The Miniature Poodle: Guide to a Clever, Graceful Breed

Published March 22, 2021
Miniature poodle guide

The miniature poodle is one of three sizes available in this breed. Standard and toy-sized poodles are also common, and all three share similar traits. The active breed is known for his intelligence and loyalty.

Miniature Poodle Breed Overview

The poodle is active and quick to learn. The miniature-sized and toy poodles are known as little companion dogs and highly popular in the French Court between Louis XIV and Louis XVI's reigns. Breeders introduced small poodles to the U.S. in the late nineteenth century. This breed is one of the most popular breeds in the U.S. The coat is non-shedding, and many pet parents suffering from allergies may consider this lively canine.

Origin and History

This breed originated in Germany, and the name poodle is from the word "pudel," which means to "splash in the water." This canine shares a similar heritage with the Portuguese water dog, Irish water spaniel, and Hungarian water hound. The poodle was popular in France during the eighteenth century and is known as the "duck dog." The French Federation Cynologique (FCI) recognizes France as the breed's country of origin.

Puppy miniature poodle

Miniature Poodle Temperament

The poodle is playful, good with children, and easy to train. This breed is a great family pet for dog owners with an active lifestyle. Most poodle enthusiasts describe the breed as charismatic and full of character.

Appearance

The poodle is available in any solid color. The coat is non-shedding and needs regular brushing. Poodles come in any solid coat color, including black, white, apricot, cream, sable, black and white, grey, blue, brown, silver, and red.

Miniature Poodle Weight and Height

This smaller-sized poodle is a wonderful companion pet for anyone living in a small home or apartment.

  • Weight: The miniature is between 15 and 18 pounds.
  • Height: This poodle is between 11 and 15 inches tall.

High-Maintenance Grooming

The poodle clipping styles vary, but this is an article about poodles! The clipping may be high-maintenance for some novice pet owners. Pet parents need to clip this breed's coat as the canine does not shed hair. In most clips, some parts of the coat are left long, while others are shaved. The original styles for working poodles protect the legs from the undergrowth and keep the vital organs warm, and groomers shave the dog's face, hindquarters, and upper legs for cleanliness and ease of movement.

Miniature poodle being groomed

Health Concerns

Pet parents need to work with reputable breeders to ensure the puppy you bring home is healthy and happy. This poodle is a generally healthy breed, but there are a few health concerns.

  • Prone to cataracts
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia
  • Heart disease
  • Ear infections and allergies

Exercise

The poodle is an excellent gun dog and loves the water. The breed was developed as a water-retrieving dog and loves any water activities. If you live near a lake and your poodle can swim for a few hours, eventually, this active dog will tire out.

Caring for Your Senior Miniature Poodle

The lifespan of the miniature poodle is over 12 years. This life expectancy is long for a dog! Small senior breeds need to visit the vet at least twice a year to ensure he remains healthy and happy. As active dogs age, some need supplements or pain medication from a vet.

Work With a Reputable Breeder

The United Kennel Club or UKC may be an excellent resource for pet parents when you start to look for a breeder. Pet lovers may also look for a breed rescue group or breed club, including The Poodle Club of America.

Miniature Poodle Versus Toy Poodle

The difference between the two is only in height and weight!

  • Height: The toy poodle is up to 11 inches tall.
  • Weight: This tiny-sized pooch is between seven and nine pounds.
3 toy poodles

Miniature Poodles Are Great for Apartment Life

The miniature poodle is an intelligent, loyal, and spirited canine. This elegant breed needs pet parents with an active lifestyle! The poodle's coat is non-shedding, and he is a good candidate for anyone suffering from allergies. Pet parents need to work with a reputable breeder from the UKC or the Poodle Club of America if living with a miniature poodle is a goal.

Trending on LoveToKnow
The Miniature Poodle: Guide to a Clever, Graceful Breed