The Parti Poodle's unique coat pattern is created by the interaction of two types of melanin: eumelanin and pheomelanin.
Their distinctive white markings can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the face, chest, and paws.
The Parti Poodle's genetics are the result of a specific combination of genes that affect the production and distribution of melanin in the coat.
This combination can result in a variety of different patterns, including the classic Parti Poodle coat with black and white markings.
The genetics of the Parti Poodle are complex, but they are ultimately responsible for the breed's distinctive appearance.
For another approach, see: White Toy Poodles
What Makes This Poodle Special?
What makes this Poodle special is that most Poodles are solid-colored, but the Parti Poodle stands out with its unique patching.
Poodles are commonly all-black, all-white, all-red, or apricot, but the Parti Poodle has more than 50% of its body in a white color, with the other part being any of the common Poodle colors.
The patching on Parti Poodles is irregular and random, making each one truly one-of-a-kind.
Origin
Parti Poodles have a rich history that dates back to the 1800s or earlier, with drawings and paintings showing coloration with white and black or white and brown.
The most famous record of Parti Poodles is from 1631, when Rembrandt was painted with his brown-and-white Poodle.
Parti Poodles were once a common sight, but as breed standards from the American Kennel Club arose, they became undesirable for showing and breeding.
Professional breeders sought to selectively breed the Parti coloration out, making them scarce.
The AKC does not allow Parti Poodles to be shown, which led many breeders to cull them right after birth.
Poodle Comparisons
The Standard Poodle is the largest of the three Poodle varieties, typically weighing between 40-70 pounds.
While the Toy Poodle is the smallest, weighing in at just 6-14 pounds.
Their size differences aside, all three Poodle varieties share a low-shedding, curly coat.
Physical Characteristics
The Poodle's physical characteristics are truly unique and impressive. Poodles come in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard.
Their coats are one of their most distinctive features, with a low-shedding, curly texture that requires regular grooming.
Poodles typically have a symmetrical body shape, with a well-proportioned head, neck, and legs.
Their eyes are large and dark, with an alert and intelligent expression.
A Poodle's muzzle is long and straight, with a black nose and well-developed jaw muscles.
Their ears are long and hanging, with a rounded tip.
Their tail is long and carried with a "J" shape.
Poodle vs Phantom Poodle
A Phantom Poodle has a coat of a solid color with bits of a secondary color, but the secondary color only covers small parts of the body.
The main difference between a Phantom Poodle and a Parti Poodle is the distribution of the secondary color. Parti Poodles need to be at least 50% white and have patches of a second color distributed across their body.
Many Phantom Poodles look similar in appearance, making it easy to confuse them with Parti Poodles. But with a closer look, you can tell them apart.
A different take: Parti Phantom Poodle
Parti Poodles are defined by their random and uneven patterns and distribution of white and a secondary color. This makes each Parti Poodle's coat unique.
Phantom Poodles, on the other hand, have a more predictable pattern, with the secondary color covering only small parts of the body like the chest, eyebrows, or legs.
Unique Poodle Facts
Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, ranking 2nd in Stanley Coren's book "The Intelligence of Dogs".
They are known for their low-shedding coat, making them a great choice for people with allergies.
Poodles are highly trainable, which is why they're often used as service dogs.
Their distinctive appearance is not just for show – it's also a result of their original purpose as waterfowl hunters.
Poodles are naturally athletic and love to stay active, requiring regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Their low-shedding coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Poodles come in a variety of sizes, including Toy, Miniature, and Standard.
Check this out: Beagle Pics Dogs
Surprising Poodle Information
Parti Poodles can be a "surprise" in litters, appearing alongside solid-colored puppies or being the only ones in the litter.
Their unique color pattern makes them highly sought-after, but it's also what makes them unpredictable.
To qualify as a Parti Poodle, more than 50% of the dog's body must be white, with the remaining part being any of the common Poodle colors.
Every Parti Poodle's patching is irregular and random, making each one truly one-of-a-kind.
Poodle Genetics
Poodles are most commonly solid-colored, but it's not uncommon for them to be born with large patches of white.
The Parti Poodle specifically needs to have more than 50% of its body in a white color, with the other part being any of the common Poodle colors.
The patching on Parti Poodles is irregular and random, making every one unique.
This random pattern is the reason why Parti Poodles are highly sought-after.
Poodles can be all-black, all-white, all-red, apricot, or other solid colors, but the Parti Poodle's white patches set it apart.
The unique patterns on Parti Poodles make them one-of-a-kind dogs.
Related reading: Miniature Poodle Colors
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are parti Poodles rare?
Parti Poodles are rare because they were deliberately bred out of traditional breed standards. This selective breeding has made them a scarce and sought-after variation of the Poodle breed.
Are parti Poodles worth more?
Parti Poodles can be more expensive due to their unique coat colors and rarity, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 or more per litter. The cost can vary depending on the specific coat colors and characteristics of the litter.
Sources
- Parti Poodle - Breed Profile & Information (spiritdogtraining.com)
- 11 Low-Maintenance Poodle Cuts (With Pictures) (dogster.com)
- Standard Poodle Pictures, Images and Stock Photos (istockphoto.com)
- Vintage Parti-Colored Poodles (spiritpoodles.com)
- Parti Poodle: Facts, Pictures, Origin & History (dogster.com)
Featured Images: pexels.com