Small poodle: photo and description

Poodle is a popular and beloved breed of dogs that has an ancient history. There are five varieties of these cute animals, which differ in size - large, small, toy-poodle, dwarf, tikap. Today we will tell in detail about one of its representatives - a small poodle.

From the history of the breed

Experts in the field of cynology argue that the poodle appeared in France, although other researchers believe that his homeland is Northern Germany or Hungary. The first images of small dogs resembling modern poodles refer to the first millennium BC. They were discovered on the tombs of the aristocrats of Rome.

In the XV-XVI centuries breeding work was not conducted, the individuals crossed chaotically. Many researchers believe that the history of the origin of the poodle is not entirely clear. There is a version that it was formed as a result of crossing two ancient breeds - a German shepherd dog with an unusual curly woolly covering and a water dog that was widespread in Italy. This animal had wool like twisted cords. To facilitate the care of her from the last ribs to the tail, her torso was completely cut out.

As a legacy from its alleged ancestors, the poodle received a soft character, a sharp mind, an unusual coat and other qualities that made it very popular with millions of animal lovers. The official standard of the breed appeared only in 1936 in France. Today in almost all countries there are specialized nurseries of the small poodle. Many of them are also on the territory of our country, so there are usually no problems with the acquisition of a puppy.

The small poodle breed was bred in the sixties of the last century. Since that time, the breeders began to breed massively, and then imported into other countries these animals. So, dogs (a small poodle) got to Russia. The mixed reproduction of small and large poodles in the sixties with the use of dogs imported from other countries contributed to the appearance of dwarf poodles in some litters. Most of the dwarf and small specimens (of the same color) have a similar origin.

External Features

Small Poodle is an indispensable companion dog. These charming animals are distinguished by medium height and a diverse coat color - black, white, brown, apricot, silver, red.

Today, spotted animals have become very popular. This color is called harlequin. Meanwhile, the cynologists consider the most perfect black small poodles. Their wool is very beautiful, properly planted long ears have a good wooliness. The merits of this variety should be attributed to the lower sensitivity of the skin than the light colors. This species is considered the most numerous.

The height of an adult animal according to the standard should not exceed 45 cm and be less than 35 cm. The average weight is from 8 to 15 kg.

Head

Stacked proportionally, its length corresponds to 2/5 of the animal's growth (at the withers). The muzzle is not massive and not pointed. The nose is brown or black (depending on the color). Lips without suspension, brown or black, of moderate thickness. Correct bite is an obligatory requirement of the standard.

The cheeks are slightly sunken, the foot is slightly pronounced. Eyes of a beautiful almond shaped, slightly slanting. Their color can be from dark amber to black. The ears adhere to the cheeks, hanging, covered with long hair. According to the standard, their tips should reach the corners of the lips. Strong neck, without hanging and folds of the skin.

Torso

Shoulders moderately developed, scapula proportionate, oblique, limbs strong, muscular, but not too massive. The paws are oval in shape, a bit like a cat's, of medium size. Pads thick and thick, claws brown or black, pink color is considered a defect.

Torso proportionally folded, chest with oval ribs. The loins are massive, the back is short, the tail is long at birth, but it is stopped by a third or half. The coat is dense, wavy, short. Animals that take part in exhibitions, make hairstyles "Modern", "English version", "Lion" and others.

Character

A small poodle is an amazingly smart and kind dog. It is ideal for a large family with children, and for a single person. These merry fellows love to be in the spotlight, and children become their best friends, because they can be played day and night. Quite peacefully these animals perceive other dogs and cats, even poodles will never touch even rodents and birds.

Photo of a small poodle often adorns the covers of cynological publications. And this is not surprising. In addition to bright, memorable appearance, dogs are ideal companions. Representatives of the breed are very active - like funny outdoor games, well tolerate long walks and do not mind taking a swim, if this is possible. Animals can be easily trained, classes should be started from the moment when a puppy appears in your house. Small poodle feels equally comfortable in a country house, and in a small city apartment.

This funny little dog, like a little monkey, tries to imitate the owner in everything. If he goes out to dig a garden, the four-legged pet will certainly be there and then he will start working. Excellent results show small poodles on the training grounds.

Health

The main problem that a poodle owner may face is the formation of dental calculi in a pet. As a rule, this process begins with puppyhood, and in old age can lead to tooth loss. In addition, poodles are often ulcerative stomatitis. The reason for this - tartar, a violation of the balance of the flora in the oral cavity, improper feed.

Poodles are prone to tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils), which is accompanied by soreness with palpation of the pharynx and difficulty swallowing. And one more serious disease, which can develop already in a very respectable age, is stones in the bladder.

Poodles often develop atrophy of the pancreas, which, in turn, leads to the development of diabetes mellitus. Of endocrine pathologies, Cushing's syndrome is common.

Maintenance and care

Care for a poodle is a regular combing out of the wool. About once every two months the dog needs to cut. Bathing your pet is desirable with special shampoos and balms that make it easier to comb. This procedure is carried out twice a month. After bathing, the dog must be dried with a hairdryer.

Owners of a poodle need to know that their active pet needs physical exertion. For him it is necessary to organize walks in such a way that he could walk with his beloved owner on a leash and play and play with the ball.