5 Unusual Facts About Poodles

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Intelligence

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Poodles are really smart dog breeds, and when you combine that with their friendliness you end up with a dog that's easy to train.

Shed Little, Smell Less

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Poodles shed a great deal less than other dogs, particularly dogs who are just as big and just as furry.

Shed Little, Smell Less

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Poodles also smell less, which is a great relief for owners who really want a loving animal companion.

Older Than You Think

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Depictions of this particular dog breed go all the way back to the days of ancient Rome.

Beloved in France

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France even went so far as to declare the poodle as their national dog.

The Iditarod Race

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When you think of the Iditarod dog race, you probably think of fierce huskies, and mountainous malamutes.

The Iditarod Race

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However, in 1988, someone actually ran the race with a team of poodles.

The Iditarod Race

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While there was no rule against that at the time, it was a particularly poor choice both for the owner and for the dogs.

The Iditarod Race

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After their poor performance, and the conditions the dogs were left in, a new rule was established.

The Iditarod Race

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That specified only northern breeds were allowed to run in that particular race.