The poodle is a beloved breed of dog that has been around for centuries. But not all poodles are created equal; some are purebred, while others are mixed breeds. Understanding the difference between purebred poodles and mixed-breed dogs is essential to ensure you’re getting the right dog for you and your family and kids.

Knowing how to recognize a purebred poodle can help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next pet companion.

What Is a Purebred Dog?

A purebred dog has been bred to a set standard of characteristics and is registered with a breed registry. Purebred dogs are typically uniform in physical traits, temperament, and health. To be considered purebred, a dog must have ancestry that can be traced back to the same breed.

The breeder should have complete records of the dogs in the bloodline and certifications from a veterinary or kennel club. Many purebreds are known as “show dogs” and have been bred specifically for showing.

What Does It Mean for a Poodle to Be Purebred?

The poodle must have documented lineage from a recognized breed standard to be considered a purebred poodle. This includes confirmation (the physical traits of size, shape, and color) and health. If a poodle does not meet these standards, it is not considered a purebred.

Besides, a purebred poodle must be registered with a kennel or breed club. To be eligible for registration, the dog’s parents and their breeding must be verified. The sire and dam must have the same breed characteristics and an excellent temperament to be considered purebred poodles. Any registered purebred poodle should have a valid registration certificate from the kennel or breed club that certifies its pedigree.

How to Tell If My Poodle Is Purebred

There are many ways to tell if your poodle is purebred. However, the best way to know is by requesting certain documents you should always see before purchasing a purebred poodle. Here are some of the most common ways to check.

Check the Pedigree

Pedigrees can help determine a poodle’s ancestry and confirm that it is indeed a purebred. The pedigree papers should list the names and registration numbers of at least three generations of ancestors and a statement that the poodle is purebred. If the pedigree does not include this information, it is likely not a purebred poodle.

Look for Breed-Specific Markings

A purebred poodle can be identified through its physical traits. Purebred poodles have distinct markings that are unique to their breed. These include the “particolored” pattern, a patchwork of white, black, and red patches. Other breed-specific markings have the “brindle” pattern, a mix of brown and black, and the “sable” pattern, a light to dark brown color or the phantom poodle.

Look for the AKC Registration Number

The American Kennel Club (AKC) is the primary registry for purebred dogs in the United States. All purebred poodles should have an AKC registration number that can be found on their collar or paperwork.

Ask for Genetic Testing Results

Genetic testing can confirm that a poodle is purebred. If the breeder has had the poodle tested, they should be able to provide documentation of the results. Genetic testing, like DNA tests, can confirm that a purebred poodle is at least 95% similar to its breed standard.

Check for Breed-Specific Health Issues

Purebred poodles are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, ear infections, and thyroid issues. Ask the breeder or vet for information on the poodle’s health to ensure it is healthy and free of any genetic problems.

Ask for a Veterinary Health Certificate

A veterinary health certificate is an official document issued by a licensed veterinarian that confirms the poodle’s health. It should include information on vaccinations, parasite control, and other health issues. If a breeder cannot provide this document, then it is likely that the poodle is not purebred.

Compare to the Official Breed Standards

The official breed standard for the poodle can be found on the American Kennel Club website. It outlines specific characteristics of a purebred poodle, including size, coat texture, and color. Compare your poodle’s physical features with the breed standard to ensure it is purebred.

Consult an Expert

If you are still trying to decide if your poodle is purebred, consult a reputable breeder or vet who specializes in the poodle breed. They can offer knowledgeable advice and determine whether your poodle is purebred.

What Does a Purebred Poodle Look Like?

A purebred poodle should have a symmetrical look and conformation (body shape). A standard-sized poodle should be between 15 and 22 inches tall, with a strong body and an alert expression. Its coat should be curly and range from white to cream, apricot, black, silver, or blue. The breed also comes in various sizes, including toy, standard, and miniature poodles.

Purebred poodles should have a distinct appearance, including dark eyes with an alert expression and oval-shaped ears. Its back should be straight and level, and its curly tail should be carried high. The breed is also known for its signature “poodle clip,” a precise trim of the fur around the body and legs.

Can Purebred Poodles Be Multicolored?

Purebred poodles can have multicolored coats, although some dog breeds may restrict the correct color. For example, the AKC does not accept solid-colored toy poodles other than black, white, apricot, cream, or silver. Additionally, there are breed standards that determine acceptable combinations of colors. For instance, the AKC Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) states that only specific combinations of black, white, and apricot can create a multicolored poodle coat.

When it comes to purebred poodles, there are also pure breeds that come in solid colors. For example, the parti poodle is a rare breed of a primarily white poodle with patches of another color. The most common “parti” patterns are black and white, blue and white, apricot and white, and silver and white.

Where to Buy a Purebred Poodle?

When looking for a purebred poodle, the best place to start is with a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders will know about the dog breed and be able to provide information about the dog’s lineage. They should also be able to answer health and temperament questions.

Another option is to look for puppy mills, shelters, or rescue organizations with purebred poodles. These organizations often provide access to dogs that have been bred responsibly and have been screened for health and temperament. Additionally, many of these organizations offer the opportunity to adopt a purebred poodle.

Lastly, purchasing a purebred poodle from a pet store is possible. However, this should only be done with caution as pet stores may have a different level of knowledge and information than a reputable breeder will have. Additionally, pet stores may not always be able to guarantee the health or temperament of their poodles.

How to Tell If the Poodle I’m Buying Is Purebred?

Ask for Written Documentation

If you’re planning to buy a purebred poodle, ask the breeder or vet for written documentation of the poodle’s breed and health. This is important to ensure you purchase a genuine, healthy purebred poodle.

Examine the Physical Characteristics

The physical characteristics of a poodle are one of the best ways to determine whether it is a purebred. A purebred poodle should have the same look and stature as other poodles of the same breed. For instance, a miniature poodle should be at most 10 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh less than 15 pounds. They should have a straight and level back, oval-shaped ears, dark eyes with an alert expression, and the signature poodle clip.

Ask the Breeder or Seller Questions

The breeder or seller should be able to provide information about the poodle’s lineage and health history. Ask for documentation from the breeder or seller, such as AKC or FCI registration papers. Additionally, the breeder should be able to provide a detailed description of the breed’s personality and care requirements.

Get a Professional Opinion

Lastly, getting a professional opinion on the poodle’s breed is always a good idea. A veterinarian can help determine if the poodle is purebred by examining its physical characteristics, such as size and coat color. If there are doubts, a DNA test can also be done to confirm the breed.

How Much Does a Purebred Poodle Cost?

The cost of a purebred poodle varies depending on the size and pedigree. A toy poodle can cost between $500 and $3,000, while a standard poodle may cost between $1,500 and $4,000. The price of a purebred poodle can also vary depending on its color, as some colors are rare and, therefore, more expensive. Additionally, the cost of a purebred poodle can increase if the dog has been bred to show standards or has a purebred lineage.

When buying a purebred poodle, it is essential to consider the price, quality of care, and attention given to the dog. Reputable breeders will often provide health certificates, breed papers, and any additional information about the specific dog. It is also essential to determine if the breeder offers a health guarantee for their poodles.

In addition to the initial purchase price, it is essential to consider the ongoing costs associated with owning a purebred poodle. These costs should include food, vaccinations, grooming, and preventative medical care. Taking the time to research these costs before buying a purebred poodle can help to ensure that the dog’s needs are met.