Parti Poodles are a unique and colorful variation of the standard Poodle breed. Known for their striking and distinctive coat patterns, they have recently gained popularity among dog lovers as an alternative to the more traditional solid-colored Poodles.
Parti Poodles can come in various colors, including white, black, brown, and red, with large patches of contrasting colors covering their body.
In addition to their beautiful coat, they are also intelligent, affectionate, and highly trainable dogs, making them popular for show and companion purposes. This article will explore the history, characteristics, and care requirements of dog breed.
What is a Parti Poodle?
Parti Poodles have a unique coat pattern with two distinct colors. “Parti” means “partial,” indicating that these dogs have spots or patches of two colors.
White is the primary base coat, covering at least half of their body, while the secondary color can vary, such as black, brown, or red.
Due to a recessive gene, Parti Poodles are rare and special. Dive deeper to know more about them!
History of Parti Poodle
Parti Poodles, a special and unique form of Poodles, have been around for centuries, contrary to popular belief. Artworks from the 1800s and earlier are rife with depictions of Poodles with black-and-white or brown-and-white patches. A famous portrait of Rembrandt from 1631 shows him alongside his very own brown-and-white Parti Poodle!
However, with the increasing popularity of dog shows and selective breeding for certain physical traits, the Parti coloring became undesired in Poodles. Consequently, many breeders chose to eliminate them by culling the pups soon after birth. Even today, the American Kennel Club (AKC) prohibits Parti Poodles from being exhibited in shows.
Are Parti Poodles purebred?
Yes, Parti Poodles are purebred. Their unique coloring isn’t from mixing breeds but from variations in the MITF gene. Interestingly, two solid-colored Poodles can even produce a Parti puppy. Yet, some mistakenly think they’re crossbreeds or doodles.
What Does a Parti Poodle Look Like?
The Parti Poodle is a stunning creature with a unique two-tone coat comprising 50% white and 50% of any other standard Poodle color. The patches typically appear over the ears and eyes, creating a striking contrast that sets them apart from other multi-colored Poodles.
While the Tuxedo Poodle has white markings on its chest, belly, and legs, and the Mismark Poodle has more minor white spots covering less than 50% of its fur, the Parti Poodle is the most popular of the multi-colored Poodles.
Size, height, and weight
- In terms of size, the standard can grow beyond 15 inches and weigh between 40 to 70 pounds.
- Meanwhile, the mini ranges between 10 to 15 inches and weighs 10 to 20 pounds.
- The toy is the smallest of the three, growing to less than 10 inches and weighing as little as 5 pounds.
| Size Group | Height Range | Weight Range |
| Teacup | Below 9 inches | Under 6 pounds |
| Toy | 9-11 inches | 6-9 pounds |
| Miniature | 10-15 inches | 10-20 pounds |
| Moyen | 14-18 inches | 20-30 pounds |
| Standard | 15-24 inches | 40-70 pounds |
Temperament and Personality
Regarding temperament, Poodles are a breed of dog renowned for their astute intellect and ardent devotion to their chosen person. These furry companions require daily exercise and ample interaction to maintain their emotional well-being and good decorum. However, if left idle, a Poodle’s temperament can devolve into undesirable behaviors such as separation anxiety, destructiveness, and even reactivity.
It is important to note that a Poodle, regardless of color, requires at least two hours of daily care and attention. Without such devoted care and engagement, Poodles can develop anxiety that renders them “nervy,” leading to excessive barking or unsavory habits of indoor urination.
Furthermore, Poodles are not suited for extended periods of solitude, as this breed has a propensity for loneliness-induced distress. Consequently, owning a Poodle may not be the most suitable choice if one’s lifestyle involves extensive hours of employment or frequent weekend getaways.
Is Parti Poodle a good fit for families?
Parti Poodles are great family dogs due to their friendly temperament and adaptability. They get along with households of any size, single individuals or families with kids.
Unlike some other breeds, they are not aggressive toward other dogs and have a moderate prey drive, which means they can coexist with other pets.
When choosing a family puppy, temperament, energy level, aggression, and health are essential considerations. Parti Poodles score high in all these areas, making them an excellent choice for families.
Additionally, they are hypoallergenic, so people with canine allergies can enjoy their company without any issues.
Training
When training, a few key factors should be considered.
- First and foremost, like all Poodles, the Parti variant is brilliant and requires daily mental and physical exercise. Early-age training is an optimal way to instill positive behavioral patterns and ensure your pup develops into a well-behaved, enjoyable companion.
