Harlequin poodle. A good shepherd and a reliable friend - a devoted but obstinate Beauceron General health problems
There are interesting meetings at hunting dog shows, everything seems to be clear and understandable. Everything is stipulated by the regulations, and nothing remarkable will happen, but in 2015 I once again had the opportunity to come to work at an inter-district exhibition in Staraya Russa, Novgorod region, at the invitation of a passionate lover of hounds, especially the Russian pinto hound, Anatoly Nikolaevich Vasiliev.
Staraya Russa this year, September 18-20, celebrated its 1000th anniversary, and by the time President of Russia V.V. visited the city. Putin tried to restore order in it - city services updated the facades, patched up the roads, and what they didn’t have time to do was hidden.
The exhibition was traditionally held at the House of Culture, in the stadium, almost four dozen hounds gathered, and not only from the districts of the Novgorod region; One lover of the Russian pinto hound brought a bow from St. Petersburg. Huskies were also exhibited in sufficient numbers at the exhibition; a separate ring was organized for them.
The weather has been excellent since the start of the exhibition, sunny, air temperature 20 degrees. Since this is not the first time I have worked at exhibitions in Staraya Russa, I have developed trusting relationships with many racers. And when I entered the stadium to inspect the readiness of the ring for work, my attention was drawn to a pair of Russian piebald hounds standing to the side.
The dogs clearly belonged to the younger age group. In response to my question: “What is so extraordinary about them,” they asked me to come closer. From a distance the dogs looked impressive for their age and I was intrigued by the proposal. I decided to wait a little until the exhibitors cooled down and I could come alone to satisfy my interest - what’s wrong?
I began to prepare for work, while I watched the dogs out of the corner of my eye and did not find any obvious abnormalities in them. Having finished with the preparations and deciding to greet the experts in the husky ring, I walked past the hounds that interested me. The hatchling greeted me joyfully, he was not wearing anything that could cause a commotion, and the hatchling was sniffing out something with interest at the owner’s feet.
The survivor, showing joyful emotions, attracted the attention of the survivor to my person, she began to turn on her left side, and again nothing... So she saw who her companion was happy about, and then in my eyes “time began to slow down.” The vyzhlovka showed her right eye, and it is light, but not whitish, like an albino’s, but soft BLUE, with a darker blue halo around the pupil. For me it felt like space.
Thoughts and fragments of descriptions about harlequins began to flash through my head. Of course, the Vizhlovka does not fit the typical description of a breed that has long sunk into oblivion, it does not look like the photograph of De Conor's bow, and the engravings depict other dogs. This dog is in excellent harmony with the correct head of a Russian pinto hound, but the eyes!.. The left one is brown, like a nut, and the right one is cosmic.
Nowadays there are quite a number of dogs with different eyes, but they did not make such an impression on me, their gaze seemed cold and awkward, but here the dog invited me to look into it and seemed to realize the full power of the depth of its gaze.
If we refer to the “Description of Typical Characteristics of Hunting Dogs” of the 1888 edition compiled by N.P. Kishensky, the founder of gun hunting with hounds in Russia: “Harlequins, found only in Russia, are a breed of hounds distinguished by their remarkable color - light gray, with frequent small dark spots and one or both eyes of a bluish-white color.” At the end of the description, Nikolai Pavlovich writes: “Modern harlequins have retained only their color, but not their eyes, height and hair.”
In 1906, a guide for hunters and amateurs, “Gun Hunting with Hounds” by Nikolai Pavlovich Kishensky, was published, where he gives a briefer description, but points out: “Now there are no pure harlequins, but since their color and white-eyedness are stubbornly transmitted in crossbreeds, the hound in Harlequin and white-eyed colors are still common today.”
Over the almost twenty years that separate these two works, Nikolai Pavlovich has done a lot of work. This is the time when standards for dogs are created, not only here, but also abroad.
Cynological events and exhibitions are organized in which he takes an active part, noting that this distinctive feature continues to live.
It cannot be said that this meeting is an echo of time, but - the look of a harlequin! How it got there or how it turned out is no longer important to me.
I was pleased to see this fight in the ring. Yes, the owner did not take his pet away from the exhibition. I wonder how time will turn out, maybe in decades they will tell that in a certain area there are hounds with the eyes of harlequins without pedigrees, but working well. Or maybe there will be no continuation of the story, because I was not the only one who encountered this enchanting phenomenon.
| Origin: | France |
| Dimensions: | Height - 61-70 cm. Weight - 36-50 kg |
| Character: | Independent, willful, brave |
| Where used: | Watchman, companion dog |
| Lives: | 10-12 years |
| Color: | Black and tan, harlequin |
This breed of dog is often called the Peat Shepherd, Cattle Dog, Beau Dog, or Beauceron. Despite its outstanding characteristics, the French Shepherd has not gained much popularity outside its homeland. However, those who need a brave watchman and a good, reliable friend should pay attention to her.
Origin story
The Beauceron has been known to mankind for quite a long time, as evidenced by mentions of them in sixteenth-century manuscripts. There is more than one version explaining their origin. According to the first, the French Smooth-haired Shepherd is a direct descendant of ancient turf dogs. Another makes the Beaucerons related to wolves. Whichever of them is considered correct, it should be recognized that this breed was formed in natural conditions without much external influence.
