Like any red-blooded, meat-eating, sports-obsessed male, I didn’t want a Poodle—the long or the short or the tall. The breed was not on my Top Ten list of dogs. Or my Top One Hundred, for that matter. But Arlene, my wife, convinced me that owning a Standard Poodle would be a good thing. So two years after our manly Chow-Husky mix died, we acquired Cassie, a 45-pound female black Standard Poodle. Today, I consider the breed to be Nature’s best kept secret.
And I am not alone.
Many dog owners have been in on this secret for a long time. In fact, the history of Poodle ownership – Standards, Minis, Toys — is littered with famous names. John Steinbeck, as we all know, traveled around America with a Standard Poodle named Charley. Other writers who owned Poodles include Charles Dickens, Victor Hugo, Thomas Mann, Gertrude Stein, Erma Brombeck, Neil Simon, and James Thurber. Many Poodle owners will come as no surprise, from Josephine, the Empress of the French, to Marilyn Monroe to Mary Kay. Other owners, such as shirtless Vladimir Putin, are head-scratchers.
Knowing a natural-born people pleaser when they see one, Hollywood welcomed Poodles of all sizes with open arms. The number of La La Land celebrities who owned, still own, and loved Poodles is staggering. A partial list includes female stars such as Katharine Hepburn, Shirley Jones, Grace Kelly, Mary Tyler Moore, Ellen Degeneres, Barbra Streisand, and Debbie Reynolds, among others. Male celebrities, past and present, who had or have Poodles include Bob Hope, Sammy Davis Jr., Jack Lemon, Kirk Douglas, Cary Grant, Mike Nichols, Robin Williams, and Vincent Price, to name but a few. Admittedly, a good number of the Poodles pampered in Hollywood represent the smaller models but Standards appear to be well represented in the collection.
John Heisman, one of America’s most popular college football coaches and the namesake of the coveted Heisman Trophy, had a small Poodle named Woo, which was often found on the sidelines during games and in team photos. Oscar Hammerstein, the famous American composer of such works as Oklahoma!, The King and I and The Sound of Music, owned a black female Standard Poodle. Billie Holiday had her Standard Poodle cremated in her favorite mink coat.
It is said that Alexander Pope, the famous 18th century poet, was saved one night from a sure execution when his Poodle stopped a break-in at his house. According to the story, which some people have questioned, one of Pope’s servants had entered the house after hours with the intent to kill the poet. The dog flew himself at the intruder and held the man by the throat, thus preventing both the murder of his master and a premature end to some rather famous rhymed couples.
Man’s best friend doesn’t get any more loyal than that.
Standard Poodles are hardy and strong, and they like to pull. An Alaskan named John Suter ran a team of Standards in the Iditarod many years back, and they performed quite well. His first team to include Poodles finished 38th out of 52 in a race where just finishing is considered a victory. At some point, the Iditarod folks changed the rules so that only “northern breeds” could compete and that was the end of that. I like to think the Poodles were in the lead in the Iditarod until they hit that first saloon with a cheese spread and show tunes on the jukebox. They know their priorities.
When Sir Winston Churchill’s much-loved Poodle, a Mini named Rufus, was run over by a car and killed, a fan offered him one of her pure-bred bulldogs. She was appropriately thanked and politely told, “If Mr. Churchill has another dog it will be a Poodle again.” I fully understand the sentiment, for having Cassie, our first Standard Poodle, ruined us for any other breed. Duke, our second Standard, sealed the deal.
I’ll write more about those two amazing dogs next time.
Photo Credits
Photos by Mark Saunders – All Rights Reserved
Guest Author Bio
Mark Saunders
Mark Saunders prefers to write short, humorous pieces befitting his height and attention span. His humorous memoir about dropping out and moving to Mexico, Nobody Knows the Spanish I Speak, was voted the #2 book in San Miguel in 2012. An award-winning playwright, screenwriter and cartoonist, Mark is a former winner of the Walden Fellowship, awarded to three Oregon writers or artists each year. Back in his drawing days, more than 500 of his cartoons were published nationally, in publications as diverse as The San Jose Mercury News, Writer’s Digest, The Saturday Evening Post, and Twilight Zone Magazine. He once owned a Yugo (please don’t ask about the car). Mark is currently working on The Duke of San Miguel, a sequel to his humorous memoir about life south of the border.
