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Characteristics, History, and Health
Miniature and Toy Poodle
The Miniature Poodle is a size variant of the Poodle breed, which originated in Germany as a water retriever, or 'Pudel,' a term that means 'to splash in water'. Despite its German origin, the breed was standardized in France where it became the country's national dog. The Miniature Poodle was bred down from the Standard Poodle to accommodate urban living and to serve as a truffle hunter, due to their excellent sense of smell.
Main Info
- Origin
- Germany, France
- Lineage
- Toy Dog Lineage
- Alternate Names
- Caniche (means "duck dog" in French), Mini Poodle
- Life Expectancy
- 10-18 years
- Average Male Height
- 10-15 inches
- Average Female Height
- 10-15 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 10-15 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 10-15 pounds
- Coat Length
- Long
- Coat Type
- Curly
- Coat Colors
- Apricot, Black, Black & Brown, Black & Cream, Black & Gray, Black & Silver, Black & Tan, Black & White, Blue, Blue & White, Brown, Brown & White, Cafe Au Lait, Cream, Cream & White, Gray, Gray & White, Red & White, Red & Apricot, Red, SIlver, Silver Beige, White, White & Apricot, White & Silver, Black & Apricot, Brown & Apricot
- Coat Pattern
- Black Points, Black Mask, White Mask, White Markings
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Miniature Poodles are susceptible to hip dysplasia, sebaceous adenitis, epilepsy, immune-mediated disorders, von Willebrand disease, eye disorders, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD), trichiasis, distichiasis, lacrimal duct atresia, entropion, glaucoma, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, patellar luxation, and urinary stones. They are also prone to eye disorders such as progressive retinal atrophy, progressive rod-cone degeneration, and rod-cone dysplasia 4. Other specific conditions for which they should be genetically tested include congenital methemoglobinemia, degenerative myelopathy, and osteochondrodysplasia. As for all breeds, genetic screening is recommended to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.
Personality and Behavior
Miniature Poodles are intelligent, energetic, and sociable dogs. They excel in obedience and are highly trainable. Their alert and friendly nature often makes them excellent family pets. They're also known for their love of playing and need for regular mental and physical stimulation.
Miniature Poodles have a dense, curly or corded coat. The fur is naturally hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies. The coat is typically kept in specific cuts like the "puppy clip" or the more intricate "continental clip".
Fun Facts
Miniature Poodles are sometimes affectionately referred to based on their coat colors like "Black Mini Poodle", "White Mini Poodle", etc.
The Poodle is the national dog of France, however, in France they are known as Caniche or "duck dog."
Miniature Poodles are often utilized as circus performers due to their intelligence, trainability, and agility.
Despite their often sophisticated appearance, they are true athletes at heart, excelling at activities such as agility and obedience competitions.
Poodles, including Miniature Poodles, are ranked as the second most intelligent dog breed, just after Border Collies.
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/poodle-miniature/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/poodle
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/POODLE-172.html
https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_poodle-miniature
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