The Vet’s Guide to Toy Poodles: Facts, Care, and Training Tips

The Toy Poodle is a compact, highly intelligent breed known for its curly coat, lively personality, and affectionate nature. 

Their charm and elegance, combined with their trainability, make them a favourite companion across the globe. Perfect for families, singles, and older adults, Toy Poodles thrive in a range of households and love being involved in daily life.

Background

Toy Poodles share their lineage with the Standard Poodle, a breed originally developed in Germany as a water retriever. Over time, breeders in France refined the Poodle into three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. The Toy Poodle was specifically bred for companionship and quickly became popular among European nobility. Today, they are treasured for their intelligence, beauty, and loyal temperament, and remain one of the most popular toy breeds worldwide.

Appearance

Toy Poodles are the smallest of the three Poodle varieties, standing under 28 cm at the shoulder and typically weighing between 2 and 4 kilograms. Their dense, curly coat comes in a variety of solid colours, including white, black, red, apricot, and silver. With an elegant frame, dark oval eyes, and a proud posture, Toy Poodles are both graceful and alert in appearance.

Physical Characteristics

Though small, Toy Poodles are sturdy and well-proportioned. Their compact bodies feature a straight back, deep chest, and strong legs that give them a confident gait. Their ears hang close to the head, and their tail is typically set high and carried proudly. The breed's loose skin and tight curls allow freedom of movement and contribute to their overall elegance and agility.

Temperament

Toy Poodles are known for their affectionate, intelligent, and lively nature. They form strong bonds with their parents and are eager to please, making them a joy to train. Social, alert, and generally good with other pets and children, they thrive in environments where they receive plenty of attention and mental stimulation. Their sensitive and responsive personalities make them in-tune with their families' moods and routines.

Activity Level

Moderately active, Toy Poodles enjoy daily walks, playtime, and mental enrichment. They don’t require extensive exercise, but they do benefit from consistent activity and interaction. Games like fetch, short agility sessions, or enrichment toys keep them engaged and prevent boredom. They are equally happy curling up with their owner as they are participating in a fun, structured game.

Health and Lifespan

With a lifespan of 14 to 16 years, this breed is generally healthy, but Toy Poodles are susceptible to certain breed-specific conditions. With proper care, nutrition, and regular vet visits, Toy Poodles can enjoy a long, healthy life.

Grooming a Toy Poodle is essential for maintaining their curly coat and overall health. Their unique hair texture requires regular brushing to prevent matting and keep their coat in great condition. Other grooming tasks, like dog dental care and ear cleaning, are equally important for keeping them comfortable and healthy.

Coat Care and Grooming Requirements

Toy Poodles have a dense, curly coat that doesn’t shed much, making them a popular choice for allergy-sensitive households. However, their curls can easily tangle and mat without consistent grooming. Brush their coat at least three to four times a week using dog grooming supplies like a slicker brush and comb to remove debris and prevent knots. Professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is recommended to keep their coat trimmed and maintain their signature appearance, such as the teddy bear or lamb cut.

Bathing

Toy Poodles should be bathed every 3 to 4 weeks, or more often if they get particularly dirty. Bathing helps maintain coat cleanliness and softness. Use a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo to avoid skin irritation. After bathing, rinse thoroughly and dry their coat completely. Blow drying on a low setting while brushing helps preserve their fluffy, tangle-free appearance and prevents moisture-related skin issues.

Dental Care

Dental hygiene is particularly important for Toy Poodles due to their small mouths and tightly spaced teeth. They are prone to bad breath, tartar build-up, gum disease, and eventual tooth loss if their teeth aren’t regularly cared for. Brush their teeth two to three times per week using dog-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste. Dental chews and routine dental check-ups also play a key role in maintaining their oral health.

Clean Ears

Toy Poodles’ floppy ears create a warm, moist environment that can trap dirt and lead to ear infections in your dog. Check their ears weekly for signs of odour, redness, or wax build-up. Clean gently with a vet-approved ear cleaner and cotton ball (never use cotton swabs). Trimming the ear canal hair may also be necessary to improve airflow and reduce infection risk.

Nail Trimming

Trim your Toy Poodle’s nails every 3 to 4 weeks. If you hear their nails clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim. Use a dog nail clipper or grinder and take care not to cut into the quick, which can cause pain and bleeding. If unsure, a professional groomer or vet can perform the task and show you how to do it safely at home.

