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Your Poodle is Just Another Little Person in the Family
Date Published: 25th May 2008
Author: Alexander Gray
When you think about getting a dog for a loving, best-friend pet, have you thought about a Poodle? Poodles have much more than just great looks. They are smart, affectionate, great with children and so devoted. Poodles are extrmely people oriented. In fact, they do not do well without human companionship. Poodles are also friendly with other dogs and non-canine pets. They are very loving and loyal and will defend their home and people with their lives when threatened.
Poodles are non-shedding dogs and considered hypoallergenic, so this makes them wonderful dogs for people with allergies. Poodles are adaptable and easy to train. In fact, Poodles are among the most intelligent dogs you can own. As puppies, they do not usually need a lot of exercise although some daily exercise is recommended. Although they adore water and love to go for walks, Poodles are just not demanding as far as exercise goes.
Poodles are sensitive to their owner's emotions, ready to be your best friend and quietly sit by your side when you are sad or equally ready to go play ball when you're happy. Poodles are clowns and prance around with a toy or a dog biscuit in theirmouths to greet you or to play with you. Above all, Poodles think they are human. They love their owners faithfully and want to be with them.
Many people think that Poodles originated in Germany. The name "Poodle" comes from the German word "Pudel," which is short for "Pudelhund," which means "splashing dog". Others are certain that the Poodle is actually descended from a now nearly extinct French water dog, the Barbet and possibly the Hungarian Water Hound. These dogs have a very long history. Poodles are depicted in 15th century paintings and in bas-reliefs from the 1st century. They were used extensively throughout Europe through the ages for retrieving game, (especially in the water.) Toy Poodles became royal favorites, particularly in the 18th century.
Poodles come in three recognized sizes, the Standard Poodle being the largest, the Miniature Poodle and the Toy Poodle (the smallest). Toy, miniature, and standard Poodles are distinguished by adult shoulder height. Toy Poodles are 10 inches or under at the highest point of the shoulder, and typically weigh less than 12 pounds. Miniature Poodles are taller than 10 inches and up to 15 inches at the highest point of the shoulder. For those who prefer a large dog, Standard Poodles are over 15" at the shoulder, with some reaching as much as 30" at the shoulder. "Standard" Poodles (the big ones) are usually between 45-60 pounds (Female) and 65-80 pounds (Male. Other designations, like the "Royal Poodle" on the large end of the spectrum, and the "Tiny Toy" and "Teacup" are not officially recognized sizes, but are used for convenience and descriptive purposes. Among the Toy Poodles, most breeders say "Tiny Toy Poodles" are 4 to 5 pounds, "Teacup Poodles" are 2 to 4 pounds, and the regular Toy Poodle is 5 to 8 pounds at maturity.
They are fairly healthy dogs. For example, in Miniature Poodles, the leading cause of death is old age (39%). They have relatively long life spans. and live anywhere from 12 to more than 15 years. As a general rule, smaller dogs have a longer life span than larger dogs, and accordingly, a healthy Standard Poodle may live as long as 14 years, and the smaller varieties longer.
Ear infections are a problem in all Poodle varieties, but ear problems can be minimized by proper ear care and regular grooming. Healthy Poodle ears should be cleaned on a regular basis, and so should the area around their eyes. Along with ear and eye care, your Poodle will need her teeth brushed and her nails trimmed. Poodles do require dental care as they are generally known to develop serious dental problems as they age.
Poodles come in many colors including black, white, red, apricot, silver, and brown. Because they don't shed Standard Poodles do need grooming regularly. We think of Poodles in elaborate grooming cuts, and we may see some like this on pictures, or shows. But, most pet Poodle owners keep their Poodles in much simpler cuts that are easier to care for and require less grooming.
You may seek a newborn Poodle puppy, or an adult. It is great to rescue an unwanted Poodle from a shelter, as they are generally so good natured and behaved. For some unknown reason, many people seem to want to adopt female Poodles. There is really no logical reason for this, as male Poodles are just as smart, attentive, and well behaved as the females. Most Poodles that end up in rescue centers are male and are usually over five years old.
