What are parti poodles & Doodles?

Overview 

Parti Poodles' popularity is due to the dog’s calming demeanor that’s winning the hearts of many. Many are familiar with poodles but only a few have a deeper understanding of Parti Poodles. In this blog, we will revisit the dog’s historical background and characteristics. Although this breed is not recognized yet by major kennel clubs, this will give you a better understanding of why dog lovers are captivated by this dog’s charm. 

Definition of a Parti Poodle

The Parti Poodle, believed by some cynologists to have originated in France under the name "Caniche" (French for "duck dog"), is thought to have descended from the Barbet breed. A notable feature of this canine is its primary coat color covering more than 50% of its body, with the remaining portion adorned in a secondary color, which can appear in various, unpredictable locations across the dog's body. This unpredictability contributes to the distinctive uniqueness of each Parti Poodle. Parti Poodles have been disqualified from the AKC breed standard. Parti Poodles, which are known for their distinctive coat color patterns, were historically considered undesirable by some kennel clubs due to their non-standard coat colors. AKC recognized Poodles traditionally had solid coat colors, such as white, black, apricot, and others, as specified in their breed standards. Parti Poodles, with their predominantly white coats and patches of other colors, were not considered standard and were not allowed to compete in AKC conformation events. However, they were still recognized as Poodles by the AKC, and they could participate in other AKC events like obedience trials and agility competitions.

Their primary color is white while the secondary color could be anything from: 

• Black 

• Apricot

• Red (considered the rarest Poodle color) 

• Cream

• Cafe au lait

• Blue 

• Brown

• Gray

• Silver

• Silver Beige

In addition to White, the ones listed above are considered the colors recognized by AKC for poodles. The combination of white and any of those colors above make up for Parti Poodles. Parti Poodles may not be as common as compared to standard Poodles but some of their color combinations are so rare.  

When Parti Poodles are still young, the blending of their coat colors (primary vs. secondary) can still change. As the dog ages, the coat color on specific areas of its body will be finalized until they reach adulthood. If you try combining two parts poodles, the color combination of the litter would be completely different from each other. The cause of these color variances in this dog is due to the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) gene. 

Below is some other variance of multi-colored Poodles, each of which has distinctive characteristics which identify one from another. Some of the ones listed below are recognized in some events initiated by AKC.

S Locus (White Spotting, Parti, or Piebald) in Poodles

The S locus, also known as the White Spotting locus, plays a crucial role in determining the coat color patterns of Poodles. When a Poodle carries two copies of the "sp" allele at this locus (sp/sp), it leads to the expression of a nearly solid white coat, often referred to as "parti" or "piebald." This genetic combination results in a distinctive and attractive coat pattern characterized by large areas of white with patches of another color. Interestingly, a Poodle with this genetic makeup will consistently pass on one copy of the "sp" allele to all of its offspring, making it a hereditary trait that can be passed down to the next generation. The interpretation of the "sp/sp" genotype in Poodles translates to a striking coat featuring nearly solid white, parti, or piebald patterns.

sp/sp

A Poodle carries two copies of sp which results in a nearly solid white parti, or piebald coat color. This dog will pass on one copy of sp to 100% of its offspring.

Interpretation: Nearly solid white, parti, or piebald

Parti Poodle Vs Mismark, Multi-Patterned, Tuxedo, Ticking On Poodles

Mismark Poodles

One thing to remember when comparing a mismark poodle to a parti poodle is that the former has less than 50% of white coat. The poodle, on the other hand, has more than 50% of white coat. Then, the rest of its body is covered in the secondary color. Mismark poodles are also called by breeders Abstract poodles.

Another way to distinguish these two is through their skin color. If you shave a Partis Poodle, you will notice that the skin color follows their coat’s primary and secondary colors. The skin Mismark poodle, on the other hand, follows the color of its primary coat. 

Multi-Patterned Poodles Colors

These are Poodles having multi-colored coats or more than 1 of the accepted colored color patterns. At present, this type of breed is not yet accepted by American Kennel Clubs. 

