Thursday, November 30, 2006

A Little Bit About The Toy Poodle

Article Title: A Little Bit About The Toy Poodle
Author: Connie Limon

The name Poodle is probably derived from the German word pfudel
that means puddle. The origin of the Poodle is generally assumed
to be France. It probably was actually first seen in Russia and
Germany. The standard size in Russia and Germany were used as
water retrievers. In France the Poodle is known as the National
Dog of France. The standard version of the Poodle originated in
the fifteenth century. The Toy variety came 300 years later.

The ancestors of the Poodle were probably the Barbets and other
ancient curly-coated breeds.

The Toy Poodle's original purpose was that of a companion and
friend and in France it was sometimes used as a
truffle-scenting dog. Its tightly curled coat was developed to
capture shedding hair, making the dog a very clean house
companion.

The British Poodle club was established in 1886. The Poodles
were seen in America soon thereafter. In the American Kennel
Club standards for the Poodle there are three varieties listed.
The Toy Poodle's height is stated to be less than 10 inches tall
at the shoulder.

The Toy Poodle has emerged as one of the finest companions
available. Normal-sized Toy Poodles are robust little dogs that
make excellent pets for older children and adults of all ages.
The Toy Poodle is probably not recommended for a household with
toddlers or as a toddler's pet.

Personality

The Toy Poodle is said to be "super intelligent," playful and
active. The Toy Poodle is sensitive and bonds quickly to its
family and may be reserved toward strangers until properly
introduced. The Toy Poodle responds well to handlers and is
sociable with other dogs and small household pets. Toy Poodles
are often "barkers," but with appropriate training the barkers
can be curtailed. The Toy Poodle is loyal and affectionate.
Because of the Toy Poodle's inherited scenting abilities he
succeeds very well at hide-and-seek games and retrieving. One
of the best uses of a Toy Poodle is as a therapy dog. They are
quite sociable.

Appearance

The Toy Poodle stands less than 10 inches tall and weighs about
8 to 10 pounds. They have a long, straight muzzle and bright,
dark eyes. Pigmentation of eyelids, lip margins and nose rubber
are either black or dark in color, depending on the coat color.
The back is short. The body is muscular and athletic. The legs
are straight. Colors are all solids in shades of blue, gray,
silver, brown, café au lait, apricot and cream.

Exercise Requirements

The Toy Poodle is capable of providing its own exercise
provided it has a backyard to play in. The Toy Poodle needs
people contact to balance and enjoy life. They do not do well
all alone for long periods of time. They enjoy playing toss the
ball, tug of war games and because of the inherited scenting
abilities they also enjoy hide-in-seek games.

Grooming

A Toy Poodle's coat should be trimmed and shaped every five or
six weeks by an experienced groomer if you want it to look like
a traditional poodle. At home, the Toy Poodle requires brushing
and combing every few days to prevent matting and knotting of
the coat. Many Toy Poodle owners like keeping their Toy Poodles
in a puppy or sporting pattern, which is done by clipping the
dog's coat to the same length all over its body, then shaving
the face a little shorter and trimming the topknot, tail and
ear hair with the scissors. This is probably most practical for
the pet Toy Poodle everyday appearance if you have no interest
in dog shows.


About The Author: Author: Connie Limon. Visit us at
http://www.abouttoydogs.com About Toy Dogs is a guide to the
selection and care of toy dog breeds. We feature articles, dog
training resources, dog books, dog supplies and a toy dog
breeder directory. Purchase a full page ad with up to 3
pictures, a 12 picture video, and advertising in our newsletter
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