Kids who love their poodles can tell all kinds of stories about what life is like living with these amazing dogs. Anecdotal evidence of intelligence is shared through all the different clever behaviors witnessed every day, and expressed throughout children's books about poodles. Poodles are amazing family pets that love to snuggle up and keep their owners company when reading books, watching television, taking naps, or just hanging out. But beyond the obvious behaviors that are observed, there are so many interesting facets about poodles that kids would love to know.
Poodle Trivia for Kids
Poodles were originally bred to be hunters.
This fact may come as a surprise to those who think of poodles as prim and proper dogs with fancy haircuts. In fact, poodles are as adept at hunting as labradors and other associated breeds. They are amazing swimmers which makes them quite adept at hunting waterfowl like ducks and geese. Poodles are also excellent assistants for pheasant hunters. After the birds are shot, poodles retrieve these injured targets without crushing their bodies.
Poodles are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds.
For this reason, poodles score highly at dog shows. They routinely outperform all other dogs in demonstrations involving both agility and obedience. Poodles can be trained to do a variety of tricks, like walking on their back paws and jumping effortlessly through hoops. Poodles also can acquire an understanding of around 400 words, whereas the average canine comprehends approximately 165 words. The downside of having such intelligence is that poodles get bored easily. Poodle owners have reported destructive behavior that is usually associated with long periods without any form of stimulation.
Poodles don't particularly like other dogs.
When observed at dog parks, poodles tend to stick by their owner's side rather than socializing with the other canines. Even if the poodle ventures out to sniff or briefly run with the others, these dogs typically return to their humans after a short period of time. The only real exception is when other poodles are also at the park and they seem to be drawn together for more extended playtime.
A poodle's haircut is about functionality, not style.
Poodles have very distinctive haircuts, which was originally more about function than style. Poodles are waterdogs, so it makes sense that less hair would help them swim more efficiently. However, they still need some degree of protection from the cold water. For this reason, owners leave puffs of hair around their joints and torso to protect vital organs from frigid water.
Poodles can be put to work by performing important jobs.
Because they are so intelligent and highly trainable, poodles are often utilized as guide dogs for people with disabilities. They are frequently fill the roles of therapy dogs and service dogs due to their keen ability to identify the physical and emotional needs of their owners.
Picture Books for Kids Who Love Animals