Award Winning Poodle Breeders

One of the most beloved dog breeds is the Poodle. Standard, Miniature and Toy sized Poodles are regularly champions in dog competitions. Poodles are widely remarked upon for their elaborate fur clips, especially when primping for show. The American Kennel Club requires that Poodles be clipped in either the Continental or English Saddle styles (for adult Poodles) or the puppy clip (for Poodles under twelve months of age).

They are the official dog of France and are often called French Poodles, though their French roots are still debated today. The French are ultimately given credit for the Poodle having bred the dog into its three sizes: Toy, Miniature and Standard.

The elaborate fur clip seen in competition began as a functional way to lighten the weight of the curly, dense coat while insulating the joints from cold water. Poodles were used as retrievers and duck hunters and the breed still adores water.

Good Poodle breeders are aware of Poodle breed standard characteristics. They breed Poodles that have the best genetic makeup and pedigree and do not breed Poodles with genetic defects. Some of the traits desired in Poodles are dense, curly or corded fur, delicate limbs, graceful, straight muzzles, small, oval feet, dark eyes, an alert expression, intelligence, loyal temperament and elegant carriage. Some of the traits that breeders do not wish to see in Poodles are gross hyperactivity, aggression and medical conditions such as anemia, allergic conditions, gastric, kidney or thyroid problems and cancer.

Adult dogs must be groomed in either the Continental or English Saddle styles which involve shaving the dog’s back half while leaving pom-poms of fur on the hips, legs, and tail as well as styling the head fur in an intricate pompadour.

Buyers should approach Poodle breeders with a list of questions. Good Poodle breeders will also have questions for buyers. Buyers must first educate themselves on Poodle information and history so they can verify whether breeders know what they are talking about.

Unfortunately, this is necessary to distinguish the good breeders from the many disreputable breeders working only to make a profit. Buyers do not want to buy a puppy mill Poodle, which is a Poodle born and raised in a cage borne of parents who have been neglected, over-bred, and often abused. Backyard breeders continuously breed adult dogs with no regard for the health or happiness of the parents or puppies.

Documentation such as medical records, immunization records and pedigree registrations should be provided upon purchase. Inquire about any warranty or guarantee, including any return policies. Ask is the breeder is associated with any breeder registries (such as the AKC) or rescue and animal shelter groups. A good Poodle breeder should also be able to supply you with information about the history of the breed and be helpful with information about the care, grooming and training of your new pet.