Tuxedo Poodles

Think of a Poodle in a tuxedo suit. This is how their coat is patterned giving them that distinctive look. Their special markings may be placed on different parts of their body. You will notice the markings in areas such as their neck, chest, and legs. 

• A white patch/ markings across their chest area

• A white patch/ markings across their belly area

• A white patch/markings across their belly area to their front and hind legs and paws

• A darker color on their back area

Ticking on Poodles

Simply put, ticking means spotting. These are spots or dots one would see on a Poodle's white coat. These posts are black or darker in color and can be regarded as dirt. This is the reason why breeders do not like to use dogs with ticking. The litter could end up with coats looking dirty.  

Origins of the Poodle

According to history, the Poodles came from Germany. Originally used as hunting dogs, Poodles are considered one of the favorite pets these days. Poodles are known as excellent hunters even in water, thus the German name ‘pudel’ means "to splash in the water." What enables them to excellently move in water are their webbed feet. Over time, poodles were bred into smaller-sized and distinctive coat coverings. The French royalty even considered it a favored pet. 
Contrary to popular belief, it is the Parti Poodles that have a rich history. According to an article published by Huxtable the Poodle, Parti Poodles are often depicted in paintings and art during the 1400s-1800s. Even the first ever dog book published in the United States of America has contained information about Parti Poodles. 

During the 1900s when the killing of such breeds started, people’s preference for the Poodle’s color shifted to single or solid-colored coats. Since most people preferred the Poodle in solid color, breeders would no longer register litters that are two-colored. 

There is no exact publication supporting where the name came from. Some people would argue that ‘Parti’ was derived from the word ‘Particularly colored.’ Others would say that it was taken from the word ‘partial’ which has a French equivalent of ‘partiellement.’ 

Development of the Parti Poodle

There is no exact data that confirms the origin of this dog breed. There are some write-ups that state that Poodles were bred in the 1800s by French people. They are considered royal pets and are often seen in the courts of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The breed had gained a strong following across the European border. Its popularity crossed over the United States and other Asian countries too. 

The popularity of the Parti Poodle in the 18th and 19th centuries

In the 1800s and 1900s owning a Parti Poodle meant that you were either part of the French royalty or a social aristocrat. It has become a status symbol. People with wealth and power are seen owning this dog breed. During this time, European aristocrats would use Parti Poodles during hunting season. Given the popularity of these dogs and their association with the rich and famous, Parti Poodles earned its place in the world of arts, and literature during this period. 

The decline of the Parti Poodle in the early 20th century

In the early 20th, there were other dog breeds slowly taking the spotlight. Breeds such as German Shepherd, and Labrador Retriever have gained popularity causing the decline of the Parti Poodle. Both German Shepherds and Labradors are excellent hunting dogs which were much preferred. The decline in popularity was worsened by the onset of wars where breeding Parti Poodles became uncommon. 

The resurgence of the Parti Poodle in modern times

Despite being on the brink of distinction, Parti Poodles managed to gain back its popularity again. Several factors helped its resurgence.

• Canine groups recognizing the Parti Poodles 

• Allowing this dog breed to join shows and competition

• Increase in awareness and appreciation from dog lovers 

How Are Parti Poodles Bred

Selective Breeding is a way in which Parti Poodles are bred. Credible breeders will choose which parents to use following the desired coat pattern. Ethical guidelines are what we practice at Stokeshire. Dogs also undergo genetic testing to avoid any medical issues being passed on to their litters. You’ll have to choose two Parti Poodles to produce Parti Poodle litters. But how the litter will look is undetermined as their coat colors and markings will be different from one another. 

Are Parti Colored Poodles Purebred

Yes, particolored Poodles are considered purebred. However, the American Kennel Club (AKC) only recognizes solid-colored Poodles as the breed standard. At present, particolored ones are still restricted from joining conformation shows or events organized by AKC. Although, they can still be registered in obedience and agility shows. 

