The Miniature Poodle originated directly from the Standard Poodle. All types of poodles are well known for their high intelligence and ease of training. The Standard Poodle was commonly used to retrieve not only game from the water, but also used to sniff out delicate truffles. Truffles, the fruit of an underground mushroom are a prized delicacy in France and in the cuisines of many othe nations. The only difficulty that these hunters had was the Standard Poodle was too large and crushed the tender mushrooms, thus rendering them useless. This called for a smaller dog in order to preserve the prize in which they were seeking. So comes the Miniature Poodle, small and intelligent, yet still carrying with it the confidence and pride of the Standard Poodle.
For more in depth history please visit the "Poodle" main page.
Although it is not directly known what the Standard Poodle was bred with in order to reach the compact size of the Miniature Poodle, most sources suspect breed culling and only breeding the smallest of the litter until it reached the desired size. Once proper size was attained the Miniature Poodle excelled at the task at hand and was the premier truffle hunter in France. Unlike its ancestor, the Miniature Poodle does not love the water. It predominantly would stay on land.
After the Gypsies in and around France heard of the Miniature Poodle, a smaller version of the poodle that sports the same great looks and high intelligence, they sought them out and began breeding them. Due to their high intelligence and immense drive to please their owners, they were a perfect fit for the circus. The gypsies took them around in their travels and trained them to perform wonderfully, making them an instant hit among the crowds. Eventually other various traveling performers picked up the breed and began performing with them as well. This high public exposure began to rocket the Miniature Poodle’s popularity to new heights.
Once the public fell in love with the breed the higher class began keeping them as house dogs, not providing them with any specific job, just companionship. A great companion it was, again with its high intelligence and eagerness to please it instantly grasped the hearts of families. This is possibly the beginning of the Miniature Poodle’s current ranking among the other 2 types of poodles. The miniature poodle is the most popular poodle of the three. It wasn’t until around the 20th century that the Miniature Poodle became popular in the United States. Now the breed is the base for nearly all designer breeds such as the Cockerpoo, Golden Doodle, Labradoodle and the Shih Tzu-Poo.
So it is safe to say that no matter what form, whether purebred or designer, the Miniature Poodle has captivated the hearts and homes of people across the globe. Our fascination with a poodle that you can keep in an apartment or share a couch or bed has given this special miniature breed a place in our modern society as well as previous ones.
Despite the Miniature Poodle’s lack of physical height this breed carries with it a rich heritage of confidence and pride. As many breeders and breed enthusiast will agree, this dog is small but it means business. The Miniature Poodle is like its predecessor, the Standard Poodle, in almost every way except height. The consensus for the breed standard is consensual throughout the kennel clubs across the globe. The height requirements for the Miniature Poodle are over 10 inches but less than 15 inches (28 cm to 38 cm). Weight requirements are consistent throughout various kennel clubs as well, being between 15 and 17 lbs. (7-8 kilograms). Although there are weight requirements they are not immediate disqualifiers as only dogs over or under the required height will be disqualified.
The Miniature Poodle has a bit of dispute of its characteristics. Many believe that due to its previous job as the sole hunter of truffles, never seeing the water, that Miniature Poodles do not enjoy the water. As with most breeds, there is always a bit of “breed standard stereotypes”. So it can be surmised that some Miniature Poodles may not enjoy the water, others may absolutely love it.
Many modern groomings may be a simple “poodle face” and “poodle feet” with a short and clean body known in the United States as a “puppy cut”, other owners may enjoy “bracelets” or pom-poms” or a more pampered look with “pants” and “vest”. Still the AKC and other kennel clubs require the breed standard “puppy cut” for canines less than 12 months and either a “Saddle Clip” or “Continental Clip” for older dogs. A full description of these clips may be found in the "Poodle" main page.
Colors may vary in the same fashion as the Standard Poodle including blues, grays, silvers, browns, cafe-au-laits, apricots and creams. The colors may vary in shade and while clear colors are preferred lighter or darker shades of color will not be penalized.
This miniature breed very closely resembles its larger version, having dark oval shaped eyes and a long muzzle all the while sporting a tight cheeked well proportioned head. The body should be lean and fit with a tight loin and overall body. Due to a modernly sedentary lifestyle this breed should not be overfed due to pampering or obesity is very likely leading to serious health conditions down in the latter part of the canine’s life.
The Miniature Poodle is quite an even tempered breed overall. They get along with most other pets and have never really been bred for game or varmint hunting, so they are usually alright around small animals as they do not have a high “Prey Drive”. As with all dogs, proper introduction to any foreign animal should be taken. The Miniature Poodle is mostly viewed as a pampered lap dog but they can have very high energy if not given adequate mental and physical stimulation. This breed should be taken on a brisk walk daily, as well as with all dogs a yard is preferred but not necessary due to the size of this breed. The sheer size of the dog could make it prey to aerial predators so be sure and use caution if you are in an area with hawks, eagles or other birds of prey. Despite the stereotype of being a “yappy ankle biter” the Miniature Poodle can be fairly quiet and laid back and is quite friendly with strangers and new animals. Of course they may have protection issues with either the owner or property, yet that is only natural with canine instinct.
Grooming for the Miniature Poodle is very similar throughout the entire breed line. For more information please visit the "Poodle" main page.
Due to the Miniature Poodle’s sensitive skin and stomach a low to no grain diet is recommended. Low quality grains can cause skin irritation, skin rash and hot spots on the dog’s skin. It is because of this a diet rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids should be considered. Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are essential nutrients to maintain the skin and coat and keep it nice and bright. Another recommended stipulation would be to ensure sufficient meat content in the food. A lack of meat content can slow a dog’s metabolism and increase risk of malnourishment and possibility of obesity. Correct diet is essential in a healthy and happy life for your loved canine.