Miniature Poodle.

As Poodles are generally intelligent and active breeds, it is important to feed them a diet that addresses their nutritional needs adequately and keeps them healthy at all stages in their life. As Miniature Poodles are prone to tartar build-up, it is best to feed this breed dry dog food. Whilst it is recommended Minitiature Poodles require approximately half to one and a half cups of dog food daily, the amount you feed your dog will still be subject to factors including their age, activity level, individual metabolism and health status. For Miniature Poodles, beware of calories to ensure they do not become overweight, as breeds with smaller frames such as the Mini Poodle should not be carrying extra weight as it only worsens their health issues. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

The Miniature Poodle does not shed and has a wool coat similar to a sheep, rather than a dog hair coat. He will not shed but his hair will keep on growing as long as you let it. Every four to six weeks the Poodle needs clipping. If you don’t brush and comb his coat it will end up like a matted sheep and may need to be shaved off. The breed’s relatively non-shedding coat makes the breed a good choice for people with allergies.

While they do not shed, a Miniature Poodle’s coat will require professional grooming to ensure that he looks his best. Their coats need to be clipped every six to eight weeks as well as regular brushing in between clips. Their coats should be groomed at a minimum of once a week. Minitature Poodle’s ears will also need frequent cleaning to prevent infection. Daily teeth brushing is also recommended to prevent build-up of tartar and even gingivitis.

Unless you plan to keep your Minitature Poodle clipped in a short trim, you will need to learn how to brush him daily to keep his coat from matting. If you do not brush and comb a full-coated Miniature Poodle completely to the skin, the hair will mat near the roots and will have to be shaved off to start all over with new growth. Most pet owners opt to keep the Mini Poodle in a shorter trim. Some owners learn to do this clipping and trimming themselves, while others choose to take their dog to a professional dog groomer every four to six weeks for a bath, grooming, and nail trim.

The Mini Poodle, like almost all other dogs, requires daily exercise. It is recommended to establish a routine that includes walks and fun activities like games to keep your pooch mentally and physically stimulated. Standard Poodles will generally need about 40 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. Most Mini Poodles love to swim, so do take care when near water to ensure their safety.

Unfortunately, inbreeding is extremely high in this dog breed, which has led to a range of health problems being embedded in their gene pool. Miniature Poodles are generally most prone to eye disease, skin diseases, digestive diseases and more.

Veterinary care is essential to a dog’s health and wellbeing, however the frequency of treatment and checkups will depend on the dog. Scheduled six-monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure your Miniature Poodle is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. In these annual visits, your vet will complete a physical examination, take your dog’s temperature and check his heartbeat, among other things. Routine maintenance for your dog gives you a chance to track your dog’s growth and development and discuss any concerns with your vet, and forms a key part of preventative care.

Minitiature Poodles love human companionship, so they are suitable for single owners or the elderly. They have a loving, caring and ntelligent personality, and love to feel part of the family. Mini Poodles may get along extremely well with children, as long as they are raised together and introduced properly. However, be careful when letting them near children, as they are still small and delicate in size. They are also the most hypoallergenic of all coated breeds, making them great for owners with allergies.

Like Standard Poodles, Mini Poodles excel in agility and obedience training. They are one of the smartest and most trainable of all breeds, and are considered a ‘thinking’ dog who pays focused attention to you. As they may get nervous and sensitive around boisterous children, it is recommended to train them well from an early stage.

As well as smaller children and adults, Miniature Poodles also get along well with other pets in the household. They are generally peaceful and accepting of other animals.