Poodle

The national dog of France, poodles come in three sizes: Toy, Miniature and Standard. Though often associated primarily with the French, the breed likely originated in Germany or Russia, and took its modern form in France. They are obedient dogs, adept at retrieving and agility training.

Poodles are prone to several illnesses, though most are treatable. Addison's disease is common and can go undiagnosed for years based on unclear early symptoms. Poodles with Addison's will exhibit a lack of energy and stomach problems. Miniature and Toy Poodles tend to live longer than Standard Poodles, though these breeds are more susceptible to kidney disease.

Several prominent figures own or owned poodles. John Steinbeck wrote about his black poodle in Travels with Charley. Patrick Swayze has a poodle named Derek and Winston Churchill's was named Rufus.