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Different Types of Poodles – Complete Guide 2023

Poodles are one of the most popular dog breeds, and not just because they can rock any haircut! They are highly intelligent, easy to train, affectionate, and loyal dogs that can adapt to virtually any type of home.

However, not all Poodles are created equally and there are several different types of Poodle you can choose from. But, regardless of the type and size, all Poodles are generally healthy, have long lifespans, and are truly amazing companion dogs.

In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about different types of Poodle. And hopefully, help you decide which Poodle variety is the best for you and your family.

How Many Types of Poodles Are There?

The American Kennel Club officially recognizes three types of Poodles – standard, miniature, and toy. And while each variety comes in different sizes the American Kennel Club regards all three types as size variations of the same breed.

Some clubs and Poodle enthusiasts recognize two additional Poodle varieties – Klein (Moyen) Poodle and teacup Poodle. However, these two types are still not officially recognized by the AKC and, as such, not eligible for showing.

According to the Federation Cynologique Internationale, which registers dogs all across Europe, there is a fourth Poodle variety. So, in addition to standard, miniature, and toy Poodles, this organization also recognizes medium Poodles.

As you can see, the number of Poodle varieties varies from one organization to the next, but officially there are only three types of Poodles.

3 Types of Poodle

different types of poodle

The Poodle is one of the most popular dog breeds, for good reason! Poodles are ranked second on the list of the most intelligent breeds and can learn a new command with less than five repetitions (source).

Wickedly smart and easy to train, Poodles are also affectionate, friendly, and loyal companions. Great for novice and experienced owners alike, a Poodle can be a great family dog to people of all ages.

Let’s take a look at three different types of Poodle:

Standard Poodle

The standard Poodle is a medium to large size dog and the largest type of Poodle. They should be at least 15 inches tall, but most standard Poodles are between 20 and 23 inches high at the shoulder.

Male standard Poodles typically weigh between 60 and 70 pounds. Female standard Poodles are noticeably smaller and usually weigh from 40 to 50 pounds.

Originally bred as a water retriever to swim and retrieve shot waterfowl, the standard Poodle in an athletic, eager, and extremely versatile dog. Standard Poodles are active and energetic dogs that need long daily walks and plenty of exercise to stay in good shape.

Affectionate, loyal, and eager to please, standard Poodles are great companions and can even make good guard dogs.

Their curly coat and a variety of elaborate hairstyles are the things that make the standard Poodle the fanciest looking canine on the block. Most usually sport a Continental Clip, but many standard Poodle owners prefer the convenience of a simpler Sporting Clip.

Standard Poodles have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, which is fairly long for dogs of their size. The most common health issues that affect standard Poodles include hip dysplasia, bloat, epilepsy, and several eye disorders.

Miniature Poodles

The miniature Poodle is a small to medium size dog that is 10 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs from 10 to 15 pounds. They have rounded skulls, long heads and muzzles, expressive oval-shaped eyes, and close hanging ears.

Although they are smaller than their standard counterparts, miniature poodles have the same loyal and affectionate nature and make great family pets. While slightly less energetic, miniature Poodles are still active dogs who need regular walks and daily play sessions.

All types of Poodles are low shedding dogs, and as such an amazing choice for allergy sufferers or people who hate vacuuming dog hairs. The miniature Poodle’s curly coat comes in a variety of solid colors, the most common being grey, black, white, apricot, blue, and brown.

While the coat doesn’t shed, you will have to groom your Poodle daily, to prevent mats and tangles (source). Additionally, you will have to clip your miniature Poodle’s coat once every couple of months’ even if your Poodle doesn’t compete in show rings.

Due to their smaller size, miniature Poodles are great apartment dwellers and don’t necessarily need access to outdoor space, if they are properly exercised. Like all other types, miniature Poodles are generally healthy and on average live 14 years.

Toy Poodles

The toy Poodle is usually eight to 10 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs four to six pounds. While the toy is the smallest size Poodle, it has the same personality and appearance as its larger counterparts.

Despite being small dogs, toy Poodles are just as energetic and active, and would never refuse a good game of fetch. However, they can easily get hurt and injured due to their smaller size, so opt for gentle handling instead of roughhousing play.

Toy Poodles also have a voluminous curly coat that can come in an array of solid colors, such as brown, white, grey, blue, or black. Their coat has to be regularly groomed and trimmed, otherwise, it will end up tangled and full of mats.

Smart, affectionate, and fun, toy Poodles form strong bonds with their people and are true companion dogs. They crave human companionship and can develop separation anxiety if they are left at home alone a lot.

Most toy Poodles are generally healthy and can live as long as 18 years when properly taken care of. Like all other Poodles, toys are prone to several health issues and can develop luxating patella, Cushing’s disease, and several eye disorders (source).

Which Type of Poodle Is Better?

The miniature Poodle is probably the best type of Poodle you can get whether you are a novice or an experienced owner. Miniature Poodles are slightly less energetic than standard Poodles, but still, require regular walks and daily play sessions.

Highly intelligent, eager to please, and easy to train, miniature Poodles learn commands and tricks quickly. Additionally, you won’t have trouble housetraining your Poodle, even if you don’t have any experience potty training a dog.

What Are Poodles Known for?

Poodles are best known for their stylish look and fabulous coats that can be clipped in a number of different eye-catching styles. Furthermore, Poodles are highly intelligent and notoriously easy to train which makes them ideal for first-time owners.  

Where to Get a Poodle?

As with all other dogs, you can get a Poodle in two ways – you can either adopt or shop. Although they are highly popular, many Poodles end up in shelters and rescues, so consider adopting instead of shopping.

Poodle Breeders

Considering that Poodles are one of the most popular dog breeds, there is no shortage of reputable breeders that make puppies available. If you decide to purchase a Poodle puppy, avoid dealing with puppy mills and spend some time researching reputable breeders in your area.

All reputable breeders test their Poodles for genetic diseases before breeding them and will have those tests as proof that their stock is healthy. If a breeder you are dealing with doesn’t have health certificates for both parents and the puppies, walk away and look for another breeder.

Poodle Price

A purebred Poodle puppy on average costs $2000, but the exact price depends on many factors. For example, a standard Poodle puppy can cost between $1200 and $5000 depending on the coat color, bloodline, and quality (show quality Poodles cost more).

On the other hand, you can expect to pay between $1000 and $2500 for a miniature or toy Poodle puppy. Bear in mind, show quality puppies can cost significantly more than pet quality toy and miniature Poodles.

Adoption

Adoption is a great way to welcome a new dog home and is a lot cheaper than buying a Poodle from a breeder. If you are looking for a companion pet and not a show quality Poodle, you should check out your local shelters and rescue organizations.

To increase your chances of adopting a Poodle of your dreams, check out breed specific-rescue organizations that deal exclusively with Poodles and Poodle mixes.

Conclusion

Stylish looking and wickedly smart Poodle comes in three sizes – standard, miniature, and toy. While the American Kennel Club officially recognizes these three types of Poodle, there are additional varieties, including Klein, teacup Poodle, and medium Poodle.

Regardless of the type, all Poodles are highly intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please which makes them ideal for novice and experienced owners alike. Furthermore, they are loyal, friendly, fun, and affectionate dogs that make great companions to people of all ages.

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