Announcing the Release of the United Poodle Association Judges’ Handbook!
I’m incredibly proud to share that the United Poodle Association Judges’ Handbook is now complete, live on our website, and ready for distribution!
This project has been a true labor of love. I spent many days developing the outline, writing and refining the content, and selecting images to clearly illustrate key points. The handbook was then reviewed by our committee, who provided valuable feedback to help shape the final version. While it was a collaborative effort, I was honored to lead the work, and I’m proud of the clarity, accuracy, and heart this guide offers.
The handbook is designed to support UKC judges in recognizing correct Poodle structure, sound movement, and important breed-specific traits. It provides clear guidance on grooming expectations, acceptable and unacceptable colors, and disqualifications — all with the goal of increasing consistency and confidence in judging this complex and elegant breed.
Printed copies will be handed out to judges at UKC Premier Nationals next week, and we’re also making it easy for club members and fellow Poodle fanciers to share this resource. At the Poodle Specialty on Wednesday, you can pick up a card with a QR code linking directly to the online version of the handbook — a great tool to pass along to judges, exhibitors, and enthusiasts.
Importantly, the online version is intended to be a living document. As the UKC breed standard evolves and new educational information becomes available, the handbook will be updated to reflect the most current, accurate guidance. This allows us to continually improve the resource and ensure it stays relevant for years to come.
You can view or download the Judges’ Handbook now at:
👉 https://unitedpoodleassociation.org/judges-education
Thank you to everyone who supported this project — your encouragement, input, photos and shared passion for Poodles made it all possible. I look forward to seeing how this handbook helps deepen understanding of the breed we love so much.
https://unitedpoodleassociation.org/judges-educatio
— Michele Harvey
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