National Poodle Day 2024: When Is & How to Celebrate
By Lorre Luther
Updated on
Poodles are some of the most popular dogs in the US; in 2022, they were the 5th most popular pedigree dogs, according to the American Kennel Club. They even headed the list of most popular dogs in the 60s, 70s, and early 80s. So, it makes sense for there to be celebrations of these smart and athletic animals. National Standard Poodle Day is celebrated on January 6th.
It was created in 2020 by The Woof Book Group and is dedicated to honoring everything excellent about the largest Poodles. Pet parents often celebrate it by sharing photos and poodle-related memes.
But What About Other Poodles? Is There a Poodle Day?
Miniature, Toy Poodles, and all manner of Poodle mixes are welcome at one of the most popular dog events in Northern California, Poodle Day. This year, it’s scheduled for October 7th in the gorgeous oceanfront community of Carmel. The event was first held in the early 2010s and has become increasingly popular.
The good times roll for two days, with a few cocktail parties kicking off the night before the big event and a joyful parade featuring all types of Poodles. Some pets appear with their humans in costumes, while others strut their stuff in regular attire. Prizes are given in several categories, including the best miniature costumed dogs.
After the parade, participants can hit the beach for off-leash entertainment. In the evening, pet parents and their dogs can say goodbye to new and old friends at canine-friendly cocktail parties. Carmel has a particularly dog-friendly reputation, so there are several dog-friendly ways to enjoy all the city offers.
All the fun is for a great cause; Poodle Day benefits the NorCal Poodle Rescue, which has been operating in Northern California and Southern Oregon since 1985. The organization runs mainly on volunteer efforts and takes in dogs from individuals and shelter animals who need extra tender loving care to get back on their paws. They work with purebred and mixed Poodles of all shapes and sizes.
What’s Unique About Poodles and Why Are They Celebrated?
Poodles are not only gorgeous, but they’re also incredibly versatile and adaptable dogs. They’re among the smartest breed and can learn commands in just a few repetitions. They’re in the same league as Border Collies and German Shepherds regarding intelligence.
They’re also some of the most athletically gifted dogs around. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they’re swift, agile, and usually excellent swimmers. One of the qualities that set Poodles apart is their hair. Most have long, curling hair that doesn’t shed; they’re often considered good choices for allergy sufferers since they generally shed less than other dogs.
Poodles also come in various sizes, so they can comfortably live in small and large spaces. Standard Poodles are generally about 18 to 24 inches at the withers and can weigh up to 70 pounds. Miniature versions range from 13–15 inches tall, and Toy Poodles are generally under 10 inches or so and often weigh less than 6 pounds.
What About Poodle Mixes?
Poodle mixes have been popular since the 1980s. Well-known mixes include Labradoodles, Havapoos, Ausiedoodles, and Goldendoodles. Poodle mixes range from relatively large Labradoodles to small Havapoos (Havanese/ Miniature Poodle mixes). Poodle mixes are in high demand due to their smarts and low-shedding coats.
Poodles Are Truly Amazing, but Is There a National Mutt Day?
Yes. The event is celebrated twice yearly, once on July 31st and again on December 2nd. Those with a mutt at home or a soft spot for these wonderful companions have two chances to get in on the action and smother a few dogs of unknown heritage with love.
Are There Ways Other Than Adopting and Fostering Pets to Honor National Poodle Day?
If you’re looking for more hands-on interaction with dogs, some shelters have opportunities for volunteers just to be nice to the ones waiting for a forever home. There are opportunities to walk, brush, and be a loving presence for shelter animals.
Expect to fill out a short application to get started. Most organizations provide basic training to ensure volunteers feel comfortable with their assignments. There are sometimes minimum age requirements, and some organizations ask volunteers to commit to a specific number of hours.
Volunteer dog walking is an excellent service to enroll in if you can’t adopt a Poodle! It gives shelter dogs a chance to get cuddles and enjoy the wide, beautiful world, at least for a few moments.
There are also opportunities to help with behind-the-scenes office work, such as facilitating adoptions, and some organizations even have volunteer openings for individuals interested in working on legislative initiatives and fundraising.
Conclusion
National Standard Poodle Day is celebrated on January 6th and is a time to sing the praises of the largest of these adorable, intelligent dogs. Miniature, Toy, and mixed Poodles are all included in the annual Poodle Day celebration in Carmel, California, in the fall.
There’s no reason to wait if you’re interested in showing your love for poodles and other dogs. Animal shelters provide several opportunities for volunteers to interact with dogs and help with other administrative duties. However, adopting a Poodle or mixed dog is the ultimate way to honor the breed’s special days.
Featured Image Credit: dezy, Shutterstock
