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Miniature Poodle Breed Profile

The Miniature Poodle belongs to the AKC Non-Sporting Group and is a very elegant and graceful dog. Lively, active, and playful, these small, non-shedding dogs get along with all househould pets and other dogs. They are one of the brightest and attentive of all dog breeds and excel well at obedience and agility competitions. Miniature Poodles make fine pets for the elderly as well as families with older, respectful children. Given daily walks and exercise, these wonderful dogs can do well in smaller living conditions such as apartments or condos. Poodles have an emotional sensitivity to stress and loud voices and will require early socialization to avoid having timid or skittish dog behaviors.

Origin:             France Utilization:      Companion Registration:   AKC Non-Sporting Group Size:                Small Height:            11-15 Inches Weight:           15-20 pounds Lifespan:         14 years Shedding:        None Colors:             White, black, apricot,                         brown, or grey

Miniature Poodle Links:

 Poodle Gifts
 Poodle Rescue Groups
 Poodle Club of America

Grooming:   The non-shedding, harsh, curly coat of a Miniature Poodle will need professional grooming every 6 weeks and regular brushings to prevent matting. Grooming does not have to sport the "lion' cut which show dogs often are seen.

Social Skills:   This little dog gets along fine with other dogs and household pets. Will tend to be a barker.

Personality:   Very playful, and affectionate. Gentle mannered, very loveable and make good watchdogs.

Children:   Very good with older, respectful children. Not best choice for families with toddlers.

Housing:   Active, however, are fine for apartment and condo living if walked and exercised daily. Make nice companions for the elderly.

Exercise:   Medium. Daily neighborhood walks and occassional play.

Training:   Intelligent. Trains easily and quickly.

Health:   Hip dysplasia, epilepsy, heart disease, Addison's disease, Cushings disease, hypothyroidism, luxating patellas, ear infections, Legg-Perthes disease, eye problems, and skin allergies. More information on Poodle inherited health disorders.

History:   Miniature Poodles we know today have an origin claimed by France, however, they have been around since Ancient Egyption days. The unique look of a poodle "cut" actually began with gypsies and other traveling performers who trained them to perform tricks and skits to paying spectators. Once noticed, the French took clipping to a higher level of art, subsequently naming the poodle the "national dog of France". The true ancestry of the Poodle is still very mistifying. One common belief is they travelled with Germanic tribes and descended from Asian herding dogs. Another belief is they found their way into Portugal in the 8th century. The poodle is actually related to the Portuguese Water Dog, reknowned for their ruggedness both in and out of water. Historically, Poodles were known for their gaming abilities and bred to be water dogs. The Poodles we know today excel in both obedience and agility competions.

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