While Toy Poodles are generally healthy, they are prone to several breed-specific conditions. Being aware of these issues allows parents to take preventative steps and seek early treatment, helping their dogs stay healthier for longer.

Dental Disease

Toy Poodles are particularly vulnerable to dental disease due to their small mouths and crowded teeth. This can lead to plaque accumulation, gum inflammation, and eventual tooth loss if not properly managed. Regular brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings are essential for long-term oral health and prevention of systemic issues linked to poor dental hygiene.

Musculoskeletal Issues

Musculoskeletal conditions and dog mobility issues like patellar luxation and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease are relatively common in Toy Poodles. Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, causing intermittent lameness or a skipping gait. Legg-Calvé-Perthes involves the degeneration of the hip joint and can cause pain and lameness. Early intervention, weight management, and in some cases surgery, can help dogs live comfortably with these conditions.

Skin Allergies

Dog skin allergies can cause discomfort and skin issues in Toy Poodles. These may be triggered by food, environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites, or grooming products. Symptoms include itching, redness, and frequent licking or scratching. Diagnosis may require allergy testing or elimination diets. Treatments may include dietary changes, antihistamines, medicated baths, and anti-itch medication.

Ear Infections

The shape of a Toy Poodle’s ear makes them prone to recurring ear infections in your dog. These can result from trapped moisture, excess earwax, or undiagnosed allergies. Symptoms include scratching, head shaking, odour, or discharge. Keeping ears clean and dry, and trimming inner ear hair, can reduce the likelihood of infection. Chronic cases should be evaluated by a vet to determine if underlying allergies are present.

Heart Issues

Mitral valve disease is one of the most common heart problems affecting Toy Poodles, particularly as they age. It involves degeneration of the valve between heart chambers, which can lead to heart murmur, fatigue, and fluid buildup. Regular vet checks, early detection, and medication can help manage the disease and improve quality of life.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures in some Toy Poodles. These can vary in severity and frequency. While the cause is often unknown, epilepsy can usually be managed with long-term medication. If your dog shows signs such as collapsing, twitching, or sudden confusion, consult a vet immediately for evaluation and ongoing care.

Cushing’s Disease

Cushing’s disease is caused by excessive cortisol production, usually due to a pituitary or adrenal gland tumour. Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, thinning hair, and a pot-bellied appearance. Diagnosis requires blood tests and imaging. With proper medication and regular vet monitoring, many dogs with Cushing’s can maintain a good quality of life.

Learn more about Toy Poodle health problems and how you can manage them effectively.

Further reading: The Vet's Guide to Toy Poodle Health Issues and Management

Training a Toy Poodle is usually a rewarding experience, thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please. They quickly pick up on new commands and enjoy the mental stimulation that training provides.

Early Socialisation

Start socialising your Toy Poodle early. Introduce them to various environments, people, and pets to prevent anxiety and fear-based behaviours later in life. Puppy preschool classes can provide structured exposure and reinforce important social skills. A well-socialised Toy Poodle is confident, friendly, and adaptable in different situations.

Training Time

Keep training sessions short and engaging: 5 to 10 minutes is ideal for maintaining their attention. Focus on one command at a time and use consistent cues. Incorporate training into daily life, such as practising "sit" before meals or "stay" during walks. Their sharp minds enjoy challenges, and routine helps solidify learning.

Using Treats and Incentives

Toy Poodles are very responsive to positive reinforcement. Use small, soft treats, verbal praise, or short play sessions as rewards. Rotate incentives to keep training exciting. Be mindful of treat portions, as Toy Poodles can gain weight easily. Consistency, encouragement, and gentle correction are key to building good habits.

Advanced Learning

Once basic commands are mastered, introduce advanced tricks or agility-style tasks to challenge your Toy Poodle. They excel in obedience, trick competitions, and dog sports. Structured learning not only strengthens your bond but also provides essential mental stimulation for this intelligent breed.

Check out the complete guide for more expert Toy Poodle training tips.

Further reading: How to Train a Toy Poodle: Behaviour Tips Backed by Experts

Although Toy Poodles are typically well-mannered and eager to please, they can develop behavioural issues, especially if their needs for companionship and mental stimulation aren't met. Addressing these behaviours early can ensure a well-adjusted pup.

