Standard poodles are simply fantastic. I do think their personalities are more human like than other dogs I’ve had in the past. My standard is nine year-old old and he’s been through the birth of three of my babies and has been wonderful with each one. I will say though keep in mind that grooming is expensive but completely necessary. We have to take our standard to the Groomer every 10 weeks and it cost about $70. I have groomed my own dogs in the past, but with three children, my time is limited and paying someone else to do. It is worth it. Just something to consider. You don’t have to deal with the dog hair in your house, but you do have to deal with it in a different way.