The United Kennel Club (UKC), on the other hand, has allowed Parti Poodles to join conformation events for almost 20 years now. UKC is considered the second-largest kennel organization in the United States. 

How Long Do Parti Poodles Live

• Life expectancy is 12-15 years

• Some Parti Poodles may live shorter or longer depending on their genetic makeup, diet, exercise, and overall well-being.

• Some may be susceptible to health risks such as:

• Hip dysplasia

• Progressive retinal atrophy

• Skin allergies

• Addison’s disease

Do Parti Poodles Change Color

Some dogs can experience a change in the color intensity of their coats over time. But, overall once they mature their coat’s color and pattern will remain the same throughout their lifetime. Parti Poodles will have different patterns and color varieties distinct from each other. The coat colors of some dogs will fade as time goes by, while others will remain the same. 

How Big Is A Parti Poodle

If you are getting a Parti Poodle, you can choose from three different sizes. 

• Standard - average weight 45-70 pounds; 18-24 inches tall at the shoulder

• Miniature - average weight 10-20 pounds; 11-15 inches tall at the shoulder

• Toy - average weight 4-6 pounds; 10 inches tall at the shoulder

Personality and Temperament of Parti Poodles

Below are some of the personalities of Parti Poodles which makes them ideal for first-time pet owners and also as a family dog:

• Calm and gentle temperament thus often used a service or therapy dogs 

• Intelligent and easy-to-train dogs 

• Friendly and outgoing

• Likes to be around people 

• Obedient and agile 

• Ideal as family pet dogs and safe to be around children 

• Alert and can be an excellent guard dog

• Active dogs that need regular exercise and mentally stimulating games 

• Don’t like being left behind 

Caring for Parti Poodles

Learn the ways on how best to take care of a Parti-Poodle to make sure that they are kept healthy and happy. 

Coat 

• The hypo-allergenic coat which makes them ideal for people with allergies

• Regular brushing and grooming are required to prevent their curly coats from matting

• Make sure to trim out any stubborn curls 

• Ears must be cleaned regularly, teeth are brushed and nails are trimmed

• Bathing them regularly

Food

• High-quality dry kibbles

• Vegetables such as carrots 

• Protein-rich food such as chicken or salmon

• Cheese and eggs

Accommodation

• Can adapt to small-type apartment living conditions as long as it gets some exercise and playtime

• The ideal living condition will be a house with a garden or yards for running around  

Training for Parti Poodles

Poodles are known as great hunting dogs while Parti Poodles are known to be intelligent breeds that can be trained for obedience and agility competition. If you wish to train this dog for competition, you won’t have too many problems as Parti Poodles love to please its owner. You have to make sure that they get plenty of exercises to keep them active and fit. This dog breed also thrives in mental games. Some puzzle games will make this dog happy. Incorporate these mentally stimulating games during playtime.  

How Much Do Parti Poodles Cost

You will have to pay around $1,500 - $5,000 to get a Parti Poodle. The toy and mini versions can be more expensive. The cost could start at $2000 per litter. Some litters could cost higher than that depending on how rare their coat colors are. You can check out the Poodle Club of America’s website to find breeders of Parti Poodles. 

Although, this could vary depending on the breeder where you’ll get your dog. Other factors such as the dog’s color, size, and age will also come into play. In general, make sure to get your dog from trusted breeders. Otherwise, you’ll just be spending your hard-earned money to waste. You might end up spending more than you bargain if you get a litter from breeders who don't follow ethical standards. 

If you don’t have the budget to spend and pay credible breeders, you can try your luck in animal shelters. You’ll have to spend around $100 - $500 depending on the dog’s condition. 
It is not surprising why Parti Poodles have managed to survive across centuries. Such a friendly and intelligent dog will surely tug at the hearts of many dog lovers. Parti Poodles may not yet be recognized by some dog clubs but their popularity is a testament that this dog possesses unique charms. One would be so proud to own a Parti Poodle. If you wish to have one, contact us!