But, Pam, did you see the standard poodle? The commentators talked about the special coat style that's required for a dog show, and said that a poodle makes a great family dog and your breeder or groomer will teach you how to maintain the coat for every-day activities. I like poodles better in their day in, day out coat than in the special style they get for shows. I'm not telling you the outcome though So many beautiful dogs! Little ones and big ones.