Regardless of when or where you get a Poodle, you will find that you are truly adding a new family member. And one who thinks of himself or herself as a family member, just another person, like everyone else. Poodles are are wonderful with children as they love to play and do many silly things just as kids do. And adults will love this quality in the Poodle, too. Poodles are wonderful family and personal Pets, that will bring you many years of fun and constant companionship.
About the Author:
The author, Alexander Gray, has two toy poodles, one 11 and one 14. They have taught him more good things about life than he ever thought he'd know. If you would you like to
get paid to submit articles like this, visit http://www.viral-money-machine.com.
You don't need a website, and your participation is Free!
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_547086_54.html |
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Discover The Magnificent World Of Poodles
Date Published: 26th June 2008
Author: Richard Cussons
Many people are amazed with Poodles perhaps because of this breed's elegance and astounding personality. Who wouldn't be amazed with this proud dog with non-shedding and hypoallergenic hair that comes in variety of colors? Knowing more about Poodles will definitely make you love and appreciate this breed even better.
There is an on-going issue about this breed's true country of origin. Some experts believe that Poodles originated from France, others believe that they are from Russia or Iberia. Still others mention Germany since the breed's name has German origins. The word poodle comes from the German word Pudel, short for Pudelhound. Pudelhound means splashing dog, signifying this breed's characteristic as water dog.
The US, UK and Canada recognize three sizes of this breed: standard, miniature and toy. The standard Poodle should be more than 15 inches in height. The miniature Poodle should be 10 to 15 inches at the highest point of the shoulder while the toy Poodle is 10 inches or under. The non-shedding and hypoallergenic hair (hair, not fur!) is classified into various styles: show clips, puppy clip, english saddle, continental, sporting and also pet clips. A Poodle may also have corded coat however, corded Poodles are now rare. The coat color may be blue, gray, silver, brown, black, apricot, white, cafe-au-lait, red and cream. Parti-color or multi-color also exist but is disqualified to appear in some show ring and performance rings. This squarely built animal has strong neck carrying the long head with dignity. The eyes are oval and dark with ears hanging close to the head.
Poodles are very active, alert and intelligent dogs that carry themselves proudly. Since highly energetic, they do get bored easily. They need daily exercise to keep them fit as well as prevent boredom-associated behaviors. They would love to walk, play ball and fetch. Just like most dogs, Poodles are eager to please their master and love to be around people.
Standard Poodle has a lifespan of 12 years while miniature and toy Poodles can live for up to 14 years. Some toy Poodles can even live for up to 17 years. They are indeed long lived breed. But despite that, they are still subject to some health issues. The most common among standard Poodles are Addison's disease, gastric dilation volvulus, thyroid issues, epilepsy, hip dysplasia and cancer. Other health problems affecting Poodles are cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, skin problems, diabetes and heart disease.
So if you want a Poodle be it a toy, standard or miniature Poodle, make sure that you understand much about the breed. They are not just all about elegant coat and dignified looks, they are animals that need your care, time and love.
Richard Cussons writes articles including articles about Poodles. Check out effective Poodle training tips at poodlesavvy.com.
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_564431_54.html
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Those Strange Poodle Haircuts
The Whats and Whys of Grooming Poodles
Aug 11, 2007 Joy Butler
Have you ever watched a dog show and wondered about those strange Poodle haircuts? Did you know that Poodles have been portrayed wearing the famous Continental clip in paintings dated as far back as 1533?
Contrary to what many people believe, the Poodle breed originated in Germany and the name is derived from the German word, pudel, which means ‘splashes in water.’ Poodles are sometimes thought of as "foo foo” dogs but, in history, they worked as water retrievers or fowl dogs. And there really is a good reason for those pom poms and shaved areas.
If a Poodle’s coat is allowed to grow naturally, it will fall into long rope-like cords, which absorb water and quickly become heavy, obviously hampering the dog’s ability to move in water. For this reason, Poodle owners clipped their dogs, however, they left the chest, vital organs, and joints covered to protect them from the cold German climate. That weird looking topknot was left as a place for the owner to tie a colored ribbon so that his dog could be identified from a distance as it worked in the water.
