Poodle Varieties and Choosing the Right Size

According to the ANKC standard, Poodles come in three height varieties:

• Standard Poodle: 45 cm at the withers and above

• Miniature Poodle: 28 to 45 cm at the withers

• Toy Poodle: Up to 28 cm at the withers

Choosing a Poodle Based on Your Family’s Needs
For families with adults or teenage children, any poodle variety is suitable. However, if you are expecting a baby or have children under 5 years old, it’s advisable to avoid choosing a Toy Poodle. Larger Poodles are more adaptable to the lively environment that small children create and handle it with fewer issues. Conversely, older individuals should consider Poodles that are easier to manage. While larger Poodles can be wonderful companions, their size may be too cumbersome for small living spaces or if the need arises to lift them.

Lifestyle Considerations
When selecting a Poodle variety, consider your lifestyle. Both Miniature and Standard Poodles require regular exercise and are ideal for active or athletic individuals.

Beware of “Teacup” Misconceptions
It’s crucial not to fall for the notion that "the smaller, the better." The desire for a “pocket” version of a Poodle has led to some breeders purposefully breeding extremely small puppies and marketing them as “teacup” Poodles. As adults, these tiny dogs weigh no more than 1.5 kg, whereas a standard Toy Poodle should weigh between 2–5 kg. Such miniaturized dogs often exhibit clear signs of dwarfism, such as a spherical skull, large open fontanel, bulging eyes, a short upturned muzzle, a shortened lower jaw, and a hunched back. They are incredibly fragile, prone to injuries, and frequently suffer from health issues. Tragically, their lifespan is often short, sometimes less than 5 years.

Another unethical practice used by disreputable breeders is underfeeding puppies, resulting in 8-week-old puppies weighing only 500–800 grams. Once placed in a healthier environment, these puppies quickly gain weight and size, catching up to their natural growth expectations.

When selecting a breeder, exercise caution. Avoid purchasing from puppy mills or pet stores to ensure the well-being and quality of your future companion.

Sincerely,
Gingerbreed Toy Poodles