Poodle (Standard)

Feeding your Standard Poodle properly is crucial for maintaining their lean, athletic build and supporting their active lifestyle. These dogs require high-quality nutrition designed for large breeds, with the exact amount depending on their age, weight, and activity level.

Adult Standards typically need feeding twice daily using a slow-feeder bowl to prevent them eating too quickly, which can lead to bloat - a serious concern for deep-chested breeds. In Australia, you'll find excellent large-breed formulas from local and international manufacturers that provide the right balance of nutrients.

If your Poodle is particularly active - perhaps joining you for long beach walks along the Gold Coast or hiking in the Grampians - they may benefit from a sport or high-energy formula with increased calories. Some brands even make Poodle-specific diets, though any high-quality large-breed food will serve them well.

Portion control is essential. Standards have a lean body type and can be predisposed to joint issues, so maintaining an ideal weight is crucial. Follow the manufacturer's feeding guidelines as a starting point, but work with your Australian vet to determine the perfect amount for your individual dog.

To reduce bloat risk, avoid elevated food bowls and restrict exercise for an hour before and after meals. Consider offering smaller, more frequent meals rather than one large serving. Many Australian owners find success with morning and evening feeds.

Joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin are often recommended for Standards, given their predisposition to hip dysplasia. Your vet can suggest trusted brands available in Australia. Always avoid feeding table scraps or human foods, which can cause digestive upset and unwanted weight gain.

Here's where owning a Standard Poodle becomes both an art and a commitment - their magnificent coat requires serious attention. While they're practically non-shedding (fantastic for Australian families with allergies), that curly coat grows continuously and mats easily without proper care.

Daily brushing is non-negotiable. Use a slicker brush to work through their entire coat down to the skin - if you only brush the surface, mats will form at the roots and eventually need shaving off. This daily routine becomes quite meditative once you establish it, and most Poodles genuinely enjoy the attention.

Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is essential unless you're prepared to learn clipping techniques yourself. In Australian cities, expect to budget $80-150 per session depending on your location and the complexity of the cut. Many owners opt for the practical "sporting clip" rather than the elaborate show cuts you see at dog shows.

Bathing monthly with dog-safe shampoo keeps their coat healthy, but here's the crucial bit - their coat must be completely dry afterward to prevent skin irritation. In Australia's humid climates like Darwin or Brisbane, this might require a high-velocity dryer or professional help.

Their ears need regular cleaning, especially after swimming sessions (and most Poodles love water!). Use a vet-approved ear cleaning solution to prevent infections, which can be common in dogs with long, floppy ears.

White or light-coloured Standards may develop tear staining around their eyes. Special wipes and preventative supplements can help manage this cosmetic issue. Regular nail trims and dental care round out their grooming needs - many Australian owners find their groomer can handle these during regular appointments.

Standard Poodles are absolute stars when it comes to training - they're consistently ranked among the most intelligent dog breeds, and it shows. These dogs genuinely want to please you and can learn new commands after just 2-3 repetitions. It's like having a furry Einstein who's eager to show off their latest tricks.

Start training early with basic obedience, then watch as your Poodle quickly masters more advanced skills. They excel in Australian dog sports like agility, flyball, and dock diving. Many clubs across the country welcome Poodles, and you'll often find them dominating competitions with their combination of smarts and athleticism.

Exercise needs are substantial - plan for 1-2 hours daily of physical activity plus mental stimulation. A bored Standard Poodle can become destructive, developing unwanted behaviours like excessive barking or digging. In Australia's varied climate, adjust exercise timing accordingly. During Perth's hot summers, stick to early morning or evening activities, while Melbourne's cooler months allow for longer daytime adventures.

Swimming is fantastic exercise for Standards - they're natural water dogs. Australian beaches, lakes, and dog-friendly pools provide perfect opportunities. Bush walking, jogging, and even hiking suit their athletic nature beautifully.

Mental stimulation is equally important. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and games like hide-and-seek keep their brilliant minds engaged. Many Australian Poodle owners find success with "job" assignments - teaching them to fetch the newspaper, carry shopping bags, or even help with household tasks.

Socialisation is crucial for developing a well-rounded adult dog. Puppy schools, dog parks, and regular exposure to different people, animals, and situations help your Standard become the confident, friendly companion they're bred to be.