Then I offered to socialize a puppy and/or older dog for my mom's good friend who shows standard poodles professionally (complete opposite of a backyard breeder). I also offered to help her wash and groom dogs during the summer. She said if I liked one the dogs she had that does not have the conformation for a show dog that she'd probably give me one. Her companion puppies go for about $500.
My husband has never really had a dog and most of the dogs he has been around were not at all like standard poodles. Taking care of one of her dogs for the summer is basically a no strings attached deal to see if we like the dog. In return, I take care of the dog for free until mid August and socialize it.


