If you’re looking for a dog that ticks all the boxes, look no further than the Toy Poodle. With their adorable looks, impressive agility, and sharp intelligence, Toy Poodles have oodles of appeal!

There’s a lot to consider when a Toy Poodle joins your pack, from feeding them the right food to stimulating their clever minds. So, where do you start?

Whether you’re in the early stages of considering a puppy or already have a dog, this is your go-to guide for parenting Toy Poodles. Our holistic approach covers all the ins and outs of your dog's health, from diet and nutrition to physical and mental wellbeing.

Top breed takeaways

Following the popularity of the Standard size, Miniature and Toy Poodles were subsequently bred to be pocket-sized companion pets for ladies and gentlewomen of the noble classes.

Their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats make them appealing for allergy sufferers and they come in an array of colours including black, white silver, cream, blue, brown, red, sable and apricot.

• Toy Poodle temperament: Toy Poodles are known for their lively and intelligent temperament, combining playful energy with a strong desire to please, making them delightful and adaptable companions. They are now one of the most popular breeds in Australia, chosen for their highly trainable, playful and affectionate personalities.

• What does a Toy Poodle look like? Standard Poodles were initially bred to be waterfowl retrievers: their thick woolly coats kept them warm and buoyant, and their webbed paws made them excellent swimmers.

• How long does a Toy Poodle live for? Toy Poodles can live up to 18 years, sometimes even longer. Standard and Miniature Poodles tend to live for up to 12-15 years. A holistic combination of a nutritious diet and lifestyle choices, like exercise and mental stimulation can help your pup live a long and healthy life.
  

Different types of purebred Poodles

Purebred Poodles all have the familiar curly coat and dignified stance and come in three different sizes:

• Toy Poodle

• Miniature Poodle

• Standard Poodle

What can a Toy Poodle be mixed with?

Hybrid breeds have become popular in recent years to combine the favourable traits of the Toy Poodle’s petite size, hypoallergenic coat, and trainable temperament with the characteristics of the chosen cross.

Here are ten common crossbreed Toy Poodles and the traits they’re bred for:

• Cavoodle (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel cross): Calm and eager Cavalier personality

• Doxipoo (Dachshund cross): Independent, sassy and loyal traits of the Dachshund (aka Doxie)

• Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel cross): Active and intelligent Cocker characteristics

• Corgipoo (Corgi cross): Affectionate nature and fox-like appearance

• Schnoodle (Schnauzer cross): Friendly and companionable nature with guard dog tendencies

• Yorkipoo (Yorkshire Terrier cross): Energetic and playful Yorkie temperament

• Havapoo (Havanese cross): Small stature and amiable Havanese personality

• Maltipoo (Maltese cross): Companionable and loving characteristics of the Maltese

• Mini Goldendoodle/Groodle (Golden Retriever cross): Active and trainable nature of the Golden Retriever. A miniature version of the Standard Goldendoodle (Standard Poodle cross)

• Mini Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever cross): Loving, loyal Labrador characteristics. A miniature version of the Standard Labradoodle (Standard Poodle cross)

How big does a Toy Poodle grow?

A Toy Poodle is fully grown by the time they are 7 months old, whereas it can take up to 2 years for a Standard Poodle to reach full maturity because they’re a bigger breed.

A Poodle’s mature size and weight depend on whether they’re a Standard, Miniature or Toy Poodle, and whether they’re male or female**.**

Toy Poodle:

Height: Up to 25 cm

Weight: Up to 3 kg

Miniature Poodle:

Height: 25 to 38 cm

Weight: Up to 6.5 kg

Standard Poodle:

Height: Over 38 cm

Weight: 18-30 kg

Caring for a Toy Poodle puppy

With their big round eyes and their clumsy little paws, there’s nothing cuter than a puppy — especially one that looks like a tiny teddy bear!

A high-quality diet, consistent training and a good exercise routine are important foundations in your puppy’s early development.

Here’s how to give them the best start in life so they grow up to be strong and healthy.

