Black Poodle Puppy Images
Our complete black Poodle guide takes a closer look at the genetics behind black Poodle fur, as well as how temperament, care, and health can differ in these dogs.
A black Poodle will have solid coloring over their entire bodies. These Poodles are not a distinct breed, but black is an officially recognised color in Standard, Miniature, and Toy varieties. Poodles can also have black fur with another color present. Some black Poodles will fade prematurely to grey or silver. But, all types of black Poodle will be intelligent, playful, and loving.
About the Black Poodle
The Poodle dog breed comes in three distinct, official varieties: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Standard Poodles are the largest, and Toys are the smallest. But, all three varieties can have black fur. Black fur can either be all over your Poodle’s body, or can show up alongside another color.
The genes that cause black fur won’t impact a Poodle’s health or temperament. These Poodles, like all other dogs in the breed, descend from water-retriever dogs. They have a history of working alongside humans, and as luxurious companions.
Black Poodle Appearance and Genetics
As we know, the black Poodle can come in all three size varieties. Their exact height and weight will vary depending on which category they fall in. Standard Poodles will be anything over 15 inches tall, weighing between 40 and 70 lbs. Miniatures will be between 10 and 15 inches tall, weighing between 10 and 15 lbs. And Toys will be anything under 10 inches tall, weighing between 4 and 6 lbs.
Despite the variety in height and weight, all Poodles will have a slim, muscular body shape. They have long muzzles and either curled or corded fur. Both of these fur types are extremely high maintenance. Poodle owners will spend a lot of their time caring for their dog’s coat. All three varieties come in a wide range of colors. So, let’s dive into the genetics behind black fur.
What Causes Black Fur?
There are two pigments that control all canine coat colors. These are: eumelanin (black) and pheomelanin (red). Black fur is decided by genes at the K (dominant black) locus. The KB gene causes solid eumelanin expression, and is dominant over other genes at this locus. So, a Poodle only needs one KB gene for a potentially black coat. As long as these Poodles also have at least one dominant gene at the B (brown) locus, they will have solid black fur.
Are Silver Poodles Born Black?
Whilst we’re looking at genetics, it’s worth considering silver Poodles, and Poodles with the progressive greying gene. Poodles can be silver or grey from birth. But, some Poodles will be born black and their fur will prematurely fade to grey. This process will take several months.
True black Poodles will eventually start to grey, but this will not happen prematurely. Instead, you will see a gradual change in color as they change from an adult to a senior dog. This greying will not necessarily happen all over their body. But, for instance, you might see greying around their muzzle, which can extend elsewhere on their bodies.
Are Black Poodles Friendly?
Your Poodle’s black fur won’t impact their temperament, but it could impact the way people perceive your dog. Studies have found that people will automatically assume black dogs are less agreeable, friendly, and approachable than lighter colored dogs. But, this isn’t necessarily true!
Good breeding, training and socialization are the best way to get a black Poodle with a wonderful, friendly temperament. You must make sure your Poodle is getting adequate amounts of exercise and mental stimulation every single day. All Poodles are intelligent and energetic dogs, but this means they can become easily bored. Bored Poodles are more likely to make their own fun, but this can be through barking, chewing, digging, and other destructive habits.
Some Poodles may be wary around strangers. So, you must socialize your Poodle well before they reach 12 weeks of age. Introduce them to new people, animals, noises and places, both inside and outside of the home. You may need to start from a distance and move closer over time. Keep experiences calm and positive for the best adult temperament.
When a Black is NOT a Black…
- Silvers
- Blues
- True Blacks
This involves the gradual loss of pigmentation from about 90% of the inner coat (the hairs will become transparent or white, depending on thickness), but a substantial percentage of the outer, guard hairs retain some color.
A true black Poodle will have 3 certain enzymes that must all be present to produce black.
Do Black Poodles have Different Behavior?
- Have you heard of black dog syndrome?
- It applies to all sized dogs, however tends to be used more with medium to large sized dogs, therefore it would apply to the standard Poodle more than the toy.
- This is a theory that has not yet been fully proven – though informal studies have been done – that black colored dogs are passed over for adoption in favor of their lighter colored counterparts.
- Some say that this is most due to media (TV shows and movies) depicting black dogs to be more aggressive or non-friendly. While it appears that some shelters have reported that dark coated or black dogs take a bit longer to adopt out, this seems to only apply to mixed breeds.
