The Mini-Poodle: Regal, Elegant and Adorable! The miniature poodle is one of the most regal breeds. Standing at 10-15 inches and weighing roughly between 10-15 pounds they emit grace and elegance and are true aristocrats of the doggie world. The mini poodle has a graceful, small to medium sized frame with a rounded head and long muzzle, with oval eyes and close hanging ears. They have docked tails (optional) and compact, webbed feet. The coat is sometimes curly, sometimes corded or ribbed, and can be any solid color. There are many breed clips, but they are shown in a continental clip, but for pets the clip is based on owner preference. They are smart, small and compact so they’re also ideal for any environment and their friendly, loyal disposition, plus low-allergen coat make them especially suitable for seniors and children. Origins of the Mini-Poodle...Though poodles have existed in Europe for centuries, no one knows their exact origin. Some claim Germany, but the majority say France where they are considered a beloved national breed. Descended from the French Water Dog, the poodle’s name is likely derived from the German word pudel, or “plays in water”. They were used to retrieve waterfowl for hunters. Poodles were prized for their intelligence and good manners, eventually being used in circuses and dog shows, and of course, as companions. The standard poodle is believed to be the oldest of the three poodle breeds, but all three are judged in the same category.  The unmistakably flamboyant poodle show coat did serve a purpose in the breed’s early years, believe it or not! Hunters wanted their dogs to have free range of motion in the water but also wanted to protect their vital areas of anatomy against the cold waters. So, they shaved the legs, neck and tail, but left the chest, hips and leg joints covered in coat. The rounded tufts on the legs, hips, and tail tip are called pompons, and the puff on the head is the top knot! Grooming the Mini-Poodle...Unless you plan to keep your poodle clipped in a short trim, you will need to learn how to brush it daily to keep its coat from matting. If you do not brush and comb a full coated poodle completely to the skin, the hair will mat near the roots and will have to be shaved off to start all new growth. Most pet owners opt to have them keep them in a shorter clip. Some owners learn how to do it themselves, while most will choose to go to a professional groomer every four to six weeks for a bath, grooming, nail trimming and ear cleaning. The breed’s relatively non shedding coat makes the breed a good choice for people with allergies. There are a wide variety of poodle clips to choose from. The puppy cut can range from short to full coated. And there are many clips that combine both short and long hair. Feel free to speak with your groomer about trying different clips to see what suits your poodles needs and aesthetics best!  Final Thoughts...Poodles are smart, sturdy, loyal companions. They are eager to learn, so begin training as puppies. Treats are great incentives for them, but they can be prone to obesity, so limit their intake. They have high energy level, so they require exercise. Being bred for hunting, their impulse is to retrieve so tossing sticks, toys, or balls will exercise both their mind and body. They also like to walk or jog with their human! Most poodles live long, happy healthy lives, but can also be prone to such issues as hip dysplasia, eye disorders, epilepsy, and immune related diseases. Mini poodles are also susceptible to luxating patella. They require regular dental cleaning, and ear plucking/cleaning so avoid infection, as well as routine brushing, but the non shedding coat makes them excellent companions for elderly and children. They are sweet, fun loving elegant doggies, no wonder they are ranked number 7 of all dog breeds in popularity!  |
Lourdes MassengillI love grooming and dogs are my life :-) Archives
November 2021
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