The Poodle is commonly acknowledged to be the most wisely intelligent of all members of the canine race. He is a scholar and a gentleman; but, in spite of his claims of long descent and his extraordinary natural cleverness, he has never been widely popular in this country

The coat of a curly Poodle should be kept fleecy and free from tangle by being periodically combed and brushed. The grooming keeps the skin clean and healthy, and frequent washing, even for a white dog, is not necessary. The dog will, of course, require clipping from time to time. In Paris at present it is the fashion to clip the greater part of the body and hind-quarters, but the English Poodle Club recommends that the coat be left on as far down the body as the last rib, and it is also customary with us to leave a good deal of coat on the hind-quarter

POINTS OF THE PERFECT POODLE: GENERAL APPEARANCE…
That of a very active, intelligent, and elegant-looking dog, well built, and carrying himself very proudly.

HEAD…
Long, straight, and fine, the skull not broad, with a slight peak at the back.

MUZZLE…
Long (but not snippy) and strong, not full in cheek; teeth white, strong, and level; gums black, lips black and not showing lippiness.

EYES…
Almond shaped, very dark, full of fire and intelligence.

NOSE…
Black and sharp.

EARS…
The leather long and wide, low set on, hanging close to the face.

NECK…
Well proportioned and strong, to admit of the head being carried high and with dignity.

SHOULDERS…
Strong and muscular, sloping well to the back.

CHEST…
Deep and moderately wide.

BACK…
Short, strong, and slightly hollowed, the loins broad and muscular, the ribs well sprung and braced up.

FEET…
Rather small, and of good shape, the toes well arched, pads thick and hard.

LEGS…
Fore-legs set straight from shoulder, with plenty of bone and muscle. Hind-legs
very muscular and well bent, with the hocks well let down.

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