Toy poodles are a great addition to the family who has children, or to the collector who loves to show dogs. The toy poodle is one that is fabulous out in the ring, but very smart in caring for those in the family in which he or she belongs to. The puppy that is well cared for, will become one with the family unit, not barking much. The puppy that is a bit more neglected or left alone is going to bark more often. Toy poodles are known for their curly hair, for their long floppy ears, and for the high maintenance needed in grooming the poodle.

The toy poodle is poodle, but of the miniature variety. This is a smaller dog, compared to the poodle, and many other breeds of dogs as well. The miniature poodle is often referred to as the toy poodle because when properly cared for it will take on that small stuffed animal appearance instead of a live dog! This is a very smart dog, one that is well proportioned, with a small head, and moves about quietly in the house. This is not a dog that will do well outdoors. The toy poodle requires love and attention, and it will become a loving part of your family. The poodle can have its claws clipped so that it will not claw, scratch or make marks on furniture or on children in the home.

The toy poodle is going to stand less than ten inches high. A regular poodle is going to be about fifteen inches high, sometimes even a little taller. The toy poodle that is involved in show, is going to be no more than ten inches high at the shoulder, or will not be permitted in the toy poodle competition.

The legs of the dog are short, and in proportion to the rest of the dog, with the head being small, round with a pointed like nose. The eyes on the toy poodle are dark and oval. If a toy poodle has rounded eyes, this is a sign of inner breeding or bloodlines that are not correct through the life of the toy poodle that is on show.

If you are considering showing your toy poodle, there are a few other considerations that you should have in regards to your dog. There should be the slightest or on hollowing behind the shoulders of the poodle as you run your hand along the back. The eyes that appear to be protruding or sticking out are not of a top of the line toy poodle. The chest and the ribs should appear with muscles, and with a spring like method when the dog is breathing and the muscles are moving. The dog should appear to be light on its feet, seeming to skip along as they are walking.