Blog / Website: msaunderswriter.com
Recent Guest Author Articles:
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When my Bear died, my heart broke. It was my privilege to have this graceful creature part of my family.
I miss him dearly.
I read most of the postings with tears flowing. I’ve been a poodle mama since 1975. There has been six wonderful poodles in my life. My current boy is white and going on 16;. That makes me so sad because my hubby feel I’m too old for another puppy. (just turned 82) My largest standard stood 29″ and weighed 92lbs.What a guy. They have all been special.
I understand completely, my Romeo if now 6 and the thought of not having him forever, breaks my heart. I have worked with therapy and service dogs for over 30 years. Standard Poodle is number 1 to me
Shirley, I pray for you and your husband to be blessed with another poodle whether a puppy, an older dog, a rescue, a foster or even a re-home.
All the best,
Liza🌿
I owned a standard poodle big one Sioux was his name lost him to cancer 5-10-19 to cancer. Love my dog lonesome on this hill now. He was a rescue dog had him about 7 yrs. followed me step for step. Had him cremated now he sits on my desk? looking for another one he was the big one 30 inches at shoulder wt.75 lbs. Yes i am hooked on the big poodle. Anyone knows where one is let me know.
I do.. I have a healthy standard parti poodle puppy I purchased from a private home breeder last week. He’s calm, smart and sweet. He is a 11week old clown. He has had his baby shots. He can sit, and wait patiently for his food bowl. I had no idea how active puppies can be! I’ve had older rescues In the past. Do, because I’m too old for this furry kid, I’m selling him to the right family for $600.00.
I was hired by my neighbor to train her miniature poodle when i was 13. Mikey wouldn’t listen because while she loved the dog, the woman failed miserably at dog communication. I quickly discovered that if I played with Mikey…..he would do anything I asked and he learned quickly….very quickly. Many years later, there was a woman training at the local kennel club with a standard poodle and watching the two of them, I saw how the dog actively worked to figure out what the woman wanted….it was IMPRESSIVE. He was also so utterly composed although his dog mom told me that at home he could be really really silly,and playful. The dog seemed to understand the difference between appropriate public behavior and what was acceptable versus at home behavior.
I have a standard poodle and they are the best!
I love and adore them all from toy to standard there is just nothing like a poodle. They are the best!
I consider my Standard Poodle, Summer, to be a poodle ambassador. So many times at the dog park, people will ask,”what kind of a dog is she?” A Standard Poodle. ” But, she’s not sissy at all- she’s a real dog!”
We just took our white, handsome, male, Standard Poodle, Einstein into the vet today. Everyone’s jaws dropped with the sound of “ahhhhhh” “soooo cute” and “what a big poodle” the second we entered the room of waiting dogs and their owners. Standard Poodles are still the hidden breed. Their new brethren the Labradoodle, is more popular than the original.
I rescued a standard in the 80s. He had been in a cage for 2 weeks and was only about 4 months old. His owners had been in an auto accident and were not doing well. Before the internet back then, I ran a pet clearing house and in 12 years worked with the “Pound” as called back then, I worked with the Humane Society and all local vets. We worked together, having anyone and everyone who lost or found a pet call me. I kept an antiquated spiral notebook of all calls and kept detailed descriptive records of who lost and who found. I reunited over 100 pets, including a tortoise and a couple birds, as well as cats and dogs. I am proud to have done so. This is how our initial standard happened into our life.
We crated him in our kitchen at night, because he was familiar with the crate. I took him out at short intervals, it was February and actually cold out. When I went out in my pajamas, I was often chilly and crossed my arms in front of my chest to stay warm, telling him to go to the bathroom over and over. It was a very short couple of days when I realized that after going outside, Beauregard would look at me and watch. As soon as I crossed my arms, he would go, I would praise, we would play and then back to bed. This was a couple days and I wasn’t training him, he was training me.
Beauregard was a lover of tennis balls, my father in law played tennis in his retirement, and all used balls were given to Beauregard. We had a steep driveway down to the road we lived on. Beauregard never left the yard, but the most fun was watching him play ball by himself after he wore us all down. He would drop the ball at the top of the drive, watch it for a short time, just enough to give it some space, then race down the drive to grab it before it hit the curb. He played this for as long as we would watch and laugh! Beauregard left us far too early as he developed lung cancer. I still have a very difficult time speaking of it.
