The poodle has become a fashionable breed in its toy version. The secrets and characteristics of this small yet remarkable dog, whose origins date back to the era of Emperor Augustus.
The poodle is among the oldest known breeds: we find it in numerous paintings, among which stands out "Patient Griselda" by Pinturicchio (1454–1513), exhibited at the National Gallery in London, where a small poodle is depicted gazing proudly at its beloved owner, Griselda herself. The artist Martin de Vos (1541–1603), meanwhile, shows us in a painting from the sixteenth century "Tobit and his dog", another perfect example of a representative of this breed. We know, however, that even in more remote times the poodle was very well known, as small statues have been found dating back to as early as 14 BC, the era of Emperor Augustus.
The countless accounts describing the poodle's meek temperament and great docility are not to be forgotten — alongside a "peppery" character that never lets it down. One highly amusing episode tells of a dog of this breed — belonging to the beautiful Joséphine de Beauharnais — that had the audacity to bite the calves of the great Napoleon Bonaparte.
Originally, the poodle was used for hunting waterfowl. It was, in fact, a lover of water and an excellent swimmer. The modern poodle descends from the barbet, from which it has retained many distinctive traits. Later, during breed selection, the barbet and the poodle diverged more and more, giving rise to two distinct types with specific characteristics. Over the years, breeders also strove to produce original specimens with a uniform coat colour.
Today the poodle has become very popular as a companion dog, especially in its miniature or "toy" version, owing to its lovable, joyful, faithful and decidedly sociable character.
From 18 April 2007 the poodle breed standard was updated. Substantial amendments were made, including the recognition of the colour red-fawn, which joins the colours white, black, brown, grey and apricot across all four sizes, and the minimum size for the toy, which must not fall below 24 centimetres (a measurement of 23 is tolerated only in specimens of the very highest quality).
For the large poodle the maximum withers height remains 60 centimetres, but should the specimen in question be of exceptional morphological beauty, up to 62 centimetres may be tolerated — absolutely no more, on pain of disqualification at shows.
In summary, we therefore find poodles of large size from 45 cm to 60 cm, with a tolerance of 2 cm more. Those of medium size, on the other hand, range from 35 cm (minimum) up to 45 cm. Miniature poodles, finally, from 28 cm to 35 cm; toy from 24 to 28.
In all four of its versions, the poodle always requires special attention to its coat. "It needs monthly grooming because of its curly coat type, which tangles very easily, forming knots and mats that are difficult to remove and can cause the little dog no small amount of discomfort," explains Jessica Russo, professional groomer.
"There is no particular grooming style as such. Today the Asian and Korean styles are very much in fashion — that is, little teddy bear and soft toy heads that are very appealing and cute. It is a 'free style' technique used mainly on miniature poodles." The classic "lamb clip" style is nonetheless very popular across all four poodle types, making these affectionate dogs look like real little lambs.
The poodle has always been famed for its longevity. Dogs of this breed easily reach 17 or 18 years of age, generally enjoying good health. In addition to coat care, it is important — especially in the miniature and toy versions — to pay attention to gum and dental hygiene, because, like every other small breed, this one too can often encounter oral problems and conditions.
Finally, the poodle's size should not be misleading: even the smallest specimens need daily exercise and walks in the open air. The lively and indomitable nature of this breed would indeed be diminished by a sedentary lifestyle and an apartment existence with no opportunity for physical activity. The poodle, however small, is an animal that expresses its full potential when it can enjoy frequent walks and, why not, also a dip in calm waters — an experience that is truly fundamental for it, given its origins as a water hunting dog.