The world's most intelligent dog is also the world's most glamorous--the Poodle is the epitome of brains and beauty. A superlative companion, show dog, competition dog, service dog, circus dog, hunting dog, etc., etc., the versatile and highly trainable Poodle enjoys popularity in every dog-loving country of the world. This Comprehensive Owner's Guide traces the breed's origins in Europe, where it excelled as a hunter's companion for waterfowl and a tracking dog for highly prized truffles, to its arrival on American shores where it became a fashionable companion dog and a show dog beyond compare. The chapter devoted to the breed's characteristics discusses the virtues of all three sizes of Poodles--Toys, Miniatures, and Standards--as well as the owner qualifications, health concerns, and the physical traits of the breed. The Poodle's voluminous coat--the most impressive in dogdom--requires specialized care and trimming; the care of the Poodle's coat is discussed in detail as are the breed's exercise, training, and socialization requirements.

New owners will welcome the well-prepared chapter on finding a reputable breeder and selecting a healthy, sound puppy. Chapters on puppy-proofing the home and yard, purchasing the right supplies for the puppy as well as house-training, feeding, and obedience are illustrated with photographs of handsome adults and puppies. In all, there are over 135 full-color photographs in this useful and reliable volume. The chapter on healthcare provides up-to-date detailed information on selecting a qualified veterinarian, vaccinations, preventing and dealing with parasites, infectious diseases, and more. Sidebars throughout the text offer helpful hints, covering topics as diverse as historical dogs, breeders, or kennels, toxic plants, first aid, crate training, carsickness, fussy eaters, and parasite control. Fully indexed.