This breed is a great gift to the family who wants a protector, may not have tons of time to train, and your allergies or aversion to hair will never be a problem, they don’t shed! Their hair is soft, and fun, but with the good must come some bad. The work or cost involved in the coat of these dogs is vast. Not to be taken lightly, but worth it for us…, but is something to seriously consider. Just as the Maltese is a beautiful little dog, but their hair takes so much work! We have to consider it all as you do for all breeds.+
Lastly, with all the dogs I have known and cared for, I have always found a clear difference in the genders. Having so very many come through our home while finding owners, we noticed quite clearly that there was a difference in the demonstrative inclinations through gender. The males we had were always much more likely to be loving. The females were too, but almost as though it was intended by the maker… the females had to be cognizant of the importance of their little ones, so they were just a little bit more self preserved. I feel like females are more like cats, very loving but on their own time, not mine. If I want a lover, I first look to the males, but there are always exceptions.
You are absolutely correct – it has also been our experience that the males are more loving and affectionate. Females a bit more aloof but they want love too……..We love all 6 of the standards we have had over the last 30 years!
No Way ! my current puppy of 9 months is almost too affectionate. I have never come across such a deeply affectionate puppy EVER. i get kisses before she gallops into the dog park, when i wake , when i am asleep, when i am on the toilet , when i play cello EVERYWHERE ….. i get arms outstretched around my neck at the dog park to say hello and . here I am mum !
eat your heart out everyone my cute puppy is IT !
MISS AFFECTIONATE .
I am now owned by PattiCake age 4 and Tony age 9 mos. and yes my PC is like a pit bull with curls ! The ultra protector of me her car, her house, her yard etc etc etc. Tony , my lovebunny and cuddler……..I have the best of all worlds 😉
My Age will decide if I can manage any more when these go to Heaven…..
And yes a die a bit each when it is their turn….we all sleep in my king size bed…..I don’t even think of a male HUMAN in their favorite place…they are simply tooooo important to me.
You are so correct if you ever have a standard you will never want a different breed.
My first was a male coffee colored male that I got at 15month old. Trained him for ground search and rescue dog Stanley Boy was a natural search team member. When I joined the team for training some members said he will never work the ground. Stanley proved them wrong right away.
I retired us when he was 8.
I bought him a 8 week old silver female sister. He took her under his wing and taught her everything he knew. They were best buddies always.
Stanley got a benine tumor on his bladder when he was 13. It was removed but he was not strong enough to recover from it. I had to have my previous boy not put down.
It was the hardest choice I ever made in my 73,years.
Stanley waits at the rainbow bridge in heaven for Gretta and I to get to heaven. Then the 3 of us can walk over the bridge together, we will be once again.
I’m so thankful that God gave dogs souls.
I miss him so much.
MaryAnn
I believe, as the author, poodles are the best dogs! I have had both standard and miniature and love them equally. The breed is so intelligent, playful and loving! You CAN buy love if you buy a poodle!
You had me choked up at the end of your reply. We have a brother and sister duo of Standard Poodles. Takoda and I are a certified and registered visiting dog therapy Team. Garon will fallow in his little sister’s paw prints later on.
Their love and loyalty go far beyond human comprehension.
I couldn’t imagine life or heaven without them.
And he misses you too darling!
I have hD poodles in my life since I was first married. Most have been smaller miniature but I did have one standard. What a love! They (poodles) are the best dogs! My females have demanded live and my current one has trained herself to go sit while I’m on the phone but the minute I say goodbye, I have to giver her attention. I live by myself and I don’t know what I’d do without her. I try to get a puppy when my current dog is 13 or so. Can’t stabd to be by myself and it always reenergizes the older dog.
