Poodle (Toy)
Apartment-friendly Great with kids High energy dog Sheds a lot

Poodle (Toy)

The Toy Poodle is a tiny, elegant-looking dog with a slender muzzle, long neck, and profuse, curly coat that is often styled. They are intelligent, loyal companions with a rich history as one of the oldest breeds. Toy Poodles are extremely intelligent, agile, and graceful, excelling in various canine activities. To be classified as a Toy Poodle, they must be 10 inches or under at the shoulder and weigh between 6 and 9 pounds. They come in a variety of colors and are the smallest of the three Poodle sizes. Toy Poodles are known for their lap-loving nature, derived from their hunting origins. Additionally, they are easily trainable and have an impressive agility and intelligence, making them highly appealing pets.

Height 9 - 11 in (23 - 28 cm)
Weight 6 - 9 lbs (3 - 4 kg)
Lifespan 18 years
Origin Unknown

Is a Poodle (Toy) Right For You?

Answer these quick questions to find out:


Do you need a dog that’s comfortable living in an apartment?

Will the dog need to thrive in small living spaces?

Are you looking for a dog suited for urban life?

Do you live in a hot climate?

Do you want a low-energy dog that suits seniors or calm households?

Breed Characteristics

The consensus from multiple sources suggests that Toy Poodles require at least 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise daily to meet their high energy levels and mental stimulation needs.

How much exercise does Poodle (Toy) need?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that Toy Poodles require regular grooming, including professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, daily brushing, and nail trimming. The majority of sources suggest frequent grooming to prevent matting and maintain a healthy coat.

How much grooming does Poodle (Toy) need?

Low High
Based on the consensus from multiple sources praising Toy Poodles for being exceptionally intelligent, eager to please, easy to train, and quick learners. Their intelligence, adaptability, and ability to form strong bonds contribute to their high trainability.

Is Poodle (Toy) easy to train?

Low High
Poodles, including Toy Poodles, are consistently described as highly intelligent, trainable, and eager to please. They are often ranked among the smartest dog breeds, making them excellent companions for various activities and training.

How intelligent is Poodle (Toy)?

Low High
Based on the consensus from the sources, the Toy Poodle is known to bark frequently, with some mentioning that they have a tendency to bark excessively. While there are reasons for their barking, it is a common behavior associated with this breed.

Does Poodle (Toy) bark a lot?

Low High
The majority of sources indicate that Poodles, including Toy Poodles, can exhibit stubborn or independent behaviors due to their high intelligence and strong will. While they are generally easy to train, they may try to manipulate situations to get what they want, showing a level of independence and stubbornness.

Is Poodle (Toy) stubborn or independent?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that Toy Poodles need around 30-45 minutes to 1 hour of exercise/playtime daily, with some variation. The majority of sources suggest at least 30 minutes to an hour, with some recommending more. Therefore, a rating of 4 is appropriate as it falls between the lower and higher end of the recommended playtime duration.

How much playtime does a Poodle (Toy) need daily?

Low High
The consensus suggests that while Poodles, including Toy Poodles, benefit from daily walks and exercise, they can still be kept indoors with limited walks. It is recommended to provide indoor exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potential separation anxiety.

Can Poodle (Toy) stay indoors with limited walks?

Low High
Based on the multiple sources indicating that Poodles, including Toy Poodles, can exhibit protective and territorial behavior, often showing possessiveness and being sensitive to strangers. While they are generally affectionate, the tendency towards territorial instincts is consistent across the sources.

Is Poodle (Toy) protective or territorial?

Low High
The majority of sources consistently highlight the Toy Poodle's strong affection towards their family members, forming strong bonds and enjoying being around them. While there are mentions of some individuals being reserved or not liking excessive physical contact, the overall consensus leans heavily towards high affection levels.

Is Poodle (Toy) affectionate with family?

Low High

Health Wellness

Is Poodle (Toy) prone to allergies?

