|Miniature Poodle Appearance
Bouncing bundles of energy, Miniature Poodles are light on their feet and have the agility of circus performers. Poodles can be any solid color from black to white, including brown, cream, blue, gray, silver, cafe-au-lait, and apricot. Their tightly curled hair can be styled or trimmed in a puppy cut close to the body. Miniature Poodles have long ears that hang close to the head but may seem invisible under the curly coat. The eyes are dark and oval, and they do not protrude like the eyes of some of the smaller dog breeds. The Miniature Poodle’s nose is medium length rather than flat, and it tapers slightly. The feet are small and the overall appearance is one of lightness. Even though the Miniature Poodle is small, its body proportions are similar to those of a Standard Poodle.
Miniature Poodle Behavior
Miniature Poodles are active, cheerful pets that dote on their families and may bond strongly to one family member. They jump actively about and may be on and off furniture before you can say a word. Known as one of the most intelligent breeds, Poodles are also one of the most sensitive. Harsh or inconsistent discipline is counterproductive and may encourage anxiety rather than obedience.
Miniature Poodle Health (dog breed health problems)
Miniature Poodle Cancer (such as basal cell tumors and lymphosarcoma)
Some forms of cancer are common in Miniature Poodles. Annual veterinary visits increase the likelihood diseases will be detected early. Supplements with green tea boost the immune system, which controls unwanted cell growth (cancer) and infection. Be Well contains decaffeinated green tea.
Miniature Poodle Tracheal collapse
Tracheal collapse is common in Miniature Poodles because the cartilage rings that hold open the airway are fragile. To protect your pet’s throat and keep pressure off the airway, use a harness rather than a collar. If your pet develops a collapsing trachea, it may develop a cough. Supplements with glucosamine help keep the lining of the airway healthy, moist, and smooth, just as they help keep joints normal.
Miniature Poodle Bone and joint diseases
Bone and joint diseases such as can occur in Miniature Poodles even though they are very tiny. Arthritis can occur in the knees because many have knee caps (patella) that slip out of place (luxating patella). Over 75% of Miniature Poodles with luxating patellas have an inherited problem that causes the patella to slip medially (to the inside). Miniatures Poodles can also have bone disease in the hip (Legg-Perthes disease). Providing a natural, holistic diet helps maintain healthy weight and healthy joints. Use Dasuquin or 1-800-PetMeds Super Joint Enhancer if your Miniature Poodle has arthritis or painful joints.
Miniature Poodle Obesity
Miniature Poodles are so adorable that we tend to over-feed them. Unfortunately, obesity shortens their lives and predisposes them to diabetes and other disease. Control obesity with diet and exercise. Limit treats and feed Taste Of The Wild to help keep your Miniature Poodle at a healthy weight.
Miniature Poodle Heart valve disease
Heart valve disease (endocardiosis) is common in Miniature Poodles. Bacteria in the mouth from chronic dental disease increase the severity of valve disease, so brush the teeth and provide good oral care. Coughing with exercise is one sign of heart disease.
Miniature Poodle Grooming
Poodles require professional grooming every 4-8 weeks to keep the hair from their eyes. It’s also important to have the hair around the bottom clipped so that it doesn’t become matted or collect feces. Poodles can be cut in elaborate styles such as the English saddle, continental or sporting clip, but your Miniature Poodles may be equally attractive with a simple puppy cut. With a puppy cut, the hair can be brushed easily.
Miniature Poodle’s outer ear canals are usually thickly haired. This growth holds moisture and predisposes them to chronic ear infections. To prevent infection keep the ear canals dry and bacteria free by using weekly ear cleansers. Plucking hair is no longer recommended by many veterinarians, so use an ear cleanser, such as 1-800-PetMeds Ear Cleansing Solution that promotes dryness without damaging the ear canal. Nails grow long when Miniature Poodles spend most of their time indoors. If the nails are clacking on the floor, they are probably too long. Cutting nails every 4-6 weeks is best.
2-3 times a week if the coat is trimmed short
Every 4-8 weeks
House pets need nail trimming every 4-6 weeks
|Eyes, Ears, & Face
Wash tear-stained areas around eyes and clean the facial hair that gets into food bowls. Check ears weekly and use ear cleansers frequently. Brush teeth daily to prevent gum and dental disease common in breeds with the tiniest mouths.
Develop anal sac problems frequently. Visit your veterinarian to have them expressed. Ensure the groomer doesn’t irritate the area with clippers or perfumes.