I love standard poodles. I bought our first poodle puppy, “Tootsie” (she was brown) she didnt live that long. She had been poisoned by kibble dog food and died at 16 weeks. She already pulled at our heart strings. The breeder offered another and I took 2, one was cream, named Blondie and a brown who we called “Brownie” but she answered to “Brown Dog”-yeah I know-simple simple. Blondie was a goof ball and Brown dog was more serious. I knew that standards were intellegent but no one mentioned that they can read your minds. Brown Dog would spin when I sang “round and round and round they go, nobody knows where dog will go” So cute and Blondie would bounce all over the place. My 23 yr old daughter couldnt believe that we bought our first standard poodle saying what were you thinking! She has two standard poodles today, so funny. Brown Dog died when she was 4yrs old of Hodgkins Lymphoma and Blondie died at 7 years having had cancer of the spleen and liver. We were so grief stricken. We have TomTom who is 8yrs old and Little John will be 2 years old. They are my companions who truly love, entertain and protect me. We have Alice too, she is a mini -I bought her after Blondie died thinking a smaller dog would suffice but I was a little right (she is awesome too) but not big and bubbly, she is small and too smart….Our mini jumps up and jingles the bells to go out and so she taught Little John but he is so tall he just pops his nose over the bells to go out. He barks on commands and pokes on command. Tom-tom knows when it is Saturday when my daughter, his favorite human friend comes over with to see just him (she brings my grand daughter and my grand dogs-black poodle, Sophie and the newest puppy, Dexter, a black and white parti poodle. My dental hygenist asked if she should get a poodle mix like a golden doodle who was black. I said just get a standard, she said oh no can’t to that. Well she cant get over how smart her dog is, unlike any, she has ever had. I said to her that it is not the golden retriever genes, it is the standard poodle genes. She is continuously surprised by his devotion and intelligence. Yes, I love my big boy poodles and Alice too.
If one had told me about 13 years ago I would have a poodle I would have laughed. Now I have 2 standards; a blk male soon to be 13 and a lt appricot male 26 weeks. As long as I am able I don’t want to be without a std. poodle
When our guy, Viggo, gets hairy and I’m out and about many people ask what kind of ‘doodle’ is he… At first I would just say he’s a standard poodle… After a while I decided to play a little game. So, when people asked, I would say he’s a Trueoodle… It is fun to watch the look on people’s faces… Some get it and some ask… what kind of doodle is that…? 🙂
We get the same question too. We just answer them by saying they are a Poodle Poodle. 😉
When someone says ‘is that a labradoodle, I reply NO, this is the original doodle dog!’
Nothing like a Standard Poodle! Once you have one (or they have you…) you can never go to anything else! Poodles are incredibly intelligent, loyal, and protective. They’re also incredibly goofy!!! A premiere among breeds. The non-shedding, low to no dander is just a bonus. Get a Standard; you’ll never go back!
It’s simple.
LOVE is….
Beine owned by a Poodle.
True, but not my original saying. I found this and keep it on my refrigerator…. as if I needed to be reminded! We are on # 4. 1 st one in 1970, and plan to have one until my dying day. So smart, empathetic and give unconditional love.
Should read…
Love is BEING owned by a Poodle.
I hit the wrong key when posting. Sorry.
I wrote in a month ago, missing my lost Georgie. Well, lo and behold; Friday I’m adopting a new family member; a 9 wks old Standard puppy. I can hardly wait to find out her personality; lady, hot head, shy? It’ll be a blast! Another successor in a 47 year line of a wonderful, magnificent breed. Now I’ll just have to make sure Eve the cat doesn’t slap that poor puppy around too much, but I’m sure they’ll become fast friends. Wish me luck; here I go again!!! Wheeeee!!!!!
We have two Standars Poodles. Garon is 2yrs old male and Takoda is 1yr old female.
They are incredible companions, gentle with all three of our grandchildren, guardians of our home and family.
They have a body language all their own and their soulful eyes speak volumes.
They are beautiful, athletic, quick to learn and have a sense of humor that would leave most people scratching their heads. They are simply an awesome breed.
They live to love and we love them completely in return.
We will be getting our third pup this summer. Yes, we are totally hooked and there’s no turning back.
I enjoyed the story and following comments. It’s so nice to see that so many others feel the same way too.
Let’s all do what we can to protect this beautiful, soulful breed.
You are so blessed. I miss my Standard happy tears now for me reading your story. Enjoy your life with your fabulous dogs
I lost my nearly 16 yr old Standard less than 2 weeks following my husband’s death. We’d gotten her at 8 wks of age, and she was 6 months old when our twins sons were born. Within an hour of bringing them home; the boys belonged to HER! She was the best big sister, aunt, nanny, any child could want, or any mother could want as a helper. She helped raise them; and did a superb job. She grew to be huge; 27″ at the shoulder and over 80 lb; a big girl! I’d had poodles since I was 15, but she was our first Standard. When Bob and I got married; I had a 9 yr old miniature lady. Yes, he adored her; nobody could help that. However, a small black poodle just wasn’t a “man’s dog.” That would be a male Lab or German Shepherd. Well, Samantha took him over in no time, and he never wanted anything else. We had two more miniatures, then Georgie; our wonderful Standard. It’s been almost 2 years since I lost her, and I keep wanting to get another. No other breed will ever do for me; not even a smaller poodle. The Standards of simply magnificent! They are so human; minus the backstabbing. There is nothing fou fou or prissy about the breed; ignore the haircut. I so miss my girl, almost as much as I miss my husband. My sons are 17 now, and Seniors in High School. I’ve got to get one within the next year. I want the dog to know them; and selfishly, I just don’t want to be alone! There’s no better companion than a standard poodle; God’s gift to the world… RIP Georgie, and Bob.
