Blue Poodles: The Rare and Beautiful Canine Breed

Poodle breeders often face the challenge of meeting the demands of buyers when it comes to coat color.

While some colors are common and readily available, others such as apricot and blue are rare, making them highly sought after by potential owners.

Blue poodles are one of the many colorations available for this breed.

They are purebred and allowed to participate in conformation rings, and come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard.

In this article, everything you need to know about blue poodles will be covered, including their care, lifespan, cost, and other interesting facts.

Are Blue Poodles Real?

Blue poodles are a real and recognized breed by the American Kennel Club since 1928. They come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy.

Blue poodles have a unique bluish hue that makes them stand out from other poodle colors.

They are born with a very dark or black coat color that will gradually fade into their permanent blue color over time.

Blue poodles are just as much a purebred dog as any other poodle, and they are just as loving, intelligent, and loyal as any other poodle too.

DNA testing is an easy and precise way to learn more about your blue poodle.

What Does a Blue Poodle Look Like?

Blue poodles have a unique silvered black coat that appears to be blue-grey in color.

Their coat texture is curly and dense, and their hair is fluffy and soft to the touch. Blue poodles have dark brown eyes, black nose, rim, and lips.

They come in three different sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. Blue poodles are born black, but their coat color fades as they age, and they undergo a “clearing” phase in their first two years of development where the coat darkens to dark shades of gray.

Overall, blue poodles make great companions and family pets and are a unique-looking show poodle.

How to Tell if Your Poodle Is Blue?

Blue Poodles are not actually blue, but rather have a unique silvered black coat that fades as they grow older.

The blue coloration is caused by a dilution of the black coat gene, which occurs when a black Poodle inherits two copies of the dilution gene from its parents.

Blue Poodle puppies often look completely black when they are born and are often officially registered as such.

However, experienced breeders can tell from the onset that a puppy has blue pigment just by looking at how white or silver the puppy’s hair is between their paws.

As the puppy grows, the black hair may have an almost brown cast to it that is especially noticeable under the bright sun.

With maturity, the color may dilute into dark blue or even dark metallic gray.

Black hairs can take on different colors at the root, and the coat of a blue Poodle may show varying shades of the same color.

Despite this, some blue Poodles are born blue and possess black hair into adulthood.

These Poodles may be described as “ashy” colored or too light to be considered black and too dark to qualify as silver.

To qualify as a “true” blue Poodle, the dog should have black points and dark eyes, which are always considered “true” regardless of their coat color.

If you are unsure whether your Poodle is blue, you can look for certain physical characteristics.

Blue Poodles have a greyish-blue hue on their body, undercoat, and some of their head fur. Some blue Poodles may also have blue eyes, although this is not a definitive characteristic of the breed.

In short, determining whether your Poodle is blue can be challenging, especially when they are young.

However, by looking for the physical characteristics of the breed and consulting with an experienced breeder, you can determine if your Poodle is a true blue.

Blue Poodle vs Black Poodle

Blue poodles are often mistaken for black poodles due to their similar appearance. However, there are distinct differences between the two that can help identify them.

One way to tell the difference is by looking at the color of the hair in between their paw pads. Blue poodle puppies will have white or silver colored hair, while black poodles will have black hair in this area.

Additionally, blue poodles will have brown highlights on their black hair, which can be seen in sunlight or with a flash.

It is important to note that many breeders may mistakenly sell black poodles as blues, as the blue coloration often develops later in life.

This can lead to confusion for owners who believe they have a bad black poodle when it is actually a blue.

However, a blue poodle is a legitimate coloration and not a bad black.

Table: Differences between Blue and Black Poodles

It is also important to note that blue poodles are not to be confused with parti-colored poodles, which have a mix of colors such as gray and black or brown and black. Blue poodles are a distinct coloration and should not be referred to as phantom or sable poodles.

In conclusion, while blue and black poodles may appear similar, there are clear differences in their coloration that can help identify them. By paying attention to the color of their paw pad hair and any brown highlights on their black hair, owners can determine whether their poodle is a blue or black.