What to feed a Toy Poodle puppy

Puppies don’t stay small for long and they’re constantly learning about the world around them, so make sure to nourish their bodies and their brains with a wholefood diet.

When they’re young, Toy Poodles need a diet containing quality proteins for tissue growth, essential vitamins and minerals for bone development and brain function and low GI carbohydrates for slow-release energy.

Your puppy’s microbiome (the millions of bacteria in your puppy’s gut) plays a vital role in digestion and the development of a strong immune system. A diet rich in various wholefood ingredients is an effective way to support the diversity of good bacteria.

The quantity of food is important to all puppies. Too much food can lead to unnecessary weight gain, putting excess strain on their growth plates and newly formed bones.

You can give your pup any leftover dog-safe veggies, salads and lean meats from your table — great for your dog and for reducing landfill! But avoid sharing scraps that are high in fat and salt and may contain garlic or onions.

Their sensitive snoots can easily sniff out snacks, so keep your cupboards closed and your bins lidded.

🐶 Read more: Puppy vs adult food: an expert take on the difference →

Exercising a Toy Poodle puppy

How much exercise does a Toy Poodle puppy need?

Toy Poodles are active and intelligent dogs that require regular exercise and stimulation. Long walks or runs can strain their joints and growth plates, so opt for shorter walks and playtime every day.

A general rule of thumb is five minutes of exercise for each month of age until they reach adulthood. Adult Toy Poodles need at least 60 minutes of exercise per day.

Swimming is an excellent alternative as it doesn’t put too much stress on their joints. Introduce your pup to water from a young age so they become confident swimmers.

What size harness do I need for a Toy Poodle puppy?

Enthusiastic puppies often pull on the lead until they’ve learned loose-leash walking.

A well-fitted harness can give you more control when training them to walk on a leash because it distributes the pressure evenly across their body rather than just around their neck and spine.

A Toy Poodle puppy will probably need an XXS harness and will probably grow into an XS harness by the time they reach physical maturity. Always try on a few at the local pet shop first to get the right fit and style.

What toys do Toy Poodles like?

Toy Poodles might be small, but they’ve got big brains that love stimulation. Choose high-quality, interactive toys that require them to solve puzzles or use their natural retrieval instincts to sniff out objects or treats.

A handy tip is to give them one toy at a time and then have the rest on rotation. It keeps them interested and saves you money — win, win!

Training a Toy Poodle puppy

Poodles are not the pampered Prima Donnas that you might think — they were originally bred to be resilient retrievers of the hunt!

With any kind of puppy training, it’s about consistency, repetition… and a lot of patience!

How to toilet train a Toy Poodle

Puppies can hold their bladder for approximately one hour for every month of age, so your puppy will need to go to the toilet throughout the day and night. Try to use each time as an opportunity for training.

Successful toilet training relies on positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviour. As soon as your puppy goes to the toilet in the designated area, give them praise and affection or a treat. Make sure you reward them right after they’ve relieved themselves, so they connect it to the action.

Poodles aren’t hard to potty train because they learn quickly, but accidents do happen. Be consistent and patient and they’ll be house-trained in no time.

How to crate train a Toy Poodle

Crate training your Toy Poodle can be an effective way to support their toilet training and provide them with a den to relax and sleep in throughout their life.

Create a warm and welcoming environment with a cushioned pad on the base and a blanket covering three sides.

In the first few days, encourage your pup to interact with the crate without shutting them inside. Pop a treat inside and close the door so they want to go in and get it, or add high-value toys to their den and let your dog play with them.

Dogs don’t like to sleep in the same place they relieve themselves in, so you can use a crate to toilet-train them. Once they feel comfortable and safe in the crate, you can put your puppy inside for 20-30 minutes and then take them outside for a bathroom break. If they don’t go, repeat the exercise until they do.

Take crate training in small steps and give yourself six months to achieve success. Always use it positively and never for punishment.

When do Toy Poodle puppies calm down?

Toy Poodles are energetic dogs, but you should notice calmer behaviour when they’re around one year old.

How to train a Toy Poodle

Toy Poodles love to be trained and they’re keen to please their parents, so they respond well to positive reinforcement.

