My mom’s side of the family are huge poodle and doodle fans. One of my mom’s sisters owns two black standard poodles while my other mom’s sister has a Cavapoo and a goldendoodle. Both sisters have always owned poodles and have never considered straying away from the breed. We ourselves have a Yorkipoo, Bean, and a goldendoodle, Pearl. Before them we had a black standard poodle named Stella. To say our family is a poodle-loving family is an understatement. Throughout the years, I have come to love the poodle breed and the abundance of doodles that come with it. I love all dogs, period. However, here are ten reasons why I especially have a strong appreciation for poodles and doodles.

1. They come in all shapes and sizes.

Poodles come in three different sizes: standard, miniature and toy. This allows for variation when looking at poodle breads or crossbreeds. If you’re more of a little dog lover, then toy poodles are the dog for you. However, if you prefer a larger, more masculine dog then a standard poodle, or a standard poodles crossbreed, is the dog for you. Miniature poodles provide for an in-between size for those who can’t make up their mind. The point of all this being that you don’t have to settle for one size when it comes to the poodle breed.

2. They can pull off crazy hairdos.

As I’m sure you all know, poodles are notorious for their fluffy pom-poms and diva-ish haircuts. Poodles and poodle crossbreeds do not have to have this froufrou look, but they are one of the only dog breeds with such an interesting signature cut. However, I do not believe that just any dog breed can pull off the poodle hairstyle. Could you imagine a golden retriever with poodle pom-poms? I don’t think so. I know that this is not the strongest/ most persuasive reason to own a poodle or poodle crossbreed, but I thought it was worth mentioning.

3. Poodles do not shed.

This is probably one of the most appealing qualities of the poodle breed. Poodles shed significantly less than any other dog breed. Poodles have a single, curly coat that acts very similarly to human hair. Although it requires some maintenance, the no shedding aspect of the poodle coat makes it worth the grooming effort. If there is a dog breed that you really love, but cannot stand the large fur balls that come with it, then mixing this dog breed with a poodle will prevent the breed from shedding as much. Any dog breed mixed with a poodle will shed significantly less just because of the nature of the poodle coat. Bye bye dog fur that manages to cover every inch of the house and every article of clothing you own!

4. Poodles turn any dog breed into a teddy bear.

Ever notice that poodle crossbreeds look like cute little teddy bears? Doodles, especially golden doodles, look like cuddly stuffed animals as puppies. The long coat of the golden retriever combined with the curly coat of the poodle creates a look that is irresistible. Who doesn’t love a curly fluff ball?

5. Poodles are a very smart breed.

Poodles are known as one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are quick learners and easily trained. This intelligent behavior provides poodle or doodle owners with a truly enjoyable companion experience. Poodles are truly a superior breed when it comes to wits.

6. Poodles are great cuddle buddies.

Ever snuggled a curly ball of fluff? If not, then a poodle or doodle will add pure joy into your life. If you have snuggled a poodle or doodle, then you know exactly what I’m talking about. That teddy bear look that doodles possess really comes into play here. How could you resist snuggling up close to that?! Especially with the smaller-sized poodles and doodles, they truly make the best cuddly companions.

7. Poodles are hypoallergenic.

This relates back to the no shedding aspect that I mentioned earlier, but poodles are considered a hypoallergenic breed. No dog is 100 percent hypoallergenic, but poodles are considered hypoallergenic because they shed very little. If you are someone who is allergic to dogs, but still want to own one, you do not have to settle for the hypoallergenic Chinese crested (pictured above). You can own a fantastic, fluffy dog that will make for the best companion! The poodle breed is the breed for all, even the allergic individuals out there!8. Poodles have great temperament.

Poodles have a great temperament. They are calm and rarely aggressive animals. Poodles make for great family dogs and they get along well with other dogs if socialized properly. They are definitely outgoing pups who love to make any stranger a friend.

9. Great for new dog owners.

Poodles and doodles are great for new dog owners. Mentioned earlier, poodles are very easily trained due to their intelligence. Also, they are very playful, loving animals who will make for a great companion for any new or veteran pet owner. Poodles make for such an enjoyable pet-owning experience that you may never stray away from the breed!

10. How could you resist that face?

The picture says it all.

For anyone who has never owned a poodle or poodle mix before, I hope this article convinced you that it is now time for a new curly-haired companion in your life. If you are a veteran poodle owner, I hope this only reaffirmed your love for the breed. Peace, love and poodles.