Toy Poodle
Quick facts
 |
Group: | Toy |
| Height: | 10 Inches or less | |
| Weight: | Toy: 6-9 pounds | |
| Colors: | Any Solid Color | |
| AKC recognized in: | 1887 | |
Unlike most dog breeds, the Poodle is recognized in three different size categories (Standard, Miniature, and Toy), and is classified into two different groups (Non-Sporting and Toy). More information on the Standard and Miniature Poodle can be found under the Non-sporting Group menu selection.
The origin of the Poodle, like most other breeds, is controversial. The AKC recognizes the country of origination as Germany, where it is called the Pudel (splashing dog). Many other kennel clubs give the distinction to France. Denmark is yet another potential country of origin.
It is now considered the national dog of France, where it has commonly been used as a retriever of water fowl and in circus performances. This is where the common term "French Poodle" came from.
The classic look of partially shorn coat was originated to facilitate the Poodles ability to swim quickly in its capacity as a retriever. The portions that were unshorn are that way for one of two commonly believed reasons: either to keep the major joints warm while in the water, or as some believe, simply a decorative affect from the dogs circus performance days.
Temperament
| Affection |  |
| Cold Tolerance | |
| Ease of Training | |
| Energy level | |
| Exercise Requirements | |
| Friendliness : Children | |
| Friendliness: Other Animals | |
| Friendliness: Other Pets | |
| Grooming Requirements | |
| Heat Tolerance | |
| Playfulness | |
| Protection Ability | |
| Watchdog Ability | |
All three breeds of Poodle are highly intelligent and are among the most trainable breeds. All breeds also need to be with people and hate to be left alone.
Toy Poodles are typically much more high-strung than the other two varieties. Early socializing and training are extra important if you choose to bring a Toy Poodle into your family. Unless well trained, this variety tends to bark a lot. While the Toy Poodle does well with children, it is best with older, well-behaved children rather than younger, inquisitive kids. The Toy Poodle is usually very reserved and timid around strangers. It will make a very good watch dog for its size, though.
Health and Exercise
Toy Poodles have an average life expectency of 12 to 14 years.
Potential medical problems with Toy Poodles include:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- epilepsy
- cataracts
- slipped stifle, a condition causing temporary or permanent lameness.
The Toy Poodle can do well in an apartment, and can get its exercise requirements playing games indoors or out. The Toy Poodle should never live outside, however it will typically like playing outdoors.
The Toy Poodle requires a brushing of its coat at least every other day. When the toy poodle sheds, the hair does not fall to the floor, instead being caught in the rest of the coat, which could lead to matting problems.
Visitor Comments
This is your chance to add your feedback. Do you have a Toy Poodle in your family, or know one in someone elses? Do you have a story to tell related to that Toy Poodle? Or maybe you have more questions that either DogNation.net or another of our visitors might be able to help you with? Feel free to add your comment or question below.
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1I can still see my first dog. For six years he met me at the same place after school and convoyed me home — a service he thought up himself. A boy doesn't forget that sort of association.
E.B. White