Poodles come in different sizes.
Poodles were originally bred to be water retrieving dogs and assist fishermen by retrieving nets, supplies and catches. The distinct poodle-cut style of grooming was more practical than pretentious and originated with the early breeders. The cut was designed to allow the dog to swim more quickly and safely through the waters, while leaving some fur to protect the vital organs from damaging cold. The American Kennel Club recognizes three types or varieties that differ by size, but there is only one breed of poodle.
Standard Poodles
Standard poodles are the largest of the poodle types and stand taller than 15 inches. These dogs, like all poodles, excel at any type of training. They are loyal companions and make excellent house dogs. Like all poodles, they come in a variety of solid colors such as white, apricot, brown, and black. They have somewhat hypoallergenic coats that require regular maintenance. These dogs need regular and frequent exercise to prevent boredom.
Miniature Poodles
Miniature poodles are exactly the same as standard poodles but they are between 10 and 14 inches at the shoulder. They were not 'bred down' to form smaller dogs, but are a naturally occurring variation in the standard breed poodle. They have the same colorings as larger standard poodles. The miniature poodle, like all poodles, is a German breed, and may have been used in the hunt for expensive truffle mushrooms.
Toy Poodles
These poodles are less than 10 inches tall but have all the characteristics and spirit of the larger varieties. They are often found as house pets for elderly owners because they are hypoallergenic (as much as any animal can be), easily lifted, calm, loyal, and intelligent. The toy poodle also requires exercise and regular grooming, just as the larger varieties.
Crossbreeds and Other Varieties
These are not recognized poodle varieties, but are becoming more popular among dog owners, according to the AKC. Crossbreeds refer to dogs that are the results of breeding standard, miniature, or toy poodles with other breeds of dogs with the intent of creating dogs with the best characteristics of each parent breed. Goldendoodles were first attempted to produce dogs that were good guide dogs but more hypoallergenic than regular golden retrievers. Labradoodles or puggles are some of the more common crossbreeds. Some toy poodles are often referred to as Teacup or Tiny Teacup because they are smaller than toy poodles. These are not a new and distinct poodle category but are the result of genetic mutations that are not always beneficial to the dogs. Some breeders will sell these dogs under the 'teacup' label to prospective owners wanting extremely small dogs.
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