🐾 Small · France

Miniature Poodle: Size, Weight & Temperament

An intelligent, eager-to-learn companion dog with a close bond to its owner, needing mental stimulation and fitting well into daily life.

Beginner-friendly
Miniature Poodle dog breed portrait
Photo: Chiara Coetzee from Menlo Park · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons
Weight male4–6 kg
Weight female3,5–5,5 kg
Shoulder height28–35 cm
Size classSmall (under 12 kg)
Fully grownat approx. 12 months
Life expectancy14–16 years
Activity levelModerate
OriginFrance
ClassificationFCI Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 2 Poodle
Temperament & character

The Miniature Poodle is regarded as attentive, affectionate, and highly trainable, making him a versatile family dog. He seeks close contact with his people and is sensitive to the household mood. Toward strangers he is often reserved to watchful, without being aggressive.

Exercise & stimulation

Despite his small size, the Miniature Poodle needs daily exercise and, above all, mental engagement — retrieving games, trick training, or dog sports like agility. Plain walks alone often aren't enough to tire him out.

Grooming

The curly, non-shedding coat grows continuously and needs a professional trim every six to eight weeks, with daily brushing in between to prevent matting. Ears and the eye area require regular checking.

Suitable for beginners?

The Miniature Poodle is considered well suited to beginners, being eager to learn and adaptable. Still, owners should plan for ongoing coat maintenance and the need for regular mental stimulation.

Health & common problems

Breed-typical conditions include patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and a predisposition to epilepsy as well as loose joints. Breed clubs recommend eye exams and patella checks before breeding.

Good with: Families, singles, apartment living

Is your Miniature Poodle at a healthy weight? Calculate the ideal weight and the right portion size for free in the Souldog app.

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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.