How do I stop my Toy Poodle from biting?

Toy Poodle puppies love to explore the world around them by chewing or gnawing. Try to discourage your pup from unwanted chewing and biting behaviours when they’re young. If you have an adult that likes to chew, you can still train mature dogs in the same way.

Every time they try to bite, end your interaction with them. They’ll soon learn that the consequence of biting is to lose the privilege of playing with you. You can also provide your Poodle with specific chew toys so they learn what they’re allowed to gnaw and what’s off limits, like your new shoes!

How do I get my Toy Poodle to sleep at night?

If your Toy Poodle struggles to sleep or is crying at night, check your routine is setting you up for success:

1. Make sure your dog has been exercised enough in the daytime, so they’ve depleted their stored energy.

2. Feed them in the early evening so that their digestive system isn’t keeping them awake.

3. Allow them to go to the toilet just before bedtime so they’re less likely to wake up in the middle of the night with a full bladder.

4. Create a calm environment so they can wind down and prepare for sleep.

5. Give them a warm and comfortable bed and be consistent with where you want them to sleep. If they sleep in your bed they may cry if the routine changes. We recommend training them to sleep on their bed every night, so they know where their spot is.

How do I train my Toy Poodle to be alone?

Toy Poodles prefer to be near their pack, but they can be trained to be alone for moderate periods. However, Poodles can develop separation anxiety if they are regularly left alone for long periods.

Start by leaving the house a few minutes at a time. This introduces your dog to short absences and reassures them that you will return. If they respond well, you can gradually increase the length of your absence. If they start to become anxious, go back a few steps and repeat the training.

You can prepare interactive puzzles or treat-stuffed toys to keep them entertained while you’re gone. It also allows them to form a positive association with your absence.

It can be tempting to give your dog lots of love and cuddles before you leave, but this makes your departure a big deal and can heighten their anxiety. Try to leave and arrive without any fuss so they respond in the same way.

How to groom a Toy Poodle

Did you know that a Poodle’s coat can naturally cord into dreadlocks if it’s left to grow? It can also form thick mats that can be harmful to their skin health or hide parasites, so Poodles need daily brushing and frequent trims to maintain their stylish good looks.

Cutting your Poodle’s thick hair can be challenging. Before you reach for the clippers, take them out for some exercise to run off any excess energy to help them stay calm.

Using a slicker brush, groom your pup’s hair in the direction of growth to identify what needs to be trimmed. Help them to see clearly and keep their face clean and mat-free by grooming around their eyes and muzzle with clippers or thinning shears.

If your pup needs a full haircut and likes to be the centre of attention, choose the classic continental clip. If you want something a bit more practical, a short and sporty summer cut might do the trick instead.

If you’d prefer an easier option, take your Toy Poodle to a reputable groomer. But if you’d like to take care of your pup’s grooming and cleaning needs at home, here’s where to start:

How to clean a Toy Poodle’s ears

Check your Toy Poodle’s ears regularly as part of their health and grooming routines. You can help your pup get used to being handled by checking their ears from an early age.

To clean their ears, use a clean, damp cotton pad to wipe the outer area and the visible part of the ear canal. Try not to insert anything into the ear canal itself, as this can cause damage. Overcleaning can disturb the natural balance of bacteria, so only clean their ears when required.

Use a vet-recommended ear-cleaning solution for a more thorough clean.

If your Toy Poodle scratches or rubs their ears a lot, they may have an ear infection that requires attention from your vet.

How to clean a Toy Poodle’s eyes

Like humans, dogs sometimes get eye goop. Gently wipe their closed eyes using a clean cloth and warm water to remove any discharge.

How often should Toy Poodles be bathed?

Unless your pup has been rolling in something dirty or smelly, you should only wash them once every four to six weeks.

Only use a dog-friendly shampoo that won’t irritate their skin or eyes.

How to trim a Toy Poodle’s nails

Nail trimming should be done regularly to prevent discomfort.

