Poodle Classifications

The poodle is a well-known ancient breed of French origin. Poodles are intelligent dogs, water dogs historically bred for bird hunting and retrieving. They are popular show dogs and often recognized for their unique show clips. Poodles are devoted family members and known for their patient, good-tempered nature. This breed is often recommended for people with allergies due to their short, nonshedding coats. There are three classifications of poodle, which are based upon size.

  1. Standard Poodle

    • The standard poodle is the largest of the three classifications, standing 15 inches or taller at the highest point of the shoulder. Standard poodles average 45 to 70 pounds. Their average lifespan is about 12 to 15 years.

    Miniature Poodle

    • Miniature poodles, the medium-sized classification, range from 10 to 15 inches at the highest point of the shoulders. They average between 15 and 17 pounds, with some reaching closer to 20 pounds. Miniature poodles have an average lifespan of about 15 years.

    Toy Poodle

    • The toy poodle is the smallest of the classifications, standing under 10 inches tall at the shoulders. They weigh between six and nine pounds and can live upwards of 15 years. They get their name from their "toy-like" appearance due to their incredibly tiny stature.

    Poodle Appearance

    • Elaborate show cuts are often considered synonymous with poodles.

      Other than obvious size differences, all poodles have similar features. Poodles are squarely built, well-proportioned dogs with curly coats, long straight muzzles, pointed noses, flat cheekbones and small faces. They possess an intelligent expression resulting from brown or black oval-shaped eyes. They are most often associated with elaborate show clips originating from the French circus, resembling a lion. However, other clips are more practical for everyday wear including the puppy clip, English saddle clip, sporting clip or continental clip. Each style indicates specifications for fur clipped around the face, throat, feet and base of tail. Poodles come in a wide variety of colors including black, blue, silver, cream, white, apricot, red and brown.