is a very old hunting dog with an unknown place of origin. Different versions were found in France and Germany, but France made them their national dog. This breed was originated from the Standard Poodle and is identical to both the Standard and Toy Poodles, except for its size. This variety of Poodle is also known as the French Poodle. The Poodle breeds are believed to have originated in either Russia or Germany. The temperament of the Poodle is calm, loyal and affectionate. Because of these wonderful qualities, they make wonderful family pets and are great with children.
Poodles were once used to retrieve waterfowl and to this day have a love of the water. The trim that is characteristic to the poodle was designed to protect both the vital organs and the joints from icy waters while retrieving game. They are an excellent choice of breed for individuals or families that live in the city due to their small size. Also, they fit well into smaller sized households such as apartments or homes that have no yard. The Poodle needs to live and sleep indoors. Exercise: minimal daily exercise required. The Miniature poodle sheds minimally, but they do need to have frequent grooming visits due to their coat. This breed needs clipping on a regular basis, about four times a year. This grooming can be extensive if kept in a professional clip. This grooming can be lessened if kept in a "puppy clip". The coat is dense with a harsh feel, the length of which is medium. Miniature poodles are intelligent dogs that are easily trained. Training: socialization and obedience. Poodles are known for their tricks! Colors are quite varied: black, blue, cafT-au-lait, gray, silver, brown, apricot, cream or white. They are good with pets within the home and with other dogs.
Article Source:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poodle
http://www.puppy.com.my/breed/poodle.html