Before clipping your dog’s nails, hold their paw up to the light so you can see the quick. This is the darker section inside the nail that contains nerves and blood vessels and shouldn’t be trimmed.

Use a specifically designed dog nail clipper that contains a safety guard to prevent you from cutting the quick accidentally. And remember, it’s better to trim too little, than too much. An alternative to nail clippers is a pet nail grinder, which is like an electronic nail file.

Like grooming, introduce your puppy to the process and tools of nail trimming so they become used to the experience. If they find nail trimming unpleasant, distract them with a chew or a toy and remember to reward them at the end.

Why does my Toy Poodle smell?

Clean and healthy Poodles, like all dogs, have a slight doggie aroma. But if your pup is particularly smelly it could be:

1. Irregular grooming. All Poodles need regular grooming to remove tangles and debris from their thick coat. Infrequent grooming can lead to smelly matted hair.

2. Ear infections. Ear mites can leave a malodorous dark brown, waxy discharge in your pup’s ear. A quick trip to the vet should address the issue relatively quickly.

3. Oral health. All dogs should have their teeth brushed regularly. If your dog has smelly breath, they may have a dental issue, like gingivitis, that requires further investigation by your vet.

4. Skin infections or allergies. All dogs can suffer from allergies that trigger hives. When these are scratched, they are vulnerable to developing skin infections that can smell if left untreated.

5. Digestive issues. A diet that’s high in wheat, corn, or legumes such as beans, peas and chickpeas can affect your pup’s digestive system, leading to unpleasant gas or anal gland issues. Feed them a fresh, wholefood diet, like Lyka, which is more digestible and less gassy!

How to brush a Toy Poodle

Once a week, use a slicker brush to remove tangles, loose hair and debris from their dry coat.

Regular brushing is also an opportunity to check your dog for parasites, grass seeds, scratches or hot spots.

Exercise requirements for a Toy Poodle

Toy Poodles may be little but they’re not lazy lap dogs — they’re energetic and very intelligent requiring daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation at home.

As a toy breed, they only need a modest amount of space, making them ideal for apartments and houses.

How much exercise does a Toy Poodle need?

At least 60 minutes of moderate exercise per day should keep your Toy Poodle fit and healthy. This could be one long walk or two shorter walks.

How far can a Toy Poodle walk?

Toy Poodles can easily manage up to four kilometres a day spread across their daily walks. They’re very adaptable and can be walk-trained to gradually build up to longer distances. Remember, they’re only little dogs and long distances can be challenging for them.

How fast can Toy Poodles run?

Toy Poodles can run up to 16 km/h over short distances.

Can Toy Poodles swim?

Poodles are made for the water!

The name Poodle comes from the German word pudel or pudelin, which means ‘to splash in water’. They’re also the national dog of France and their French name Caniche, comes from *Canard (*duck) — they’re duck dogs!

Introduce your Poodle puppy to water gradually so they develop a positive association with it and become confident swimmers.

Feeding your playful Toy Poodle

The foundation of excellent health and wellbeing comes from a nutritious, complete and balanced diet — for pups and their parents alike!

Free-feeding is an easy way for your Toy Poodle to gain weight, and as a small dog breed, a ‘one size fits all’ approach to feeding can affect their health. Portion control is important, as is the quality of their food.

Lyka’s fresh, vet-formulated meals are complete, balanced, and chock full of bioavailable, real food ingredients and essential vitamins and minerals. Our fresh dog food is delivered to your door in convenient, personalised portions based on their breed, age, life stage and health — ideal for your petite Poodle.

What to feed a fussy Poodle

If you have a fussy Toy Poodle, getting them interested in their food can be tricky. Some Toy Poodles can get bored of the same meal every day, so a diverse diet with a range of tasty meals, like Lyka, could be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Encourage a healthy appetite by giving them sufficient daily exercise and not too many treats. Establish a mealtime routine to help your Toy Poodle develop good habits and feed them in a safe spot without distractions so they can focus on their food. You can also try our Beef & Parmesan Topper to boost mealtime excitement for even the pickiest pups.

