Poodle Standards 101
Non-SportingCan a popular breed be underappreciated? Absolutely, if the breed is a Standard Poodle, a dog often mocked for the high-maintenance stylings of those in the show ring. The largest of the three sizes of Poodle, the Standard is as versatile a dog as can be, happy as a companion, a dog agility competitor or even a hunting dog – or all three at once.
What we love about Poodle Standards
Brilliant breed that's so much more than a fancy haircut.
Considered one of the most intelligent of breeds, Poodles are easy to train and love to show off what they know. They’re also playful dogs with a sense of humor. Outside of the dog-show ring, their coats are typically kept clipped short for ease of care, and they may be more easily tolerated by people with allergies. Good with other family pets and with children, the Standard Poodle is an excellent family dog.
- Energy level
- High (75%)
- Bark level
- Very vocal
- Height
- 15 to 18 inches
- Lifespan
- 10 to 16 years
- Weight
- 40 to 70 lbs
The Poodle Standard stands 15 to 18 inches tall and weighs 40 to 70 lbs. Poodle Standards have a lifespan of 10 to 16 years. They are known for a high (75%) energy level and a very vocal bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Poodle Standards get?
- Poodle Standards stand 15 to 18 inches tall and typically weigh between 40 and 70 pounds.
- How long do Poodle Standards live?
- The average lifespan of a Poodle Standard is 10 to 16 years.
- Are Poodle Standards good for first-time dog owners?
- Poodle Standards are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Do Poodle Standards bark a lot?
- Poodle Standards are very vocal — they bark frequently and use their voice to communicate.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Poodle Standard health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.

Nationwide can help you save on your Poodle Standard's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 9 months)
- Foreign body ingestion: Very High Risk, Ear infection: Very High Risk, Gastritis: Very High Risk
- Young Adult (10 months to 4 years)
- Ear infection: Moderate Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Above Average Risk, Gastritis: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (5 years to 8 years)
- Seizures: Above Average Risk, Dental disease: Above Average Risk, Ear infection: Above Average Risk
- Senior (9+ years)
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV): Very High Risk, Splenic cancer: Very High Risk, Liver disease: Very High Risk

The Iditarod changed the rules on what kinds of dogs could run the famous endurance race after a team of Standard Poodles attempted it in 1988. The dogs were game as could be, but they had problems with the cold and with matting and were dropped off at checkpoints along the way. The 1,100-mile race is now restricted to sled dog breeds better suited to the harsh environment.
Poodle Standard coat care and colors
The Poodle’s coat is noteworthy for what it doesn’t do: It doesn’t provoke severe sneezing or wheezing in some – but not all – allergy sufferers and it doesn’t shed much. Those qualities have made the Poodle popular for crossbreeding, of course, but the three sizes of Poodle – Toy, Miniature, and Standard – remain consistently popular in their own right. The Poodle comes in a dozen colors, both in solid and patches, the latter called “parti,” although only the solids take ribbons in the show ring.
If allowed to grow, the Poodle coat will "felt" into dozens of long cords, and before that, it will mat. Professional grooming is the norm for Poodles, who are often styled into an easy-care short clip with shaved feet.
Do Poodles shed a lot?
Do Poodles shed a lot?
How often should I groom my Poodle?
How often should I groom my Poodle?
How do I keep my Poodle’s hair fluffy and shiny?
How do I keep my Poodle’s hair fluffy and shiny?
Poodle Standard exercise & training
Poodle Standard fun facts
Top girl names for Poodle Standards
of Poodle Standards are female
of Poodle Standards are male
Top boy names for Poodle Standards
Nationwide loves Poodle Standards of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Poodle Standards insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Poodle Standard statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Poodle Standards
Best. Poodle Standard insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free
