The correct spelling of "standard poodle" is /ˈstændərd ˈpuːdəl/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound followed by the stress on the second syllable, which is pronounced with a long "u" sound. The word "poodle" is spelled with a double "o" to indicate the pronunciation of the long "u" sound. A standard poodle is a breed of dog that is known for its elegant appearance and intelligence, making it a popular choice for show dogs and as pets.
The "standard poodle" is a specific breed of dog that falls under the category of the poodle breed. It is a methodically bred size variant of the poodle, known for its graceful appearance, intelligence, and versatility.
Physically, the standard poodle is characterized by its medium to large size, with males typically standing over 15 inches (38 cm) high at the shoulder and weighing between 45 and 70 pounds (20 to 32 kg), while females generally measure slightly smaller and lighter. They have a well-balanced, athletic build, adorned with a dense, curly, and hypoallergenic coat that captures attention in various colors, such as white, black, brown, silver, apricot, or gray.
Well-regarded for their remarkable intelligence, standard poodles are recognized for being one of the most trainable dog breeds. They are distinguished by their alertness, quick-wittedness, and ability to excel in various activities, including agility, obedience, and even as therapy or service dogs. Their high energy levels necessitate regular exercise and mental stimulation to sustain their well-being.
In addition to their mental prowess, standard poodles are known for their friendly nature, loyalty, and affectionate personalities. They typically exhibit a gentle and playful demeanor, making them suitable companions for families, as well as being friendly and sociable towards other animals and people.
Overall, the standard poodle is a breed loved for its combination of physical attractiveness, intelligence, and amiable temperament, making it a popular choice for both show purposes and as a loving, devoted pet.
The word "standard poodle" is a combination of two separate etymologies.
1. Standard: The word "standard" in this context refers to a breed classification. It comes from the Old French word "estendart" which means "flag" or "banner". Over time, this term was used to refer to the flag of an army or a rallying symbol. Eventually, "standard" was adopted as a term to denote an official or recognized norm or measure. In the case of dog breeds, "standard" indicates the recognized and established ideal characteristics and appearance for a particular breed.
2. Poodle: The word "poodle" has a more obscure etymology. It is believed to originate from the German word "Pudel", which means "to splash" or "puddle". This is because poodles were originally bred as water retrievers or "water dogs" in Germany.