Miniature Poodle
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Appearance
| Poodle Quick Summary | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | |
| Origin | Germany |
| Size | Varies |
| Height (at withers) | Varies |
| Weight | Varies |
| Hair Colour(s) | Varies |
| Lifespan | 10-16 years |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Litter size | 2-8 |
| Shedding | Low |
| Grooming | Medium |
| Barking Tendency | Medium |
| Exercise requirements | Medium |
| Ease of training | High |
| Suitability for kids | High |
| Animal compatability | High |
| Aggression levels | Low |
| Distress if left | High |
The Poodle is a graceful yet sturdily built dog. The body has a deep and moderately wide chest deep with well sprung ribs, straight forelegs and a high-set tail that is normally docked. The head has a long, tapering muzzle, long pendulous ears and dark, oval shaped eyes. The poodle actually comes in three varieties: Toy, Miniature and Standard. The Toy variety is small in size, between 5-10in (13-25cm) in height and 6-9lbs (3-4kg) in weight. The Miniature variety is small in size, between 11-15in (28-38cm) in height and 15-20lbs (7-9kg) in weight. The Standard variety is medium in size, between 22-27in (56-68.5cm) in height and 40-80lbs (18-36kg) in weight. The characteristic coat is harsh and covered in tight curls, and the colouring can vary but includes brown, red, silver, cream, black, white, and apricot. The familiar stylish Poodle clip was oringally designed by hunters to help these dogs move through water more efficiently, and the large remaining patches were meant to protect vital organs and joints from the cold.
Temperament
Poodles are friendly and good-natured dogs with steady temperaments. These sociable creatures are lively and energetic, but are also calm when indoors. They enjoy interaction and companionship from their owners and make very popular family pets. As they require a fair amout of mental and physical stimulation and attention, they are not suited to those with little time for their pets. Early socialisation is important to promote steady temperaments, as some can be timid or nervous. This is a highly intelligent and very trainable breed, and being eager to please they are suit both to novice and experienced dog owners alike. Poodles get along well with older, more considerate children, and they tend to get along well with other pets too. These dogs are normally welcoming and polite with strangers, but being loyal and protective of loved ones, they still make relatively effective watchdogs.
History & Skills
Poodles originate from Germany but were mostly developed in France. Originally bred for retrieving ducks from water, they were also used as circus dogs, learning and performing tricks. They then went on to become show dogs in France, where they become favorites of the wealthy classes and eventually the national dog of France. Poodles became the embodiment of the pampered and spoiled pet, and the three varieties mostly differ by size and the purpose they were bred for, with the toy and miniature varieties being sized down from the standard. The miniature variety may have been used for truffle hunting at one time, and the standard variety can still be trained for hunting, but these days Poodles are mostly used as companions, family pets and show dogs.
Breed Specific Ailments
Poodles tend to live up to 16 years for the Toy variety, 13-16 years for the Miniature variety, and 10-13 years for the Standard variety. Some of the health problems noted in this breed includes Addison's Disease, hip dysplasia, PRA, bloat, SA, epilepsy, entropion, cataracts, renal disease, and allergies.
Grooming
Poodles are low shedders, when groomed correctly, and so can be suitable for those suffering from allergies. Their grooming requirements are moderate, and the coat will need brushing on a daily basis and clipping every 6 weeks or so. They wil require regular bathing, and the ears must be kept dry and clean of excess wax and hair growth to prevent infection. The nails will need to be kept trimmed too.
Exercise & Environment
Poodles tend to live indoors, and the toy and miniature varieties are suitable for small homes such as apartments. They tend to be inactive indoors and their exercise requirements increase with their size, but access to a yard or garden area for play and a daily walk should meet most of their exercise needs. The standard variety will also appreciate the chance to swim.