Poodle-experts inform us that Standard Poodles are exceptionally intelligent, easy to train, fine water dogs, and very sociable. Standard Poodles make fine service dogs and even hunters — their original purpose. Wikipedia says the following:
“Poodles are retrievers or gun dogs, and can still be seen in that role. The Poodle is believed to have originated in Germany, where it is known as the Pudel. The English word “poodle” comes from the German pudel or puddeln, meaning to splash in the water. The breed was standardized in France, where it was commonly used as a water retriever.
The American Kennel Club states that the large, or Standard, Poodle is the oldest of the three varieties[3] and that the dog gained special fame as a water worker. So widely was it used as retriever that it was bred with a moisture-resistant coat to further facilitate progress in swimming. Thence came the custom of clipping to pattern which so enhanced the style and general appearance that its sponsors, particularly in France were captivated by it.”
Otherwise notable is this breed’s keen sense for instinctual behavior. In particular, marking and hunting drives are more readily observable than in most other breeds. Even Toys will point birds. Classified as highly energetic, poodles can also get bored fairly easily and have been known to get creative about finding mischief. Poodles like to be in the center of things and are easily trained to do astonishing tricks involving both brains and agility.
Poodles are extremely people-oriented dogs and generally eager to please. Standard Poodles in particular tend to be good with children. Poodles are adaptable and easy to train. Like most dogs, they appreciate daily exercise, such as a walk or a play session. Most are fairly agile and athletic.”
Standard Poodles are good water dogs, very smart, and eager to please. Standards make excellent service dogs. NEADS (Dogs For Deaf and Disabled Americans), of Princeton, MA has placed more than 700 dogs with clients over the past decade. Below is the 2009 graduating class of service dogs:
This description characterizes an ideal companion that wants your attention, is loving, and easy to train. Some people think that a cross-bred Labradoodle is an ideal dog. We tried one litter. In our opinion, F-1 Labradoodles are not nearly as attractive as either the Labrador retriever or the standard Poodle parents. Multi-generational Labradoodles are mostly poodle, so why not have a standard Poodle? We will keep our wonderful Lab and Poodle breeds as they are.
