Origin

There are various theories as to the Poodle's origin.  It is one of the oldest breeds recorded - there are carvings dated approximately 30AD and Greek and Roman coins have been found showing a dog resembling the Poodle.

Though often erroneously referred to as the French Poodle, it is believed that the breed actually had its roots in Germany where it originated as a water retriever.  Perhaps the term came into use when the French, with their flair for style, discovered that the breed's coat could be fashioned into a wide variety of shapes and creations and took the breed to heart. 

The English name of Poodle probably comes from the German word "pudel", which means "to splash in water" and refers to the breed's original occupation as a water retrieving dog. The breed's characteristic trim was done to facilitate swimming by removing extra coat whilst still leaving vital organs and joints covered for protection from the cold. 

The Standard poodle was the original size but in later years there was an increased interest in the smaller-sized members of the breed and breeders developed the Miniature to answer the demand. 

The Miniature was granted separate breed status by The Kennel Club (England) in 1910.  

Temperament

The unique character of the Poodle is almost impossible to sum up.  A fun-loving, intelligent, entertaining, faithful, friendly and eager-to-please canine making the most versatile of pets.  

The Miniature Poodle is a charming companion who adores his owner and family and loves to be included in all family activities.

Activity level

The Miniature Poodle is a robust and active dog that fits well into city living. They will take as much exercise as you are willing to give.  Although a daily walk is very much enjoyed if you have a reasonable sized garden, your miniature will not necessarily need to be walked daily.

Height:: Miniature Poodles must be over 10 in (25 cm) and under 15 in (38 cm) at the shoulder.

Weight:  Approximately 7.5 to 8kg.

The poodle possesses a unique coat that does not loose hair.  

The coat is dense and harsh in texture, thick and curly and will continue to grow unless it is regularly clipped and scissored to keep it tidy and in good shape. 

The Official Poodle Standard recognizes two distinct coat types - corded and curly.  Any Poodle with a correct coat can be corded once its adult coat has come in; it will normally start to cord between 9 and 18 months.  It is usually a LOT of work getting the cords established but they are fairly easy to look after once they have some length.  If you decide that you no longer want your dog corded it cannot be brushed out!  The coat  must be clipped off.  To avoid cords the coat must be brushed on a regular basis.

The breed may be any solid colour.  The most common are black, white, silver, brown and apricot.  There are other variations such as cream, blues, grays, cafe-au-lait, and red.

Not a job for the faint of heart, Poodle grooming is an acquired art.     

The breed may be shown in 'puppy' clip if under a year, the 'English saddle' clip or the 'continental' clip.

All three require scissoring and clipping along with copious brushing and combing to keep the coat in premium condition.  

Pet trim is much easier to maintain.  However to keep your poodle looking like a poodle a 6-8 weekly trip to a professional grooming salon is recommended.