Miniature Poodles

Miniature Poodles are intelligent, joyful companion dogs. They can be highly trained and are very willing and happy to please its owner. Because they are comical and clever, they are often used as circus dogs. Just like humans, the more intelligent a dog is, the more their minds need to be occupied.

This breed of dog needs to be part of the family. It can’t just live outside in a kennel. It will be high-strung if not given the right amount and type of exercise. If you allow this dog to believe it is Alpha over the humans in the house it can develop Small Dog Syndrome. This can cause it to become sensitive and nervous, not trustworthy around children and strangers, and cause other behavioral issues. Be sure to socialize your dog well!

This is a good watchdog for its size, since they seldom become aggressive. Dogs can start to bark a lot without the proper human to canine communication, rules to follow and limits to their behavior. Poodles are friendly with other dogs and other pets. Just be sure you are this dog’s firm pack leader to avoid any unwanted behavior problems.

The Miniature Poodle is a good choice if you live in an apartment. It will be calm indoors if it receives enough exercise. It will do okay without a yard as long as it gets a daily walk. While walking your poodle, make sure they heel beside or behind you, not out in front or they will think they are the “leader of the pack”. If you have a fenced in yard or safe open area, your poodle will enjoy a good romp off the lead.

Poodles love water and play sessions. They are great dock diving dogs and love water retrieving. They are very versatile in performance events as well. They excel in agility, obedience, rally and confirmation showing.

Your poodle will need to be bathed regularly and their coats need clipped every 6 to 8 weeks. Poodles shed little to no hair and are good for allergy sufferers.

Clean and check their ears for wax, mites and infection regularly. Pull out hairs growing inside their ear canal. Don’t forget to scale their teeth regularly.

Poodles generally live about 12 to 15 years and are good companion dogs.