Teacup Poodle

This dog originated in Western Europe 400 years ago, shown in some 15th century paintings. Some believe the dog came from Germany, where it was revered for its water retrieval skills. Others feel France is the rightful native land. Hunters used the Poodle as a gun dog and to retrieve waterfowl from lakes and woods. The French used this dog in circuses for its high trainability characteristics. Smaller poodles became very popular with the royals back in the 18th century.

Teacup Poodles are smaller than Toy Poodles, only growing to nine inches tall and weighing under six pounds. Characterized by a square appearance, the Teacup Poodle has a round skull, straight muzzle, oval-shaped eyes, level topline, high tail, arched toes, curly or corded coat, with solid colors in cream, silver, blue, black, brown or white.

Personality

Highly intelligent, the Teacup Poodle is responsive and trainable, with a sweet and perky temperament. It's a lively dog that loves to be around people. They do, however, need to be properly socialized and trained that they are not pack leader. They may snap and bark if not given a set of rules to abide by. Surprisingly, they make good watchdogs for their tiny size. Unless you teach your dog he is not pack leader, he will display behaviors such as growling, guarding, sensitivity, nervousness and obsessive barking. Teacup Poodles can be good with children, but mostly with older kids who can use their leadership skills to show dominance. Be firm and consistent in your discipline to produce a calm, trusting dog.

Breed Characteristics

Teacup Poodle Build Information

Teacup Poodles are smaller than Toy Poodles, only growing to nine inches tall and weighing under six pounds. Characterized by a square appearance, the Teacup Poodle has a round skull, straight muzzle, oval-shaped eyes, level topline, high tail, arched toes, curly or corded coat, with solid colors in cream, silver, blue, black, brown or white.

Behaviour and Personality

Highly intelligent, the Teacup Poodle is responsive and trainable, with a sweet and perky temperament. It's a lively dog that loves to be around people. They do, however, need to be properly socialized and trained that they are not pack leader. They may snap and bark if not given a set of rules to abide by. Surprisingly, they make good watchdogs for their tiny size. Unless you teach your dog he is not pack leader, he will display behaviors such as growling, guarding, sensitivity, nervousness and obsessive barking. Teacup Poodles can be good with children, but mostly with older kids who can use their leadership skills to show dominance. Be firm and consistent in your discipline to produce a calm, trusting dog.

Appearance

Bathe your poodle on a regular basis and don't forget to trim the nails, at least every six to eight weeks. You'll also need to clean the ears of wax, mites or infection and pluck out any sprouting hairs. These dogs need regular dental care as well, particularly when it comes to scaling. This breed does not shed so you will need to clip its coat. Because they don't shed, allergy sufferers do well with this breed.

Teacup Poodle Common Health Conditions

Teacup Poodles are prone to Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA), diabetes, slipped stifle, epilepsy, heart problems, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), runny eyes, ear infections and digestive tract issues. They can go blind in one or both eyes due to cataract problems and PRA. They also suffer from a variety of skin conditions and they do have allergies.

Teacup Poodle Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

Suitable to apartment life, Teacup Poodles don't need a big yard to run around in, as they are very active indoors. They do, however, need one walk daily or they could exhibit behavior problems. They like water and love to play around. The Tea Cup Poodle is also known as Caniche, Barbone, Chien Canne, French Poodle and Pudle. The life expectancy for the Teacup Poodle is between 12 and 15 years.