My condolences on the loss of your husband and standard poodle.
When my husband was diagnosed with terminal cancer 4 years ago we decided that another standard poodle (our third) is what we should add to the mix of remedies we were using in an attempt to extend his life beyond the one year prognosis; knowing that he would be a wonderful companion for me when that fatal day arrived.
At 8 weeks he became my husband’s buddy and always lay by his feet until the last day, less than a year ago.
Today he is my constant companion who loves me unconditionally, is a walking bundle of love that he distributes wherever he goes and is stunningly handsome. He is my protector and his loyalty to me is beyond a doubt. He makes me laugh a lot. He’s such a clown.
We spend many of evenings playing games of hide and seek and practicing fun tricks to amuse our guests. He understands quickly and loves to learn. We spend hours walking or sitting by the lake
As many people have attested to “best dog breed” “amazing companion” “strong” “agile” “intelligent”
“Funny” “loving” loyal….and with personality.
I hope you get another one soon.
Rosalyn,
Presently, we have our 8th & 9th miniature poodles (brother & sister) Prince Dimitri II & Lady Karina. Poodles are really one of a kind dog and you sound like you have a great standard poodle to have fun with every day.
8 months ago we got a black female standard poodle and she is the best puppy we have ever had. We keep saying she will be a good dog some day. At less than 10 months old she is already very amazing and we are hooked on poodles. I was always partial to black Labs but became allergic to dander. No shedding is a real bonus but her hair grows fast and needs trimming often. Keeping deer out of our yard was one of the motivations for getting another dog and she does fine on that count as well. Loyal, loving, smart affectionate, she is more than I asked or imagined. She seems like a Labrador Retriever in a poodle body.
You do know that Poodles were used as retrievers originally and many use standards as hunting dogs. The “fancy” trims on poodles were to protect the dogs joints and shaved in places to swim easier. I ❤️ Poodles!
We bought our first standard from you. Had a few small ones over the years. I swear standards are not the same breed. We bought Famous Amos 3 years ago. We will always have standards from now on. He is bright, smart, the most happy go lucky fellow and an incredible lap dog. Thank you Kando Kennels for letting us find our dream dog.
We have had 6 standard poodles, Beretta, Remington, Colt, Kimber, Barrett and Benelli (our first white). We could have asked for better friends!
What AWESOME names! We’re picking up our first standard Poodle next week after 27 years of having pure bred Newfoundland dogs. We’re naming her Chloe. But if we were going to get a boy, I’d have insisted on naming him SIG. I’m sure you can guess why! I’m a little afraid this pup will be smarter than me! The Newfies wrapped “daddy” around their paws with love and huge kisses. I’m hoping this one doesn’t use intellect to manipulate.
Hope you are completely enchanted by Chloe!
I believe Mr. Saunders mean to write, “…rhyming COUPLETS,” not “couples,” as that is the poetic term.
Yes. Thank you. I fixed the typo in a later draft. Btw, I have a new book coming out this summer titled “Dogs, Cats & Expats.” It includes several essays about dogs, including and especially Standard Poodles. I hope you’ll look for it and like it. Cheers! Mark
They are STANDARDS!!!
As a child growing up in the center of the so called mid west. I never had a choice of a dog. The small type always choose our family and they were our outdoor pets too. Strays looking for food and a forever home.
When I married the first time in the 1960 I raised a few dogs that were popular then mainly Cocker Spaniels and wire Fox Terriers. I truly liked some of the breeds traits but not the companionship of the breeds.
Became a single mom in the mid 70 and raised 3 children buy myself. They choose a Doberman and later an Airdale. Big dogs were not a problem but they still did not fit ME.
In the end of the 90s the man in my life was older and dealing with early stages of blood cancer. I felt so lonesome at times and I began hunting for MY dog.
