A miniature poodle can give you the best of dog traits with very few
negative ones. Looking at the basics can help you decide if a
miniature poodle is the type of dog for you.
What Do They Look Like?
Miniature poodles are smaller than a Standard poodle. They range
from 15 to 17 pounds, and are only 11 – 15 inches high.
They have a rounded skull with a longer muzzle. Their eyes are dark
and oval in shape
and their ears are wide and hang close by their head. Usually, their
tails are docked to give them a more balanced look. Their feet are
compact and webbed.
The coat of a miniature poodle isn’t of fur – it is hair. It can be
curly, corded, or ribbed – though curly is most common. The hair of
a miniature poodle does not shed – making it idea for allergy
sufferers.
As for color, miniature poodles can be found in a wide array –
black, blue, brown, white, silver, cream, red, and apricot. The
coloring will be solid. Their hair grows year round, and should be
brushed regularly and professionally groomed every 4-6 weeks.
Miniature poodles are groomed like Standard Poodles. There are three
types of clips that are done. First, is the “pet clip.” With this
cut, the dog’s hair is cut short all over. This is the most popular
for poodles that are not going to be shown in dog shows.
Most show dogs are groomed with the “Continental Clip.” It is the
most distinctive – and the one we often think of when we picture a
poodle in our head. The “Continental Clip” is done by shaving the
hindquarters, as well as the upper half of the legs and half of the
tail. This leaves bracelets and pom-poms on the hips, tail, and
ankles.
The third clip is the “English saddle clip.” For this type of style,
the dog is groomed like the “Continental Clip,” except that the
hindquarters remain unshaved.
Are you curious about why the show poodle is cut with bracelets and
pom-poms on the joints, hips, and legs? When hunters used poodles to
retrieve waterfowl, they would trim their dogs to remove some of the
weight of the wet hair and yet protect the dog from the cold water
and sharp rocks and reeds that would be under the water. With this
cut, the dogs were more able to swim quickly. Interesting, isn’t it?
Health Issues – Life Span And Cautions
A mini poodle can live up to 12 – 15 years. This is a reasonably
long time for any dog, and they are relatively healthy, but they do
have some common potential issues for their health. These include,
allergies, skin conditions, hip dysplasia, ear infections,
cataracts, Addison’s disease, epilepsy, and chronic active
hepatitis. Also, like many other dogs, they can tend to get Von
Willebrand’s disease and gastric torsion.
Temperament Issues – How Do They Act?
Miniature poodles are very social dogs. They want to be included in
the family’s activities, and almost seem to be able to read their
owner’s minds – making them seem telepathic, at times!
These dogs are clever and quick learners. They can easily be trained
– to be obedient as well as tricks to perform. They are eager to
please. They are patient with little children, making them a good
family dog.
They adapt well to their environment, and make great watchdogs –
barking when strangers come to the home. They should be taught to
only bark at true threats, not every new sight and sound. Because of
their excitability, it’s best if poodles are not left outside
unsupervised. Your neighbors will appreciate you keeping your pet
from barking so much!
Miniature poodles don’t do well left at home alone a lot. They want
to be with people and they usually bond with each member of the
family as opposed to being one person’s dog.
Activity Level – Expectations From You
Miniature Poodles are active dogs. They need plenty of exercise, and
daily walks are appreciated – they love attention and activity, and
they are better behaved if kept busy. Give your miniature poodle a
chance to play in the water – he’ll love it!
History Of The Poodle – Standard, Miniature, and Toy
Poodles have been around in Europe for many centuries. This makes it
harder to determine with certainty the origin of the breed. Some
believe it came from Germany, but by and large, now the poodles is
said to have come from France. Poodles descended from the French
Water Dog (a name no longer in use), and was used by hunters to
retrieve waterfowl. The most likely origin of the name “poodle” is
the German word Pudel, which means “plays in water.”
Attention: To discover how
YOU can have the Happiest, Healthiest and Best Behaved Poodle,
get a copy of this Poodle Guide
NOW!
