Читать книгу Poodle - S. Meyer Clark - Страница 13

First and foremost, the new Poodle owner must consider the grooming requirements of Poodles, regardless of size. This is a life-long need and one that cannot be ignored. Some owners choose to groom their Poodles themselves and purchase the necessary tools to keep their dogs neat and tidy at all times. Others use professional groomers to keep their dogs looking their best. Either way, the Poodle must be fully groomed about every six to eight weeks, along with daily brushing and weekly bathing. The time and costs that this will entail must be considered before purchasing the dog.

Poodles are more fun to collect than postage stamps or coins! What could make your household more exciting than oodles of Poodles?

Some Poodle owners elect to combine the two grooming methods. They have their dogs professionally groomed every eight weeks and, in between grooming, they do a lot to maintain that elegant appearance. They learn to trim toenails, clean ears, brush properly and bathe regularly. By taking care of the routine grooming between professional appointments, the owner assures that the coat will not become knotted or matted (the groomer will charge dearly to remove mats from the coat).

An ideal Poodle owner should be a person who enjoys the intelligence and versatility of the breed. Poodles do not make good “couch potatoes.” Regardless of size, they are active dogs that need to keep busy and be challenged and stimulated on a daily basis.

They also do not fare well with owners who don’t spend time with them. The Poodle who has to stay home alone for hours on end and then remains alone even after the owner has finished his work day will not be a happy dog. Poodles have large egos and need to be active parts of their owners’ lives, whether that life includes hiking in the park or strolling along the seashore, or anything in between. Accompanying their owners when visiting friends is another favorite pastime of Poodles, and they make great house guests!

Although larger than the ultraportable Toy, the Miniature Poodle is willing and able to accompany his owner most anywhere.

One of the Poodle’s favorite activities can be attending obedience classes or entering obedience trials. In every country where obedience trials are conducted, Poodles rank high on the lists of winners because of their intelligence and willingness to please.

Finally, the Poodle owner should be a person who loves life, enjoys laughter and looks forward to greeting each new day as much as his Poodle does.

Poodle owners should be people who appreciate the finer qualities of their dogs. A sense of humor and an exuberant love of life are among the traits that owner and Poodle should share.

Poodle puppies are affectionate and outgoing charmers—one cuddle and you’ll be hooked!