Blue Poodle vs Silver Poodle

Blue and silver poodles have some similarities, but there are also some differences between them. Both of these types of poodles are born black, but their coats fade to different shades as they grow older. A silver poodle fades much faster than a blue poodle, and by the time a silver poodle’s face is shaved for the first time, it will be a bright, shining silver with black hair everywhere else. On the other hand, a blue poodle takes a lot longer to fade than a silver poodle, and most do not exhibit a paler look until after the first year of life.

As adults, it can be difficult to tell the difference between light blues and dark silvers. However, generally speaking, a silver poodle is much lighter and brighter than a blue poodle. Adult blues are sometimes mistaken for bad blacks, making the choice difficult. This is typically not an issue with silver poodles since they’re so much lighter than blue.

In summary, while blue and silver poodles may look similar, there are some distinct differences between them in terms of how quickly their coats fade and their overall shade.

Are Blue Poodles Purebred?

Blue Poodles are indeed purebred dogs. A purebred dog is one that comes from a long line of its breed and has been bred from the same breed for many generations.

This means that if both parents of a Poodle puppy are Poodles, the puppy is considered purebred.

Some breeders may try to pass off mixed-breed puppies as purebreds, so it is crucial to ask questions and do research before purchasing a puppy.

Blue is a recognized standard color for purebred Poodles, and the shade of blue can vary from dog to dog.

Purebred blue Poodles are born with a very dark or black coat color that will gradually fade into their permanent blue color over time.

It is essential to ensure that the breeding is done with purebred Poodles to maintain the breed standard and avoid crossbreeding.

The merle gene, which can cause health issues, should also be avoided in breeding purebred Poodles.

Are Blue Poodles Rare?

Blue Poodles are considered a rarer coat color compared to black, brown, and white Poodles.

However, they are not as rare as parti, apricot, red, and cream Poodles. Despite their rarity, blue Poodles are not necessarily more expensive than other colors. In fact, the most common colors such as black and white are often the most expensive.

Blue Poodle AKC

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes blue poodles as a purebred dog and allows them to compete in dog shows. Poodles come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard, and can live from 12 to 15 years. Blue poodles may have black points or self-colored points, which refer to the color of their nose, lips, eyeliner, and pads. Self-colored points mean that the points are the same color as their coat. AKC’s Poodle Standard Notes provide a detailed description of the ideal poodle and serve as a guideline for judging at shows.

Are Blue Poodles Desirable?

Blue Poodles are highly desirable among dog lovers due to their unique and rare coat color. Although they are less common than other poodle colors, their charming personalities and striking appearance make them a popular choice for those looking for a distinctive pet. The blue color of their coat is caused by a dilution gene, which results in a cool gray or silver color. This coloring is highly sought after and can be a point of pride for owners. While blue poodles may not be as common as other poodle colors, their rarity only adds to their appeal for those seeking a special and unique companion.

Are Blue Poodles Born Black?

Blue poodles are often born with black fur, which will gradually fade to a lighter shade over the course of two years. During the clearing phase, blues may lose their brown color and develop a whitish ring around their snout. When shaved, the face of a blue poodle puppy will look lighter than that of a black poodle, but not as light as a silver poodle. It is not uncommon for blue poodles to have a dark grey or blue-grey coat color after the clearing phase. Varying degrees of shading are acceptable for purebred blue poodles.

Are Blue Standard Poodles Rare?

Blue Standard Poodles are considered rare compared to their black and tan counterparts, which are more common. These dogs weigh between 40 to 70 pounds and stand 18 to 24 inches tall. Their lifespan ranges from 12 to 15 years. Despite their rarity, Blue Standard Poodles are a beloved breed among dog enthusiasts due to their unique silvered black coat and affectionate personality.

Do Blue Poodles Fade?

Blue poodles, like black and brown poodles, can experience a change in coat color as they age due to the progressive graying gene mutation found on the G locus. This mutation causes the coat color of blue poodles to fade gradually, starting around the second or third month of age.

It is important to note that not all blue poodles have this gene mutation, and it is more common in certain lines and colors. If one of the parents of a blue poodle has experienced progressive graying, there is a 50% chance that their puppies will too.

Blue poodle puppies often appear black when born but undergo a ‘clearing’ phase that changes their coat color to dark gray or blue-gray. This change occurs gradually over the course of their first two years of life.