I found a male Standard Poodle at less than two year old. When I brought him home after seeing him just once I was hooked. My human mate ask me if I was CRAZY bringing home a 55# dog that was so big.?? I answered with “He is home if he likes us and likes it here”. In a weeks time my mate was HOOKED he fell deeply in love with Stanley Boy. They played ball all of the time together and he and we were a keepers.
I joined a search and rescue team of a near buy county. He was an amazing contributed to the team. He did ground search and was so kind and gentle to all, even the one we rescued. At his age of 8 years, I decided to retire him from the team duties. My human mate was getting severely I’ll and I needed to be home more. After my mates death Stanley Boy was so sad. I had never had this journey before and ask advice from the funeral director. When my mates body was prepaired I took Stanley to the funeral home for a private last time good bye. I placed a chair up toward the casket. Stanley jumped in the chair and saw his human buddy. All of his before training came alive. He laid his head on my mates chest and whinned and whimpered. He licked his cheeks and hands trying to wake him as he was trained to do in rescue. He laid his head on his chest and stayed till I gave the comand for release. He laid on the floor at guard for his human friend. At the cemetery every time we went he remained close and at guard, sometimes whimpering for his gone human buddy. He laid at his door way at home to his buddy room for months and I could only think of what a loss it will be to all dogs when Stanley is gone. He was so smart, easy to train, compassion was highest I had ever seen in a dog, loving, loyal and starting to age with grace. I watched and looked for a answer to what should be done. The answer was a adopted silver female sister Standard Poodle, at 8 weeks old she was a streak of lightning and lots of fun. Stanley love her instantly. He taught her everything a big brother should do. He was so patient and kind with this job of teaching. Never was unhappy with this new green kid that was all over him from the start. Gretta Girl grew up and learned it all. She bloomed and blossomed to a big beautiful 73 # big/young sister. Stanley loved her and his place next to her always. I had my wonderful Stanley Boy till a cancer tumour took him away at 17 years old. What a beautiful story for every human need met buy a rescued Standard Poodle. He understood every word you said to him and he gave all and in exchange. I have had a incredible journey of my life. His sister Gretta Girl shows Stanley Boy every day of her life. Her wisdom is his, her compassion is him, her giving is a copy of him, His loyalty is so much him, in a tribute to the breed. She is still him in a younger form that has several years that I am so BLESSED to live on with him in her. No other breed will ever enrich my life. Once you have a Standard Poodle you will never be happy with out one in you world. Stanley and my mate are waiting in heaven at the rainbow bridge for Gretta and I to meet them and be a completed family again when the time is right. Love lives on in rescue in many different ways. Once and for all invest your life in a Standard Poodle and you will be rewarded always.
I do know at 74 years old I have lived with the best always a Standard Poodle.
MaryAnn
Oh my, tears are flowing. I lost my beloved Sammy at 15 years. I can relate to all you have written. When I start missing him, I think of the calls I would get at work from the dog sitter. The call always started with, “guess what Sammy did now?” It was always something outrageous but so like Sammy. Thanks for sharing your story.
You are living the life of Blessings. Your world is rich.
Wow. Good story about a great dog. Thanks.
What a beautiful tribute to Stanley. He was lucky to have you and your husband.. as you were lucky to have him. Gretta has some big shoes to fill.
I have had the privilege of sharing my life, my bed, my dinner and most everything else in my world with standards for the last 35 years or more. Cannot say enough great things about the breed. The two I have now are from the same line and are as different as night and day. There is no more loyal or dedicated companions than my Katie and Alex. They make life so enjoyable
Lynne,
We have owned poodles for the past 45 years. Prince Dimitri II and Lady Karina are our 7th and 8th poodles…(brother and sister) All of our poodles have been miniatures since standards were a little too large to handle. I have always been amazed how intelligent the poodle is. They understand every word I say. Have a great poodle day!
Standards are the best. I have had to go to the toys. After losing my 3 year old standard, I needed to transport my toy of the same color to work with me each day. The children bravely came knocking on my door to ask if I shrank my poodle like the movie, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. Their little eyes were so sure I had that they stayed back 5 feet when asking the question. I married and had 5 toys together in the marriage. I can only imagine what the children thought then?
What I find the most intriguing about Standard Poodles is they are so smart, it makes you wonder about reincarnation; could this be a soul I knew before and now is here to take care of me? It’s like they know you so well and their charisma is tough to avoid.
