Which dog is believed to be a native of France but is actually native to Germany? 
Which dog is often thought to be a pampered toy, but actually comes in three sizes, one of which is quite a large dog? Which dog is associated with a high-society lifestyle, but is actually a hunting dog and accomplished water retriever? If a picture of a litter of Poodle puppies comes to mind, you are right on the money!
When you go looking for Poodle puppies, you have a lot to consider before choosing your new friend. First, it helps to know that Poodles come in three variations -- all are of the same breed, but they vary in size. The Standard Poodle will grow to over 15" at the shoulder. The Miniature Poodle is 15" or under at the shoulder, but not less than 10". The Toy Poodle will grow to 10" or under at the highest point of the shoulder. When selecting Poodle puppies, consider their adult size carefully, as it relates to your new companion's exerciserequirements and you will need to consider how active a dog you want.
Poodle puppies are native to Germany, where it is generally acknowledged that the Standard was the first of the three varieties to be bred. In their native land, they were and still are used as water retrievers, as they are in their adopted land of France. They are now the national dog of France, perhaps accounting for our tendency to call them "French poodles".
Poodle puppies may be gray, brown, apricot, black or white. Their color is always solid and the coat is fine, frizzy and woolly. It is a well-suited coat for a water dog, which is what a Poodle truly is. As a matter of fact, the name "Poodle" is thought to come from the German "pudel" or "pudelin" meaning "to splash in the water."
All of the variations of Poodle puppies are excellent swimmers and are also known for their superior intelligence and exceptional learning ability. Poodles are known to be alert, lively and sometimes clownish companions, very sensitive and eager to please. While some Poodles may be reserved around strangers, this makes them a good alert dog, letting you know when a stranger is near, although they generally are friendly.
Keep in mind that Poodle puppies, no matter the variety, grow into adult dogs that enjoy a lot of exercise. The Standard especially likes to swim and retrieve and likes a long walk, jog and/or swim on a daily basis. While the Miniature and Toy may require somewhat less exercise, making them better apartment dogs than the Standard, they still require at least a daily walk. Some of this need for exercise is also because it is important not to let Poodles get bored. They are extremely bright dogs, and require a lot of stimulation.
So what about that crazy hairdo? Poodles are part of the American Kennel Club's non-sporting Group, and it is required that Poodles be shown in specified clips. Poodle puppies may be shown in a puppy clip. The clip most of us have seen on adult show dogs is known as the "Continental" clip. In this clip the face, throat, feet and base of the tail are shaved. The hindquarters are shaved with pompoms on the hips. The legs are shaved with bracelets on the hind legs and puffs on the forelegs. There is a pompom on the tip of the tail. Although it is this clip that some of us have come to associate with the Poodle's "glamour dog" image, it is actually meant to protect the dog's joints and vital organs from cold in the field and in the water while hunting. Most pet owners keep their poodle in a much less elaborate clip, called a "pet clip."
However you clip your poodle puppies, you will have a loving, elegant and intelligent companion.