If a blue poodle is shaved, their face will be lighter than that of a black poodle but darker than that of a silver poodle. While some owners have expressed mixed feelings about the ‘clearing’ phase, it does not fundamentally impact the personality of the poodle.

It is important to bond with your poodle regardless of their coat color. Poodles are intelligent dogs that make good family pets and have a gentle disposition towards children and other dogs in the household. The color of a poodle’s coat does not change their behavior or their love for their owner.

How Big Do Blue Poodles Get?

When considering getting a blue poodle, it’s important to know what size they will grow to be. Blue poodles come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy.

The Standard Blue Poodle is the largest of the three, reaching over 15 inches in height and weighing between 45 to 70 pounds. Miniature Blue Poodles are smaller, coming in at 11-15 inches in height and weighing around 15-17 pounds. Toy Blue Poodles are even smaller, only growing up to 10 inches and weighing a mere 4-6 pounds, making them an adorable option for those who want a smaller dog.

It is important to note that there are also unofficial variations of the blue poodle, such as the Micro Poodle, Teacup Poodle, Moyen Poodle, and Royal Standard Poodle. However, these variations are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and are produced through controversial breeding practices that have caused concern within the poodle community.

Ultimately, when choosing a blue poodle, it is important to consider the size that will best fit your living space and lifestyle.

How Long Do Blue Poodles Live?

Blue poodles are known for their long lifespan, which makes them a popular choice for families looking for a long-term pet.

On average, blue poodles live between 12 and 15 years, which is slightly longer than the average lifespan for dogs in general, which is about 10 to 13 years.

Size is an important factor that can affect a poodle’s lifespan.

Smaller poodles like toy or miniature poodles tend to live longer than standard-sized poodles.

Gender, on the other hand, does not seem to have an impact on lifespan.

To ensure that your blue poodle lives a long and healthy life, it is important to provide them with proper nutrition, regular veterinary care, and plenty of exercise.

Feeding your poodle the right food in the right amount, getting them vaccinated regularly, and keeping them active with regular walks and playtime with other dogs are all important ways to keep your poodle healthy.

Additionally, providing your poodle with plenty of affection and socialization with other humans can help them live a long and happy life.

Grooming a Blue Poodle

Grooming a blue poodle is an essential part of maintaining their health and appearance. Poodles have long, curly coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Here are some tips to help you groom your blue poodle like a pro:

• Brush your blue poodle’s coat regularly to prevent matting and tangling. Use a slicker brush or a comb with wide-set teeth to gently remove any tangles or knots. Brushing your poodle’s coat daily is recommended to keep it looking healthy and shiny.
• Bathe your blue poodle regularly to keep their coat clean and free from pests. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner designed for dogs to prevent skin irritation and dryness. Be sure to rinse your poodle thoroughly to remove all shampoo and conditioner residue.
• Trim your blue poodle’s nails regularly to prevent them from growing too long and catching on anything sharp. Use a pair of dog nail clippers to trim your poodle’s nails every few weeks.
• Pay attention to your blue poodle’s grooming requirements. Some poodles may require more frequent grooming than others depending on their coat type and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian or a professional groomer for advice on how often to groom your blue poodle.

In addition to regular grooming, proper nutrition is also essential for maintaining your blue poodle’s coat health. A balanced diet that includes high-quality protein and essential fatty acids can help keep your poodle’s coat shiny and healthy.

Common Blue Poodle Health Issues

Blue Poodles are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of these conditions can help you take proper care of your furry friend.

Here are some of the most common health issues that affect Blue Poodles:

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joints do not develop properly, leading to pain, discomfort, and lameness. This condition can cause arthritis and other joint problems that can affect mobility over time. Blue Poodles may be more prone to hip dysplasia due to their genetics, so it’s important to monitor their movement and take them for regular check-ups.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones to support the dog’s body functions properly. This can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and other health problems. Blue Poodles can be prone to hypothyroidism, so it’s important to monitor their weight and energy levels and take them to the vet if you notice any changes.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes seizures in dogs. Blue Poodles may be more prone to this condition, so it’s important to watch for symptoms like shaking, drooling, and loss of consciousness. Medication can help manage epilepsy, but it’s important to work with your vet to find the right treatment plan.

