Toy Poodles

[MicheleB]

What are your thoughts on this breed?

A woman we know is trying to find another home for hers (1.5yo female) because she's home alone too much.

We are considering getting this dog from her. We have an older Rottweiler/Sheperd/Lab mix (from the SPCA) that is GREAT!! He hardly ever barks; is completely housebroken; since we live on a farm, we can let him run and he never goes off our property, etc. IOW, he's a dog in a million.

However, he is very lazy and getting overweight and old-ish acting. We'd like to get the little dog because she's adorable, frisky, and fun. And we thought she might be good for our older dog. He gets along fine with other dogs.

Any cautions or advice from anyone?

[K-FL]

We had 3 toy poodles when I was growing up. They make great house dogs since they don't shed, but of course they do need regular grooming (home or salon.) They're intelligent, which can be a blessing or a curse depending on how well you train them. :glare:

[Sharon in SC]

The only potential pitfall that I appreciate with this type of dog is if they've ever been negatively conditioned (i.e. by a small child who has pestered them to the point of aggression on the part of the animal). Except for that, I would think you have every reason to believe this would be a fine match for your home and older pet. We adopted my mom's toy poodle when she was 5yo for similar reasons (not enough attention at my mom's). At the time, we had a 13yo yellow lab. They got along famously. The poodle is now 12 yo and resides with our rescued Border Collie. Both dogs in indoors the majority of the time. They, too, get along very well. I say go for it! Our Miki is so good natured, doesn't shed, and is a joy to our home.

[Heather in the Kootenays]

If they're well trained, they're great dogs. If they're spoiled, they think they own the house.

[astrid]

You mentioned you live on a farm, and your other dog doesn't leave your property...... does he live outside? If you're the "dogs live outside, people live inside" type, I'd say that a toy poodle isn't for you; they're definitely NOT "outside" dogs. They are perfect prey for coyotes and even bigger birds of prey (I've seen it happen!) and their coats are such that they are just not suited to outdoor living. They also love their families, and want to spend time with them.

I'm not making the assumption that your dog is a yard dog, just mentioning this in case your Mr. Wonderful (he does sound great!) lives outside at your house.

Good luck with your decision!
Astrid

[MicheleB]

Thanks everyone!

First, how often do they need grooming?

Second, our other dog lives in the house. But we can just open the door for him to go out and we know he won't run off. Plus, as Astrid mentioned, he's big enough to handle himself. That's one thing I'm concerned about with this toy poodle... Will we have to leash walk her outside, or be outside with her every second she goes out to "potty"? Things like that. We've only ever had medium to big-sized dogs that can be safe outside if we're not right by their sides.

I was wondering if Toy Poodles bite more than other breeds as well. Do they enjoy cuddling, etc? Or are would they prefer to be left alone?

I'm guessing they don't eat much. =) Not compared to our 100lb dog anyway, I'm sure!