For the Poodle, beauty and brains go together. In spite of their elegant and stylish appearance, Poodles hold second place only to the Border Collie in a recent dog intelligence ranking. They have exceptional talent for sniffing out contraband and have been used as guide dogs, hearing ear dogs, and therapy dogs as well. In 1935, a Standard Poodle won the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show’s Best of Show prize. Since then, eight more, including Miniature Poodles and Toy Poodles, have claimed the title. They also score high in obedience and agility competition.
In the early days of the breed, as French nobility took an interest in the Poodle, the ladies began clipping and decorating their dogs in various fancy styles. Eventually the Poodle was named the national dog of France .This is why some refer to them as French Poodles
Source: http://dog-breeds.suite101.com/article.cfm/those_strange_poodle_haircuts |
Poodles as Pets
Pros and Cons of Owning a Poodle
It’s natural for dog enthusiasts to support their favorite breed, and Poodles are a popular breed. While the Poodle certainly possesses many delightful traits, the breed might not be the perfect pet for every owner. Poodles Come in Three Different Sizes
Poodles are one of the most popular breeds in America, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). One of the reasons for their popularity probably is due to the variety in size: Toy Poodle (10 inches, or less, measured at the shoulder) Miniature Poodle (11- 15 inches) Standard Poodle (over 15 inches)
Poodles also come in a variety of colors, such as black, white, brown, apricot, silver, and cream.
Of the three varieties, the Toy Poodle probably is not the best choice for those with young children. These small-boned dogs can't roughhouse with the kids. Choose instead a Miniature or Standard Poodle, which are sturdier dogs than the Toy. The Poodle Disposition
Poodles are cheerful, friendly, confident dogs. They display an outward dignity that belies their sometimes clownish sense of humor. And they possess a fortitude that can be surprising, especially in the smaller varieties.
Poodles are more sensitive than many breeds, and they will not thrive in an angry or combative environment. Poodles are Intelligent and Easily Trained
Poodles are an exceedingly intelligent breed. They are very quick to learn new behaviors—both good and bad!—and are equally as slow to forget them. Anyone wanting a Poodle absolutely must handle the dog consistently. With Poodles, one must always remember that smart dogs require smart owners.
Poodles have been trained as guide dogs for the visually impaired. They have been trained to work with law enforcement. Poodles have even been trained to pull a sled in the Iditarod!
Because of their intelligence and trainability, Poodles excel at learning tricks. However, anyone wanting a Poodle must understand that they aren’t accessory animals to be brought out for parlor tricks. Poodles are social and regal dogs who not only love interacting with their people, they need to interact with their people. Lots. Everyday. Poodles are Athletic
People often view Poodles as "sissy" dogs. Truth is, Poodles are agile and athletic animals.
Once upon a time, Poodles were gun dogs, retrieving water fowl for their hunting masters. Standard Poodles still are used in the field as retrievers. While most Poodles aren't working retrievers, they often exhibit a strong prey drive, and they will keep the yard free of squirrels and other critters.
In other athletic venues, all three varieties shine in agility and obedience. Additionally, Miniatures and Standards excel in flyball and tracking (and they often are fine Frisbee dogs as well!). Poodles are Allergy-Friendly
Poodles don’t shed their fur. They do, however, slough skin cells; they simply do it at a lesser rate than many other dogs. This is good news for allergy sufferers.
However, note that no dog is hypoallergenic—that is, allergen-free. Dog allergens that typically drift about the home come from skin (dander) and saliva. But not all dog allergens are the same, and some breeds produce less than other breeds. Poodles shed their skin roughly once a month, whereas some other breeds shed skin weekly. A Word about the Poodle Coat
Poodles have a soft curly coat. While it doesn’t shed, it does grow—which means it must be cut. In fact, a Poodle must be groomed every 4-6 weeks. Most often, it's easiest to have the dog professionally groomed. This can be quite expensive, particularly for a large Standard. Poodle devotees accept this cost with a shrug.