It is assumed that the dogs, distinguished by their endurance and courage, initially helped humans in hunting large animals such as wild boars or bears. Subsequently, due to massive deforestation, they began to be used as shepherd dogs, protecting herds from attacks by predators. This photo shows Beaucerons guard dogs.
Basic dog care
The Beauceron is a smooth-haired breed, so there is no big hassle with the coat. You only need to brush it with a special brush a few times a week. You don't need to wash your dogs every day either. A good bath with dog shampoo every few months or when the odor occurs is sufficient. You should take care of the animal's nails and ears, and also periodically show the dog to the veterinarian.
Beauceron puppies need to have all the necessary vaccinations to avoid health problems. Sufficient attention should be paid to raising and training small pets. Beaucerons need space and long, active walks. The photo well reflects their love for open spaces.
Diet
In order for a dog to be healthy, its diet should be balanced. How exactly to achieve this, with the help of special dry food or homemade food, each owner decides for himself. Modern dry food contains all the necessary substances and vitamins for the development and functioning of all breeds of dogs. If owners cook on their own, they should include it in the dog’s diet.
Harlequin is a bright representative of the magnificent family of German Pinschers. Ragged black spots on the basic white color of the standard smooth-haired pinscher forced dog experts to classify dogs of extraordinary color into a separate breed branch. The breed standard was adopted in 1895 in Germany. All modern harlequins of good blood are included in international registers and are considered extremely rare.
History of the breed
Harlequin Pinschers trace their ancestry back to Ancient Germany. Two and a half centuries ago, a black and tan terrier was imported from Great Britain (at that time Foggy Albion) to Europe, which became the breeding base for the creation of a miniature short-haired German pinscher. Harlequins are half-relatives of the delightful miniature pinschers. The cause of discord in the “holy family” was the merle color. No matter how funny it may sound, the history of harlequins began with a non-standard fur color.
Marble color (“merle”) - denotes intermittent tinting, alternating light and dark areas of the same color. Tinted gaps in the coat are obtained with the simultaneous presence of bleached and normal hair. Marble color is traditional for Great Danes, Shelleys, dachshunds. For short-haired pinschers, “merle” is a disqualifying sentence. Until 1880, all litters of non-standard color were mercilessly discarded. One fine day (for a new breed), the breeder took pity on the cute spotted puppies (and these were puppies of “high” blood) and... made the first entry in the family book.
Merle allows for all sorts of colors and shades of the base (primary) color. There are gray, dark red, yellow-orange “marble”. Expert dog handlers and highly qualified judges of show rings strictly distinguish between multi-tonal “merle” with soft transitions and pure, contrasting black and white Harlequin color.
In 1895, the German Pinscher Club (modern name Pinscher-Schnauzer Klub), after lengthy scandalous proceedings and approvals, allowed harlequin color For miniature pinschers, but demanded that such animals be considered a separate breed. A separate standard, a separate exhibition ring, a separate accounting register.
In 1938, American professional breeders attended a national dog show in Berlin. German harlequins made an indelible impression on overseas dog handlers (Yankees love everything unusual and new): two breeding pairs of excellent blood were purchased and taken to the States for breeding.
The further fate of the breed is similar to similar “stories” of exotic breeds. By the end of the twentieth century harlequin pinschers practically ceased to exist. American dog handler Nancy Anderson became the savior angel of the spotted beauties. The first pair of modern harlequin pinschers was triumphantly put on display on October 19, 2007. The dogs were favorably received by the public and entered into the register under the heading “breed on the verge of destruction.” Today, the status of the generic branch continues to be in the “red” risk zone. The breeding and distribution of harlequins is carried out by nurseries in Austria, Northern and Southern Germany.
Description
Exterior modern spotted pinscher: a fusion of graceful elegance with swift power. Dry, square, but not shortened, format, clearly defined muscles, sporty, athletic silhouette.
A deep, well-developed chest and tucked belly give the impression of vigor, strength and speed. Height 30-35 cm at the withers. Weight 10-11 kg.
There are several color options: white and black are preferable (like Dalmatians). The gaps may be gray. A slight “reddish tan” is not a defect.
Personality
Harlequin Pinscher - an unbridled energizer. The dog does not sit still for a second: it runs, jumps, plays pranks, attracting attention to itself. The dormant genes of ancient terriers explain a lot about the character of sociable and playful animals. Like most classic Pinschers, the Harlequin is bold, courageous and extremely courageous. The dog, without hesitation, rushes at the aggressor, protecting the owner and his family.
The center of life for a dog is the owner and all his household members. Harlequin Pinscher - a great companion. This is a character trait nurtured by centuries of selection: devotion to family. Thoughtful German selection “grounds” the fiery temperament and demonstrates to the world obedience and ease of training. Despite his playful and slightly eccentric temperament, spotted pinschers They are striking in their complaisance and condescending good nature.
Spotted dogs get along well with children; harlequins make good, caring nannies.
Sincere love and selfless devotion to the owner negatively affect the relationships of pinschers with other pets. No, this is not a desire to dominate, this is ordinary jealousy. Well, the ancient blood of English terriers guarantees the difficulties of living together with cats (alas, this is at the genetic level).
Care and maintenance
Harlequin Pinschers not suitable for outdoor or aviary keeping. Dogs love coziness and comfort and do not tolerate drafts well. Apartment keeping is considered ideal, which is greatly facilitated by the compact size of the breed.
A dynamic and playful dog simply needs a burst of energy. Physical activity, long and long walks, sports training in a specially equipped stadium will be an excellent way to channel “mad energy into a peaceful channel.”
