Miniature Poodles
17 Jun 2010
World’s Smartest Breeds
If you think about the name Poodle for a minute, you’ll see how much it is like the word puddle. The similarity between the words is no accident. The German word for Poodle is Pudel. Pudel can mean either dog or puddle. Through the years the spelling of the English word came out as we know it today – Poodle.
Poodle actually originated in Germany where it was used as a water retriever. Many believe the name “Poodle” comes from the German word “pudel” which means “one who plays in water.”
The term “French Poodle” comes from France’s capitalization of the breed’s intelligence, trainability and eagerness to perform. The French turned poodles into popular circus performers where they gained notoriety and became Louis XVI and Queen Anne’s court favorites. They have long since been associated with royalty. Even America’s President, Grover Cleveland, owned a poodle.
The poodle is the only breed that comes in three AKC registered varieties. The three recognized types are the Standard Poodle, the Miniature Poodle and the Toy Poodle. The Standard is the tallest, measuring over 15 inches. The Miniature is 15 inches or under, but a minimum of 10 inches. The Toy is under 10 inches.
The Poodle is an exceptionally intelligent dog that excels in obedience training. Its intelligence and ability to learn makes it one of the most popular breeds in the world. It is considered one of the easiest breeds to train. Also, its hypoallergenic coat makes it a favorite amongst owners. It does not shed, but does require grooming on a regular basis. The breed adapts well to any living conditions, making it an ideal pet for apartments. However, it is an active dog and does require daily exercise.
The Poodle carries itself proudly and has a very distinct air of dignity. The word “elegant” is most often used to describe the breed. The Poodle is known to be shy, but sharp at the same time.
The Standard Poodle (Caniche, Barbone, Chien Canne) is considered to be a large dog of high intelligence and trainability. Elegant, strong and good natured, it makes an excellent family dog. It has a thick, soft, curly coat that does not shed but requires daily grooming. The ears are wide and hang close to the head. The eyes are very dark and alert. The feet are compact and the breed has an effortless and delightful gait (like walking on air.)
unlike the Miniature and Toy varieties of the breed, can be less sensitive to its surroundings and does not bond to one owner or one household as much. It is considered the calmer of the Poodle varieties
Height: 15 inches Weight: 45-70 pounds Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
The Standard Poodle is inactive indoors and even a small yard is acceptable. However they do require daily walks. They are not overly demanding but their temperament is based on their living conditions.
The Miniature Poodle (Caniche) is considered to be a medium dog of high intelligence and trainability. More cheerful and playful than the Standard variety of poodle, it has a thick, soft, curly coat that does not shed but requires daily grooming. The ears are wide and hang close to the head. The eyes are very dark and alert. The feet are compact and the breed has a spunky gait.
It is a loyal companion that insists on being included in all of its owner’s activities. It can learn tricks effortlessly. It is considered less calm than the Standard Poodle, but not as feisty as the Toy Poodle. Most Miniature Poodles love children and other dogs but they will exhibit jealous tendencies and can display sharp reactions.
Height: 11-15 inches Weight: 15-17 pounds Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
They are active indoors but do fine without a yard. However they do require daily walks. They are not overly demanding but their temperament is based on their living conditions.
The Toy Poodle (Caniche, Chien Canne, Tea Cup) is considered to be a small dog of high intelligence and trainability. More sensitive than the Standard and Miniature varieties, it is also considered the smartest of the three. It has a thick, soft, curly coat that does not shed but requires daily grooming. The ears are small and long and hang close to the head. The eyes are very dark and alert. The feet are compact and the breed has a perfect gait.
The Toy Poodle is sensitive but extremely intelligent. They are very responsive and alert. They can be a delight, but also demanding. They do not like strangers and are reserved around children and other dogs. They are known to snap if they are teased, surprised or mishandled.
They generally bond with one owner for life and they are extremely loyal to that individual and will defend them at all cost, despite their size. However, a true “lap dog,” the Toy Poodle expects an equal amount of loyalty and love in return. They adapt better to one dog households and do not do well with small children. The Toy Poodle is considered the least calm of the three poodle varieties.
Height: up to 10 inches Weight: 3-8 pounds Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
They require little indoor or outdoor activities but nonetheless, should be socialized with a daily walk. They are demanding dogs and can bark excessively if left alone for long periods of time.
The three varieties are a long lived breed but it is subject to certain genetic diseases like most dogs. Also, the breeds are subject to bloating, so only feed it two to three small meals a day instead of one or two large meals.







