Would a standard poodle enjoy being trained for agility?

Question

Would a standard poodle enjoy being trained for agility?

Answer 1

Several of our breeder's poodles have done remarkably well in agility trials, and they love it.  As many folks answered here, standard poodles are one of the smartest breeds, and they have a reasonable amount of energy, stamina and speed, which makes them a good fit for agility (you may already know that, contrary to popular belief, standards were previously bred for sporting purposes.  They're not frou-frou couch potato dogs!).

There may be an added bonus to putting your dog into agility classes.  Particularly smart standard poodles can sometimes be poorly behaved troublemakers, even if they come from the best breeders and even if you have committed real time and effort into their puppyhood.  This is probably because they just need a job!!! A daily walk and exercise session may not be enough, mentally or otherwise, for some standards.  Agility is an excellent challenge to both the mind and body, and you may find that it suddenly results in a much more well-behaved dog.  Which is always wonderful. :)

Good luck to you and your friend!  

Answer 2

Yes!  As long as the dog is physically sound, go for it.  The dog will love it.

Answer 3

It depends on the individual dog. Not all dogs are right for agility.

Answer 4

Of course!

They are very intelligent, athletic dogs and would defiantly enjoy agility. Most dogs find the sport to be a lot of fun.

Answer 5

Yes and they are quite good at it too.

Answer 6

h**l ya they love agility.

Answer 7

Yes they are very active,smart and and willing to learn. Good Luck  

Answer 8

I know someone who does agility with 4 standard poodles, so yes, they can enjoy it!

Answer 9

Pretty much any dog enjoys working with their people... and agility IS fun for both dogs and handler.

Whether or not your dog will love competing is something else altogether.  But it doesn't matter, the classes, and the time spent working, and the exercise, both mental and physical will be a great experience!

Answer 10

I don't know.  Does it have a lot of energy?  Does it like to run and jump?  Does it listen to you well, even with distractions?  Does it have a short attention span (not being mean.  It means does it try to figure what you want out, or try once and get it wrong then go and do something else that has nothing to do with what you are training it to do?)?

Answer 11

Yes, usually all depends on your dog though.

Poodles are actually quite good at agility too. They are more then just a foo-foo dog.

Answer 12

Oh heck yes! They are very energetic dogs, very smart and love a challenge! Go for it!

ADD: Besides, help expell pent up energy.

Answer 13

Yes. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_ffKOz3y...

http://www.poodleclubofamerica.org/perfo...

Answer 14

Generally I would say yes.

I compete in agility and there are not many poodles but the ones who do it, do well and enjoy it.

Generally speaking poodles are very smart dogs and any smart breed enjoys mental and physical stimulation and agility fits both bills.

There are always individual temperament issues, but if your dog is active and busy enjoys playing with toys or doing tricks (working for treats) you probably have a good candidate.

Answer 15

They CAN and DO!  I have 4 standard poodles doing agility.  Including the handsome one pictured in my avatar.  Standard poodles- like any other working breed, needs a job.  Agility is as good a job as anything else!