Fetch Finder

Breed guide

Standard Poodle

Highly intelligent, athletic and low-shedding. A good pick for people who want a bigger dog without the hair, if they budget for grooming.

A Standard Poodle
Photo: Tim Wilson from Blaine, MN, USA · CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
SizeLarge
Weight40–70 lb
Lifespan10–18 years
Yearly cost$2,000–$3,500*
👪 Good family dog Usually good with kids, with training and supervision.

At a glance

Energy level
Shedding
Grooming needs
Apartment-friendly
Handles cold
Affectionate / cuddly
Good with kids
Good for first-time owners
Easy to train
Good with other dogs
Good with cats
OK being left alone
Reliable off-leash
Protective / watchdog
Barking
Drooling

Great for

  • People with allergies or who hate dog hair
  • Active owners
  • Families

Watch out for

  • Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks adds cost
  • Gets bored without exercise and training
  • Can be sensitive and dislike being left alone

Daily care

Exercise: About an hour a day.

Grooming: Brush several times a week; professional clip every 4–8 weeks.

Cold weather: Handles cold reasonably well if the coat is kept longer in winter; a jacket helps on bitter days.

*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.

Gear for a Standard Poodle

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