Since the three types of Poodles are all in the same family. I thought I would dedicate a page to each of the other two. This page deals with the Miniature Poodle.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Breed Standard for all three types of Poodles is the same, except for their size. The Miniature is the middle size of the group and is over 10” and up to 15” at the shoulder.
Their weight can vary, but usually it ranges between 12 to 15 pounds. They generally mature at about 12 months of age and can live up to 20 years, but normally between 13 to 15 years.
Minis come in a variety of colors just like Standard Poodles and Toy Poodles. The only colors that are accepted in conformation are solid colors, such as black, white, apricot, red, brown or silver.
You can register Parti and Phantom Miniature Poodles with the AKC, but they can’t be shown in conformation.
They are extremely smart, easy to train, very friendly and an affectionate companion dog. They adapt equally well to city or country life. They generally get along well with other dogs.
Most Miniatures get along with everyone, but some can be nervous or high-strung, especially around small children. They tend to have a higher energy level than Standard Poodles.
In very early days, the Miniature Poodle was a popular performer in circuses, street shows and variety shows, performing various tricks and skits. They were often found working with gypsies and other traveling performers.
Finally, in 1932, the Poodle Club of America recognized the Miniature Poodle as a variety of poodle.
Like the larger Standard Poodle and smaller Toy Poodle, they technically don’t shed and are considered hypo-allergenic because they have hair rather than fur. Whether you choose to groom your mini yourself or have it professionally groomed, it needs to be done about every six to eight weeks.
Although Minis are a healthy breed, they are predisposed to getting certain physical conditions or diseases just like Standard or Toy Poodles. Besides the medical conditions and diseasesthat are found in Standard Poodles, they are also predisposed to contracting Patellar Luxation and Legg-Calvé-Perthes.
Although these conditions still occur in Minis and Toy Poodles, they seem to have improved greatly over the last few decades due to more selective breeding being carried out by dedicated breeders.
