Miniature Poodle

The origin of the Poodle is traced to Germany. The dog breed was initially trained by hunters to catch waterfowls, which explains the origin of the English name 'Poodle'. It is derived from the German word pudel or pudelin, which means "to splash in the water"; in Germany it was known as the Pudelhund. France is credited with standardizing the breed, and it soon became the country's national breed. The Miniature variant of the poodle in particular is often accredited to France, thus the "French" prefix to denote its origins. The poodle spread to other parts of Europe, most notably England and Spain, by the end of the 18th century. Although the breed is still used for hunting today, it has also emerged as a dog show favorite, and it was used extensively in World War II.

The Miniature Poodle is one of the three sizes bred by humans. It is smaller than the Standard Poodle and bigger than the Toy poodle. The dog has a height of 11 to 15 inches (28 to 38 centimeters) at the withers and weighs around 15 to 17 pounds. Notably, poodles that are shorter than 10 inches or taller than 15 inches are not allowed to compete in the American Kennel Club show ring as Miniature Poodles. While most dogs have two coats, poodles have one; it lacks an undercoat. The breed's single layer coat comprises dense, curly fur with minimal shedding. However, coat texture can vary from coarse and woolly to soft and wavy. The coat comes in any of a variety of colors that include white, brown, black, blue, gray, cream, and red. Other notable physical characteristics include a long, straight muzzle; dark, oval-shaped eyes; and long and flat ears.

Personality

Miniature Poodles are known for their high level of responsiveness, playfulness, and intelligence. They are also known for being one of the easiest dogs to train. Due to its pedigree as a hunting, sports, and war dog, the poodle exudes an aura of regality. However, this quality often belies its friendliness with people in general. The poodle tends to get very lonely when left alone for long periods of time. The Miniature Poodle is expected to live between 12 and 15 years.

Breed Characteristics

Miniature Poodle Build Information

The Miniature Poodle is one of the three sizes bred by humans. It is smaller than the Standard Poodle and bigger than the Toy poodle. The dog has a height of 11 to 15 inches (28 to 38 centimeters) at the withers and weighs around 15 to 17 pounds. Notably, poodles that are shorter than 10 inches or taller than 15 inches are not allowed to compete in the American Kennel Club show ring as Miniature Poodles. While most dogs have two coats, poodles have one; it lacks an undercoat. The breed's single layer coat comprises dense, curly fur with minimal shedding. However, coat texture can vary from coarse and woolly to soft and wavy. The coat comes in any of a variety of colors that include white, brown, black, blue, gray, cream, and red. Other notable physical characteristics include a long, straight muzzle; dark, oval-shaped eyes; and long and flat ears.

Behaviour and Personality

Miniature Poodles are known for their high level of responsiveness, playfulness, and intelligence. They are also known for being one of the easiest dogs to train. Due to its pedigree as a hunting, sports, and war dog, the poodle exudes an aura of regality. However, this quality often belies its friendliness with people in general. The poodle tends to get very lonely when left alone for long periods of time. The Miniature Poodle is expected to live between 12 and 15 years.

Appearance

A Miniature Poodle would be a great choice if you are a dog lover but allergic to dog dander. The Miniature Poodle needs more than once a week grooming and occasional trimming. This breed does not shed; a regular brush would do it. Let a professional groomer clip your pooch every 6 weeks. Check its ears regularly to prevent pet health conditions. As well, check his teeth to prevent plaque and tartar build up.

Miniature Poodle Common Health Conditions

Common medical problems to watch out for in the Miniature Poodle include diabetes, ear infections, epilepsy, IMHA (Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia), heart disease, runny eyes, and skin allergies. It is also prone to cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, conditions that can cause blindness. Brown-colored poodles in particular tend to turn prematurely gray.

Miniature Poodle Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

Get a Free Pet Insurance Quote

Breed Talents and Facts

The Miniature Poodle — also known as the French poodle, Carniche Moyen (in French) or Barboncino Miniatura (in Italian)—belongs to the poodle family of dogs, which are perhaps best known for their great athleticism. Poodles are particularly outstanding in agility, obedience, and tracking. Not surprisingly, this dog breed has been a multiple winner of conformation shows, as well as a top choice as a family pet.