Toy Poodles are often considered a good choice for people with allergies due to their minimal shedding and production of less dander compared to other breeds. However, it is important to note that there is no completely hypoallergenic dog breed. Allergies in Poodles can be triggered by various factors such as fleas, specific foods like beef, dairy, and wheat, as well as environmental factors like pollen and dust mites. While Poodles may be labeled as hypoallergenic due to their curly, dense coat that traps dander, individuals can still be allergic to their hair, dander, or saliva. It is recommended for individuals with allergies to spend time with Toy Poodles before bringing one home to assess their compatibility.


Is Poodle (Toy) a hypoallergenic breed?

Key points extracted from the sources: 1. Toy Poodles are considered hypoallergenic due to their minimal shedding and dander production. 2. Poodles, including Toy Poodles, are often labeled hypoallergenic, but no dog breed is completely allergy-free. 3. Poodle shedding is slow, and they have low allergen levels. 4. Poodle mix dogs are generally hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coats. 5. Despite common beliefs, no dog breed, including Toy Poodles, is completely hypoallergenic. Overall, the consensus is that Toy Poodles are generally considered hypoallergenic due to their unique curly coat that minimizes shedding and dander production. While Poodles, including Toy Poodles, are often labeled hypoallergenic, it is important to note that no dog breed is completely allergy-free. Poodle shedding is slow, and they have low allergen levels, making them a suitable choice for individuals with allergies. Additionally, Poodle mix dogs are also generally hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coats.


What are common health issues in Poodle (Toy)?

Common health issues in Toy Poodles include tracheal collapse, Legg-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, dental disease, mitral valve disease, progressive retinal atrophy, ear infections, skin tumors, bladder stones, bloat, Addison's disease, thyroid issues, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, hypoglycemia, heart defects, seizures, respiratory problems, digestive problems, blindness, and an increased risk for liver issues. Toy Poodles are more prone to dental issues due to the smaller size of their mouths, and they may experience fragility compared to larger Poodle varieties. It is important for Toy Poodle owners to be aware of these potential health concerns and to work with responsible breeders who prioritize genetic testing. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper exercise, weight management, and the use of a harness can help in maintaining the overall health and well-being of Toy Poodles.


How often should a Poodle (Toy) visit the vet?

Toy Poodles should visit the vet at least once a year for a check-up, vaccinations, and preventive care, regardless of their age. However, when they are puppies, more frequent visits may be necessary, typically every three to four weeks until they are at least 16 weeks old. As they age, the frequency of vet visits may increase, with some sources recommending biannual visits for toy breeds starting around 7 to 9 years of age. Overall, regular vet visits are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of Toy Poodles, and establishing a positive relationship with the vet from a young age is beneficial.


What is the average vet bill for a Poodle (Toy)?

Key points extracted from the sources include: - Average vet bills for routine care for a Toy Poodle may range from $50 to $600 per year. - Annual comprehensive exams with blood work in the Los Angeles area can cost around $700. - Routine vet visits may cost between $50 to $250, with variations based on location and specific services provided. - Basic vet care costs for a Toy Poodle can range from $80 to $250 per year. - Grooming costs for a Toy Poodle may be less compared to larger Poodle breeds. - The average yearly cost for vet care for small dogs, including Toy Poodles, is around $342 to $430. - Emergency overnight care for a Toy Poodle can be significantly more expensive, with one mention of £1,800. In summary, the average annual vet bill for a Toy Poodle can range from $50 to $600 for routine care, with additional costs for comprehensive exams, grooming, and emergency services. The overall yearly cost for basic vet care is estimated to be between $80 to $250, with grooming expenses varying based on the Poodle's size. Emergency overnight care can be substantially higher, as indicated by a mention of £1,800.


Join Our Pet-Loving Community

Get info from fellow pet owners, and help them by sharing your experiences, and get advice from experts and enthusiasts .

Share your pet's photos and stories
Get personalized breed recommendations
Ask questions and get answers from experts
Connect with local pet owners
Save your favorite breeds and articles

Join Now - It's Free!