It's easy to extol the virtues of the poodle. They're good with kids, great companions, they don't leave shed hair around the house … the list goes on and on. These intelligent, friendly dogs aren't for everyone, though. Regardless of the size of poodle you select, the breed in general has certain needs that must be met. All poodles need regular grooming (trims every couple of months and regular between-trim brushing and combing), human companionship, regular exercise, and games or training to keep their minds occupied.

Before you get a poodle, ask yourself some important questions:

• Are you able to devote the time necessary to raise your puppy and meet your adult dog's exercise and grooming needs?

• Can you afford the professional grooming and regular veterinary care your poodle requires?

• Will you keep your dog in the house, even when you're not at home?

• Can you keep a fairly consistent schedule so your poodle knows when to expect her walks, meals, and play times?

• Are you willing to make your dog a member of the family and take her needs and desires into consideration when making family decisions?

• Are you committed to caring for a poodle for her entire life — which may be fifteen years or more?

Don't bring a poodle home if you're hesitant about making any of these commitments or adjustments. You don't want to end up in a situation where neither you nor the dog is happy.

Poodles as Pets

If you want an athletic dog that can go running, hiking, or even hunting with you, a Standard or Miniature Poodle might be ideal. If you're looking for a lap dog to snuggle with while you're watching television, all three varieties of poodles can work well (though your lap has to be pretty big to accommodate a Standard Poodle). If you want a guard dog that will scare people away, the poodle might not be the most visually frightening breed, but she can be very good at alerting you to suspicious activity. The bark of the Standard and Miniature Poodle is probably enough to scare people away.

Poodle mixes can make adorable and delightful pets.

Getting Past the Stereotypes

One thing to bear in mind as a potential poodle owner is the anti-poodle bias that is all too prevalent in our culture. While poodles easily win over most people they meet, there are some folks who hold the relatively fancy appearance of the breed against them. The Toy Poodle, in particular, is subject to ridicule, though unfavorable comments are made about all three sizes. Some people may have mixed feelings about having the poodle as a pet rather than a tougher-looking breed. Poodle owners know what wonderful animals they're caring for and should turn a deaf ear to such comments.