Poodle Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
Poodle
Standard Poodle. Simple pet clip
Other names	Pudelhund Caniche
Origin	Germany
Domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris)

A Poodle is a popular breed of dog. These smart dogs are known for their curly coats. Many people have Poodles as pets. Some Poodles even compete in dog shows.

Poodles were first used as hunting dogs. They helped hunters find birds in water. Today, they are mostly beloved family pets. Poodles are great for people with allergies. This is because they do not shed much fur.

Poodle Colors
Poodle Sizes
Poodles in the Military
Poodle Hair Styles
Related Pages
Images for kids
See also

Poodle Colors

Poodles are popular because they come in many different colors. Their coats are often white or black. They can also be apricot or dark gray, which is sometimes called "blue."

Some Poodles have rare colors. These include chocolate brown and brindle. In Japan, the apricot color is very popular.

White Poodles
Apricot and red Poodles
Black Poodle
A 16-year-old Toy Poodle still enjoying life
A five-week-old brown Standard Poodle
A mature grey Poodle
Phantom Poodles
A Miniature Harlequin Poodle
A Standard Poodle catching a ball
An 1898 political cartoon showing a Poodle

Poodle Sizes

Poodles are bred in many different sizes. The four main sizes are Standard, Miniature, Medium, and Toy. These go from largest to smallest.

Other sizes, like the very small Teacup Poodle, are not official. This means they cannot be part of professional dog shows.

Standard Poodle: This is the original and largest size. They are usually 35 to 45 cm (14 to 18 inches) tall. Their weight is from 15 to 19 kg (33 to 42 pounds).
Miniature Poodle: This size was bred down from the Standard Poodle. They were often used as circus dogs. They are 28 to 35 cm (11 to 14 inches) tall. Their weight is from 8 to 15 kg (18 to 33 pounds).
Medium Poodle: This size is not accepted in all countries. They are 35 to 45 cm (14 to 18 inches) tall. Their weight is from 8 to 15 kg (18 to 33 pounds).
Toy Poodle: This size was bred down from the Miniature Poodle. They were bred to be pets. They are 26 to 28 cm (10 to 11 inches) tall. Their weight is usually around 3 kg (6.6 pounds).

Poodles in the Military

Poodles have been used as working dogs for hundreds of years. During World War II, people thought Poodles could help in the war. The United States Army trained Poodles for special tasks. In 1942, the Poodle was one of 32 breeds officially ranked as war dogs by the Army.

Poodle Hair Styles

Poodles are famous for their unique hair styles, called "clips." Originally, Poodles had hair left on their chest and ankles. This helped protect their heart and joints from cold water. The rest of their hair was cut short to help them swim better.

Today, Poodle hair styles have many variations. In Japan, the "teddy bear cut" is very popular. This style makes the whole Poodle look round and fluffy, like a teddy bear.