The Poodle is a lively, sociable and affectionate dog who is both intelligent and amusing, and makes a wonderful and fun companion. They love to be included in all family pursuits and can be good watch dogs, announcing visitors without being aggressive. They bond closely to their owners and so do not like to be left home alone.

Country of Origin: Germany

The original Poodle is the Standard Poodle - who was a water retrieving dog so this is a breed who was always very much a worker. The Miniature Poodle was created as a smaller version of the original Poodle for owners who didn’t want such a large dog but were enchanted by their personalities and enthusiasm for all kinds of work. The major influencers in this desire for a smaller Poodle were circuses - who were using this highly intelligent, easy to train, friendly and even comical dog in their shows with great success but found the Standard Poodles just a bit too big.

Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

The Miniature Poodle is an active dog who enjoys exercise and will be happy with between an hour to two hours every day - but will still enjoy games, training, interactive toys and being involved in all family activities at the rest of the time too. If under-exercised or bored, they can become overactive and noisy.

Health and common issues

Like many small breeds, the miniature Poodle can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas). They are also prone to a hip condition and an inherited eye disorder that should be tested for. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

Space requirements

The Miniature Poodle can be a country dog or a city dog - and can live in smaller urban spaces as long as they have access to outside for daily exercise and toileting.

Training miniature poodles

Poodles are a joy to train as they are clever, quick to learn and love working with their owner. They can turn their paw to dog sports such as mini agility, heelwork to music and even obedience with no problems whatsoever - and in fact training and working with their owner will keep this often busy dog happy and relaxed.

Best family dog breeds

Being a little more robust than the smaller Toys - and not as big and bouncy as the Standards, the Miniature Poodle can make a fantastic family dog. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

• Poodles - especially the ones you see in the show ring - seem to have all kinds of crazy hairdos but these often flamboyant-looking styles all started off with a purpose. Poodles were originally water-retrieving dogs but their coats could easily get water-logged and pull them down. The answer was to clip off all their hair but leave some around their vital organs to keep them warm, and around any vulnerable joints to protect from injury.
• Miniature Poodle’s were incredibly popular in circuses because of their small size, cute looks and high intelligence.
• The breed is currently one of the most popular dogs in the show ring.
• A Poodle’s coat never stops growing, which is one of the many reasons they need regular grooming.
• Poodles were one of Elvis Presley’s favourite dog breeds!