That is so true. Check out my book series based on our own poodle and titled aptly, Charlie Girl “Tails” of a Very Original Poodle. Charlie has struck our lives in exactly how the way you put it. It’s such a strong feeling. She inspired the series, which now supports my daughter and I. Charlie really does take care of us abs I could swear she is someone I know reincarnated who is with us for a reason. Xx
I believe our standard, Viggo, is the reincarnation of my dad…! An incredible beauty at 18 months old… Love him to bits and he gives back even more… Things are always so much better with him around…
I, too, did not have poodles on my list of dogs to own when I was searching for a larger dog. Our 95lb chocolate lab had passed and I missed her and missed having a big dog. It was very hard to help our old lab along as her health began to fail due to her size, so I wanted to have a large dog but not one as heavy.
A coworker, who was also an AKC judge, mentioned the standard poodle and noted that the breed would work well for me as I have asthma. I dismissed her recommendation immediately but couldn’t really answer why when questioned.
Shortly after I was asked to consult on a horse, so I drove to the farm, not expecting anything out of the ordinary. I arrived, stepped out of my vehicle and POP suddenly there was a stunning white standard poodle in my passengers’ seat waiting to go for a ride. He just looked at me as though I was his chauffeur and should make myself useful. That was my introduction to the silly antics and unreal beauty of the standard poodle. Louie holds a special place in my heart for his gracious introduction.
The only regret I have is that I did not find this amazing and intelligent breed earlier in my life! I am so happy you wrote this article and I LOVE the title.
Jayne Champagne
I loved your article. Our centiment exactly!
Thanks for making this known.
You have done this wonderful breed proud.
Our two are my world and my love and joy.
Thank you!
You know it. 😉
My father bought our first Standard Poodle, Horace P. Jerky (aka Horace), from a guy in a bar circa 1976. He brought him home to our Miniature Poodle and German Shorthair, and Mom say we’re not having three dogs — HE IS GOING BACK TOMORROW. Well, tomorrow came, and by then, we were all in love. He lived to be 17 and we all fell in love with the breed.
My parents had three Standards, each one a true personality. They are clever and funny dogs, extremely loyal, and are just about opposite from their “sissy” reputation.
I’m getting my first puppy, a Standard, of course, in a few weeks.
I love this article! Having owned Standards several times before, I still ended up with a Rhodesian Ridgeback when I was newly remarried 16 years ago; a properly macho breed for my frankly, uber macho husband. She was a delight. A dog for the ages, and provided me great assistance as I taught her to assist me as a service dog in our home. Two and a half years ago, we lost her to cancer, and I told my husband that I really must return to a big poodle. I can’t keep up after the stench of a hound indoors, or the never-ending shedding, that exceeded the shedding of two pairs of cats. He didn’t want any part of a poodle. I told him I was trumping him, I needed this dog to train for public access service, and I couldn’t do a dog that was higher maintenance. I also, desperately, wanted to have a “thinking” dog. The RR was great, but she was a concrete thinker, a different kind of intelligence from that of a poodle.
We ended up with a striking parti poodle that is, to some extent, a pain, because he draws soooo much attention when we are out and about, I can’t get from point A to point B without people stopping us constantly. It’s okay though, he makes up for it in being a brilliant service dog, as well as an awesome companion for all of us. He saves my life daily, then encores with charming us every evening. Does not get better than that!!
Hi,
I have two silver Standard poodles, aged five and 17 months respectfully. Both are trained as Assistance Dogs. Like so many people I originally didn’t figure a Poodle into the possible Service Dog candidates. I am SO thankful I toook my time and considered every aspect of the large breeds. Poodles kept coming to the top of the list, every time!
Both Standards came to me at eight weeks of age already partly house trained and very human focused. I’d found a brilliant breeder!
Like you, my Standard Poodles have saved my life on an almost daily basis. I am constantly amazed by their intelligence, kindness, goofiness just when you need a boost. I know they know me better than I know myself, strange as that may seem. As others say, old souls in a young dog body.
