The title of your thread got my attention. My first thought was so do I! I am a hopeless poodle person. The others have certainly spoken well when it comes to all of the other added expenses that go hand in hand with pet ownership. I will just add my two cents.

Poodles are HIGH MAINTENANCE dogs. The must be groomed at least every 4-6 weeks and their ears need the fuzz plucked out at each grooming. These needs are specific to poodles and are vital to their well being. Grooming, should your friend not do it herself, is very expensive. If she should decide to do her own grooming she can spend about $100-$200 on clippers, blades, etc. I can understand her desire for a poodle, believe me, but all things considered I would think another breed with less maintenance might be better for her.