Dog Profiles

The Miniature Poodle

Well proportioned and squarely built, the Miniature Poodle was bred down from the Standard Poodle. They are an intelligent breed with a sporty disposition and are very easy to train. Miniature Poodles are delightful, good natured, lively dogs. The Poodle makes an excellent family pet who will adapt to any situation and will try anything an owner wants.


Other Names: Barbone, Caniche

Height: 11 - 15 inches
Weight: 15 -17 lbs.

Colors: All solid colors
Coat: Very profuse and dense with a good harsh texture.

Temperament: Miniature Poodles are intelligent, lively, quick to mimic and learn
With Children: Yes, if children are older.
With Pets: Yes

Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: Medium - Low

Care and Exercise: Frequent trimming, brushing and shampooing of the coat. Ears must be kept very clean. Nails trimmed short and teeth brushed weekly. Miniature Poodles enjoy outdoor exercise but will take indoor play. Makes a great jogging partner.
Training: Miniature Poodles are intelligent dogs who learn quickly if handled properly. Gentle and consistent training are the best method.
Learning Rate: Very High, Obedience - Very High, Problem Solving - Very High

Activity: Medium
Living Environment: An apartment is adequate as long as some form of exercise is given. An owner of a Miniature Poodle should want an intelligent, happy, energetic dog.

Health Issues: Generally healthy. Stifle problems and progressive retinal atrophy, junior cataracts, skin problems and epilepsy.

Life Span: 14 - 16 years
Litter Size: 3 - 8

Country of Origin: France
History: Miniature Poodles are believed to have originated in either Germany or Russia where the standard poodle was used foremost as a water retriever. The word poodle comes from the German pudelin for the splash made by an oar hitting water. They share common ancestors with the Irish Water Spaniel. In France is where they were bred down in size.

First Registered by the AKC: 1887
AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group
Class: Non-Sporting
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 9), KC(GB), UKC