fellfolio
Retriever
Golden Retriever
A substantial retriever that often enjoys working with people. Its friendly reputation can make it easy to underestimate the time a young dog needs.
Companion dog
Standard Poodle
The Standard Poodle pairs an eager mind with sporting roots and substantial coat care.
Size: LargeActivity: HighGrooming: Daily + skilled grooming
At a glance
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 46–60 cm
- Weight
- 20–32 kg
- Lifespan
- over 12 years
- Activity
- High
- Grooming
- Daily + skilled grooming
- Training
- Often cooperative
- Owner experience
- First dog with support
An eager mind and a high-maintenance coat
Poodles were developed as water retrievers. They tend to enjoy learning a range of skills, while their coat needs regular, planned attention.
Everyday life
Plan daily exercise and activities such as scent work, retrieving or training. Build a dependable recall, especially around water.
When you need to go out
Being alone needs gradual practice. The RSPCA advises no more than four hours at a time; puppies and some adults need much shorter intervals. Arrange company during longer absences.
Day-to-day care
The curly coat mats without regular brushing and professional clipping. Keep ears, teeth and nails in the care routine too.
Size and build
Measurements describe adult dogs and are a guide. Lines and individuals can vary; ask about the parents’ health, temperament and daily life.
Health
PDSA lists concerns including hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease and eye conditions. Ask about the parents’ health tests and the history of their family line.
Could this breed fit your life?
Could work well if …
- You enjoy regular training and learning together.
- You can plan brushing and professional grooming into everyday life.
May be more difficult if …
- You want to spend little time on coat care.
- You are looking for a dog that needs little mental activity.
Breed traits describe tendencies. Breeding line, socialisation, care and experience shape the individual. Children and animals always need responsible supervision.
Similar needs, different dogs.
Selected by shared size, activity, grooming and training characteristics.
Retriever
Labrador Retriever
A strong, willing retriever that is often keen to work with people. A Labrador still needs an active life despite its easy-going family reputation.
Companion dog
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
An active companion that seeks close company. Grooming and the high prevalence of heart disease deserve early attention.
Sources and photograph credit
Portrait · Flickr user John Leslie · CC BY 2.0 · Image cropped
