Red Poodles – Discover The History of This Coat Color

Color is an important part of any dog’s exterior. A specific standard has been developed for each breed, which describes what color of coat a purebred dog can have. Poodles have eight types of coat colors among the officially permitted ones. With such an insane variety of colors, it becomes more challenging to choose the one you like best.

However, among them, it is the red color which is recognized as one of the most interesting and unusual poodle breed colors.

Red poodles are not only stunningly beautiful but also rare and unique. Moreover, when this unusual beauty is combined with the intelligence, charisma, and fidelity inherent in poodles, then the choice becomes obvious.

What does a red poodle look like?

Few people know that red poodles are commonly bred from apricot poodles’ bloodline. Considering that red poodles are much richer and darker in color than apricots’ faded look, this is hard to believe. However, most breeders work hard to get the darkest and deepest red shade possible that doesn’t fade.

Since the AKC did not officially recognize red poodles until 1980, their color is considered relatively new in the breed. To maintain the high standards set for breeding red poodles, some Canadian breeders have banded together and formed the Apricot Red Poodle Club. It is important to note that not everything is known about the genetics of red poodles.

It’s worth noting that red poodles have a separate gene from what we already know. It is thanks to this gene that they are fundamentally different from apricot poodles. Over time, breeders have concluded that the gene involved in the darkening of the coat of this poodle does not affect black poodles.

The apricot poodle gene is a recessive gene for all except white poodle colors.

Two groups of pigments are responsible for what color the puppy will be born – pheomelanin (red and yellow) and eumelanin (black and brown). The saturation and uniformity of the color depending on how evenly the pigments are distributed throughout the hair.

Red poodle puppies are not immediately born with this color. Newborns can be light ginger, but the color becomes brighter, richer, and more intense over time. As the puppy grows, the color becomes more distinct and similar to the mahogany’s noble shade.

A real red poodle has black dots. Although dots are accepted, they are still not preferred in the US.

In purebred dogs of this color, lips, the skin around the eyes, nose, and nails should always be dark brown or black. By the way, newborns are born with black noses, but some dogs have a lighter nose with age. The shade of the eyes of these pets is light or dark brown. While the skin is as close as possible to the shade of a dog’s coat.

It is important to remember that the red color of the poodle is very prone to fading. Thus, the coat of older dogs may lighten and become rufous. The appearance of light spots on the back or chest of an adult dog is also quite common.

red poodle history

The breeding and emergence of red poodles have a fascinating history. The first person who came up with the idea to develop a standard for red poodles was Ilse Konig from Shangri-La kennel. By crossing a female apricot miniature poodle with a large male standard poodle, breeders were able to achieve the desired color for the first time. After that, thanks to careful and selective breeding, red poodles were bred more and more.

Given that breeding poodles of different sizes are relatively rare, litters from these pairs have been placed in a new category called Klein or Moyen. These categories are the most popular in Europe. A new poodle size was created between the standard and the miniature because of this crossbreeding. However, over time, breeding the largest dogs from each litter allowed breeders to achieve the red standard sizes that we all know. As a result, it is now much easier to get standard size red poodles. What’s more, all three of the most common sizes of poodles can be found in this stately color.

In the beginning, some breeders only focused on getting the right color. Besides, inbreeding has taken place. Because of this, some of the early red poodles were slightly cockier and more aggressive. However, don’t worry because these temperament problems are a thing of the past. Besides, today you can easily find a thoroughbred red poodle.

Are red poodles rare?

Red is a later addition to the poodle colors. Many experts believe that the poodle’s red coat results from a recessive gene that has darkened the natural apricot or brown color of its coat. It is a recessive Rufus gene that alters its appearance. Therefore, because of this unique mode of color inheritance, red poodles are considered rare and have a fading gene.

Red Poodle Puppies

When choosing a red poodle puppy, it is vital to pay special attention to finding a reputable breeder. Choose one you are confident in, who knows his business, and has extensive experience in raising healthy and happy red poodles with a good pedigree.

Having chosen a certain pup, you need to start preparing for his move to a new home. So, to make your new puppies’ life easy and happy, first and foremost, you need to take care of quality puppy food. Keep in mind that your food should be high in protein, essential omega fatty acids, and a mixture of vitamins and antioxidants. At this stage, it is necessary to ask the breeder what type and brand of food the puppy has received before. A drastic change in their eating habits can be a significant nuisance.

After that, you will need to arrange a soft and cozy place for your new friend to sleep. Remember that you will be keeping him separate from his mom and family, so he will need a warm bed to snuggle up and feel safe.

Regardless of your love and care, a change of situation, a new home, and a new family can be stressful for a red puppy. Give your puppy as much attention and affection as possible and be patient with him.

Don’t forget important things like grooming and walking aids. Oh, and don’t forget about toys! Puppies, like children, love to play, and various toys can not only bring joy but also help in the growth of teeth.

The very last, but perhaps the most crucial requirement before buying a red puppy is a basic knowledge of possible health problems such as hypoglycemia or hip dysplasia. Knowing ahead of time, what might happen will make it easier for you to react to it as quickly as possible.

Are Red Standard Poodles Energetic?

Poodles are known to be intelligent and active dogs. They often need stimulation through games, puzzles, and human interaction to stay happy. A Poodle that doesn’t get enough exercise can become bored, destructive, and high-strung. Poodles love to play fetch, catch, frisbee, and other active games. They also enjoy swimming and hiking.

red poodle grooming

Poodles should be groomed every 3 to 6 weeks to keep their coat healthy and free of mats. Some people may consider red poodles to be high-maintenance because of their need for regular grooming, but they are actually relatively low-maintenance compared to other breeds.

red toy poodle temperament

Red poodles are intelligent, devoted, and easy to train. Just like other poodles, they excel as family pets and can be good with children when properly trained. Although they may be high-spirited at times, adequate exercise will help to focus their minds and use up excess energy.

poodle health issues

All poodles are generally considered to be a very robust breed with few health problems. However, due to the inadequate and improper breeding of various breeders, there are cases when red puppies are born with multiple birth defects and malformations. Therefore, it is vital to choose a trusted breeder. Common illnesses they can suffer from are:

• Legg-Calve-Perthes
• Hip dysplasia
• Eye disorders
• Luxating Patellas
• Idiopathic epilepsy
• Immune-Mediated disorders
• Sebaceous Adenitis
• Von Willebrand’s disease

The PCA advises getting these tests to help identify and prevent illness in red poodles:

• Hip evaluation
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation
• Patella Evaluation 
• PRA Optigen DNA test

red poodle names

Is the red poodle hypoallergenic?

There are no completely hypoallergenic dogs, but poodles are considered one of the most hypoallergenic ones, regardless of their color and size. There are exceptions where some people can still itch, but for the most part, people are not allergic to this type of dog.

How much does a red poodle cost?

As with other colors of poodles, the price depends on the size of the dog. Therefore, a standard poodle costs $700-$1,500, while a miniature and toy poodle will cost about $1,000-$2,000.

Will a Red Poodle’s Coat Fade?

Yes, unfortunately, it will. As you already know, red poodles are mainly born in apricot color, darken with age, and acquire a rich red color. However, as the poodle gets older, the color of its coat may start to fade and become lighter and lighter.

Final Thoughts

Red poodles are one of the rare colors of this dog, which is distinguished by their brightness and outstanding beauty. Combining qualities such as high intelligence, unlimited devotion, artistry, and playfulness, red poodles suit any person. Moreover, it is one of those rare dog breeds that are hypoallergenic and therefore suitable for families with small children.