As with any breed, there are health issues that affect standard poodles. Good breeders take steps to improve the odds that the puppies will be healthy throughout their lives. Puppy buyers should be aware of the health issues that are involved. Puppy buyers should look for a knowledgeable breeder, and for health testing that is verified by listings on the OFA web site (or by viewing certificates that are received by the breeder). A CHIC number shown on the OFA site indicates that the dog has successfully completed health testing that is appropriate for the breed.

The breed standard of the American Kennel Club (AKC) defines three sizes of poodles: toys are under 10 inches, miniatures are 10 to 15 inches and standards are over 15 inches (no maximum height). Height is measured at the withers (shoulders). While the breed standard specifies that standard poodles are over 15 inches, in practice, standard poodles that are being shown in AKC shows are typically in the 22 to 26 inch range. A 15 to 17 inch poodle would most likely be an over-sized mini, from mini parents. Poodles of more than 17 inches and less than 20 inches are within the breed standard for a Standard Poodle, but they are rarely seen in the US. This may be changing. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is an international federation of kennel clubs based in Belgium with 86 member countries. Its breed standard defines four sizes of poodles, and establishes a maximum size for the standard poodle. The four sizes are: toys 24 to 28 cm (9.4 to 11 inches), miniatures are over 28 to 35 cm (11 to 14 inches), mediums (or moyen or klein) are over 35 cm to 45 cm (14 to 18 in) and a Standard is over 45 cm to 60 cm with a tolerance of +2cm. (18 to 23.6 in or an absolute maximum of 24.4 in with the 2 cm tolerance).

The Poodle Club of America has produced a booklet describing the ideal structure of a poodle. Illustrated breed standard.

We recommend rewards-based training for any dog, but especially for a poodle. Poodles are smart, sensitive and easy to train, and rewards-based training will enhance the relationship between poodle and owner. For a short introduction to rewards-based training, see How Dogs Learn by Deb Norman. A good book on dog training is Train Your Dog Like a Pro by Jean Donaldson.