Toy Poodle Dog Breed Facts & Information

Poodles were originally hunting dogs who needed a lot of space and exercise. Toy Poodles started being bred as smaller dogs more suited for city life and as household pets. They originated in France and eventually made their way to the United States.

Toy Poodles are loving, loyal pets, says Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a veterinarian and spokesperson with Figo Pet Insurance. They’re great lap dogs, easy to train, and good around other animals and older children.

Read on to learn more about Toy Poodles and if they’re the right dog for you. We’ll discuss their history, lifestyle, and health with insights from Toy Poodle experts.

Appearance 

There are three types of poodles: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Toy Poodles are the smallest, usually weighing between six and ten pounds, and are less than ten inches tall. 

Toy Poodles are known as one of the most adorable dogs. They come in all colors, including black, white, brown, and red. Their fluffy, curly hair doesn’t shed, making them the ideal pet for people with allergies. 

Origin & History

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Toy Poodle as an official breed in 1887. While they’ve slightly evolved over the years, today’s Toy Poodle looks similar to the original, says Dr. Grant Little, a veterinary expert at JustAnswer. 

He says these Poddles were first bred in France and Germany before being bred in the U.S. in the 20th century.

Poodles started as very sporty retrieving hunting dogs. They love water, and hunters valued them because they could jump into the water to retrieve. However, they started being bred as smaller house dogs since large hunting dogs don’t do as well in cities.

Lastly, Dr. Little says Toy Poodles became a fashion icon over time because of their various haircuts and people enjoying their style.

Personality & Lifestyle

Although personality isn’t breed-specific, Rachel Lane, a dog behaviorist and owner at Leash and Learn, explains that Toy Poodles are generally athletic, smart, and energetic. Since they have a lot of energy and typically excel in dog sports and activities, they need a lot of mental stimulation and physical activity, making them great pets for active families. 

However, Lane says Toy Poodles can get accidentally injured (especially by younger children) because they’re so small.

With that said, these dogs are better for families with older kids who can be more gentle and safely pet/play with them.

Ideal Environment

Lane says Toy Poodles are flexible dogs and do well in most home environments if their needs are met. She says these dogs require:

• Daily exercise
• Frequent walks
• Trips to the park
• Plenty of playtime

Generally, Lane says Toy Poodles bark only when necessary. Since they’re little and generally quiet, these dogs can live comfortably in small homes and apartments. 

Toy Poodles are also typically okay when left for a short period. Like any dog, they can get lonely if you leave for a long time. Consider hiring a pet sitter who can check on them and offer companionship.

Training

Dr. Ostermeier says Toy Poodles are intelligent, playful, and fun to train. She also recommends you start training as soon as you bring them home. However, you should wait until they have their vaccinations before training them around other dogs.

Basic training can help your Toy Poodle be happy and healthy, and socialization can help them be successful around people and other animals.

Lastly, Dr. Ostermeier says anxiety is a common concern for Toy Poodles, which can show up as yapping or barking.

Grooming Needs

Toy Poodles have little to no shedding, which makes them great for people with allergies, explains Kelly Yuan Ying Zeng, a Toy Poodle Breeder at Puppocino Kennel.

To keep their coat healthy, she recommends brushing your Toy Poodle daily and bathing them every three weeks using a gentle shampoo. You can also use a color-specific shampoo.

Besides grooming, a healthy diet can help maintain your Toy Poodle’s coat; certain nutrients, such as protein and fat, contribute to a dog’s skin health.

Lastly, Dr. Little suggests regular teeth brushing and ear cleaning.

Health

While most Toy Poodles don’t typically have breed-specific allergies or major health concerns, Dr. Little says they can be prone to the following:

• Dental disease
• Ear infections
• Liver shunts
• Bladder issues

Dr. Little recommends regular dental and grooming care and vet visits to monitor their health and treat any possible conditions. Pet insurance can help cover medical expenses to keep your Toy Poodle happy and healthy.

If you’re purchasing a Toy Poodle from a breeder, look for one that tests for possible health conditions before breeding. To learn about potential conditions, you can ask breeders about their testing process and vet records.

Getting A Toy Poodle

If you feel a Toy Poodle might be a good pet for your family, you’ll want to consider the following factors:

• Adopt or buy from a breeder: You can adopt a Toy Poodle or purchase one through a breeder, and each has pros and cons. For example, rescue dogs may be more affordable, but buying from a breeder can offer more predictability on health and behavior.
• Costs: “The average cost of a properly bred Toy Poodle that’s health tested is $3000,” Yuan Ying Zeng says. However, the price can vary depending on pedigree, coat color, and whether you adopt or buy from a breeder. You’ll also need to consider the costs of being a dog parent, including upfront and regular expenses.
• Age: If you’re buying a Toy Poodle from a breeder, you’ll likely get a puppy. Rescue dogs can be any age. Deciding on a puppy versus an older dog depends on your lifestyle and what you’re looking for in terms of their health, how much attention they’ll need, and the bond you can create.
• Further research: Before getting a Toy Poodle, we recommend researching reputable breeders or rescues and how to care for a dog, especially if you’re a first-time pet parent. Take your time researching to ensure you’re ready and choose the right dog for your family. 

Alternative Dog Breeds to Consider 

While Toy Poodles are great pets, their tiny size can make them unsafe around young children. They also need daily exercise, so they’re best for active families.

If you don’t feel a Toy Poodle is the right pet for you, but you’re looking for a similar dog, the following breeds are excellent options:

1. Bichon Frise: A small, less-active dog that’s good with children and other pets
2. Papillion: A social lap dog the size of a Toy Poodle
3. Golden Doodle: An energetic, larger dog that’s a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle
4. Miniature Poodle: A size up from a Toy Poodle, with similar traits and appearance