As the proud owner of Royal Doodle Haus, where we specialize in Poodles and Doodle cross-breeds, I’ve had my fair share of conversations about Poodles of all kinds. One question I hear frequently from prospective dog owners is: “What exactly is a Royal Poodle? Is it just a fancy name?” If you’ve found yourself wondering the same thing, you’re not alone. Let me walk you through the world of Royal Poodles and why they might be the perfect fit for your family. It’s time we start understanding Royal Poodles!
What is a Royal Poodle?
First things first, let’s clear up what a Royal Poodle actually is. Contrary to what some believe, a Royal Poodle isn’t a separate breed. Instead, the term refers to Standard Poodles on the larger end of the size spectrum. In some cases, Royal Poodles can stand 28 inches or taller at the shoulder, which is taller than the average Standard Poodle. They’re often a bit more robust in build as well, but they carry all the wonderful characteristics of a Standard Poodle.
Origins of the Term ‘Royal’
The name ‘Royal Poodle’ might sound like a marketing ploy, but it actually has historical roots. Poodles, particularly larger ones, have long been associated with European royalty. French and German monarchs adored these dogs, not just for their elegance, but for their keen intelligence and usefulness as water retrievers. Over time, this association with aristocracy led to the term “Royal Poodle.”
While not an official classification, breeders use the term to indicate an especially large Standard Poodle. At Royal Doodle Haus, we’ve raised a few of these gentle giants, and they never fail to turn heads, not just because of their size, but also because of their regal presence.
The Appeal of Royal Poodles
So why would anyone specifically want a Royal Poodle? It’s not just about their size or the name. These dogs bring a lot to the table, especially for families in suburban areas like many of our clients.
A Perfect Family Dog
One of the reasons families love Royal Poodles is their calm temperament. They’re known for being incredibly gentle, especially around kids, and despite their size, they tend to be much more laid-back than you might expect. I remember when we first brought home a Royal Poodle to one of our kennel locations in Romania. He towered over the puppies, but he was so patient and careful with them — it’s like he understood how much larger he was. That’s the beauty of their temperament: a natural sense of calm and responsibility.
Intelligence and Trainability
Poodles, in general, are famous for their intelligence, and Royal Poodles are no exception. These dogs are easy to train, which makes them a great option for families who may not have extensive dog training experience. Whether it’s teaching them basic commands or more complex tricks, Poodles pick things up quickly.
One of our clients adopted a Royal Poodle from us a few years ago. She told me that within a week of bringing him home, he had learned how to open the backyard gate by himself (not always ideal, but it goes to show how sharp these dogs are!). They ended up adding a lock to the gate, but the story still makes me smile because it’s such a testament to how clever Poodles can be.
Common Misconceptions About Royal Poodles
Myth: ‘Royal’ Means a Different Breed
Let’s tackle one of the biggest misconceptions: people often assume that a Royal Poodle is a different breed from the Standard Poodle. That’s not the case! The Royal Poodle is simply a term for a larger-than-average Standard Poodle. So if you’re browsing breeders or visiting shelters and you see the term ‘Royal’, know that it’s a size designation, not a breed distinction.
Marketing vs. Reality
While some breeders might use the term “Royal” as a way to hype up the dogs they’re selling, it’s important to understand that this is still a Standard Poodle, and what truly matters is the quality of the breeding program. This is where responsible breeding comes in, and why you should always make sure your breeder does health testing and provides genetic guarantees.
At Royal Doodle Haus, we prioritize health above all else, especially when it comes to our Poodles and Doodles. We make sure all our dogs undergo hip and elbow dysplasia testing and are clear of common genetic conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can affect vision.
Why a Royal Poodle Might Be Right for You
They Fit Into Family Life
Royal Poodles are a great option for suburban families, especially if you’re looking for a large, intelligent, and gentle dog. Despite their size, they adapt well to different environments. You don’t need a huge yard to keep a Royal Poodle happy (though they do enjoy room to run!). What matters most is that they get enough mental stimulation and exercise. Whether you’re taking them on long walks or playing fetch in the backyard, these dogs thrive in an active family setting.
Hypoallergenic Coats
Another bonus of Royal Poodles is their hypoallergenic coat, which makes them ideal for families with members who have mild allergies. Their curly, low-shedding coats require regular grooming to stay in top shape, but it’s a small price to pay for a dog that won’t leave hair all over your house.
I’ve seen families who have struggled with pet allergies find the perfect match in one of our Poodles or Doodles. One couple, after years of dealing with allergic reactions to their previous dogs, told me how thrilled they were to finally have a dog they could cuddle without sneezing.
Caring for Your Royal Poodle
Grooming Needs
Poodles, especially Royals, require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy. Their curly coats can become matted if not properly cared for. You’ll want to brush them every few days and schedule grooming appointments every 6-8 weeks.
When it comes to grooming, many families love to give their Royal Poodles the traditional “poodle clip” for that iconic look. Of course, you can also opt for a simpler, more practical trim if you prefer.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Royal Poodles need both physical and mental exercise. A couple of walks a day and some playtime will keep them happy, but don’t forget the mental aspect. Puzzle toys, training sessions, or even teaching them new tricks will go a long way in keeping them entertained.
Choosing a Breeder: What to Look For
If you’ve decided a Royal Poodle is the right fit for your family, the next step is finding a reputable breeder. Always look for breeders who:
- Perform health tests on their breeding dogs.
- Prioritize temperament and proper socialization.
- Provide a health guarantee for their puppies.
At Royal Doodle Haus, we take pride in the quality of our breeding program. We’ve spent over 20 years fine-tuning our practices to ensure the healthiest, happiest puppies for our clients.
Final Thoughts: Is a Royal Poodle Right for You?
Royal Poodles are so much more than just a fancy name. They’re intelligent, gentle, and make amazing companions for families of all shapes and sizes. If you’re looking for a dog with the elegance of a Poodle and the size of a larger breed, a Royal Poodle might just be the perfect fit for your home.
Ready to learn more or meet one of our Royal Poodles in person? Contact us today to schedule a visit! Whether you’re looking for your next family dog or just want to learn more about the breed, we’re here to help.