- There are absolutely no temperament or behavioral differences between black Poodles and those of any other color. The coat color does not dictate a Poodle’s personality, ability or socialize any other factors at all that would influence how the dog behaves.
Grooming a Black Poodle
With a dark coat, it’s important to remember that their coat will highlight any lighter colored debris or dirt in their coat, more so than a lighter Poodle. Over time, your dog’s deep black coat may begin to fade. In this case, you may also want to consider using a color-enhancing shampoo. This can help bring out the natural color of the coat. Be sure not to dye the color of your dog’s hair. While black may be a popular color for many, it’s not the only option for choosing your perfect puppy.
Caring for a Black Poodle
Black Poodle Health
The genes that cause a solid black coat on Poodles are not linked to any major health issues. But, black Poodle dogs may be at risk of the same hereditary health issues as other shades. So, you should investigate the health problems most commonly seen in Poodles to know early signs of diseases. Here are some of the most common Poodle health issues to help you get started:
- Dental issues
- Heart problems
- Addison’s disease
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Sebaceous Adenitis
- Patellar Luxation
Some health conditions can vary in likeliness depending on the size variety your Poodle is. So, when researching, make sure you’re specific about whether you have a Standard, Miniature or Toy variety.
Finding a Black Poodle Puppy
- Black is one of the most common Poodle colors because the genes required are all dominant. So, it shouldn’t be too hard for you to find a true black Poodle. However, it is important that you are choosing a reputable breeder. The best breeders may have waiting lists, particularly since they won’t always have litters available.
- Do plenty of research when finding a breeder. Avoid puppy mills, pet stores, and backyard breeders, as dogs and puppies from these places are more likely to be kept in poor conditions. These disreputable breeders will breed for a quick profit, but puppies are more likely to have health and behavioral issues.
- Reputable breeders will be happy to let you meet the puppies and their mother in person, so you can ensure they are friendly and well cared for. They will also provide evidence of health testing.
Other Poodle Colors
Poodles, whether a toy, miniature, medium, or standard, can come in a range of different colors, not just black. Keep in mind that the coat color of the Poodle does not have an impact on the personality or intelligence of the Poodle. There are no behavioral or temperament differences between the different coat colors of Poodles. Other factors, such as training, socialization, and prior experiences in raised, are better indicators of their overall personality. Breeding processes and the Poodle parents also play a significant role in how the Poodle interacts and lives.
While some may prefer a lighter colored Poodle, the darker Poodles can be just as loveable and friendly. Other Poodle colors that can be worth considering include the other very popular coat color choice of white. White Poodles have a black nose and eyes. These coats are often preferred as they give off a more soft, cuddly, and fluffy look than perhaps some other colors. Brown is another coat color for a Poodle that can be very popular as well. These Poodles can have a range of darkness in their coats, ranging from deep mahogany or a softer tan. As they age, they may lighten up even more so.
While Brown Poodles with amber eyes are most craved, they may also have eyes the color of yellow or green. Red and Apricot Poodles are rarer in breeding groups but can be just as intriguing as the other colors. Apricot is a softer version of the red coat color, although both are interesting options. They differ in color from brown as they have a more copper or auburn hue to them. However, Red Poodles, in particular, may change their coat color over time, turning to more of a lighter tan.
Apricot is considered the last color to be introduced into breeding Poodles and is, therefore, more challenging to breed. Gray Poodles don’t necessarily mean they are old dogs. Some are born gray and stay that color throughout their life. However, the gray color is most commonly found in adult dogs as they age, transitioning in color from a blue or brown to full-on gray color. According to the American Kennel Club, despite the tendency for this color to be associated with older dogs, it’s still an accepted color.
Final Thoughts
With so many options of Poodles to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect puppy for you and your family. While there are certainly options, the black Poodle has become a prevalent option, with its deep and rich coat color. See what Poodle puppies are available in your area and choose the Poodle with a coat color you find most interesting. And as each size of Toy, Miniature, Medium, and Standard Poodle can come in all of these colors, you’re sure to find the right one for you, whether you live in a tiny apartment or a large mansion. With their beauty, liveliness, and high intelligence, you can’t go wrong with a Poodle.
