Miniature Poodle

We encourage responsible Miniature Poodle care and adoption! Learn how to substantially extend the lifespan of your Miniature Poodle. For important information about Miniature Poodle health go here.

If you are considering adopting a Miniature Poodle dog, study this profile to find out whether the Miniature Poodle dog breed may fit your lifestyle.

Are you looking for a Miniature Poodle for sale? Learn why you should consider Miniature Poodle rescue.

If you still have your heart set on a new-born Miniature Poodle puppy, adopting one from a reputable breeder is generally the best way to go. Never commit to adopting a puppy (or an adult dog) without meeting it in person first. And use the following link to learn about finding a good Miniature Poodle breeder for your puppy.

Physical Description: 

The Miniature Poodle is a small to medium sized dog with a height ranging from 11 to 15 inches and a weight ranging from 14 to 16 pounds. Male Miniature Poodles average around 16 pounds while female Miniature Poodles average around 15 pounds.  It has a straight muzzle that’s the same length as the skull, with oval eyes sit far apart. The black or liver colored nose accompanies long, feathered, wide, dropping ears. The tail is erect and docked. The Poodle coat is harsh but curly, often styled in a natural, corded, or clipped manner, and bearing a single apricot, black, blue, cream, gray, silver, or white color. Be aware that parti-colored Poodles are not allowed to participate in conformation shows.

Alternative Names: 

Barbone, Caniche, Pudle

History: 

Originating from France (*), the Miniature Poodle was bred as a companion dog – right down from the German Standard Poodle originally bred to retrieve water fowl. In fact, the word “Pudelin” in German means “splash in water,” and the ‘fancy’ trims that the show Poodle wears today were fashioned years ago to actually facilitate the dog’s swimming efforts (and to keep the dog warm during the hunt). But the exact origin of the Poodle isn’t known. The three main areas where the Poodle may have originated from are France, Germany, or Russia. In Germany, Poodles served as retrievers. In Russia, large black Poodles pulled milk carts. In France, Poodles were bred as companions. You can readily spot this companion in 17th century paintings, where small Poodles were depicted alongside figures of European royalty. Of course they also served as circus animals in 17th and 18th centuries. At the end of the 19th century, Poodles entered the U.S., but didn’t become trendy until WWII.

Temperament: 

The Poodle is one of the most intelligent and easily trained dog of all. At first glance, the way that a Poodle trots about gives the impression that it’s already trained! Still, some sturdy guidance goes a long way with these dogs. Because they’re so intelligent, Poodles can get into mischief or fall into depression if they’re not kept busy with activities that show off their natural agility and style. They can be wary of strangers as well, but friendly to the family they belong to. Early socialization will curb excessive guarding and nervousness around strangers. Because Poodles prefer human companionship, they don’t do well in kennels. If properly socialized, they do just fine with children and other animals. Keep in mind that Miniature Poodles can be more sensitive than Standard Poodles, and excessive barking could be an issue with Miniature Poodles as well.

Care and Grooming Needs: 

This dog needs (read, craves) attention, extensive grooming, socialization, exercise, and training. It does not need rough play, teasing, or exposure to predators. The Poodle’s naturally curly hair demands brushing and combing at least twice a week -- clipping every four to six weeks. The Poodle’s dropping ears need extra care as well – cleaning and drying with every bath. Poodles that won’t participate in shows do not need to wear fancy clips, as the more elaborate trims are difficult to create and maintain without experience. (Show clippings include the Continental Clip, the English Saddle Clip, the Puppy Clip, and the Sporting Clip.)

Exercise Needs: 

The Miniature Poodle needs very little exercise. Short morning and evening walks, plus a little playtime in-between is sufficient.

Potential Health Concerns: 

The Miniature Poodle is particularly vulnerable to Addison’s disease, bloat, Cushing’s disease, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, low thyroid, seizures, allergies, heart disease in the lines, Legg-Perthes disease, luxating patellas, PRA, and von Willebrand’s disease. Check that a puppy’s parents own OFA certificates, a yearly CERF, and a DNA certificate that clears them from vWD.

Life Expectancy: 

14 to 16 years

Best Owner and Environment: 

The best owner for this type of dog is one who lives in an apartment or suburban home. Poodles make great pets for first time dog owners as well, and for people with allergy problems since Poodles hardly shed at all.

Puppies: 

Miniature Poodle Puppies are born 8 to 10 per litter. Brushing and trimming a Miniature Poodle puppy is appropriate at 3 ½ weeks of age, and obedience training is appropriate at 6 months of age.

Cautions When Buying: 

You must be extremely careful when buying a Miniature Poodle from an unknown. This dog’s popularity unfortunately drummed up a large group of unscrupulous individuals who care more about making a buck than about preserving the character and quality of this breed. Be sure to read our articles regarding how to select a quality breeder for critical information that could prevent a lot of unnecessary problems down the road. Seek out Poodles that come from a line of performance titles. Check the parent’s dental records as well. A sign of poor teeth in parents indicate a genetic problem that will be passed on to the litter.

Comments: 

This dog gets along great with children and other pets. As a watch dog, this canine is on high alert and suspicious of strangers. Barking indicates intruders or visitors approaching. As a guard dog, it’s not very effective since it will attempt to befriend whatever it is that's approaching.