Duke came to us because he owner could no longer afford to care for him. When they purchased him, the seller indicated the dog was a poodle/Dachshund mix He surely is a poodle but we're not 100% sure what else is in him. He is really sweet but is shy.  His previous owner indicated that he is housebroken, loves people and is a real cuddler once he knows you!

Foster Update:  This dog has so much love to give.  He will love you as much as you will take from him and then a little more.  And then he soaks up whatever love you give back.  He would be an easy fit into any family.  If you call his name, or the name of any dog for that matter, he will be with you in seconds.  He loves treats.  He is not sure what to do with toys.  He is not a chewer, however, s don’t let him get hold of cotton balls.  He is just a great dog.  He does not like the crate.  We only leave him in it while we are out.  If you are home and he is in the crate he will let you know he wants out.  He is not a barker, but no one will sneak up on you either.  Out of the ten plus fosters we have had, he is in top three as far as favorites with our family.  He is the top of that list for my husband.

Foster Update:  Duke is an amazing family dog.  He loves to ride in the car to pick the kids up from school.  He loves to go to the football fields and get pet by all the children, he just soaks it up.  Duke gets along with anyone.  He is often hesitant with new people but just give him a minute and he will be their new best friend.  He gets along with other dogs but he is an attention hog.  He could do well with other dogs but he would be happiest on his own getting all the attention.  If I call for either of the other dogs it is guaranteed that Duke will be in my lap before the others acknowledge I called.  He thrives on attention, but not in an annoying way, a sweet loving way.  He has also learned to chase a ball this week. He usually brings it back but this is all new to him.  Duke is an amazing, sweet, snuggly, playful dog.  We just love him.

According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, although the Poodle has been known throughout Western Europe for at least 400 years, its origin is controversial. Whether it was developed in France, Germany, Denmark, or the ancient Piedmont is uncertain. Despite the claims of several other countries, France has now been officially recognized as its country of origin, and the breed occupies a special place in the affections of the French. It is certain that the Poodle is descended from a now nearly extinct French water dog, the Barbet, and possibly the Hungarian Water Hound. The name "Poodle" probably derives from the German word Pudel, which means "one who plays in water." The Poodle was used as a gun dog and originally was used in Germany and France as a retriever of waterfowl. Hunters clipped the dog's thick coat to help him swim, leaving hair on the leg joints to protect them from extreme cold and sharp reeds. The French capitalized on the breed's high intelligence, trainability, and innate showmanship, and made the Poodle into a circus performer. His great popularity in that country led to the breed's common name "French Poodle." In France, however, the Poodle was called the "Caniche," or duck dog. The Poodle has been used to sniff out truffles lying underground in the woods. Poodles are depicted in 15th century paintings and in bas-reliefs from the 1st century. Toy Poodles became royal favorites, particularly in the 18th century. The Toy and Miniature Poodle varieties were bred down from larger dogs, today known as Standard Poodles. The three sizes are considered one breed and are judged by the same standard. Today, the Poodle is primarily a companion and show dog, though he can learn almost anything. Some of the Miniature Poodle's talents include: retrieving, agility, watchdogging, competitive obedience, and performing tricks. The Miniature Poodle is a cheerful, super smart, sensitive and highly trainable companion dog. The breed is great at learning tricks, and a favorite in the circus ring. The Poodle will feel slighted if it is left out of family activities. He is very amusing and clever. Many owners feel this dog understands speech in an uncanny way. Some love to play with children, but some are sensitive and nervous. They can be somewhat high-strung. Be careful where you buy your puppy. Purchase from parents you have met and liked, and even ask to see the grandparents if possible. They tend to be quite reserved with strangers and should be socialized as a puppy. Any effort the owner puts into training and socializing will be well rewarded. This is a very good watchdog for its size, seldom becoming aggressive. They do tend to bark a lot. Poodles are friendly with other dogs and non-canine pets. They have a life-expectancy of 12-15 years.