Training a Standard Poodle: what works and what to expect

Many Standards grasp a new cue within a handful of repetitions, which is wonderful until you realize they learn unwanted lessons just as quickly. Keep sessions to about 5 to 10 minutes and switch exercises before boredom sets in, because a bored poodle starts improvising. Food, play and praise all work well. Harsh corrections tend to make this sensitive breed worried and hesitant rather than obedient.

Give that brain a job. Scent games, trick training, retrieving named toys by name and puzzle feeders all count as work. The most common problems are counter surfing, attention barking and a tendency to become a shadow that struggles when left alone, so practice short absences from puppyhood and build them up gradually, starting with a few minutes behind a closed door.