Miniature Poodle Dog Breed Information

With three different sizes from which to choose, the poodle is a versatile breed. The standard poodle is the oldest breed, with miniature and toy poodles bred down from their larger cousins. The miniature poodle is a small-to-medium dog, weighing approximately 15 to 17 lbs. at adulthood. In order for a poodle to be classified as a miniature, it must measure between 10 and 15 inches at the highest point of the shoulder, according to the American Kennel Club.

  1. Appearance

    • The miniature poodle has either a curly or corded coat and comes in solid colors such as black, blue, cream, gray, red, brown and white, according to the Dog Breed Info Center. There are three main types of clips recognized by the American Kennel Club. The puppy clip is preferred on miniature poodles younger than 12 months old. The coat is long, but the face, throat, feet and base of tail are shaven, with a pom-pom on the end of the tail. The English Saddle and continental clips are preferred for older dogs. With these clips, the groomer shaves the back half of the miniature poodle's body but leaves bracelets around the ankles and pom-poms on the tail and hips.

    Temperament

    • A happy, playful dog, the miniature poodle makes a good companion dog. The miniature poodle is intelligent and benefits from training, according to the Dog Breed Info Center. While some poodles are bossy or nervous, these are not typical traits of the breed. As a small dog, the miniature poodle sometimes develops small dog syndrome, which is a man-made problem caused by humans allowing the dog to believe it is the boss. Small dog syndrome can develop from improper training and socialization, according to the Dog Breed Info Center.

    Grooming

    • With long, thick coats, miniature poodle require regular brushing and clipping, according to the Poodle Club of America. The miniature poodle is a non-shedding dog breed, meaning regular brushing is important to get rid of dead hair. The Dog Breed Info Center recommends owners of miniature poodles bathe and clip their dogs every six to eight weeks.

    Health

    • There are a number of common health problems affecting miniature poodles, according to the Poodle Club of America. These include progressive retinal atrophy, hyperthyroidism, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, Addison's disease, Cushing's syndrome and chronic active hepatitis. Regular health checks can detect most of these illnesses before they become serious, but many are genetic problems that are not preventable.

    Potential

    • The miniature poodle is intelligent and versatile and, with consistent training, has the potential to compete in dog sports such as agility, obedience, rally obedience and conformation showing, according to the Dog Breed Info Center. As a water dog, it is also capable of water retrieving and therefore can be used in hunting.