Life With Your Poodle

Practical, friendly advice for feeding, grooming, exercise and everyday living — the Pawtango way.

Overview

Poodles are highly intelligent, athletic, and elegant dogs that come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. They’re known for their hypoallergenic, curly coats and their adaptability to both active households and apartment living.

• Exceptionally trainable; often ranked among the most intelligent breeds.
• Social, people-focused, and thrive when mentally and physically engaged.

Feeding & Diet

Schedule

• Puppy (2–12 mo): 3–4 small meals per day.
• Adult (1–7 yr): 2 balanced meals per day.
• Senior (7+ yr): 2 smaller, easy-to-digest meals per day.

Portions

• Toy/Miniature: ~½–1½ cups per day total (adjust by weight).
• Standard: ~2–3½ cups per day, depending on activity level.
• Seniors: Reduce portions slightly to maintain lean body condition.

Food Types

• Kibble: High-quality protein, formulated for small or large breeds as appropriate.
• Fresh/Lightly cooked: Great for sensitive digestion and skin; balance is key.
• Wet: Palatable and hydrating; brush teeth regularly to prevent tartar buildup.

Shop Poodle-friendly food & bowls

Exercise & Training

• Daily activity:
  • Toy/Miniature: 30–45 minutes (walks, indoor games).
  • Standard: 60–90 minutes (walks, jogs, fetch, agility).
• Training: Quick learners; positive reinforcement, clicker training, and trick work are ideal.
• Mental work: Puzzle feeders, scent games, obedience refreshers, agility or rally sports.

Grooming & Maintenance

• Coat: Curly, non-shedding; requires regular professional grooming.
• Brushing: Daily to prevent mats, especially around ears, armpits, and tail base.
• Haircuts: Every 4–6 weeks (puppy cut, teddy bear, continental, or sporting trims).
• Bathing: Every 3–4 weeks with gentle shampoo; fully dry coat to avoid mildew smell.
• Ears: Clean weekly; prone to wax buildup in hairy ear canals.
• Nails/Teeth: Trim nails every 3–4 weeks; brush teeth 2–3×/week or use dental chews.

Common Health Considerations

• Hip Dysplasia: Mainly in Standards; maintain lean weight and joint care.
• Luxating Patella: More common in Toys and Minis; monitor for skipping gait.
• Addison’s Disease: Occasionally seen; early vet screening recommended.
• Eye issues (PRA, cataracts): Annual vet checks advised.
• Ear infections: Routine cleaning prevents yeast infections.

This information is general; always consult your veterinarian for specifics.

Best Practices for Poodle Owners

• Routine grooming: Commit to brushing and professional trims.
• Engagement: Provide brain work — obedience, tricks, scent games, agility.
• Socialization: Expose to new environments early; Poodles adapt well with positive exposures.
• Chew & Toy rotation: Use durable toys; rotate weekly to prevent boredom.

Recommended Gear

• Harness & Leash: Well-fitted, padded harness; 5–6 ft leash.
• Brushes/Tools: Slicker brush, comb, detangling spray.
• Bedding: Orthopedic beds for Standards; cozy nests for Toys/Minis.
• Toys: Interactive puzzles, soft fetch toys, safe chews.

Shop Poodle-friendly walking gear

Quick Facts: Size 4–70 lb (Toy to Standard) • Lifespan 12–15 yr • Energy Moderate–High • Shedding Low (hypoallergenic) • Trainability Very High.

New to Poodles? Start with a regular grooming routine, daily mental work, and portion-controlled feeding.