Toy Poodle Dog Breed

By: Chewy EditorialPublished: Updated:


Toy Poodle Dog Breed

About the Toy Poodle Dog Breed

The Toy Poodle originated in 18th century as a diminutive version of the Standard Poodle. It was bred primarily for companionship, but was also used as a mushroom hunter and performer.

Toy Poodle Physical Characteristics

The Toy Poodle is a small dog with a refined build. Its head is triangular with a long muzzle and wide ears that drop.


The Toy Poodle is most commonly seen in white, apricot, black, blue, cream, silver or gray.


Like the Standard Poodle, the coat of a Toy Poodle is curly and dense. It is also generally clipped and groomed regularly; otherwise the will twist on itself causing cords.

Toy Poodle Personality and Temperament

Activity Level



The Toy Poodle loves to impress its human family and gets along well with children and other dogs. It is intelligent and enjoys learning new tricks and resting on the lap of its owner.

Things to Consider

The Toy Poodle can be a bit skittish, especially around small children or other dogs. In fact, it is sometimes known to be a “fear biter”, snapping at kids and strangers that try to pick it up or pet it.

Toy Poodle Care

Ideal Living Conditions

The Toy Poodle fares well in the city or country.

Special Requirements

The Toy Poodle requires regular grooming. Socialization with children at a young age is also recommended.

Toy Poodle Health

The following conditions are commonly seen in Toy Poodles:

Toy Poodle History and Background

The early ancestors of the Toy Poodle were likely to be the Central Asian curly-coated dogs, even though this breed is associated with France. These ancestors helped in herding and followed their masters to various routes taking them to different parts of Europe. Many rough-coated water dogs are also said to be the ancestors of the Poodle. Poodle is derived from pudel, a German word meaning “to splash,” or puddle, indicating the breed’s water abilities. It was also known as chien canard in France, reflecting its duck-hunting abilities.

The Poodle served as a guard dog, military dog, wagon puller, guide dog, and a circus performer. For swimming, its coat was sheared but was left a little long on the chest to keep it warm. The Poodle became a stylish companion for trendy ladies. The French aristocracy also favored it and finally it became France’s national dog. The dog’s characteristic clip was highlighted and smaller varieties were successfully made.

In the late 19th century, Toy Poodles became show dogs. Some of these early show dogs had corded coats, meaning the coat was allowed to entangle in thin and long tresses. This trend became unpopular as it was difficult to maintain and the bouffant styles took its place. Even though the popularity of the Toy Poodles in the United States diminished in the late 1920s, it has since made a successful comeback and is once again quite popular.

Toy Poodle Fun Fact(s)

The famous Poodle cut that is seen today has not changed much since the 18th century. This haircut actually holds a purpose; it was thought that it made the Poodle more buoyant when it was retrieving in water.

Toy Poodle Dog Breed

By: Chewy Editorial



By: Chewy EditorialPublished: Updated:

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