The short coat of the breed does not require long and complex care. A thorough brushing of the undercoat once a week is sufficient. Even a novice dog lover can do standard hygienic grooming procedures. Veterinarians recommend carefully monitoring the condition of your pet’s ears and eyes (traditionally weak areas of all pinschers).
Nutrition
A medium-sized but very active dog needs a carefully thought out and calculated diet. The reference weight of an adult is an excellent indicator of the health of a pet. A deviation of more than ten percent in any direction is a reason for a visit to the veterinary clinic.
It is difficult for a person who does not have professional knowledge in canine dietetics to put together a balanced daily menu that includes a full range of vitamin and mineral supplements. The best rational choice in this situation is ready-made dry food and canned food.
Most of the world's pet food manufacturers have long included highly specialized categories for miniature terriers in their product range.
Learning ability
Like most pinschers, harlequins “grab on the fly” the basics of education and training. Dogs amaze with their intelligence and intelligence. With proper organization of classes, proper restraint and patience of the trainer, black and white pinschers can easily and simply become well-mannered and obedient pets. Naturally, protective and guard duty is not “up to par” for miniature dogs, but the general training course will not be difficult for smart and active dogs.
General health problems
Harlequin Pinscher - a strong and healthy dog. On average, representatives of this breed live up to thirteen years.
To prevent infectious pathologies, systemic vaccination is necessary. Veterinarians recommend paying attention to hereditary diseases. Like all German pinschers, harlequins are predisposed to:
- joint dysplasia;
- glaucoma;
- cataracts;
- retinal atrophy;
- epilepsy.
Regular examinations at a veterinary clinic by specialized specialists, a balanced diet and good living conditions are the key to good health and longevity of a pet.
Harlequin Pinscher - a wonderful exotic breed. This is an excellent choice for modern people leading a sporty lifestyle. The life-affirming enthusiasm and cheerful playfulness of the pet will fill the owner’s home with happiness, fun and love.
Apart from the three breeds considered, all other breeds of hounds are now considered non-existent. However, there are still many dogs with certain traits of a harlequin, a Polish hound or a brood hound. Briefly it should be said about these breeds and their characteristics.
Harlequins. According to some dog handlers, these dogs are descended from a cross between Russian hounds and Dalmatian dogs. The southwest of Russia is considered their homeland. According to N.P. Kishensky, this breed was in its heyday at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries.
In the 19th century, some landowners of central Russia had flocks of harlequins: Chizhov, Solostsova (Penza province, Ulagai (Kursk province), Dr. Vitman (North Caucasus), a pack of Pershin hunting from Delvig’s dogs (Tula province). By the beginning of the First World War The Shustov brothers had harlequins and Princess Shcherbatova (Zvenigorod district, Moscow province) had harlequins mixed with foxhounds.
In the post-revolutionary years, harlequins were not preserved in their pure form, and everything that was exhibited at Soviet exhibitions under the guise of this breed represented only various crosses, united only by their marbled color, and often the white-eyed or odd-eyed appearance typical of harlequins.
The general appearance of harlequins (according to the standard approved by the canine congress in 1925) was distinguished by a dry build, large stature, a dry and narrow head with a blunt muzzle, barrel-shaped ribs, some upturned legs and a snippiness that gave the dog a greyhound-like appearance.
The most striking features were marbled or marbled-piebald color with pinkish-yellow tan markings and the original color of the eye (iris): variegated, white or different - one white, the other dark.
Coat color and eye color have proven to be extremely persistent and can appear in offspring even many generations after a given line has been bred to a harlequin. This explains that merle-colored or odd-eyed hounds still appear today, although there have been no real harlequins for about fifty years.
Polish-Russian hounds. These dogs, as a cross between hounds exported from Poland and our native ones, appeared in our country as a result of two “waves” of importation of hounds of various breeds into Russia, bred in Poland. The first “wave” dates back to the beginning of the 19th century, when the Russian army was returning from Western Europe after the defeat of Napoleon, and the second “wave” (even more abundant) of this import dates back to the time of the suppression of the Polish uprising, when the Russian military, returning to their homeland, brought with there are a lot of dogs. The reason for the success of Polish hounds in Russia and their widespread mixing with Russians was, first of all, the fashion for foreign things. In addition, the development of the rifle method of hunting with a hound also contributed to this success. Polish hounds were valued for their extraordinary toughness, as well as their walking ability, which allowed the hare under such a dog to walk in small circles and at a quiet pace, convenient for shooting. The Polish hound greatly spoiled the Russian breed, imparting dampness and fatigue to the crossbreeds, depriving them of anger and thereby making them unsuitable for hunting wolves (among the Polish and Polish-Russian there were and are even those who do not chase not only a wolf, but also a fox).
Modern, so-called Polish-Russian hounds are not necessarily a cross between exclusively Polish and Russian breeds, and often they are mixed with not only all sorts of other hound breeds (harlequin, chestnut, Russian piebald), but also non-hounds. This explains the exceptional diversity characteristic of this group of dogs.
The cynological congress of 1925 was unable to draw up a comprehensive standard for the Polish-Russian hound and limited itself to only a brief and vague outline of a “description of the Polish-Russian hound,” which is formulated as follows: “Polish-Russian hounds, like highly mixed hounds, have common features from the Polish, then from the Russian hound. There are hounds in yellow tans, and there are in red tans. The head of these hounds is mostly blunt-nosed, with a wide skull, but they also come across the type of Russian hounds. They are dressed relatively poorly with a shiny dog look. These hounds have straight legs, but many also have upturned legs. The race is mostly with suspension. Often found with dewclaws. The ears are long, tube-shaped and round.”
