Of course, in an animal like the Poodle, in which art has much to do in turning it out in show form, a great deal depends on the skill of the individual person on whom the preparation devolves, and there are many men, and some women, who are able to put a high-class finish on the specimens entrusted to them. Sometimes ornamental devices are clipped in the hair on the back. The general effect is quaint and peculiar, and the dogs, with their vivacious cast of countenance, have an irresistibly comical appearance, suggestive of that life and fun characteristic of them.

Although there are many men who devote themselves to the tonsorial duties in connection with Poodles, there are some ladies (indeed, some of the most successful breeders and exhibitors of the present day) who perform all this work for their pets with their own fair hands, and the honours obtained by their dogs are sufficient proof of the ability displayed by them in this way. This is mentioned to show that there are no insurmountable obstacles to be overcome by amateurs who have the time and inclination to devote to the work, and that success is fairly within the reach of those possessing that infinite capacity for taking pains.

Poodles, as a rule, are good-tempered and warmly attached to their owners; they are not fanciful about their food, and willing to make themselves at home under ordinary circumstances. It is advisable, where they live in the house, to keep and treat them like members of the family. When kept in kennels, it should be in such structures that neither chain nor collar is required, and they must be properly protected from the weather. Whatever their colour, they should not be exposed to the sun, which is sure to have a prejudicial effect. In the matter of bedding, paper shavings, such as may be obtained of book-binders or stationers, are the best material, if kept picked out and not allowed to become hard or matted, as this is clean, dry stuff, and will not get into the coats like straw which is only allowable when enclosed in a roughly constructed cushion. Failing this, use longish straw, without dust or small stuff mixed with it, or pine shavings. Of course, only in the sleeping-box will any bedding be required, and this but in the colder months of the year; at other times Poodles will be better without it. Poodle kennels must be always kept scrupulously free from dirt, dust, or wet, as the dogs' coats take up the smallest particles of such matters, entailing an immense amount of trouble in getting them right again.

As regards those Poodles of any colours but white, washing should, if possible, be dispensed with, as, if the coats are duly brushed and attended to, they will be better without it; but the whites will have to be sometimes washed, and for this purpose a good lather made with white curd soap, in lukewarm water, with a squeeze from the blue-bag in it, is as good as anything. The coat should be afterwards dried with a sheet or towels, and the dog be prevented from soiling its coat.

In sending any kind of Poodle to shows, roomy hampers or well-ventilated boxes should be used. Such dogs should never be sent on the chain, and it is best to tack brown holland or unbleached calico round the insides and cover of hamper or box, to prevent the the coats from being soiled.

The following is a description of the Poodle: -

Head

Long, straight, and fine ; skull rather narrow, and peaked at back, with very slight "stop" ; jaws long, strong, and fine, not full in cheek; teeth white and level; lips black and rather tight-fitting; gums and roof of mouth black.

Nose

Sharp and black, except in brown or red-coloured specimens, when liver-coloured noses are allowable.

Eyes

Very dark brown, full of fire and intelligence, nearly almond-shaped, not staring or prominent.

Ears

Deep and wide in leather and long in feathering, set on rather low, and lying close to the sides of the head.

Neck

Well proportioned, of fair length and strength.

Shoulders

Strong and muscular, sloping well to back.

Chest

Deep and moderately wide.

Back

Short, strong, and slightly curved; loins broad and muscular; ribs well sprung and braced up.

Legs

Fore legs straight and well set, with plenty of bone and muscle; hind legs very muscular and well bent, with hocks well let down.

Feet

Small, of good shape ; toes well arched, with thick, hard pads.

Tail

Set on high, carried gaily, but never curled or carried over the back.

Coat

Very profuse, not silky, but of good hard texture. If corded, hanging in long, tight, even cords or ringlets; if curly, in strong, short curls, of even length, without knots or cords; if fluffy, all the unshorn parts should be combed or teased out free from all matting, cords, or curls.

Colours

Should be self for preference. Whites and blacks seem the most popular, but specimens with shades of blue, brown, red, and grey are occasionally seen, and have classes provided for them at some of the larger shows.

General Appearance is that of a very active, intelligent, elegant-looking dog, stepping out well, and carrying himself proudly.

The white Poodle should have dark eyes, black or very dark liver-coloured nose, lips, and toe-nails.

The red or brown Poodle should have dark, amber-coloured eyes, dark liver-coloured nose, lips, and toe-nails.

The blue or grey Poodle should be as even in colour as possible, and have dark eyes, lips, and toe-nails.

All the other points of the white, red, brown, blue, or grey Poodles should be the same as in the perfect black Poodles.