Can Standard Poodles Be Brown?

When you think of a standard poodle, you probably envision a fluffy white head and ears, with glowing pom poms for feet. All-black standard poodles are probably second to come to mind – elegantly prancing beside their owners. However, you may do a double-take when you see a brown standard poodle. While not the rarest of poodle colors, this chocolatey-colored coat might make you think it’s a chocolate Labradoodle instead of a purebred one.

Read on to find out more about how to find a brown standard poodle.

What Is a Standard Poodle? 

The standard poodle is the oldest and largest of three poodle sizes. Even though they appear glamorous and high-maintenance, these dogs originated from the old water dogs of Europe. They were hard-working water retrievers with hunting instincts. We cut standard poodles’ fur in various styles, but their ancestors’ fur styles provided buoyancy and free movement.

Standard poodles range from 40 to 70 pounds and are over 15 inches high. Miniature and toy poodles are the next sizes down. Miniature poodles are smaller than the standard poodle, ranging from 11 to 15 inches in height and 26 to 31 pounds. Toy poodles are even more miniature, under 11 inches in height.

What Color Coats Do Standard Poodles Have?

Standard poodles have coats of various colors, including black, white, gray, brown, apricot, and cream. They originally had three colors: black, white, and brown. Black is actually the most common color. Standard poodles with black coats also have black noses, toenails, eyes, and lips. These poodles maintain their dark coats throughout the aging process.

Is a Brown Standard Poodle Rare?

Brown standard poodles have a wide range of hues, from dark mahogany to light chestnut. In addition to their brown coat, they also have pale yellow or green eyes. Like black poodles, they have a dominant gene that actually makes them quite common. You’ll find them practically anywhere, and they are not particularly rare. However, they are not quite as stereotypical as the white or black standard poodle.

Does a Brown Standard Poodle Cost More?

Standard poodles can cost anywhere from $600 to around $2000 depending on breeder, pedigree, and location. Miniature and toy poodles may cost even more. Brown poodle puppies, while not rare, may bring either a higher or lower price depending on the breeder’s view of the coloration and demand in their market. In a litter of purebred poodle puppies, however, pricing usually is more factored on sex and other breed-specific qualities like form and build rather than color. For example, runts of the litter can be cheaper than the other pups. Brown poodles will usually cost the same as other colored puppies.

Poodles, in general, require more maintenance than other breeds. So, even after the initial price, owners usually spend more on a brown standard poodle than other dogs.

Pro Tip: Check out our guide to pet adoption websites to find a standard poodle needing a home.

Do Brown Standard Poodles Stay Brown With Age?

Brown standard poodles are usually born with dark brown coats. As they mature, the dark color fades to beautiful cinnamon browns because of the “progressive graying” gene. The sun can cause a brown standard poodle’s coat to fade, and so can chlorine. This is why it’s unlikely to see an older dark brown standard poodle.

What Is the Rarest Color of a Poodle?

Apricot poodles have a very light red coat due to a recessive gene. They’re the “unicorns” of the poodle world. However, this beautiful apricot color will fade quickly in sunlight. Like brown standard poodles, apricot standard poodles have coats that lighten as they age. The apricot color is the last poodle color experts discovered.

How Big Can a Standard Poodle Get?

Standard poodles grow to be more than 15 inches tall at the shoulders by the time they’re two years old. The tallest have been reported around 24 inches. Male standard poodles typically weigh more than females, but their height doesn’t differ.

In addition, the life expectancy of a standard poodle is between 12 to 15 years. Their bone structure is quite large giving them the ability to exercise and maintain muscle into their senior years.

Other Traits of a Standard Poodle

Standard poodles make excellent companions, whatever color you like the most. According to the American Kennel Club, they rank #7 out of over 200 dog breeds in popularity. Generally, these poodles are healthy, don’t shed, and enjoy affection even though they also tend to be barkers.

They’re a Healthy Breed

Poodles are popular among breeders because of their a healthy breed. Responsible breeders routinely test and care for their poodles, leading to longer and healthier lives, sometimes beyond their 12 to 15-year life expectancy. The dogs do require ample exercise, and they maintain their muscle mass and energy long into their adult years.

They Can Be Barkers

Overall, poodles are moderate barkers. Still, you may end up with a standard brown poodle that barks more than usual. This type of poodle is louder than a miniature or toy poodle. Standard poodles get excited when someone arrives at the house or another dog approaches. They’re enthusiastic but not aggressive.

They Don’t Shed

First, all dogs shed. However, some don’t shed as much. Standard poodles shed very little but require upkeep. Owners must brush their coats daily to prevent matting, and most prefer shorter hair trims. This means visiting the groomer or bathing, grooming, and giving a nail trim every four to six weeks. A standard poodle’s coat is low in allergen as well.

They Like to Cuddle

Standard poodles can suffer from separation anxiety, so owners should give their pets lots of love. These dogs bond closely with their owners and are always looking for affection. Their ancestors also cuddled to keep warm during cold months, so standard poodles are inclined to cuddle with their human companions.

Do Standard Poodles Make Good Pets?

A brown standard poodle is an excellent pet! Sometimes loud noises or children can overwhelm them, but this breed is a wonderful choice for a future pet owner. They offer affection when you come home from work. They keep you active since they require attention and exercise. And for people with allergies, standard poodles are an ideal choice since they shed very little and have low levels of dander.

A standard poodle might be right for you if you’re looking for a dog with athleticism and elegance.

Do you see a poodle adoption or purchase in the future?