Busty hounds. These dogs probably originate from crossing various hounds with shepherd dogs.
The main distinguishing feature is their hard, tufted, bristly, rather long hair, especially on the eyebrows and beard, which makes them look like Russian Shepherds.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, large-breasted hounds were not so rare in Russia; there were even entire packs of these dogs. The busty hounds were distinguished by terrible malice and were incorrigible bestialists. Apparently, their last feature was the reason that after the revolution they were exterminated and disappeared as a breed.
At Soviet exhibitions, very rarely there were single specimens of Russian-type hounds with a bristly dog on the muzzle, which were obviously distant descendants of large-chested dogs.
FCI Standard No. 172 / 04/18/2007
ORIGIN: France.
PUBLICATION DATE OF THE ORIGINAL OF THE APPLICABLE STANDARD: 06.03.07
USAGE: companion dog.
CLASSIFICATION F.C.I.: Group 2- Companion dogs and doll dogs. Section 2- Poodle. No operational tests.
BRIEF HISTORICAL SUMMARY: Etymologically, the French “caniche” (poodle) is derived from “cane” - a female duck in French. In other countries, the name of the breed is associated with “splashing in the water.” The poodle was originally used for hunting game. The Poodle is descended from the Barbet breed and has retained many of its characteristics. Since 1743, the female barbet breed was nicknamed “lacaniche” (poodle) in French. Subsequently, the barbet and poodle breeds began to gradually separate. Breeders have made great efforts to obtain the original, uniform color inherent in the breed. The Poodle has become very popular as a companion dog due to its friendly, cheerful and loyal nature, as well as four sizes and a variety of colors that anyone can choose from according to their preferences.
GENERAL FORM: A dog of medium proportions, with a characteristic curly coat that either curls or forms curls. Gives the impression of an intelligent, constantly attentive, active, harmoniously built, elegant dog, with a sense of self-esteem.
IMPORTANT PROPORTIONS:
. The length of the muzzle is approximately 9/10 of the length of the skull.
. The length of the body is slightly greater than the height at the withers.
. The height at the withers is almost equal to the height of the croup.
. The height of the elbow is equal to 5/9 of the height at the withers.
BEHAVIOR / CHARACTER: The dog is known for its loyalty, intelligence and ability to train, making it a very enjoyable companion dog.
HEAD: Graceful, straight, proportional to the body. The head should be well formed, not heavy, but not too refined.
CRANIAL REGION:
Scull: Its width is less than half the length of the head. The entire skull, when viewed from above, appears oval; when viewed from the side, it appears slightly convex. The lines of the skull and muzzle diverge slightly.
Brow ridges: Moderately pronounced, covered with long hair.
Frontal groove: Wide between the eyes, tapering towards the occipital protuberance, which is well defined. (In miniature poodles, the nuchal protuberance may be slightly less pronounced.)
Stop: only slightly outlined.
FACIAL AREA:
Nose: developed, vertical in profile, nostrils well open. Black, white and gray dogs have a black nose, while brown dogs have a brown nose. Apricot and red poodles have brown or black.
Muzzle: The upper profile is absolutely straight, approximately 9/10 of the length of the skull. The lateral bones of the lower jaw are almost parallel. The muzzle is strong. The lower profile is formed by the jaw, not the edge of the upper lip.
Lips: moderately developed, fairly tight fitting, of medium thickness. The upper lip rests on the lower lip without overlapping it. Black, white and gray poodles have black lips, brown poodles have brown lips; Apricot and red poodles may have brown, more or less dark, or black coats. The angle of the lip is not pronounced.
Jaws/Teeth: Scissor bite, strong teeth.
Cheekbones: the muscles do not protrude, they fit tightly to the bones. The infraorbital areas are well formed and slightly filled. The cheek bones protrude slightly.
Eyes: Penetrating gaze, eyes located at stop level, slightly obliquely set, almond-shaped. Black or dark brown. Brown Poodles may have dark amber eyes.
Eyelids: The edges of the eyelids are black in black, white and gray poodles, brown in brown ones. In apricots and reds they are brown or black.
Ears: quite long and falling along the cheekbones. The base is located on the continuation of the line starting from the top of the nose and passing just below the outer corner of the eye. Flat, expanding after touching the head, the tips are rounded, covered with very long, wavy hair. Should reach the corners of the lips.
NECK: strong, slightly curved scruff, medium length, good proportions. He carries his head high and proud. Without the formation of a suspension, the cross-section is oval. Its length should be slightly less than the length of the head.
FRAME: well proportioned, the length of the body slightly exceeds the height at the withers.
Withers: moderately expressed
Back: short. The topline is harmonious and elastic. The height at the withers is almost equal to the height of the croup.
Small of the back: strong and muscular.
Croup: rounded, but not sloping.
Chest (front): The top of the sternum should protrude slightly and sit fairly high.
Chest (chest): Reaches to the elbows. The width is 2/3 of the depth. In large poodles, the volume of the chest, measured behind the shoulder blades, should exceed the height at the withers by 10 cm. Oval in cross-section, wide in the back.
Belly and sides: selected, but not excessively.