Addison’s Disease

Addison’s Disease is a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. This can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and other symptoms. Blue Poodles may be more prone to Addison’s Disease, so it’s important to watch for symptoms and take them to the vet if you notice any changes.

Bloating

Bloating in dogs is a life-threatening condition where the stomach or intestines fill with gas and twist around themselves. This can be caused by eating too fast or other factors. Blue Poodles may be more prone to bloating due to their size and activity level, so it’s important to monitor their eating habits and seek immediate medical attention if you suspect bloating.

Overall, Blue Poodles are generally healthy dogs, but it’s important to be aware of these common health issues and take proper care of your furry friend. Regular check-ups with your vet can help catch any health problems early and ensure your dog stays healthy and happy.

Are Blue Poodles Healthy?

Blue Poodles are generally healthy dogs, but they can be vulnerable to certain hereditary health conditions.

One such condition is Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA), also known as Blue Dog Syndrome. This condition affects dogs with diluted coat color, including blue Poodles.

CDA is a form of follicular dysplasia and can cause hair loss, skin irritation, and infection.

However, with proper care and attention, blue Poodles can live long and healthy lives.

It is recommended to regularly check for any signs of CDA and consult a veterinarian if any concerns arise.

How Much Do Blue Poodles Cost?

Blue Poodles are relatively affordable compared to other purebred dogs.

The cost of a Blue Poodle puppy ranges from $800 to $2,000 depending on various factors such as lineage, age, bee health status, and vet records.

However, reputable breeders may charge more for a Blue Poodle puppy with champion bloodlines.

It’s important to note that the color of the Blue Poodle is only one factor that determines its price. Potential owners should consider adoption options as well to save on costs.

Are Blue Poodles Hypoallergenic?

Blue poodles are considered hypoallergenic, which means they produce fewer allergens than other breeds of dogs.

This is because they have less dander and saliva than other breeds of dogs, which reduces their overall allergen load on the human body when they are petted or lived with.

Additionally, blue poodles do not shed as much hair as other breeds, further reducing their presence in the home and on the body.

It is important to note that the term “hypoallergenic” does not mean that a dog is completely allergen-free.

All dogs produce some level of allergens, and individual dogs can have varying amounts of these allergens over their lifetime.

However, blue poodles are still a good option for people who are allergic to dogs but want a pet.

When considering getting a blue poodle, it is important to keep in mind that allergies can vary from person to person.

It is recommended to spend time with a blue poodle before bringing one into the household to ensure that the person is not allergic to that specific dog.

Additionally, proper grooming and hygiene practices can also help reduce allergens in the home.

Overall, blue poodles are a good option for people who are allergic to dogs but still want a pet.

They are hypoallergenic, produce fewer allergens than other breeds of dogs, and do not shed as much hair.

However, it is important to keep in mind that allergies can vary and proper grooming and hygiene practices should be followed to reduce allergens in the home.

How Are Blue Poodles as Pets?

Blue Poodles are an excellent choice for a family pet. They have a mild temperament, making them ideal for families with small children.

Even if a child is too rough with the dog, there is little chance of injury or damage being done by accident.

Blue Poodles are also very intelligent and trainable, making them great for families who want a pet that can learn quickly and listen to commands.

These dogs are very playful and love having fun, so they are perfect for families with other pets or kids.

They are also gentle and loyal companions, making them great watchdogs and family companions. Blue Poodles require a lot of mental stimulation and exercise to keep them happy and healthy, so it is important to provide them with plenty of activities and playtime.

Overall, Blue Poodles are loving and energetic dogs that make great family pets.

They are trainable, intelligent, and obedient, making them perfect for families who want a pet that can be trained to do tricks and agility.

With their charm and loyalty, Blue Poodles are sure to be a great addition to any family.

Blue Poodle Name Ideas

If you’re looking for a name for your blue poodle, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here is a list of flower names that are suitable for blue poodles:

If flower names are not your style, here is a list of other blue poodle names:

These are just a few ideas for naming your blue poodle. Be sure to choose a name that suits your pup’s personality and temperament.