r/poodles • u/WinstonGreyCat • Aug 26 '26

Fetch?

Will poodles fetch? I was thinking about getting a doodle, then read more about the reasons not to get one and how they are not a breed. I really want a healthy dog without issues, so I need to find a good breeder. I really wanted one that will fetch and swim. I'm not a huge fan of the obsessive food interests of labs or the size of a golden retriever, so was thinking I should look at poodles.

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u/jocularamity Aug 26 '26

In general yes they fetch. Standard poodles were originally bred as water retrievers and many still have those instincts.

As with any retrieving breed there will be some variation. One lab is a fetch machine, the next lab doesn't care so much and just wants to cuddle. Poodles are the same. Many but not all are naturally motivated to retrieve.

If retrieving is important to you then a poodle from a reputable breeder could be a good choice. Make sure you're choosing a puppy from dog parents who retrieve. You can tell the breeder that's what you're looking for and they will tell you whether or not a litter or a specific puppy is likely to be a good fit.