Dog breed profile
Poodle (standard)
A detailed profile covering characteristics, everyday care and linked health conditions.
Quick facts
Typical guide only; individual needs vary.
Profile description
The Standard Poodle is the largest Poodle variety and was developed as an athletic water-retrieving dog rather than solely as a decorative companion. Most adults stand above approximately 38 centimetres and commonly weigh between 18 and 32 kilograms, although size varies by breeding line and country. The breed has a square, balanced body, long head, hanging ears and a dense, curly coat that may occur in many solid colours.
Standard Poodles are intelligent, energetic, responsive and strongly people-oriented. They commonly excel in retrieving, swimming, obedience, agility, scent work, assistance roles and other demanding activities. Their intelligence and physical ability require regular mental challenges as well as exercise. Most form close bonds with their families and can live successfully with children and other animals when properly socialised.
Some may be sensitive, reserved with strangers or prone to anxiety when exposed to harsh handling or prolonged isolation. The continuously growing coat sheds relatively little but can mat severely without proper care. The Standard Poodle is best suited to active owners who can provide substantial exercise, positive training, companionship and professional grooming throughout the dog’s life. The Poodle (standard)'s typical athletic, energetic, intelligent qualities are most constructive when household rules are predictable and desirable behaviour receives regular reinforcement.
Appearance is only one part of deciding whether a Poodle (standard) is a suitable long-term companion. Any interaction between a Poodle (standard) and children should be actively supervised, with the dog given an undisturbed resting place and the children taught respectful handling. A prospective Poodle (standard) owner should plan for a high activity commitment and specialist coat maintenance, while allowing for the breed's athletic and energetic manner.
First-time dog owner tips
Practical preparation for welcoming this breed into your home.
Care requirements
The Standard Poodle requires at least one to two hours of daily activity, including brisk walks, retrieving, swimming, hiking, obedience, scent work and agility. During Poodle (standard) growth, avoid forced long-distance running and repetitive impact while the joints develop. Training should begin early and use positive reinforcement, varied tasks and clear routines. Build the Poodle (standard)'s weekly routine around several forms of movement rather than repeating one route, and include lower-intensity recovery after unusually demanding activity.
The curly coat should be brushed and combed thoroughly several times a week and preferably daily when kept long. Professional clipping is generally required every four to eight weeks.
Mats commonly develop behind the ears, beneath the legs, around the feet and under collars or harnesses. Hanging ears should be checked frequently for wax, moisture, redness or infection, especially after swimming. Teeth should be brushed regularly and nails kept short.
A complete diet should maintain a lean, athletic body condition. Meals should be divided into two or more servings, and strenuous exercise avoided immediately before and after feeding because the Standard Poodle’s deep chest increases the risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus. Regular veterinary examinations should monitor hips, eyes, thyroid health, skin, heart function and any signs of bloat. Daily mental engagement and gradual alone-time training are important. Owners should establish the Poodle (standard)'s normal appetite, breathing, movement, sleep and social behaviour so a persistent departure from that baseline can be investigated promptly. Care requirements for a senior Poodle (standard) should be reviewed as mobility, senses and recovery change; shorter sessions, better footing and easier access can preserve independence without removing enrichment. Seek veterinary advice promptly if a Poodle (standard) develops breathing difficulty, collapse, severe pain, repeated vomiting, inability to urinate, sudden weakness or a rapidly worsening change in behaviour.
Conditions linked to this breed
Hypoadrenocorticism [Addison's Disease]
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Cardiomyopathy
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Cataract [Cloudiness of the Lens of the Eye]
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Colour Dilution Alopecia
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Congenital Renal Disease [Hereditary Nephropathies]
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Hyperadrenocorticism [Cushing's Disease]
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Diabetes Mellitus
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Epilepsy (Idiopathic, Primary or Inherited Seizures)
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Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV, or “Bloat”)
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Glaucoma (Primary, Inherited)
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Hemeralopia (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
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Hip Dysplasia
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Ichthyosis
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Osteochondrosis
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Persistent Pupillary Membrane & Persistent Hyaloid Remnants
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy Generalised
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General dog health conditions
These conditions can affect dogs generally and are not presented as conditions specifically associated with this breed.