TAIL: Set quite high, at the level of the waist. It can be either natural length or docked up to 1/3 closer to the body or 1/2 of the entire length in countries where docking is not prohibited. When at rest, the tail is lowered; when in motion, it rises obliquely.
FORE LIMBS: Perfectly straight and parallel, with good muscle and bone. The height of the elbow is slightly greater than half the height at the withers.
Shoulder blades: sloping, well muscled; form an angle of approximately 110 degrees with the humerus.
Shoulder: The length of the shoulder corresponds to the length of the shoulder blade.
Wrist: continues the line of the front of the forearm.
Pastern: Strong and almost straight when viewed from the side.
Front legs: rather small, closed, in the shape of a short oval. The toes are well arched and fit tightly together. The pads are hard and thick. The nails are black on black and gray poodles, black or brown on brown poodles. White poodles have nails that range in color from bone to black. Apricot and red poodles have brown or black nails.
HINDQUARTERS: When viewed from the rear, they should be parallel, with well-developed and clearly defined muscles. The hock joint is fairly well angulated. The angles of articulation of the hip, knee and hock joints must be expressed.
Hips: strong, with good muscles.
Metatarsus: Quite short and vertical. A poodle should be born without dewclaws on its hind legs.
Hind legs: Look - the front paws.
GAIT/MOVEMENT: The poodle has a light and springy gait.
LEATHER: elastic, not raw, pigmented. In black, brown, grey, apricot and red poodles, the pigmentation should match the coat color. For white poodles, you should aim for silver colored skin.
HAIR:
Curly Coat: Abundant, fine, fluffy in texture, well curled, elastic and resistant to hand pressure. The coat should be very thick, evenly spaced, of equal length, forming curls.
Curly coat: fine, fluffy texture, dense, forming characteristic curls of equal length, which should be at least 20 cm long.
COLOR: Single color: black, white, brown, grey, apricot and red.
Brown: Should be deep, fairly dark, uniform and warm in color. Beige and its lighter derivative shades are not acceptable.
Grey: Uniform, deep, not blackish, not whitish.
Apricot: Uniform, with no tendency to lighten, cream or red.
Red: should be a uniform color throughout the body, there should not be a tendency towards an apricot color.
The eyelids, nose, lips, gums, palate, natural openings, scrotum and paw pads are well pigmented.
Multicolor colors in accordance with the “Appendix to the breeding regulations of the RKF regarding multicolored poodles.”
HEIGHT:
Large Poodle: from 45 to 60 cm, with a tolerance of +2 cm. The Large Poodle should be an elegant and developed copy of the Small Poodle, with which it retains the same characteristics.
Small Poodle: 35 to 45 cm.
Miniature Poodle: 28 to 35 cm. The Miniature Poodle should be a reduced Miniature Poodle, maintaining as much proportion as possible without signs of dwarfism.
Toy Poodle: 24 cm to 28 cm (ideally: 25 cm) (with a tolerance of -1). The Toy Poodle is, in general, a miniature poodle, with the same general proportions, fulfilling all the provisions of the standard. All signs of dwarfism are excluded; only the occipital protuberance may be less pronounced.
FLAWS: Any deviation from the listed points is considered a defect, the severity of which must be assessed in proportion to the degree of severity.
. Arched or “rocking” back;
. Tail set too low;
. Too restless behavior;
. Teeth:
o The absence of two PM1s is not taken into account;
o Absence of one or two symmetrically located PM2;
o The absence of M3 is not taken into account.
SERIOUS DISADVANTAGES:
. Partially depigmented nose;
. White or light spot on the nose;
. Pointed muzzle;
. Arched dorsum of the nose;
. Teeth:
o Absence of two asymmetrically located PM2;
. Eyes too large, too deep-set, not dark enough;
. Ears too short;
. Slanted croup;
. Tail curled over the back;
. Straightened angles of the hind limbs;
. Smooth and extended movements;
. Sparse, soft or hard wool;
. Indeterminate or unevenly distributed color over the body: black and gray or gray and white, faded apricot (red), cream, beige or too dark brown in brown poodles.
DISQUALIFYING FAULTS:
. Aggressiveness or cowardice;
. Complete depigmentation of the nose;
. Insufficiently expressed type, especially of the head;
. Overshot or undershot;
. Teeth:
o Absence of one incisor or one canine or one P4 on the upper jaw or M1 on the lower jaw;
o Absence of one PM3 or one PM4;
o Absence of three or more premolars (except PM1);
. Taillessness or natural “short tail”;
. Dewclaws or signs of their presence on the hind legs;
. Not a single color coat;
. White markings;
. White fur on paws;
. More than 62 cm in height for standard poodles or less than 23 cm for toy dogs;
. Dogs with signs of dwarfism, spherical shape of the skull, absence of the occipital protuberance, pronounced stop, goggle eyes, too short or upturned muzzle, cut off chin;
. Almost invisible frontal groove;
. Toys have too light a frame;
. The tail is curled so that the tip falls onto the back or croup;
Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioral abnormalities must be disqualified.
N.B.: Males must have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.
Addition to the standard
ACCEPTABLE SHOW CUTS
Lion Cut: Regardless of the type of coat, curled or curly, the poodle is cut from the hindquarters to the ribs. Also cut: the muzzle from above and below to the lower eyelids; cheeks; fore and hind limbs except cuffs or bracelets, which are optional on the hind limbs; tail, with the exception of a round or oval pom-pom, which must be retained. A mustache is a must for everyone. It is allowed to leave hair on the front legs, which are called “pants”.
