Miniature Poodle

A well proportioned and squarely built, the Miniature Poodle lies between the Standard Poodle and the Toy Poodle in size. Poodles are commonly acknowledged to be the most wisely intelligent of all members of the canine race.

Origin: During the 1950s, the Miniature Poodle became the most popular breed in many countries because it was believed, wrongly, that as more people migrated to the towns, interest in working breeds would lessen. This did not prove to be the case, and while there are those who say that it is not a proper dog at all, no doubt blissfully unaware of its origins as a gundog and water retriever, the Miniature Poodle remains a favorite.

Poodle is a scholar and a gentleman; but, in spite of its claims of long descent and extraordinary natural cleverness, Poodle has never been widely popular as the Collie and the Fox Terrier are popular. There is a general belief that it is a fop, whose time is largely occupied in personal embellishment, and that he requires a great deal of individual attention in the matter of his toilet. It may be true that to keep Poodle in exhibition order and perfect cleanliness his owner has need to devote more consideration to him than is necessary in the case of many breeds.

But in other respects Poodle gives very little trouble, and all who are attached to him are consistent in their opinion that there is no dog so intensely interesting and responsive as a companion. Poodle qualities of mind and their acute powers of reasoning are indeed so great that there is something almost human in their attractiveness and devotion. Poodle aptitude in learning is never denied, and many are the stories told of this marvelous talent and versatility.

Not merely as a showman’s dog, Poodle is something more than a mountebank of the booths, trained to walk the tight rope and stand on his head. Poodle was an adept at performing tricks, but it is his alertness of brain that places Poodle apart from other animals.

There is the example of the famous Munito, who in 1818 perplexed the Parisians by his cleverness with playing cards and his intricate arithmetical calculations. Paris was formerly the home of most of the learned Poodles, and one remembers the instance of the Poodle of the Pont Neuf, who had the habit of dirtying the boots of the passers-by in order that his master, shoeblack stationed halfway across the bridge, might enjoy the profit of cleaning them.

Then in Belgium Poodles were systematically trained to smuggle valuable lace, which was wound round their shaven bodies and covered with a false skin. These dogs were schooled to a dislike of all men in uniform, and consequently on their journey between Mechlin and the coast they always gave a wide berth to the Customs officers. On the Continent Poodles of the larger kind are often used for draught work.

There can be little doubt that the breed originated in Germany, where it is known as the Pudel, and classed as the Canis familiar is Aquatics. In form and coat he would seem to be closely related to the old Waterdog, and the resemblance between a brown Poodle and an Irish Water Spaniel is remarkable. The Poodle is no longer regarded as a sporting dog, but at one period he was trained to retrieve waterfowl, and he still on occasion displays an eager fondness for the water.

In the 19th century, the appealing looks and trainability of poodles made them a useful addition to the entourage of French circuses. Later, they emerged from the entertainment business to become the world’s most popular pet.

Temperament: Generally friendly, high spirited and good natured. Miniature Poodle carries himself very proudly, hence an excellent show dog.

Grooming: The Miniature Poodle has the same show standard as the larger and smaller breeds, except in the manner of size, has a similar characteristics. The hair grows indefinitely and isn’t shed. Use a wire-pin pneumatic brush and a wire-toothed metal comb for daily grooming. It requires frequent regular visits to the canine beauty parlor, even if it is not the intention to exhibit. The lion clip is obligatory for showing.

Exercise: Unlike the Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodle doesn’t require that much high impart activities to in perfect health. It is suitable for town dwellers.

Physical Appearance of the Miniature Poodle

Head: Long, straight, and fine, the skull not broad, with a slight peak at the back.

Muzzle: Long (but not snippy) and strong, not full in cheek; teeth white, strong, and level; gums black, lips black and not showing lippies.

Eyes: Almond shaped, very dark, full of fire and intelligence.

Nose: Black and sharp.

Ears: The leather long and wide, low set on, hanging close to the face.

Neck: Well proportioned and strong, to admit of the head being carried high and with dignity.

Shoulders: Strong and muscular, sloping well to the back.

Chest: Deep and moderately wide.

Back: Short, strong, and slightly hollowed, the loins broad and muscular, the ribs well sprung and braced up.

Feet: Rather small, and of good shape, the toes well arched, pads thick and hard.

Legs: Forelegs set straight from shoulder, with plenty of bone and muscle. Hind legs very muscular and well bent, with the hocks well let down.

Tail: Set on rather high, well carried, never curled or carried over back.

Coat: Very profuse, and of good hard texture; if corded, hanging in tight, even cords; if non-corded, very thick and strong, of even length, the curls close and thick, without knots or cords.

Colors: All black, all white, all red, all blue.

• White Poodle: Should have dark eyes, black or very dark liver nose, lips, and toenails.
• Red Poodle: Should have dark amber eyes, dark liver nose, lips, and toenails.
• Blue Poodle: Should be of even color, and have dark eyes, lips, and toenails.
• Black Poodle: All the other points of White, Red, and Blue poodles should be the same as the perfect Black Poodle.