Picking your Dog’s
breed is the most important factor in deciding which
puppy to purchase. As each breed is unique in size, temperament
and habits, certain breeds also may have special needs.
Displayed below is special information about the breed
you are interested in. Feel free to ask our breed specialists
any questions you may have regarding the breed you are
looking for.
The Miniature Poodle, breed is believed to have originated in Germany as a water retriever. It appeared in various parts of the world long ago; there is evidence of this animal dating from the 1st century in southern Europe. Three varieties of the breed exist. Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodle and Toy Poodle.
Appearance
The Miniature Poodle skill is peaked with a long, straight muzzle. Their eyes are dark in color and oval-shaped. Their eyes and ears that are set low and hang close to the head, and muscular hind legs and their tail is carried high. The coat is like wool not hair and this is a plus for those who have allergic reactions to other animal hair. The topcoat consists of either wiry, curled hair, or long, silky hair hanging in cords. The dog may be of any solid color. Their height can vary from 10 to 15in. at the shoulder and weighing from 12 to 20 lb.
Temperament
The Miniature Poodle is intelligent friendly, playful, affectionate, family oriented and is good with children. Obedience training is recommended at an early age.
Height: 11-15 inches (28-38 cm.)
Weight: 15-17 pounds (7-8 kg.)
About 12-15 years.
Gun Dog, AKC Non-Sporting
Temperament:
The Miniature Poodle is intelligent friendly, playful, affectionate, family oriented and is good with children. Obedience training is recommended at an early age. The breed is great at learning tricks, and a favorite in the circus ring. The Poodle will love being a part of family activities. He is very amusing and clever. Some love to play with children, but some can be sensitive and nervous if the owner does not instinctually fulfill the dog. They can be somewhat high-strung if not given the proper type and amount of exercise. They can be reserved with strangers and should be socialized as a puppy. Any effort the owner puts into training and socializing will be well rewarded. This is a very good watchdog for its size, seldom becoming aggressive. They may start to bark a lot without proper human to canine communication, rules to follow and limits to what they are allowed to do. Poodles are friendly with other dogs and non-canine pets. Be sure you are this dogs firm pack leader, to avoid any unwanted behavior problems.
Grooming:
Extensive grooming is needed. They must be bathed regularly and clipped every six to eight weeks. The ears should be checked regularly for mites and the ear hair should be pulled out if necessary. The traditional clips were developed to lighten the weight of the coat for swimming and protection to the joints and major organs from cold, but many owners opt for the plain lamb clip - the same length all over, because it is easier and more economical to maintain. The teeth need regular scaling. Poodles shed little to no hair and are good for allergy sufferers. (See description for different styles of clips.)
Origin:
Although the Poodle has been known throughout Western Europe for at least 400 years, its origin is controversial. Whether it was developed in France, Germany, Denmark, or the ancient Piedmont is uncertain. Despite the claims of several other countries, France has now been officially recognized as its country of origin, and the breed occupies a special place in the affections of the French. It is certain that the Poodle is descended from a now nearly extinct French water dog, the Barbet and possibly the Hungarian Water Hound. The name "Poodle" probably derives from the German word "Pudel," which means one who plays in water. The Poodle was used as a gun dog and originally was used in Germany and France as a retriever of waterfowl. Hunters clipped the dog's thick coat to help him swim, leaving hair on the leg joints to protect them from extreme cold and sharp reeds. The French capitalized on the breed's high intelligence, trainability, and innate showmanship, and made the Poodle into a circus performer. His great popularity in that country led to the breed's common name "French Poodle." In France, however, the Poodle was called the "Caniche," or duck dog. The Poodle has been used to sniff out truffles lying underground in the woods. Poodles are depicted in 15th century paintings and in bas-reliefs from the 1st century. Toy Poodles became royal favorites, particularly in the 18th century. The Toy and Miniature Poodle varieties were bred down from larger dogs, today known as Standard Poodles. The three sizes are considered one breed and are judged by the same standard. Today, the Poodle is primarily a companion and show dog, though he can learn almost anything. Some of the Miniature Poodle's talents include: retrieving, agility, watchdog, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.
