Poodles have a very different coat. Is it hair, or something else? Do poodles have fur or hair, and what is the difference between the two? The answer is, Poodles have hair rather than fur.
While most dogs have fur, poodles are one of only a few breeds that are thought to have hair. Poodles have a single layer coat that does not shed, and their hair, like human hair, can respond to hormonal changes in the body.
Hair grows and does not fall out in large quantities unless there are hormonal changes or underlying issues. Fur only grows to a certain point before falling off and being shed. Poodles have a lovely head and body that is full of silky hair that functions like human hair.
If you are a new poodle parent and have no idea about poodle hair and its care. We are here to tell you everything about poodle hair.
Differences Between Fur and Hair
First of all, you should know what is the difference between hair and fur?” Isn’t everything the same?” Well, sort of. There are many differences between the two, but at their core, hair and fur are the same.
Looking at the hair on poodles, the scientific researchers reveal that fur and hair are the same, but they each have their characteristics that differ from person to person and dog to dog.
Keratin, a protein compound, is used to make both fur and hair. They are also genetically similar. The only difference between the two is based on how they look and feel, as well as how they are cared for.
Texture Differences Between Poodle Hair and Fur
The texture of fur and hair is noticeably different. Poodles have a single layer of hair, whereas most dogs with fur have a double layer of fur.
1. Poodle Hair Texture
Hair is the smoother of the two and has the potential to grow longer. While fur must shed at certain lengths, hair can grow for as long as you allow it to.
Straight, curly, or wavy hair can easily become tangled if you are not careful and pay close attention to their grooming needs.
2. Dog Fur Texture
Dogs with fur have a top coat and an undercoat, which gives them a furry, thick appearance. The fur is always shorter than the hair. This is because they require more follicles on their skin for proper fur growth.
The undercoat of fur is typically a soft, fine coat that aids dogs in regulating their body temperature throughout the year. They do not always have this double coat, but it is a very common feature in most dogs with fur.
Typical Hair/Fur Growth Cycle
There is a significant difference in how fur and hair grow. Their growth cycles explain why they have such distinct appearances and feelings, as well as how they maintain and care for each other.
Poodle hair grows longer, but the growth cycle is shorter, resulting in little to no shedding. Hair and fur must go through the same growth cycles, but they do so at different rates.
Poodle Hair growth cycle is given below:
1. Anagen:
The follicle begins to function.
2. Catagen
The root sheath begins to bond with the hair, and growth comes to a halt.
3. Telogen
During this dormant stage, hair neither grows nor dies.
4. Exogen
The anagen phase is the primary distinction between hair and fur. Hair requires more time during the anagen phase, which slows down the entire process. Dogs with fur, on the other hand, need to get through this process faster to shed adequately and maintain a healthy coat.
Poodle Hair, Fur, and Allergies
The majority of dogs with fur shed dander through their fur every 3-4 days. Because allergens are constantly spreading in the air, this is a major problem for anyone who suffers from allergies.
Whereas, Poodles only shed dander and unnecessary skin particles every 21 days or so. Because of their low shedding, poodles are a popular dog breed among allergy sufferers.
However, if your poodle has curly hair, you’ll want to make sure you’re doing everything you can to control the dander and keep their hair and skin healthy.
Grooming Tips for Poodle Hair
If you don’t keep up with the grooming needs of your poodle hair, their curly hair can quickly become unmanageable. Below are a few tips for your poodle’s grooming.
Brushing:
You should brush the poodle’s hair daily to keep it from matting. Using proper brushing techniques will be equally important for your poodle.
If you don’t keep up with their hair maintenance, it can easily matt, demanding a shave in that area to cover the situation.
Bathing:
Every 4 to 6 weeks, poodles should be bathed. If your poodle enjoys being outside and going for a swim in the lake or playing in the leaves and mud, this should be done more frequently.
However, for most poodles, 4-6 weeks is the ideal time frame. Don’t overdo it because it will irritate their skin and possibly harm their development. Dogs have natural cleansing abilities that allow them to maintain their hygiene even when you are not around.
However, they require the bath to aid in the removal of dirt, grime, and dead hair or skin.
Do Poodles Have Hair or Fur – Conclusion
As much as we want to say that every dog has fur, poodles do have hair instead. Their curly locks require a lot of care and maintenance, and they should be groomed daily.
If the hair is properly maintained and cared for, a single layer of hair rather than a double layer of fur will benefit those with allergies. Those who are allergic to pet dander will appreciate the reduced shedding and dander released into the air.
But keep in mind that, at the end of the day, hair and fur are the same things. The appearance, feel, and care requirements may differ, but scientifically speaking, they are cut from the same cloth.