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The Toy Poodle is the smallest of the three Poodle sizes, bred down from the Miniature to serve as a portable companion. It carries the full intelligence, trainability, and hypoallergenic coat of the larger Poodles in a package that fits on a lap. It is one of the most popular small breeds for apartment dwellers, seniors, and anyone with allergies who wants a bright, affectionate dog.
Toy Poodles are alert, intelligent, and eager to please, and they learn quickly. They bond closely with their families and can be reserved with strangers, which makes them attentive little watchdogs, though they can be vocal. They are affectionate and playful and generally good with gentle children and other pets. Like all Poodles, they need mental engagement and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
The AKC standard sets the Toy Poodle at 10 inches or under at the shoulder, with typical adult weight of 4 to 6 lbs. The term teacup is a marketing label for dogs bred below the standard and is not recognized by any kennel club. Undersized dogs carry a higher risk of hypoglycemia, fragile bones, and dental problems.
The coat is dense, curly, and hypoallergenic in the sense that it sheds very little. It needs brushing several times weekly to prevent matting and professional grooming every four to six weeks. Facial hair should be kept trimmed around the eyes, and the ears need routine cleaning and hair plucking. Small mouths make dental care especially important.
Toy Poodles can inherit patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, tracheal collapse, progressive retinal atrophy, and epilepsy. Dental crowding and periodontal disease are common because of the small jaw. Very small puppies are prone to hypoglycemia and need regular meals. Recommended parent testing includes patella evaluation, eye clearances, and DNA screening for PRA. Ask about the size of both parents; a Toy from Toy parents is more predictable than one from mixed-size lines.
Toy Poodles have modest exercise needs, met by short daily walks and indoor play. They are excellent apartment dogs and should live indoors with the family. Because of their small size, they should be handled gently and supervised around young children and larger dogs.
Typical lifespan is 14 to 18 years, among the longest of any breed. Dental care, weight control, and gentle handling support a full life.
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