Miniature Poodle Insights: Intelligence, Training & Care Tips

Miniature poodles are intelligent companion dogs. They are highly trainable and, for this reason, are commonly employed as circus dogs. This breed is typically high-energy and needs to be given adequate exercise and attention to develop good social skills, according to the website Dog Breed Info.

Description

Miniature poodle coats can be either curly or corded. They have long, straight muzzles, and wide-set eyes. The tail is typically carried high and is sometimes docked by owners, especially for show dogs. Miniature poodles can be a wide variety of colors including: silver, cream, black, red, white, brown and apricot, according to the website Miniature Poodles. Miniature poodles typically weigh between 15 and 17 pounds, and are between 11 and 15 inches tall.

Temperament

According to the website Your Pure Bred Puppy, miniature poodles are typically athletic, intelligent, energetic and agile animals. Miniature poodles are capable of rapid learning and tend to enjoy challenging games that involve puzzle-solving like finding hidden toys and hide-and-seek with people. Most miniature poodles also make good watch-dogs, but are typically non-aggressive with strangers.

History

According to the website Dogster, the origin of miniature poodles is unknown. It is thought that the breed may have originated in France, as descendants of the French Water Dog. The word poodle, is derived from the German word pudel, which means "plays in water." Poodles have historically been used by hunters to retrieve birds from water.

Common Health Problems

Pure-bred miniature poodles often suffer from a number of genetic conditions including: Legg-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, entropion, trichiasis, lacrimal duct atresia, glaucoma and cataract, according to Dog Breed Info.

Emotional Sensitivity

According to the American Kennel Club, this breed is particularly sensitive to emotional stress and anxiety. In a home with a lot of shouting or fighting, this dog typically won't do well and can suffer from depression that often manifests as physical illness. A peaceful environment is best for this sensitive dog.
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By Ann Murray

References

Dog Breed Info: Miniature Poodle
American Kennel Club: Miniature Poodles
Dogster: Miniature Poodle
Your Pure Bred Puppy: Miniature Poodle
Miniature Poodles: About

About the Author
Ann Murray has been writing since 1990, with her work now appearing on various websites. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in writing and history from Bard College and is pursuing her Doctor of Philosophy in biology.