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Miniature Poodle

 Miniature Poodle Stats & Information

Miniature Poodles with flowers

Stat Information

Pronounced: mi-nē-a-chur Poo-duhl 
Alternative name: French Poodle
Original name: Pudelhund; meaning "to splash about" and "dog"
Size class: Small
Average Weight: 15-17 pounds (6.8 to 7.71 kg)
Max Life Span: 12-15 Years
Litter: 4-5
Origin: Germany | Developed in France
Personality Traits: Proud, active, intelligent
Bred for: Water retriever
Maturity: Adult at 18 months old

AKC Info:
Group: Non-sporting
Recognition: 1887 
Height: 10 - 15 inches (25.34-38.1 cm)
FCI Info: 
Alternative name: Caniche
Name origination: comes from the french word 'cane' which means 'duck'. 
Utilization: Companion Dog
Size:  Over 28 cm (11.02 inches) up to 35 cm (13.77 inches) 

KC info:
Group:Utility 
Size: Over 28 cm (11.02 inches) up to 38 cm (14.96 inches) 

CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) info: 
Group: Sporting
Size: Over 10 inches (25 cm) and under 15 inches (38 cm)

Appearance

The Miniature Poodle has the same appearance as the toy, but is larger; 10-15 inches at the shoulder and generally 10 pounds or so heavier.

This breed is very graceful and carries itself with confidence and pride, walking with its head held high. This mini Poodle is very well proportioned and considered "squarely" built.

Most will have dark oval shaped eyes, however amber eyes can sometimes be found with brown, cafe au lait and silver beige dogs.

The muzzle is long with a slight chiseling under the dog's eyes. The ears are thick and hang down close to the face. The tail is customarily docked (in countries in which it is legal, including the United States) to a medium length.
The coat is one of this dog's most incredible features and great care must be given to keep the coat healthy and tangle free. A Poodle has hair as opposed to fur and it is naturally curly and very dense. Many people believe that dogs who have hair are "hypoallergenic", however it must be noted that it is the fact that this breed does not shed that leads people to believe that they would not cause allergies. The hair does not shed (fall to the ground)...it falls into itself, one of the reasons why the coat must be brushed often. Even so, Poodles and all dogs do produce dander which can cause allergies to some people.

While the Miniature Poodle is famous for it's intricate clips, the coat can be corded if an owner chooses, this is achieved by not clipping the coat and allowing the hair to grow. The cords will then begin to develop when the dog is between 9 and 18 months old. Read about Coat Issues.

Colors

Miniature Poodles may be solid, parti colored (a mix of colors) or phantom colored. Poodle colors are: Apricot, Black, Blue, Brown, Cafe Au lait, Cream, Gray, Red, Silver, Silver beige and White. Learn much more about Poodle Colors.

Care Information

One of the most important aspects of taking care of a toy Poodle is to always understand that the size of the dog will dictate its care. Young puppies are susceptible to Hypoglycemia. Any toy dog is considered an "under-the-foot" dog, meaning that they are very small and can easily be injured by being accidentally stepped on, jumping from too high of a height or when being played with too roughly.

Daily dental care along with yearly professional care is very important as is grooming and clipping of the coat. Proper feeding will help to ensure a happy and healthy dog and prolong the miniature Poodle's life span.

Temperament

This breed is known for its intelligence and generally does very well with house training and command training. Despite its size, the mini can be a great watchdog by alerting you to the presence of strangers on the property with its sharp bark. Able to walk longer distances than the toy, daily walks should be given to ensure good health. and a nice run in an enclosed yard is usually welcomed. When a dog is not given enough exercise, behavioral issues can develop.

Miniature Poodles usually get along very well with children, however because they are very small when puppies, children must be taught how to proper handle them during care and play.

Health Issues

Even though the toy, miniature and standard Poodles are considered the same dog breed, they do have different health issues. The miniature is more prone to Epilepsy, hypothyroidsim, hip dsyplasia, Sebaceous Adenitis, luxating patella, Legg-Calve Perthes, von Willebrand's disease and PRA. Learn more about Poodle Health Issues

Related Article:

Toy Poodle vs Miniature vs Standard Poodle: A helpful summary comparing the 3 sizes of Poodles (AKC recognized) including temperament and health. And a summary of what the three sizes have in common.

Articles:

Poodle Car Sickness: If your Poodle has trouble being comfortable in the car or you're not sure of the safest way to transport your Poodle, this article is for you. This covers both car sickness, along with treatments, and the best car seats and seatbelt restraints. 

Poodle Feeding Guidelines: This extensive article covers all important aspects including scheduling, wet vs dry, grain vs grain-free, homemade food vs kibble, meals, snacks and treats, and more. This is for Poodles of all sizes and ages.

The Best Toys for a Poodle: From chew toys for rambunctious teething puppies to toys to help Poodles with separation anxiety, we have an great list for Poodles of all sizes and ages. 

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