What to Look for When Buying a New Poodle Puppy

The poodle is one of the world's most intelligent dog breeds, they're hypoallergenic and are equally at home retrieving game in the field or acting as companions. If you have your mind set on a purebred poodle, be sure to take your time and do adequate research.

  1. Poodle Size

    • Decide what size poodle you want. Poodles come in a variety of sizes. The largest members of the breed are called standard poodles, while the miniature poodles are smaller and the teacup poodles are the smallest of all.

    Research the Breeder

    • Go online and find out what poodle breeders live in your area. Do they breed pet quality animals or do they breed dogs to show? What is their reputation like? Check their testimonials page to see who they have sold dogs to, and see if they have a gallery that shows what poodles they have bred.

    Speak With the Breeder

    • Ask the breeder about the puppy's history and how healthy its parents are? Has the puppy been spayed or neutered and is he or she microchipped? What area vet takes care of the puppies and their mother?

    Meet the Puppies

    • Make an appointment with the breeder to visit the puppies. Never purchase an animal without seeing it first. In some cases, you will be able to reserve a puppy from a litter that has not been born yet, but this is typically only common for poodles that are meant for the show ring.

    Examine the Mother

    • How does the puppies' mother react? While a new mother might be a little anxious, she should not be aggressive or too fearful. Similarly, she should look healthy and the nest that she has prepared for her puppies should be clean and neat. A nest that is disorganized, foul smelling or filthy is a sign of a bad breeder.

    Play With the Puppies

    • Look for puppies that are energetic, lively and eager to meet you. Some puppies might be more interested in interacting with their brothers and sisters than with a stranger, but as long as they are not timid or constantly in hiding, it should be fine.

    Examine the Puppies

    • Do a cursory physical examination to make sure that your puppy is in good shape. A healthy puppy should have loose, clean skin and fur that is shiny and without bald patches. Her eyes should be bright and free of discharge, and here nose should be clean, wet and cold. Check to make sure that her teeth are white and sharp and that her gums are clean. There should be no unpleasant odor coming from the puppy's mouth.

    Warning

    • If you plan on showing your poodle, be aware that Teacup poodles are not recognized by any kennel club.