Description: This is a small dog that stands between 9 and 12 inches in height, with bitches being a bit smaller. Its weight is from 7 to 12 pounds. This robust but small dog looks like a ball of fluff. When cut to the breed standard it looks round, this may be in a puppy cut, which is the same length throughout the body. You can also have a poodle cut or a puffy coat with the muzzle and paws clipped. The skull is slightly round to the eye. The muzzle is shorter than the skull and not pointed. Their eyes can be brown or black. His ears hang close to his head and are covered by his long hair. In this breed, the teeth should meet in a scissor bite. Its legs are straight and in good proportion to the body. Its tail is carried over the back. They have a wonderful double coat that is soft and curly. Their outer coat is three to four inches thicker than the soft, substantial undercoat. The colors are cream, apricot gray and the solid white, which is a favorite in the show ring.
History: The history of this puppy dates back to the 13th century. They have traveled extensively and because of their sunny disposition they were used as barter by many sailors. They became popular in Spain. Became known as the sailor’s dog which also enjoyed water and retrieval, but is not a true retriever or water dog. Here we see a dog whose role is that of companion. His popularity increased dramatically at the court of Henry III. This breed became the favorite of the French courts in the 16th century. In the 19th century, we see the dog transitioning from the courts to working for a living, being a circus dog and popular with organ grinders to draw a crowd. This little dog was brought to the United States in 1955. Today this dog is a companion dog. It descends from the Barbet Water Spaniel and the poodle, from which it gets its beautiful fur.
Temperament: This, as in his story, is a good companion, loving to be with his human family. This dog is intelligent, bold and lively showing great affection. He is not a barking dog, he is easy to train and with his charm he wants the owner to be happy. Here we have a dog that is naturally sociable, getting along with all members of the family. They are fine with other pets and are good within the canine world. As you can imagine here we have a dog that gets along great with children. With all that said, these dogs can make a good watchdog. Here we have an obedient and competitive nature. Potty training this dog can be challenging, but this breed gets it done in the end. Need firm rules, give the dog the knowledge he needs to please you. All dogs need good leadership, but here is a dog that will love to follow a good leader, and will get the best out of this breed. Without this, the dog can bark obsessively, have separation anxiety, and become an agile dog, far from the dog we talked about first. All of this doesn’t have to happen, with good leadership on his part. By needing daily walks with his family, this dog will be happy and balanced.
Health Issues – This breed can have epilepsy, cataracts, skin problems, and this also includes sensitivity to flea bites, dislocated kneecaps, ear problems, and watery eyes.
Grooming: With bathing required monthly and grooming a few times a week, you’ll still need to take this dog to a salon for monthly professional grooming.
Living Conditions – This is a happy breed and will only want to be with its human family so this dog can easily live in an apartment as long as they get daily walks, play will help get that energy out but all dogs love it walk. . This dog is fine without a garden, but you have to take him for a walk.