I understand what you say about the frustration of going shopping where everyone insists on stopping and not just talking and asking intrusive questions about your personal health details, but wanting to pat and distract my dogs. It pleases them that they are acknowledged as being handsome, but, in equal measure, frustrates them that their focus is compromised. They are the best breed of dog I’ve ever been loved by and can’t see any others in my life, particularly given the dog has always going to be my Assistance Dog.
ms cockram how right you are about assistance dogs as poodles. my doctor says I need one without question, but people unnervingly approach. pet, baby talk him. put their faces in his. unannounced let little ones run over to hug him and feel his coat, it is to the point I am going to have to muzzle him to help his startle response from this let alone legal action g/d forbid should he nip someone. I now have to shop in wee hours to avoid confrontation. taking him to church has become a nightmare with well ( meaning people I think ) with unannounced touching. Jackson is a magnet to all people big and small because of his presence. his love for us is seemingly unlimited and we the same for him. truly he is a gift we truly understand you wording of compromised with your assist poodle. thank you for your time
Poodles originated in Russia. Is that not Northern enough for them? The cowards were worried the Poodle would beat their precious Siberians (which is russia)..
Lets keep Spoos a secret. Breeds get ruined when they get popular.
I find it funny to think about the 14 Iditarod sled teams that were behind the Poodle team and I’m sure they were a laughing stock. No doubt that is why Poodles were banned from racing again. In a perfect world, the Iditarod would be won by a team of pink Standard Poodles….
It is not fact that Poodles are from Russia. Many consider Germany to be their country of origin. After all, the word Poodle comes from the German word “pudeln.”
Me and my wife also own a Standard Poodle, and it’s absolutely incredible. I never envisaged getting a Poodle, but my wife finally convinced me and I am utterly glad to have made the choice. Incredibly gentle temperament, so playful, and so very friendly. They are a very hardy breed! Never imagined myself saying this, but I’d never look back and would only consider getting another. There is something about Poodle’s which make them stand out against the other dog breeds, something which makes them so extra special.
OMG
You missed Patirick Swayze!
Have 2 stAndard poodles. No shedding. Loveable and smart!!!! Standard poodles r great watch dogs
I have 4 standards n all of the above is so true. They are remarkable. Everything I lose one my heart never heals. You go on but they all of them are in your heart forever. A very intuitive breed who ask for nothing but love. You need to move quickly if they bark. They are the best watch dogs, hunters and a very proud breed who hold them and their esteem to the highest you will let them go. I would never own anything but a standard and I would let them eat before me. If that meant I had no food. Do some research on this breed you will b very surprised at their background and the reasons for the poodle cut.
I heartily agree each one I have lost has taken a piece of my heart, then the others left rally round to cheer me up. I have one now with bone cancer who pretends to bite my nose when I am sad then we both laugh, he has always been a sensitive boy. They understand nearly every word I say which is remarkable.
I have loved them for nearly 40 years now.
Once a Standard Poodle owns your heart, it’s forever! Lovely piece!
John Suter inspired me to write two children’s books: Flying Poodles – A Christmas Story. I figured if they could pull his sled, they could pull you know whose sleigh. And coming this fall, Sled Dog. Poodles- the true life adventures of John “The Poodleman” Suter.
Poodles Rule!
Mark,
Thank you for this wonderful story. All your comments are so very true! As many of the Standard Poodle owners (aka Poodlers) already know only too well. If you are on Facebook, a few years back, my fiancé and I created a Standard Poodle group (now over 5,700 in membership) for the Owners, Breeders, and Lovers of this Amazing Standard Poodle Breed.
Come check us out at…. ‘I Have Standards’ (IHS) Here is the URL:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/I.Have.Standards/
From one Poodler to another…. Have a Poodley Day!
Once you are possessed by a standard poodle, you cannot conceive of life without one. I am convinced that they are superior life forms in non-threatening outfits.
I would never own any other breed! They are all that this article says…. As a breeder, groomer and trainer of standard poodles, I think of them as my kids. It is so hard to have them go but it is so rewarding to get a new puppy with a totally different personality but has all the same characteristics. They are extremely loving and loyal!
…cheese spread and show tunes……..what Poodle could resist? 🙂 Smart, very trainable, a great sense of humor and tougher than they look. As a Rottweiler person I can honestly say I don’t see myself ever having a Poodle but I guess you just never know for sure ……………….enjoyed the article.
“Tougher than they look” no truer words spoken. We were at a park with our Miniature poodles. There was a beautiful black standard on a leash with his owner. Suddenly a Doberman came over the hill going straight for the poodle. The poodle took down the Doberman in about 30 seconds! DON’T MESS WITH FOOFOO!