Research the cost of a groomer before adopting a Poodle. Poodle Health Issues
Poodles are generally a long-lived breed, with a typical lifespan of 12-15 years or better. And a well-bred Poodle is typically a healthy dog. However, Poodles can suffer from some genetic issues of which anyone thinking about adopting this breed should be aware. Potential health problems include the following: Cataracts and PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) can cause blindness Diabetes Epilepsy Heart disease Hip dysplasia Poodles on the Alert
Poodles tend to be "alert dogs,” which means an owner will always know when someone is coming up the walk or down the street. A bored and unexercised Poodle will bark more frequently than would otherwise be the case. With Poodles, as with many breeds, a tired dog is a good dog.
Read more at Suite101: Poodles as Pets: Pros and Cons of Owning a Poodle http://dog-breeds.suite101.com/article.cfm/is_a_poodle_a_perfect_pet#ixzz0mYOofTpZ
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Best Dog Breeds for Children with Mild Allergies
Read more at Suite101: Best Dog Breeds for Children with Mild Allergies: 4 Canine Choices for Kids with Aversions to Pet Dander
Although there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, animals that do very little shedding significantly reduces the amount of allergy inducing pet dander that's spread in a child’s living environment. Listed below are four canine choices for kids with aversions to pet dander. Miniature Poodles
Miniature Poodles make excellent canine choices for kids who are sensitive to pet dander because they don’t shed much. They have no problem matching the enthusiasm and energy level of a young child. Poodles are well-liked; they rank number eight on the American Kennel Clubs list of most popular dogs in America.
Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent and easy to train. They don’t need a lot of living space as their adult weight only reaches between 15 and 17 pounds. To keep the thick woolly coat of a Miniature Poodle from becoming matted, tangled and unruly, professional grooming is recommended every six to eight weeks. If Poodles are healthy and cared for properly, they can provide kids with up to 14 years of loyal companionship. Mexican Hairless, Xolo, or Xoloitzcuintli
The Mexican Hairless, also referred to as Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced show-low-eats-queen-tlee) or Xolos are not popular; they do however, make wonderful pets for kids with allergies. "Xolos require a lot of training, exercise, and consistency. They are not a breed for the faint of heart, but in a responsible active family they would certainly thrive," says Stacy Hensley, president of Hope’s Haven Chinese Crested and Hairless Dog Rescue.
Since Mexican Hairless dogs don’t have protective fur, care should be taken to shield them from sunburn, drying irritations, cold weather, and injuries to the skin. If cared for properly, a Mexican Hairless can give a child 12 to 15 years of friendship.
Bichon Frise
A Bichon Frise sheds very little fur, so a kid with mild allergies should do well having one as a pet. Bichons are vibrant, self-assured, and excellent with kids. According to the American Kennel Club "The breed is often compared to a cotton ball due to its curled double coat, which consists of a textured outer coat and a silky undercoat.” Bichons require professional grooming sessions every four to six weeks to maintain their fluffy white coat.
The adult weight of a Bichon Frise can range from seven to 12 pounds -- so they're great for small living spaces. Bichons are however, spunky little dogs and require daily walks to minimize behavior problems. If they're cared for properly Bichons can provide kids with a whopping 15 year of companionship. Shih Tzu
According to the American Kennel Club Registration Statistics, the Shih Tzu ranks number nine on their list of most popular dogs in the United States. This sturdy canine is happy, affectionate and thrives in the company of children.
Shih Tzus don’t need a lot of living space, but they do need to be exercised daily as they are extremely energetic. Shih Tzus weigh between nine and 16 pounds at adulthood and can have a life span of up to 15 years -- sometimes more.
Although the Miniature Poodle, Mexican Hairless, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzu are less likely to cause reactions in children with mild allergies, parents should always consult with a doctor before bringing one of these animals into the home.
References:
American Kennel Club’s Dog Registration Statistics. Accessed 11-04-08
E-mail interview with Stacy Hensley, president of Hope’s Haven Chinese Crested and Hairless Dog Rescue. 11-04-08
Read more at Suite101: Best Dog Breeds for Children with Mild Allergies: 4 Canine Choices for Kids with Aversions to Pet Dander http://earlychildhood.suite101.com/article.cfm/best_dog_breeds_for_children_with_mild_allergies#ixzz0mYNkcScq
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