Poodles are beautiful dogs and are revered for their luxurious coats and sophisticated look. Poodles come in various gorgeous colors, one being the coveted silver poodle.
Most silver poodle puppies are born with pure black fur, except for the tufts of white hair around the paws. Once poodles reach 6 weeks of age, the silver color in their coats will become apparent.
Silver poodles are unique and dazzling dogs. Many people seek out silver poodles specifically, as they consider the silver poodle to be the most appealing of all poodle colors. Clearly, the silver poodle is prevalent in many circles, making it a premium choice.
The Earliest Records of the Silver Poodle in History
The miniature poodle has had the potential to be silver since its first appearance, but the toy poodle later inherited this trait from a miniature poodle. As for standard poodles, there are few records detailing the origins of the silver poodle.
However, as for the breed itself, there are plenty of records. The poodle originated in Germany over 400 years ago. Today the poodle is most famous for its sophisticated appearance, but back then, it was put to work as a duck hunter. The trademark coat was developed for protection against cold waters rather than showmanship, and the unique clippings were for an unrestricted range of movement rather than style.
The breed soon moved towards France, where its function changed from duck hunter to pampered pet. Its popularity spread to the United States and around the world, and it remains one of the most well-known dogs to this day.
How the Silver Poodle Gained Popularity
Although the poodle was initially bred to be a duck hunter, it had many excellent features that made it a perfect companion for the nobles of France. The poodle’s intelligence, affection, and striking beauty all played roles in its surge in popularity. Once the poodle transitioned from a simple duck hunter in Germany to a pampered pet in France, the popularity of the dog soared.
According to fans of the poodle, the silver poodle is among the most popular poodle colors. For instance, throughout the ‘60s, the silver poodle was considered one of Japan’s most appealing color options. It was so popular that it outranked the white poodle for most of the decade. Ever since then, the popularity of the silver poodle has remained steady.
Formal Recognition of the Silver Poodle
The poodle breed was officially recognized in 1887 by the American Kennel Club. That includes the standard, miniature, and toy poodle varieties. Plenty of poodle colors are accepted by the breed standard, and silver is among them. However, there are some guidelines that silver poodles must fall within to avoid disqualification.
These parameters include having a black nose, black eye rims, and black lips. Likewise, the toenails must be black, and the poodle’s eyes must be dark. These requirements for silver poodles are the same in all three poodle varieties.
Top 3 Unique Facts About Silver Poodles
1. Poodles Do Not Have Fur
It may sound strange, but it is true. Poodles do not have fur; instead, they have hair. Fur typically grows until it reaches a certain length. At that point, it falls off and is replaced. But when it comes to hair, the growth does not stop and does not fall out on its own.
This is why grooming is so vital to poodles because their coats will quickly grow unhealthy if they are not regularly maintained. This includes daily brushing and bathing, nail clipping, and grooming treatment every month.
2. Silver Coloration in Poodles Is Recessive
Silver poodles are rare because the silver color is genetically recessive, and the silver poodle requires two versions of the silver gene. Even when crossing two silver poodles, it is not guaranteed that the offspring will all be silver. Some possible results include silver beige, cream, or white poodles.
3. Poodles Have Been a Favorite of American Icons
Throughout history, many celebrities have kept poodles as beloved pets. The list includes music icons like Elvis Presley, who was known for loving poodles and giving them as gifts to girls he liked. They have also been seen hanging around Marilyn Monroe, Jackie Kennedy, and Walt Disney.
Does the Silver Poodle Make a Good Pet?
Silver poodles, just like any other color of the standard poodle, are known to be excellent pets. Their intelligence makes them easy to train, and their energetic nature makes them great companions for any activity.
When it comes to caring for a poodle, grooming will require time and dedication. Daily brushing is a must, and the brushing will need to include the base of the coat all the way to the ends. If all of the hair is not properly brushed, your poodle will be more prone to developing painful mats in its fur.
You will also need to learn how to trim your poodle’s coat, or you will need to be prepared to pay a groomer for monthly clips. Poodles should be trimmed every 4–6 weeks. Likewise, their nails should be trimmed, and they should be bathed just as regularly.
Conclusion
Poodles make great companions, and the silver color simply adds to the allure. If you are considering adding a silver poodle to your family, it is important to remember that poodles are more than just pretty-looking dogs. They are intelligent and energetic companions with a lot of love to offer.
Featured Image Credit: dezy, Shutterstock
