Thinking of getting a poodle - any advice?

[venator]

I expect a good number of funny answers - thanks, chaps!

seriously -
dog or bitch -
miniature or standard
how much exercise do they need
are they really "one man" dogs?
any particular health problems?

Any other advice would be welcome!

[mike11111]

Years ago a man seen walking a poodle was considered to be.. well, you know...

[NazNomad]

Standard, if it's hard enough for a German copper, I ain't laffin'.

[RATTER15]

Standards are great looking dogs as long as you dont get it clipped like a ponce, they look more like an old english with a good thick coat on them and they dont shed hair!!!!!

This is what the Kennel club say about them: http://www.the-kennel.../display.aspx?id=4097

[Robinia]

ooh yes, a standard, I had one. High maintenance, need a lot of exercise but so intelligent, & excellent guard dogs.

[jules77]

A friend of mine has standards, she clips them herself. They do need to be bathed regularly but other than that, very intelligent and friendly dogs, good with children and all other animals.

[lankeela]

Very easy to train, ideal for obedience or agility. I like them with a shaggy coat but they still need a certain amount of trimming. They do need exercising and also mental stimulation. There are three sizes, Toy, Miniature and Standard and all are great fun. PRA is a problem in the breed, and Standards should have hip scored parents.

[oranger]

An old mate of mine calls all minature dogs f___y lickers.I think he means lap dogs.