- Only positive reinforcement methods must be employed during the training process. To illustrate, frequent and consistent use of treats can serve as a highly effective means of communicating desired behavior to your Parti Poodle. If your canine is highly food-driven, use their regular dog food as a training tool.
- It would help if you aimed to impart several critical skills to your Parti Poodle during the training process. These include the ability to come when called (which could be a life-saving skill in the future!), walking appropriately on a leash, refraining from darting out the door, sitting politely upon request, and avoiding jumping up at individuals.
- Suppose small animals are present in your household. In that case, focusing on impulse control and managing prey drive is vital to ensure that your Parti Poodle Can peacefully coexist with other pets. With the proper training techniques, Poodles can happily share living quarters with cats and other animals.
Exercise Requirements
Parti Poodles require daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from getting bored and engaging in unwanted behaviors like chewing and digging. Inadequate training can make them restless and unhappy.
They need 45 to 60 minutes of outdoor playtime each day. You can take them for a run, a walk, or a swim. Keeping them active and engaged ensures their physical and mental health.
Living Conditions
Parti Poodles are versatile in terms of living conditions, but they are best suited to homes with large yards where they can run and play to their heart’s content. If you live in an apartment, you can still have one, as long as you commit to taking them for walks and regular exercise.
These dogs thrive on social interaction and may become anxious if left alone for long periods. This is something to remember if you’re considering adding this breed to your household.
Grooming and Cleaning
When grooming your Parti Poodle, several factors should be considered.
- Firstly, many owners are drawn to Poodles and their hybrids due to their hypoallergenic qualities and non-shedding coats. However, your Parti Poodle will require regular brushing and bathing!
- Brushing your Poodle’s skin several times a week and scheduling a professional groomer to trim and bathe your pup every one or two months is of utmost importance. This is because matting can occur rapidly in their thick, coarse coat, and if left unattended, it can become so severe that the dog may need to be shaved down to the skin.
- For optimal results, every Poodle owner should start bringing their furry friend to a professional groomer from a young age. This will ensure that the coat is consistently well-maintained and looks its best.
Remember, with proper grooming, your dog can maintain their adorable appearance while remaining comfortable and healthy.
Are Parti Poodles Hypoallergenic?
Yes, Parti Poodles are considered hypoallergenic. They have a coat that sheds minimally, which reduces the likelihood of triggering allergic reactions.
They also produce less dander, drool, and urine compared to many other breeds, which are common allergens.
Therefore, they are often suitable for individuals with dog allergies, especially with consistent grooming and care.
Food and Diet
Parti Poodles require a nutritious and balanced diet to keep them energized and in good shape. Opt for high-quality dry kibble that is gentle on their stomachs and promotes healthy teeth and gums.
Home-cooked meals are another option that can provide your furry friend with all the essential nutrients they need. Lean proteins like beef, salmon, and chicken, along with vegetables such as spinach, carrots, and potatoes, as well as eggs and cheese, are all great choices.
To prevent bloating, it’s best to feed your dog several small meals throughout the day rather than one large meal. This approach can also help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent hunger-induced behavioral issues.
Common Health Issues
Parti Poodles are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to specific health issues. Some of the most common health problems that may face include:
1. Bloat
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is a problematic health concern that commonly plagues standard Parti Poodles. Canine bloat, as it’s commonly called, is frequently seen in larger dog breeds and those with deep chests.
Symptoms include an enlarged stomach and irregular behavior, which can quickly lead to fatality if not addressed by a veterinarian on time.
2. Addison’s disease
Parti Poodles are susceptible to Addison’s disease, a medical condition that occurs when the dog’s adrenal glands fail to produce enough cortisol. This can lead to several symptoms, such as weakness, weight loss, and abdominal pain.
However, the disease can be treated effectively with early diagnosis and proper management. Monitoring your Parti Poodle’s health and scheduling regular check-ups with the vet is crucial.
3. Hypothyroidism
Parti Poodles are susceptible to hypothyroidism, which affects the thyroid gland’s ability to produce enough hormones.
Common symptoms include weight gain without an increase in appetite, lethargy, dryness of the skin or coat, and behavioral changes. However, with proper medical attention and management, thyroid problems can be controlled.
So, if you notice any changes in your Parti poodle’s behavior, get them checked out by a vet as soon as possible!
4. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
PRA, a genetic eye disease in dogs, can lead to gradual blindness. The disease starts with poor vision in dim light and can progress to total vision loss, even in broad daylight.
5. Von Willebrand’s disease (VWD)
Von Willebrand’s disease, or VWD, is an inherited bleeding disorder that affects Parti Poodles. VWD is caused by the lack of a clotting protein in the blood, which can result in prolonged bleeding after injury or surgery. This disease can be mild or severe, leading to harmful complications if not treated.
6. Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the bones and joints of your Parti Poodle, leading to mobility issues. It’s widespread in larger dogs, such as the standard Parti Poodle.
How Long Does a Parti Poodle Live?
Parti Poodles can expect to live a long and healthy life like their one-color buddies. The lifespan of a Standard Poodle is about 13 years, while Miniature Poodles can expect to make it to 15, and Toy Poodles are champs, often living until they are 17 years old! This is consistent with the idea that smaller dogs live longer than larger ones.
Don’t let their colorful coats fool you – Parti Poodles are just as healthy as their solid-colored cousins. So don’t fret. Your furry friend will be around for many happy years!
How Much Is The Price of a Parti Poodle?
These dogs can cost you a pretty penny, especially if you want a purebred one. Puppy from a reputable breeder can set you back anywhere from $700 to $1,500. But if you want the smaller toy or mini variants, get ready to pay up to $2,000 or more! And if you’re looking for a rare color combination, expect to pay even more.
But don’t fret if you can’t afford a breeder. You can always adopt one from an animal shelter for a lower or even free price!
Is Parti Poodle Right For Me?
The decision to get a Parti Poodle, a solid-colored Poodle, or a Phantom Poodle will depend entirely on your taste. It’s important to note that temperament and personality are not influenced by color or pattern.
Color should not be the sole factor in selecting a puppy. It would help if you prioritized the health of the puppy, a friendly personality, and compatibility with your family.
Remember that if you plan to participate in AKC dog shows, a Parti Poodle will not be eligible to compete. However, if you’re looking for a distinctively colored companion dog that will be a loyal companion wherever you go, the Parti Poodle is a perfect choice!
List of dogs that are similar to Parti Poodle
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Parti Poodles Shed A Lot?
No, Parti Poodles do not shed a lot. Their curly coat traps shed hairs, making shedding less noticeable than in other breeds.
However, regular brushing is important to remove these trapped hairs and prevent matting, ensuring the minimal shedding remains manageable and does not contribute to allergy concerns.
Do Kennel clubs recognize Parti Poodles?
Yes, Parti Poodles are recognized by some kennel clubs, but not all. For instance, the American Kennel Club (AKC) does recognize them and allows them to participate in non-conformation events like obedience and agility, but they are not eligible for conformation shows that judge the dogs’ physical appearance.
On the other hand, the United Kennel Club (UKC) permits Parti Poodles to compete in conformation shows.
However, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) does not recognize Parti Poodles, as they only accept solid-colored Poodles in their standards.
Despite this, Parti Poodles are becoming more popular and are gradually being accepted by more kennel clubs.
What is the difference between a Phantom Poodle and a Parti Poodle?
A Phantom Poodle features a single solid color with a sprinkle of a secondary color that only covers small parts of the body, such as the chest, eyebrows, or legs.
In contrast, a Parti Poodle requires at least 50% white fur and a mixture of patches with a second color distributed all over its body.
The pattern of colors in Parti is more haphazard and distinctively unique every time!
Do the Parti Poodles change colors when they grow older?
Yes, Parti Poodles can change colors as they grow older. This process, known as “clearing,” is common in Poodles and can lead to their coat color fading or changing over time. The degree and pattern of color change can vary based on the dog’s genetics and original coat color.
For instance, black may fade to blue, and red may lighten to a cream or apricot shade. This color change is a natural aspect of the breed’s development and does not impact their health or behavior.
What is the rarest color in Poodle?
Red is considered the rarest color for Poodles because it is produced by a gene recessive to all colors except white.
Breeding a red Poodle intentionally is challenging, which makes red-and-white Parti Poodles even rarer.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) only acknowledged red as a Poodle color 1980, making it a relatively recent addition to the breed’s recognized hues.
Are the Parti Poodles rare?
No, Parti Poodles are not exactly rare, but they are less common than solid-colored Poodles.
Breeders often focus on solid colors to meet the breed standards set for dog shows, which makes the Parti Poodles less prevalent in the show ring and potentially in breeding programs.
However, they can still be found and are becoming more popular among those who favor their unique coloring.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Parti Poodles are a unique and fascinating breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers in recent years. Their distinctive coat patterns and charming personalities make them popular for show and companion purposes.
However, it’s essential to remember that Parti Poodles require proper care, including regular grooming, exercise, and socialization, to ensure they lead happy and healthy lives. Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion or a show dog, the Parti Poodle is a breed worth considering. You can enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding relationship with these delightful dogs for many years by giving them the lo