The Royal Gardener Carried Her Roses With Great Care
Pink, cream and red roses spill from the wicker basket in the Poodle's arms, and she holds them as carefully as if each one were made of glass. Her white curls puff above her ears like clouds, and she wears an embroidered green coat with a ruffled cuff, a lace cravat and a soft beige apron. Behind her, dark leaves hint at a garden at dusk, and a candle burns in the lower corner. Her long, narrow face wears an expression of calm pride.
Poodles come in three sizes, Standard, Miniature and Toy, and all share a curly, low-shedding coat and sharp intelligence. Standard Poodles were originally water retrievers, which explains their love of swimming and fetch. They are quick learners who enjoy training and puzzles, and they do best when they have both exercise and mental challenge. The coat grows continuously and tangles easily, so it needs brushing several times a week and professional grooming every month or two. Poodles are often described as good for people with allergies, but no dog is truly allergen-free, so spend time with the breed first if allergies are a concern. As with any dog, regular vet visits help keep ears and teeth healthy.
A gardener this graceful would never step on a flower bed. She would only wander through it, and sniff.
