Washington

The poodle is a versatile and wonderful companion, a charming animal, pleasing to live with in every way. Gifted with grace and intelligence, all-knowing with great intuitiveness. A true and trusted friend. A playmate for children and a comfort to the elderly. A family member. Whatever the situation calls for, he becomes.

Beautiful and fluid in movement, the poodle is an art form in the conformation ring, captivating in the yard where he performs for your eyes only, or proudly parading on your street with his poodle air of distinction so admired by passersby. When engaged, the poodle can be funny and frolicsome, hamming it up in playful situations. Poodles have been circus performers for centuries and today excel as entertainers in freestyle competitions.

Their intelligence excels in the obedience ring as well as in agility trials, where they display strength and grace. Lean, muscular bodies contribute to their unique athletic ability. To own a poodle is to be captivated. Poodles are quick-witted with a sense of humor, inventing games especially with each other and children. They are eager to be included in everything their family does, whether camping, hiking or offering a knowing look to the disabled with grace and sensitivity.

Historically, poodles were bred to hunt for truffle and to retrieve waterfowl. To this day poodles still hold their own in that company. A deep knowing emanates from poodles, who communicate a sense that all their depths have still not been discovered. As one little girl asked, Is this animal a poodle or a dog. In her innocence she understood what all those who have owned the breed know, the poodle stands just a little apart from its species, possessing qualities all its own.