Haircut “Modern”: Hair is left on the hind and front legs subject to the following rules:
1. Haircut:
a) The lower part of the forelimbs from the claws to the claw on the wrist; the lower part of the hind limbs to a height corresponding to the forelimbs.
Clipper trimming is limited to the toes.
b) Head and tail in accordance with the rules described above.
As an exception, this haircut allows:
. A short beard on the lower jaw, which should not be longer than 1 cm; its lower line is cut parallel to the jaw. The beard shape called “debove” - goat beard - is not allowed;
. No pompom on the tail.
2. Short coat: Forms a top line along the body, cut more or less long to create a moiré effect, but not less than 1 cm. The length of the coat gradually increases on the sides to the upper part of the limbs.
3. Leveled wool:
a) A cap of reasonable height is left on the head, in the same way six are left on the back of the neck to the withers, and in front the hair forms a continuous line to the shaved part of the paws, with the line becoming slightly inclined at the height of the sternum. The hair on the top of the ears, maximum in the upper third of their length, can be trimmed with scissors or shaved in the direction of hair growth. The lower part of the ears remains with hair, the length of which increases downwards, and ends with a leveled fringe.
b) On the limbs there is a clear transition from the pants to the shaved part of the paws. The length of the drawn coat constantly increases towards the shoulders and hips and ranges from 4 to 7 cm depending on the height of the poodle, but excessive fluffiness should be avoided. The hind legs should emphasize the typical poodle angulations. Any fantasies leading to deviations from these standard norms are excluded. Regardless of what type of haircut is used, it should in no way affect the score at the show. All poodles entered that start in the same class must be described and judged together.
“English” haircut: In this haircut, in development of the motifs of the “lion” haircut, bracelets or cuffs are modeled on the hind legs. There is a top note on the head. A mustache is not required for this haircut. It is acceptable that there is no clear demarcation of fur on the hind legs. A top note is also optional (it is strictly forbidden to use varnishes or any other means to create a top note).
Poodles that are not trimmed to the standard as long as they appear this way cannot be judged at official shows, but will not be disqualified for breeding because of this.
Appendix to the breeding regulations of the RKF regarding multi-colored poodles
On January 26, 2008, the RKF adopted multicolor colors: harlequin and black and tan. Multi-colored poodles are subject to the Breeding Regulations that apply to standard poodles, with the exception of coat and color.
HARLEQUIN - black and white spotted
60% white
40% black
The head and ears should be black. Acceptable: small or medium-sized white spot (feather) on the head; a narrow white stripe from the bridge of the nose no further than the first cervical vertebra. The muzzle may be white. There are two or three black spots on the back, of which two may be located next to the withers to the shoulder blades, or two next to the kidneys to the hind legs, or three one after the other. Continuously black back is allowed. The tail is black and white spotted, black or white. Limbs, chest, belly should be white. The pads and claws should be predominantly black, but light horn-colored pads and claws are not a fault. The border between black and white should be clear.
Flaws: Specks on white.
Serious disadvantages: Apricot hairs above the eyes, on the inside of the ears and around the anus, lots of specks, spots too small.
Disqualifying faults: any other color except black; white, in which spots appear only on the skin; only specks; spots like a Dalmatian.
BLACK AND TAN (black and tan):
80% black
20% fell
The tan should be symmetrical:
- small spots above the eyes
- on the inside of the ears
- on both sides of the muzzle
- spot on jaw
- cheek to throat
- somewhat large spots at the level of the outer corner of the shoulder joint
- inner side of limbs
- forelimbs to a level just above the carpal joint
- in front of the hind legs to the hock joint
- only paws on the side
- around the anus
- underside of the tail
Apricot and red tan are allowed. Bright apricot is more preferable than red. The tan should have a fairly clear boundary.
Flaws:
- insufficient tan
- too light tan
- apricot/red hairs in black
- black hairs in tan
- brown tint in black
In the harlequin and black and tan colors, the skin color is determined by the dominant coat color.
FCI-Standard N° 172 / 18.04.2007/GB
POODLE
(Caniche)
TRANSLATION: Jennifer Mulholland, in collaboration with Raymond Triquet.
ORIGIN: France.
DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD: 06.03.07.
UTILIZATION: Companion dog
CLASSIFICATION F.C.I.: Group 9 Companion and Toy dogs
Section 2 Poodle
Without working trial.
BRIEF HISTORICAL SUMMARY:
Etymologically, the French word “caniche” (Poodle) comes from “cane”, the French word for a female duck. In other countries, the name of the breed is associated with splashing around in water. Originally, this dog was used for wildfowling. It descends from the Barbet of which it has conserved many characteristics. In 1743, it was called the “caniche”: the female of the barbet in French. Thereafter the Barbet and the Caniche (Poodle) were gradually separated. Breeders worked hard to obtain original subjects of uniform color. The Poodle became very popular as a companion dog because of its friendly, joyful and loyal character and also because of its four sizes and different colors which everyone can choose according to preference.
GENERAL APPEARANCE:
Dog of medium proportions, with a characteristic frizzy coat which is either curly or corded. The appearance is that of an intelligent dog, constantly alert and active, harmoniously built, giving an impression of elegance and pride.
IMPORTANT PROPORTIONS:
. The length of the muzzle is approximately 9/10ths of that of the skull.
. The length of the body (scapular ischial) is slightly superior to the height at withers.
