Toy Poodle

• ExerciseModerate

  A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• GroomingDaily grooming

  Daily brushing (and pro grooming) keeps the coat in shape.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment14–17 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Patellar luxation · Dental issues · Legg-Calvé-Perthes

The Toy Poodle is a tiny, exceptionally clever companion with a long lifespan and a heart utterly devoted to its owner. It has all the Poodle intelligence and eagerness to learn in a pocket-sized body, so despite its size it needs daily mental engagement and gentle play, and it can become anxious or yappy if left alone too much. Because it is so small and delicate, it needs supervision around rough play and young children, and steps or a lap to avoid injuring itself jumping from heights. The curly, low-shedding coat needs frequent brushing and professional grooming every four to six weeks. Health care for a toy breed centres heavily on the teeth: crowded small mouths develop dental disease early, so brushing and dental checks are essential. Also buy from a breeder who screens for patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy and Legg-Calvé-Perthes hip disease, and be gentle with the fragile joints. Feed measured meals to protect the tiny frame from strain, keep up dental and eye care, and a Toy Poodle will be a bright, affectionate companion for fourteen to seventeen years.

• How much exercise does a Toy Poodle need?

  Moderate. A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• How much grooming does a Toy Poodle need?

  Daily grooming. Daily brushing (and pro grooming) keeps the coat in shape.

• Is a Toy Poodle suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Toy Poodle a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Toy Poodle live?

  14–17 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Toy Poodle?

  Keep an eye out for Patellar luxation, Dental issues, Legg-Calvé-Perthes. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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