The Miniature Poodle - Sweet-Natured and Intelligent

As any owner of a miniature Poodle will tell you, these little critters are the ultimate in cuteness. As the middleman between the toy Poodle and standard Poodle, miniature Poodles are a popular choice among dog lovers.

Like other Poodles, the miniatures are known to be sweet natured and intelligent. However, a dog that is not properly socialized can be a problem. In this article, we'll explain how to choose the right mini Poodle pup for your family.

If you live in an apartment but would still love the companionship of a great dog, then a miniature Poodle may be right for you. These pint sized pups are as fun and intelligent as a standard Poodle, but small enough to be able to live comfortably in a small space. However, the dogs do need a daily walk.

Play will take care of many of their physical needs, but walking and fresh air are essential. Dogs who don't walk enough tend to exhibit behavioral problems.

Intelligence has made the miniature Poodle a hit in dog competitions, but its loving nature has made it popular with pet owners. If you're considering getting a dog as a pet, then these petite pups are a great choice.

One of the hottest selling points of the miniature is its appearance. Mini Poodles are moderately sized, have a curly coat that doesn't shed and are available in a variety of colors.

These dogs are known to be very sociable, lively and playful. They are one of the brightest and most attentive of all breeds. They have an eagerness to please and that makes them easy to train.

Poodles often are used as show dogs because of their agility and obedience. Besides being very friendly with humans, miniature Poodles also get along well with other animals.

Before you purchase a miniature Poodle, it's a good idea to spend time with the dog to observe its temperament. Obedience instructors and behavioral consultants have reported nervousness as being very common in the breed. This could include snappiness, extreme fearfulness and hyperactivity.

The most important factor to consider when getting a dog is the animal's temperament. While a miniature Poodle is generally very lively and fun, a dog that hasn't been properly socialized can be timid and nervous. They can be wary of strangers, be hyperactive, bark excessively and even be aggressive.

In addition to needing a lot of love and attention, miniature Poodles do require a significant amount of physical care. Their coats need a lot of maintenance - especially if you choose to keep it in a special clip. They can also develop health problems such as epilepsy, hip dysplasia and hyperthyroidism.

The miniature Poodle certainly is one of a kind. This beautiful and incredibly intelligent dog can be your best friend if you have the time to commit to loving and properly caring for him. They want nothing more than to please their owner. If you take care of them, then you'll have a friend who will love you for life.

If you're considering bringing one into your family, then be absolutely sure that you have the time and willingness to properly care for the canine. It's the least that you can do for an animal who will love you unconditionally.