Poodle

Let’s clear up some misconceptions about their trademark, froufrou coat. That distinctive cut—the furry “bracelets” on their ankles followed by closely shaved legs known as the “Continental clip”—has a working dog background. Historically, Poodles were groomed that way to maximize their abilities while hunting waterfowl. The fur around their joints kept them warm in cold water, while the rest of their closely-shaven body would reduce drag while chasing after ducks. Poodles can also be kept in an English Saddle or Sporting clip, if they’re participating in dog shows. If they’re not, you may find their hair cut in a lion cut (where they’re cut to have a mane like a lion) or left with their naturally long hair brushed out.

For routine grooming, you’ll need a slicker brush to brush your pup every day; be sure to get all the way to the skin to prevent mats. The more thoroughly you brush your Poodle, the less frequently you have to bathe them. While you’re brushing them, check out their eyes for tear stains. Tear stains are those streaks that discolor your pup’s fur. This eye discharge is your pup’s way of getting rid of debris in the eye. Even though the tears are clear, there’s a pigment in the tears that stains your dog’s hair. Use a damp washcloth or eye care wipes to gently clean the fur around your pup’s eyes. (Get more tips for getting rid of tear stains here.)

Your Poodle puppy’s cute and floppy drop-down ears also need some TLC. Check their ears at least once a week, looking for build-up, hair growth or bad odors. You may need to pluck or trim the hair in their ears with rounded shears, then use an ear-cleaning solution to remove any debris. Ask your vet at your puppy’s first well visit what to watch for and how best to clean their ears if you need help.

They only need a bath every four to eight weeks unless your Poodle has a mud bath. You can find shampoos formulated specifically for Poodles, which can boost the color of light or white-colored poodles. Their fur will dry quickly (remember, they’re a water-loving breed), or you can use a high-velocity dryer designed for dogs.

Your pup will need a haircut every four to eight weeks. (Right alongside bath time—can you say, “hello, groomer”?) If you’re taking your pup to the groomer, ask them to trim your dog’s nails while they’re at it. But you may need to give your pup a pedicure in between spa dates if you hear their nails clicking on the hardwood floor. (A nail grinder is great for this.)

Be sure to brush your pup’s teeth a few times a week. Have your vet show you how if you need help. Start brushing those pearly whites while your dog’s a puppy since Poodles are prone to periodontal disease. Be sure to have your vet professionally clean their teeth once a year for optimal dental health.

Poodles are teacher’s pets and proud of it. They love to learn and enjoy training time with their pet parents. While Poodles can easily learn tricks, socialization is the most important thing to focus on when your Poodle is a puppy. Socialization helps your puppy experience lots of positive interactions with people, so they’re able to adapt to a variety of environments and encounters as they grow up. Poodles love people and other pets, so make sure to bring them as your plus one on errands as soon as your vet gives you the go-ahead.

As your Poodle puppy grows and masters basic training (sit, stay, come and how to walk nicely on a leash), consider enrolling your dog in classes such as agility or Canine Good Citizen training. Classes can help keep your Poodle dog mentally stimulated and socialized. But it’s just as important to devote 20 minutes or so every day to training, working on tricks, commands and giving your pet a chance to show off what they know.

Poodles typically do well on a high-quality commercial dog food. Be sure to factor in your dog’s age and choose a formula that fits their stage in life, from puppy to adult to senior dog. It’s a good idea to make sure any commercial food you choose meets the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (look on the packaging for a nutritional adequacy statement).

Like other breeds, Poodles may be at risk for obesity, and a pound or two of extra weight (or even just a few ounces in toy and miniature Poodle breeds) can lead to health problems. But because Poodles love training, you’re likely to be giving them tons of treats on the regular. Coming up with a smart treat strategy is crucial. In addition to dog-specific treats (in moderation), consider frozen blueberries, peas, cut-up carrots, pieces of cucumber or celery as treats for your Poodle (as long as your vet gives the OK).

Here’s another reason why creating a meal plan with your vet is critical: Sometimes, food intolerances or sensitivities may manifest in health problems, such as itchy ears or dry skin. In some cases, your veterinarian may suggest your Poodle steer clear of certain ingredients, like wheat, or makes sure your dog gets enough healthy fats for healthy skin and a healthy coat.

Don’t let the “non-sporting” label fool you: Poodles are athletes, and their exercise needs may surprise you. (These pups have high energy levels!) Fun Poodles-are-hardcore-jocks fact: In the mid-1970s, one Iditarod participant created a sled team partially made out of Poodles, and the dogs put up a good race against more “traditional” sled dog breeds like Huskies. If you’re looking for less wintry sports, Poodles are great at agility, obedience and tracking.

If you’re not into competitive sports, a Poodle will do just fine with daily walks and trips to the dog run. (They need about an hour a day.) Poodles also may enjoy jogs, but check with your vet before you embark on a couch-to-5k with your canine.

Your pup will love getting in touch with their inner hunter by playing plenty of fetch and retrieve games with disc toys, balls, or other toys. Since they are water retrievers, play fetch in or near a body of water and use balls designed to float. And while Poodles are generally good swimmers and can have a lot of fun in the pool or on the lake, some Poodles may take a little time to get used to the water.

The Poodle dog breed is adaptable, which is one reason why they are such a popular pup; they make great family dogs or work well with a solo pup parent. While they do well with kids and babies, a Poodle who is used to being the center of attention may not want to share the spotlight with a high-energy toddler. So, start socializing and training your pooch as a puppy to help them learn a duet is just as good as a solo.

Poodles need plenty of interaction and diversion throughout the day, so don’t plan on leaving your pup by their lonesome for hours at a time. Consider hiring a dog walker, enlisting the help of a neighbor or enrolling your pup in doggy daycare if your house is mostly empty during the day. A Poodle thrives when they’re part of the family and included in activities both in and out of the home.

The only thing they may not like is the froufrou reputation they have acquired. Yes, they love primping as much as the next pooch, but they also love running, digging and jumping and don’t mind getting their coat dirty in pursuit of a good time.