. The height at withers is practically equal to the height at the croup.
. The height at the elbow is 5/9ths of the height at withers.
BEHAVIOUR/TEMPERAMENT:
A dog renowned for its loyalty, capable of learning and being trained thus making it a particularly pleasant companion dog.
HEAD:
Distinguished, rectilinear and in proportion to the body. The head must be well chiselled and neither heavy nor excessively fine.
CRANIAL REGION:
Skull: Its width is less than half the length of the head. The entire skull, seen from above, appears oval and seen from the side slightly convex. The axes of skull and muzzle are slightly divergent.
Superciliary arches: Moderately pronounced and covered with long hair.
Frontal furrow: Wide between the eyes, narrowing towards the occiput, which is very pronounced. (In Miniatures it can be slightly less pronounced).
Stop: Only slightly pronounced.
FACIAL REGION:
Nose: Developed, vertical profile; open nostrils. Black nose in black, white and gray subjects; brown nose in brown subjects. In orange fawn (apricot) or red fawn subjects the nose is brown or black.
Muzzle: Upper profile is perfectly straight; its length is approximately 9/10ths of that of the skull. The branches of the lower jaw are almost parallel. The muzzle is strong.
The lower profile of the muzzle is determined by the lower jaw and not by the edge of the upper lip.
Lips: Moderately developed, rather tight, of medium thickness with the upper lip resting on the lower lip without hanging over it. Black in black, white and gray subjects; brown in brown subjects. In orange fawn (apricot) and red fawn subjects, the lips are more or less dark brown or black. The corner of the lips must not be pronounced.
Jaws/teeth: Scissor bite. Strong teeth.
Cheeks: Not prominent, shaped on the bones. The sub-orbital regions are chiselled and very slightly filled. Zygomatic arches very slightly pronounced.
Eyes:Keen expression, placed at the level of the stop and slightly oblique. Almond shaped. Black or dark brown color. In brown subjects the color may be dark amber.
Eyelids: The rims are black in black, white and gray subjects. In orange fawn (apricot) or red fawn subjects they may be brown or black.
Ears:Rather long, falling along the cheeks, set on in the prolongation of a line going from the top of the nose and passing under the outer corner of the eye; flat, widening after the attachment and rounded at the tip, they are covered with very long, wavy hair. The leather should reach the corner of the lips.
NECK: Strong,slightly arched after the nape,of medium length and well porportioned. The head is carried high and proudly. The neck, without dewlap, is of oval cross section. Its length is slightly less than that of the head.
BODY: Well porprotioned. The length is slightly superior to height at withers.
Withers: Moderately developed.
Back: Short. Topline harmonious and taut. The height at withers is practically equal to the height from the top of the croup to the ground.
Loin: Firm and muscled.
Croup: Rounded but not falling away.
Foremost: The point of the sternum should be slightly prominent and set rather high.
Chest: Reaching the elbow; its width is equal to 2/3 of depth. In Standard Poodles, the perimeter of the thorax, measured behind the shoulders, should be superior by 10 cms to the height at withers. Oval cross section, broad at dorsal part.
Belly & Flanks: Tucked up but not excessively so.
TAIL: Set on quite high at the level of the loin. It can be either natural or docked by 1/3 closest to the body or by 1/2 of its length in countries where tail docking is not forbidden. When standing the tail is low; in action it is raised obliquely.
FOREQUARTERS: Perfectly upright and parallel, well muscled with good bone. The height from the elbow to the ground is slightly more than half the height at withers.
Shoulders: Sloping, muscular. The shoulder blade forms an angle of approximately 110° to the humerus.
Upper arm: The length of the humerus corresponds to that of the shoulder blade.
Carpus (wrist): In continuous line with front of forearm.
Metacarpus (pastern): Strong and almost upright seen in profile.
Front feet: Rather small, firm, of short oval shape. Toes are well arched and tight fitting. The pads are hard and thick. The nails are black in black and gray subjects. They are black or brown in brown subjects. In whites the nails may be any color in the range from horn color to black. In the orange fawns and red fawns they are brown or black.
HINDQUARTERS: Hind legs parallel seen from behind; muscles developed and very apparent. The hock joint is relatively well angulated; the coxal-femoral, tibial-femoral and tibial-tarsal angles should be pronounced.
Upper High: Well muscled and strong.
Metatarsus (rear pastern): Rather short and upright. The Poodle should be born without dewclaws on the hind legs.
Hind feet: See front feet.
GAIT/MOVEMENT: The Poodle has a light and springy gait.
SKIN: Supple, not loose, pigmented.
Black, brown, gray and orange fawn or red fawn Poodles must be pigmented in accordance with the color of their coat. In white Poodles, a silver colored skin is sought after.
COAT:
HAIR:
Curly Coats: Profuse of fine, woolly texture, very frizzy, elastic and resistant to pressure of the hand. It should be thick, well furnished, of equal length and form even curls.
Corded Coats: Profuse of fine, woolly texture and dense, forming characteristic cords which should measure at least 20 cm.
COLOR: Solid color: black, white, brown, grey, orange fawn (apricot) and red fawn.
Brown: Should be deep, rather dark, uniform and warm. Beige and its paler derivatives are not admitted.
Grey: Must be uniform, deep, neither blackish nor whitish.
Orange fawn: Must be uniform without tending to pale fawn, cream or red fawn.
Red fawn: Must be uniform over the entire body. It must never tend to orange fawn.
