Standard Poodles are often associated with elegance and grace, thanks to their stylish coats and regal appearance. However, behind that posh exterior lies a highly athletic, intelligent dog that excels in many activities. This versatile breed has earned a spot in the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) top ten breeds, cherished for its beauty, intelligence, and agility.
As a Standard Poodle owner, you might be curious about how fast your pup will grow and how big they’ll eventually get. Here’s a complete guide to help you track your Standard Poodle’s growth and understand what to expect at each stage.
Quick Facts About the Standard Poodle
Originally bred in Germany as water retrieval dogs, Standard Poodles were used by hunters to retrieve ducks. Their dense, curly coat wasn’t just for style but served as insulation against cold water. Today, they remain athletic dogs, well-suited for various dog sports and outdoor activities. Their hypoallergenic coat also makes them popular among people with allergies. The Types of Poodles include Standard Poodles as the largest of the Poodle family, followed by Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles, and Teacup varieties.
How Big Will a Standard Poodle Get?
A mature Standard Poodle, whether male or female, typically stands between 18 and 24 inches (45 to 61 cm) tall.
The Poodle Club of America notes that adult Standard Poodles should not be shorter than 15 inches (38 cm) and should weigh between 40-70 pounds (18-32 kg).
Males tend to be larger, averaging 60-70 pounds (27-32 kg), while females are generally lighter, averaging 40-50 pounds (18-23 kg).
Standard Poodle Growth Chart (Female and Male)
Growth rates for Standard Poodles vary depending on factors like genetics and diet. Below are growth charts for both male and female Standard Poodles, showing average weights by age.
Female Standard Poodle Growth Chart
| Poodle Age | Average Weight (lbs) | Average Weight (kg) |
| 1 month | 4-7 lbs | 1.8-3.1 kg |
| 2 months | 11-16 lbs | 5-7.2 kg |
| 3 months | 20-24 lbs | 9-10.8 kg |
| 4 months | 24-28 lbs | 10.8-12.7 kg |
| 5 months | 26-30 lbs | 11.7-13.6 kg |
| 6 months | 28-34 lbs | 12.7-15.4 kg |
| 9 months | 34-40 lbs | 15.4-18 kg |
| 1 year | 40-50 lbs | 18-23 kg |
| 2 years | 40-50 lbs | 18-23 kg |
Male Standard Poodle Growth Chart
| Poodle Age | Average Weight (lbs) | Average Weight (kg) |
| 1 month | 5-9 lbs | 2.2-4 kg |
| 2 months | 16-20 lbs | 7.2-9 kg |
| 3 months | 22-26 lbs | 9.9-11.7 kg |
| 4 months | 30-35 lbs | 13.6-15.8 kg |
| 5 months | 35-41 lbs | 15.8-18.5 kg |
| 6 months | 41-48 lbs | 18.5-21.7 kg |
| 9 months | 52-61 lbs | 23.5-27.6 kg |
| 1 year | 60-70 lbs | 27-32 kg |
| 2 years | 60-70 lbs | 27-32 kg |
Standard Poodle Puppy Growth and Development (Size Guide)
Watching your Standard Poodle puppy grow is a rewarding journey, but it’s important to ensure their development is on track. From their diet to their activity levels, keeping an eye on their progress is key. This guide provides a detailed Standard Poodle growth chart to help you monitor your puppy’s milestones and ensure they are growing as expected.
0-4 Weeks (Newborn)
At birth, Standard Poodle puppies are tiny, weighing just a few ounces. With proper care and nutrients from their mother’s milk, they experience rapid growth, gaining about 1 pound (0.5 kg) each week.
4 Weeks (1 Month)
By one month, your Poodle puppy begins transitioning from mother’s milk to solid foods. Their eyes and ears are now fully functional, allowing them to see and hear clearly. At this stage, most puppies weigh between 4 and 5 pounds (1.8–2.2 kg).
8 Weeks (2 Months)
Between 4 and 8 weeks, Standard Poodle puppies almost double their weight, reaching anywhere between 7 and 10 pounds (3.1–4.5 kg). Their height also increases to approximately 13 inches (33 cm). This is typically the age when puppies move to their forever homes and receive their first vaccinations. A thorough veterinary checkup is crucial during this time to ensure their overall health.
12 Weeks (3 Months)
At three months, your puppy’s rapid growth continues. Their bones and joints are developing, so providing a balanced diet is essential. By now, they should measure 13 to 19 inches (33–48.2 cm) in height and weigh between 10 and 22 pounds (4.5–9.9 kg).
16 Weeks (4 Months)
As your Standard Poodle enters the “teenage phase,” their growth spurt slows slightly. At this stage, they are approximately 20 inches (50.8 cm) tall and weigh around 30 pounds (13.6 kg). This is also a period of heightened curiosity and activity as they explore their environment.
20Weeks (5 Months)
By five months, your puppy is becoming more independent and energetic. They typically measure between 19 and 23 inches (48.2–58.4 cm) in height and weigh 30 to 40 pounds (13.6–18.1 kg). This stage is characterized by increased playfulness and, occasionally, some mischief.
6 Months Old
At six months, noticeable differences emerge between male and female Standard Poodles.
- Males: Typically weigh 41 to 48 pounds (18.5–21.7 kg).