Separation Anxiety

Toy Poodles are very people-oriented and may become distressed when left alone for extended periods. Signs include barking, destructive chewing, or indoor accidents. Prevent anxiety by gradually getting them used to alone time, using puzzle toys for dogs to keep them occupied, and avoiding dramatic arrivals or departures. Crate training can provide a safe space and help ease anxiety.

Excessive Barking

While alertness is a trait of the breed, Toy Poodles may bark excessively out of boredom, anxiety, or a desire for attention. Teach a “quiet” command and reward calm behaviour. Ensure they have sufficient daily activity and enrichment. Reducing exposure to triggers and giving them alternative ways to express themselves can also help curb this behaviour.

Housebreaking Difficulties

Like many small breeds, Toy Poodles can take longer to housebreak. Their small bladders require frequent potty breaks, especially during puppyhood. Create a consistent schedule, reward outdoor toileting, and supervise closely indoors. Crate training can reinforce good habits and prevent accidents. Be patient and avoid punishment.

Stubbornness

Despite their intelligence, Toy Poodles can be selectively obedient if they sense inconsistency. They may resist commands if they don’t see the benefit. Use positive reinforcement like training treats and make training fun and rewarding. Establish clear boundaries and remain consistent with rules and routines to prevent confusion.

Attention-Seeking Behaviour

Toy Poodles crave interaction and can become demanding if bored or understimulated. They may paw, whine, or bark to get attention. Teach them to settle calmly and reward independent play. Use enrichment toys and training exercises to provide constructive outlets for their energy and need for engagement.

Keeping your Toy Poodle physically and mentally engaged is essential for their happiness. While they don’t need intense workouts, they do thrive on structured activity and enrichment.

Daily Walks

Aim for two 15-minute walks each day. These outings provide exercise and mental stimulation through new sights and smells. Keep walks varied and interactive to prevent boredom. Given their smaller size, a Toy Poodle usually requires a snug-fitting harness.

Playing Fetch

A favourite activity for many Toy Poodles, fetch provides a great outlet for energy. Use lightweight, soft toys designed for dogs that are easy to carry. Fetch can be played indoors or in a safe outdoor space.

Interactive Toys

Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and scent-based games provide valuable mental stimulation. Rotate toys regularly to keep them novel and challenging. This helps reduce boredom and encourages problem-solving.

Hide and Seek

Hide treats or toys around the home and encourage your Poodle to find them. This game engages their natural curiosity and sniffing ability. Start with easy hiding spots and gradually increase difficulty for ongoing interest.

Training Sessions

Short daily training sessions build obedience and stimulate the mind. Teach basic commands, fun tricks, or agility moves. Training not only strengthens your bond but also keeps their brain active and focused.

Proper Toy Poodle nutrition is essential for your pup's health and wellbeing. Their small size means they need energy-dense food tailored to their specific needs.

Adult Toy Poodle Nutritional Needs

Feed a balanced diet with high-quality protein, moderate fat, and added omega fatty acids for skin and coat health. Small breed formulas with appropriate kibble size help prevent dental issues. Monitor portion sizes closely to avoid weight gain, which can stress joints and increase health risks.

Puppy Nutritional Needs

Toy Poodle puppies require a high-calorie, small-breed puppy food rich in protein, calcium, and DHA to support growth. Feed three to four meals a day until they reach maturity at 10 to 12 months. Transition to adult food gradually over one to two weeks to prevent digestive upset.

Specific Nutritional Needs

Dogs with allergies may benefit from limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diets. Those prone to dental disease may require dental-specific kibble or supplements. For Toy Poodles with health issues like heart disease or Cushing’s, your vet may recommend a prescription diet tailored to their needs.

For a complete guide on how to feed your Toy Poodle, along with a feeding schedule you can print out and pop on the fridge, check out the vet-approved guide below.

Further reading: Vet-approved Toy Poodle Feeding Guide & Nutrition Tips

Toy Poodles are intelligent, affectionate, and responsive companions that thrive on consistency, companionship, and enrichment. With thoughtful training, regular grooming, and proactive health care, they can enjoy a happy, well-balanced life as devoted members of the family.

This article was written by Dr Jack Ayerbe