Eyelids, nose, lips, gums, palate, natural orifices, scrotum and pads are well pigmented.
SIZE:
Standard Poodles: Over 45cm up to 60cm with a tolerance of +2cm. The Standard Poodle must be the enlarged and developed replica of the Medium Poodle of which it retains the same characteristics.
Medium Poodles: Over 35 cm up to 45cm.
Miniature Poodles: Over 28cm up to 35cm. The Miniature Poodle must display the appearance of a reduced Medium Poodle, retaining as much as possible the same proportions and without presenting any sign of dwarfism.
Toy Poodles: Over 24 cm up to 28 cm (sought after ideal: 25cm) (with a tolerance of -1cm). The Toy Poodle maintains, in its ensemble, the aspect of a Miniature Poodle and the same general proportions complying with all the points of the standard. Any sign of dwarfism is excluded; only the occipital protuberance may be less pronounced.
FAULTS: Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be considered should be in exact proportion to its degree.
. Roach or sway back.
. Tail set on too low.
. Too restless subject.
. Teeth:
Absence of 2PM1 is not taken into account.
Absence of one or two PM2, if symmetrical.
Absence of M3 is not taken into account.
SEVERE FAULTS:
. Partially depigmented nose.
. Snippy nose.
. Pointed muzzle.
. Arched bridge of nose.
. Teeth:
Absence of two PM2 if not symmetrical.
. Eyes too big or sunken, not dark enough.
. Ears too short.
. Crow falling away.
. Tail curved over the back.
. Rear angulations too straight.
. Flowing or extended gait.
. Sparse, soft or harsh hair.
. Color not clearly defined or not uniform: blackish gray or whitish grey, washed out fawn, cream, beige in browns or very dark brown.
ELIMINATING FAULTS:
. Aggressive or overly shy.
. Nose completely depigmented.
. Lack of type, particularly in head.
. Overshot or undershot.
. Teeth:
Absence of 1 incisor or 1 canine or 1 carnassial (P4
upper jaw, M1 lower jaw).
Absence of one PM3 or of one PM4
Absence of three or more PM (except PM1)
. Absence of tail or naturally short tail.
. Dewclaws or evidence of dewclaws on rear limbs.
. Coat which is not solid color.
. White marks.
. White hairs on feet.
. Height exceeding 62cm in Standards and inferior to 23cm in Toys.
. Any subject displaying signs of dwarfism, globulous skull, absence of occipital protuberance, very pronounced stop, prominent eyes muzzle too short and turned up, receding chin.
. Median furrow is practically inexistant.
. Very light bone in Toys.
. Tail curled with the tip falling over the flank or the croup.
Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioral abnormalities shall be disqualified.
N.B. Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.
Addition to Standard
AUTHORIZED SHOW CLIPS
“Lion Clip”: The Poodle, whether curly or corded, shall be clipped on the hindquarters up to the ribs.
Also clipped: the muzzle, above and underneath from the lower eyelids; the cheeks; the fore and hindlegs, except for the cuffs or bracelets and optional motifs on the hindquarters; the tail, except for round or oblong terminal pompom. A mustache is required for all subjects.
Leaving hair, called “trousers”, on the forelegs is admitted.
“Modern Clip”: Leaving hair on all four legs is only admitted on condition that the following norms are respected:
1. Shall be clipped:
a) The lower part of the forelegs, from the nails to the tip of the dewclaw, the lower part of the hindlegs to the same height. Machine clipping, limited to the toys only, is admitted.
b) The head and the tail in compliance with rules described above. Shall be exceptionally admitted in this clip:
The presence, under the lower jaw, of short hair no longer than 1cm the lower line of which should be cut parallel to the lower jaw. A beard, called “goat’s beard”, is not permitted.
The suppression of the pompom on the tail.
2. Shortened coat:
Over the body, in order to give “shot silk” effect on the line of the back, more or less long but at least 1cm. The length shall be gradually increased over the ribs and above the limbs.
3.Neatened coat:
a) On the head which keeps a topknot of reasonable height as well as down behind the neck to the withers and the front, without discontinuity, to the shaven part of the foot following a slightly slanting line from the top of the forechest downwards. On the top of the ears and for a maximum of one third of their length, the coat may be cut with scissors or clipped in the direction of the hair. The lower part shall be left covered in hair whose length shall increase gradually, from top to bottom, to end in fringes which may be levelled.
B) On the limbs, “trousers” making a distinct transition from the shaven part of the feet. The length of the hair increases gradully towards the top to display, on the shoulder and likewise the thigh, a length of 4 to 7 cm measured by pulling the hair to straighten it, in proportion to the size of the exhibit while avoiding any “fluffy” " effect. The hind “trousers” must allow for the typical angulation of the Poodle to be seen. All other fancy clips which do not comply with these norms are eliminatory. Whatever the standard outline obtained by grooming, it should have no influence whatsoever on the placements in shows, all exhibits in the same class should be judged and placed together.
“English Clip”: To the “Lion Clip” add motifs on the hindquarters, i.e. bracelets and cuffs. On the head: a topknot. For this clip the mustache is optional. The absence of demarcation on the hair of the hindquarters is tolerated. The topknot is optional (it is forbidden to use lacquer or any other substance to keep the topknot in place).
Poodles which are not groomed in conformity with the standard cannot (as long as they are like this) be judged in shows or official events, without however being disqualified for breeding purposes.
