Breed Description
The Toy Poodle is an athletic and muscular breed with a long straight muzzle. These small dogs usually weigh between 8-10 pounds, and stands no more than 10 inches tall.

Coat
The Toy Poodle is a single-coated breed. Their fur is dense and curly that minimally sheds. They are considered hypoallergenic, but not allergen-free. The texture of their coats varies from soft and wavy to coarse and woolly. Coat colors are solid, and come in all shades of blue, silver, brown, gray, cream, cafe au lait, and apricot.

Activity
The Toy Poodle is a small dog with the capability of exercising itself if provided with an area to play in. These sociable dogs thrive on people interaction and will not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. They love playing tug of war games, and toss the ball. Their inherent scenting abilities make them enjoy hide-and-seek games as well.

Temperament
The Toy Poodle is a sociable, good-tempered breed with a happy disposition. These dogs are lively, and easy to learn. They are very obedient and highly intelligent. Not for kenneling, these amiable dogs thrive on people contact and are generally friendly and affectionate. A well-mannered breed, they are alert, responsive, sensitive, and willing to please. When it comes to family, they are great children and other pets, but can be wary around strangers.

Overview
The Toy Poodle came later than the Standard version of this breed. They are known to have originated in France, and first seen in Germany and Russia.

Care
The Toy Poodle must be shaped and trimmed at least every five weeks. This should be done by the experienced groomer if expected to have a traditional-looking Poodle. They will require combing and brushing every few days to avoid knotting and matting of the coat. A lot of Toy Poodle dog owners choose to keep these dogs in a sporting or puppy pattern which is usually the most practical for this breed's daily appearance if not shown in show rings.

Training
The Toy Poodle is highly sensitive breed of dog with the eagerness to please its master. For that reason, these dogs should be trained with utter gentleness and consistency. Training this breed is not difficult as they are highly intelligent. So, owners should always be upbeat, gentle, and cheerful to keep them motivated. In terms of house breaking, these dogs are the easiest to teach. In fact, they can be housetrained in just a matter of weeks. It is important to keep in mind that these sensitive dogs are calm in nature, and will require a gentle environment to flourish in.

Character
The Toy Poodle is an intelligent and cheerful breed. They respond well to training and are often wary towards strangers. Sensitive and easily startled, these dogs are not recommended for families with younger children.