The
Toy Poodle is the smallest of the three sizes of Poodles. The
breed shares the same ancestry as the Standard and Miniature
Poodles whose relatives have been known in Europe as capable
water dogs since the 16th Century. The modern Toy Poodle was
primarily developed this century by breeders who recognised
the international success of the Miniature Poodle and saw that
an even smaller dog would be just as popular. Smaller Miniatures
were mated, and it is also suggested that a cross with the Bichon
Frise or the Maltese helped speed up the miniaturisation process.
By the late 40's and early 50's, the Toy Poodle was well established
and was officially granted a separate breed status. This breed
makes a good companion for the less active set and fits easily
in smaller living quarters.
Temperament
Toy
Poodles are a good tempered breed and are devoted to their families.
Affectionate with their owners, Toy Poodles can be timid around
strangers.
Upkeep
Poodles
need a lot of interaction with people. They also need mental
and physical exercise. The toy Poodle’s exercise needs
can be met with a short walk or even indoor games. This is not
a breed that should ever live outside, although it enjoys access
to a yard. Its coat should be brushed every day or two. Poodle
hair, when shed, does not fall out but becomes caught in the
surrounding hair, which can cause matting if not removed. Clipping
should be done at least four times a year, with the face and
feet clipped monthly. Although most poodles are professionally
groomed, owners can learn to groom their own dog.
Official Breed Standard
The Poodle (Toy) should be in every respect a
replica, in miniature, of the Poodle (Standard) and Poodle (Miniature).
Height at shoulder should be under 28 cm (11 in).