- Females: Weigh around 28 to 34 pounds (12.7–15.4 kg).
Both genders reach approximately 18 to 22 inches (45.7–55.8 cm) in height, which is close to their full adult height for some Standard Poodles. Significant height growth usually slows after this point.
1 Year Old
By the time your Standard Poodle celebrates their first birthday, they have likely reached their full height, which ranges from 23 to 27 inches (58.4–68.5 cm). Their weight falls between 45 and 70 pounds (20.4–31.7 kg), with males typically on the heavier side. At this age, it’s time to transition from puppy food to adult dog food to meet their nutritional needs for a healthy, active life. See our guide on the Best Dog Food for Poodles to find the most suitable options for your pet.
Factors That Affect Standard Poodle Growth
While the growth chart gives a general idea of how big a Standard Poodle might be at various stages, each dog’s growth is influenced by several factors. These include genetics, diet, exercise, and whether your dog is neutered or spayed. Let’s explore these factors in detail.
1. Genetics and Common Health Concerns
Genetics play a significant role in determining your Standard Poodle’s ultimate size. Observing the size of the parent dogs is often the best way to estimate how big your puppy will grow. If the parents are on the larger or smaller side for the breed, your puppy will likely follow suit.
However, genetic predisposition also influences the likelihood of certain health issues, which can affect your dog’s growth:
- Addison’s Disease: A common hereditary condition in Poodles, this can impact your puppy’s health and development if left untreated.
- Hip Dysplasia: This painful condition affects large breeds and can hinder mobility and growth.
- Bloat: A life-threatening condition in deep-chested breeds like Poodles, it requires immediate veterinary intervention.
- Idiopathic Epilepsy: Another genetic ailment, epilepsy can affect your dog’s overall well-being.
Regular veterinary checkups and a proper diet can help manage or prevent many of these health concerns, ensuring your Poodle grows to their full potential.
2. Neutering and Spaying
Neutering (for males) or spaying (for females) is a common procedure that can influence your Standard Poodle’s growth.
- Timing Matters: Neutering or spaying your dog too early can interfere with the development of their bones and joints. Reproductive hormones play a critical role in regulating growth, so it’s recommended to wait until your Standard Poodle is around one year old before undergoing the procedure. For smaller Poodles, such as Miniature or Toy breeds, neutering may be done earlier, around six months.
- Health Benefits: Done at the right time, neutering or spaying can reduce the risk of certain cancers, curb aggressive behavior, and prevent unwanted litters.
3. Nutrition and Feeding Habits
Proper nutrition is essential for your Standard Poodle’s healthy growth.
- Balanced Diet: A diet tailored to large-breed puppies provides the nutrients needed for strong bones and joints while ensuring your puppy grows at a steady and healthy rate.
- Feeding Guidelines: Feed your Standard Poodle large-breed puppy food for the first year to prevent rapid growth, which can lead to joint problems. Consult your veterinarian for advice on portion sizes and the best food options for your pet’s needs.
4. Physical Activity and Exercise
Exercise is crucial for a Standard Poodle’s development, but it must be age-appropriate.
- Moderation is Key: While these dogs are active and energetic, over-exercising a growing puppy can damage their developing joints and bones, leading to long-term issues.
- Gradual Training: Start with light play and short walks, gradually increasing activity levels as your puppy grows. Consult your vet for guidance on safe exercise routines based on your puppy’s age and size.
Maintaining Your Standard Poodle’s Health
Keeping your Standard Poodle healthy involves regular grooming, a balanced diet, and ensuring they get the right amount of exercise. Here are some tips:
- Nutrition
Large breeds like Standard Poodles benefit from high-quality, balanced food designed for their size. Look for formulas rich in protein and healthy fats but avoid overloading on calcium, which can cause joint problems. - Exercise
Standard Poodles are active dogs that love to play and explore. Swimming is a particularly suitable activity as it provides excellent exercise without stressing growing joints. Limit high-impact exercises for puppies to prevent injury. - Regular Vet Checkups
Regular checkups can help catch any health issues early, particularly those common to Standard Poodles. Monitor for signs of hip dysplasia, Addison’s Disease, and bloat, all of which can impact this breed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How fast do Standard Poodles grow?
Standard Poodles typically reach their full height by 12 months but continue to fill out in weight until around 2 years old.
When do Standard Poodles stop growing?
Most Standard Poodles stop growing in height around 1 year old but may continue to gain weight and muscle mass until they’re about 2 years old.
What if my Poodle is underweight or overweight?
Standard Poodles are active with fast metabolisms, making them unlikely to become overweight unless overfed. If your dog is underweight, consider adding protein-rich foods to their diet, but consult a vet to ensure balanced nutrition.
Conclusion: Monitoring Your Standard Poodle’s Growth
With this guide, you can track your Standard Poodle’s growth and better understand what to expect as they mature. Remember that genetics, nutrition, and exercise all play a role in their development. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and an appropriate exercise regime will help your Standard Poodle grow into a healthy, happy adult.
Want to learn more about Standard Poodles? Check out these helpful resources:
- Poodle Price: How Much Does a Poodle Cost?
- Poodle Mixes: Discover Unique and Adorable Poodle Crossbreeds
- Poodle Colors: A Guide to All the Amazing Shades
Do you have a Standard Poodle? Share your pup’s growth journey in the comments below!