The Miniature Poodle is a smart and friendly dog that fits well in homes with older kids. They’re small and can get hurt easily, so they’re better suited for families with older children. With proper teaching and supervision, younger kids can also enjoy their company.

Even though they’re small, Miniature Poodles are active and playful. They usually get along with other dogs and strangers, but they might bark to warn about strangers near the house. Still, they’re more interested in making friends than being aggressive.

Miniature Poodles are great pets for any home, even apartments, and they fit in well with different kinds of families. They’re okay in most weather, but they don’t like it too hot or too cold. Since they love being around people, they feel sad when left alone for too long.

It’s important to be aware of potential health issues that Miniature Poodles may face, such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, eye disorders, von Willebrand’s disease, patellar luxation, and Legg-Calve-Perthes. The health of puppies greatly depends on good breeding practices.

Responsible breeders take measures to ensure that preventable health issues are not passed on to puppies. When considering a breeder, inquire about the health and genetic background of both parents, as well as any health tests or clearances conducted. The National Breed Club recommends specific tests, including a PRA Optigen DNA test, patella evaluation, ophthalmologist evaluation, and hip evaluation, as a minimum standard.

Miniature Poodles are very smart, trainable, and love making their owners happy. They’re great for both experienced owners and beginners. Since they’re sensitive to how you feel and the way you talk, it’s best to train them gently. Harsh methods can upset them and make them lose trust in you. Instead, they do best with consistent and enjoyable training that rewards them for good behavior.

Miniature Poodles have fluffy coats that come in many colors. Even though they don’t shed much and are good for people with allergies, their fur needs a lot of care. You should brush them every day to avoid tangles. If you prefer their fur short, a few brushes each week should keep it tidy. They should visit a groomer every 4 to 6 weeks for a haircut. Besides fur care, you should also trim their nails monthly, check their ears every week, and brush their teeth daily. Their droopy ears can get dirty, so make sure to clean them often. Brushing their teeth helps keep them healthy, and regular vet check-ups for their teeth are a good idea too.

Miniature Poodles are lively dogs that need daily exercise. Taking them for walks and playing with them should do the trick. As they grow up, they might enjoy games like fetch or activities such as swimming and hiking with you. They can also be good at sports like agility. Just make sure your vet says it’s okay before you start any intense activities with them.

Adult Miniature Poodles typically reach heights of 10 to 15 inches and weigh between 10 to 15 pounds.

Miniature Poodles typically have a lifespan of around 10 to 18 years on average.