What is a Royal Poodle?

When you think of a Poodle, what comes to mind? Do you think of the Toy Poodles or a larger pup with a curly coat of hair? Have you ever heard of a Royal Poodle?

If you have never actually heard of a Royal Poodle, don’t worry as you are likely not alone. And there is actually a good reason why you might not have heard of a “Royal” Poodle.

So first, let’s talk about Poodles in general. Technically, according to the AKC, there are three sizes associated with this breed. There is Toy, Miniature, and Standard when it comes to Poodles. However, if you have ever heard of a Royal Poodle, then you might think there was a fourth size, since the “Royal” actually refers to what is essentially an extra large Poodle.

In essence, the idea of a Royal size of this breed is actually something that was “made up” according to A-Z Animals. In fact, it is said that this a rather controversial descriptor when talking about the breed because “it is an informal label some breeders use to promote the tallest variants of their dogs.”

What exactly do breeders mean when they say Royal Poodle?

Rather than sticking to using the Standard designation for a pup that has reached 25 inches, when the typical height is around 15 inches, some breeders opt to call their dogs Royal in relation to their size. However, on a more official level, this is not accurate. As long at the dog is at least 15 inches in height at the shoulders, it is a Standard Poodle. A larger dog is still just a Standard. There is no further designation according to the AKC or other professional organizations.

In some cases, it seems like breeders are using the designation of Royal as a way to potentially get more money for their pups.

While the term “Royal Poodle” might be false based on the AKC, we can’t help but find it interesting that breeders would find a way to designate that their dogs are actually larger than average. It might be a cute moniker for the breed, but it simply isn’t accurate.

However, we can’t help but think that if a Poodle had his or her way, they would always want to be referred to as a royal. And we say that from experience of having Poodles in the family and interacting with a variety of these pups over the years (including at dog shows where every breed seems to be on royal mode). Even a Toy Poodle would likely appreciate that Royal designation!