[harpgirl]

I have owned five poodles. One had show potential but was sold as a pet. She was show potential. The others, not show potential.

All these years later, I never knew why some poodles look so good while others just look ok.

Then I find myself here, researching so I make sure my next poodles is the best quality I can find and afford. As I am older, I know this probably will be my last poodle.

I have to say, I am guilty of looking at adds and finding out the going rate for a poodle puppy.

Now I know the difference. Hopefully with this site, people will make more informed decisions when purchasing a puppy. I did buy a beautiful little black toy poodle (on the small size.) I paid $250.00 for her back in 96. She only live a year and I paid $3,000.00, to keep her alive. I can't even begin to say what all was wrong with her (blind within months, was the start of the downward spiral of health problems.) At the end, her body broke out with big huge ulcers on her body (gaping holes.) I kept her on a constant IV for a couple of days at home, while I decided whether or not to put more money into her, which in the end was just prolonging her suffering and was selfish on my part. She is the first dog I had to put to sleep. It destroyed me. I loved her like crazy, and she loved me.

 

[harpgirl]

Thank you. I am in Oklahoma. Not quite ready to get another dog. Just researching a lot right now, to determine what is best (for me, my family and poodle.)

I am debating between toy or mini. I am reading a lot here and learning so much.

My limit is $1500, but I probably won't buy this year. So don't know how high prices will be when I am ready to purchase. Only want a pet, personality is the most important factor. Other than that want a girl, because I have a territorial Yorkie that only seems to like girls. He is very jealous of our male cat, but not a bit concerned about the girl cat.

I have been looking at breaders websites and have already improved my ability to discern what a better breader does, from reading from others on the forum.

Also, have completely ruled out a teacup or small toy. If anything, I am leaning bigger and bigger. But don't think a standard is appropriate for us.

My thinking is, they would require more exercise and are more active than the smaller versions. But I could be wrong.