🐶 Read more: How to feed your fussy pup: tried and tested top tips from the Lyka community →

Toy Poodle nutrition FAQs

Why is my Toy Poodle not eating?

If your Poodle isn’t eating their food and isn’t known for fussiness, there might be another reason for their inappetence.

Most dogs get used to a routine in a familiar environment. If things change, this can trigger anxiety which can affect their appetite.

Have you changed their diet recently? This might be causing their inappetence. If you have switched your Poodle’s food from kibble to fresh food, a gradual transition period is highly recommended. It can take some time for your pup to get used to new tastes, textures, ingredients and nutrients.

If their routine is stable, your pup might be experiencing an oral health problem that’s causing pain or difficulty when they eat. Likewise, there might be an underlying gastrointestinal illness. As always, if you are concerned about your dog’s health, visit your vet for medical advice and treatment.

Why is my Toy Poodle eating grass?

It is common for dogs to eat a blade or two of grass on occasion. There are many theories about why they have the urge to graze: adding dietary fibre to aid digestion, supplementing nutrients that their normal diet lacks, or simply out of boredom.

Check that your Toy Poodle’s diet meets their daily nutritional requirements and contains the right amount of fibre. If you suspect boredom is the reason, make sure they’re getting enough opportunities for enrichment to keep their mind and body alert and active.

If you’re still concerned, we recommend speaking with your vet.

Common Toy Poodle health issues

Toy Poodles from reputable breeders are generally known to be healthy. But with any breed, they can inherit health conditions.

Before planning a litter, respectable breeders will consider the health, temperament and genetic history of their sires and dams to select good characteristics. Always check the health of the puppy’s parents before selecting your new pup.

Toy Poodles are known to develop hereditary skin issues or joint conditions like luxating patellas and hip dysplasia. They’re also prone to endocrine (glandular) conditions like diabetes or Cushing’s disease.

Kibble often contains pro-inflammatory ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy that can affect their health. You can support supple joints, boost skin health and help reduce hormonal imbalances by feeding your Toy Poodle a fresh, human-grade diet that’s rich in omega-3 anti-inflammatory agents.

Health issue #1 — joint issues

Toy Poodles can be predisposed to genetic joint conditions including patellar luxation and hip dysplasia.

Patellar luxation (dislocated kneecap)

Patellar luxation is a common hereditary condition that can affect Toy Poodles. Abnormal joint development or misaligned muscles and tendons cause the patella (kneecap) to slip out of place — ouch!

Signs of patellar luxation in Toy Poodles:

• Limping

• Skipping or hopping to prevent putting weight on one leg

Four different grades of patellar luxation identify the severity of the problem. Grade 1 identifies a temporary dislocation when pressure is added to the kneecap, whereas Grade 4 describes a permanent dislocation. Grade 1 can often be tolerated by a dog for some time, but it can lead to arthritis or other joint problems. Grades 2-4 may require surgery to fix the problem.

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia describes the abnormal development of the ball and socket hip joint. When a dog develops this condition, their hip socket is usually shallow and flattened which causes the hip ball to slip out of place. Joints like these often develop arthritis as the body tries to compensate for unstable movement.

Although there is a genetic link to hip dysplasia, it can also be caused when puppies grow too quickly because of too much calcium or protein in their diet.

As both patellar luxation and hip dysplasia are congenital diseases they cannot be avoided.

To keep their joints healthy, your Toy Poodle should consume anti-inflammatory foods with the right ratio of essential fatty acids (EFAs).

AAFCO recommends an Omega-6 to Omega-3 limit of 30:1 — a high ratio that can trigger inflammation. Lyka meals contain an optimal lower ratio of between 3:1 and 3.6:1 to maximise the EFA benefits and minimise the risk of inflammation.

Our in-house Integrative Veterinarian, Dr. Matthew Muir and our Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionist have formulated this range based on clinical insights and up-to-date scientific evidence.

We use fish oil and sardines that are full of omega EFAs to support common joint ailments in Toy Poodles. Our meals also contain a variety of vegetables and plant superfoods rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals to protect joints and joint fluid by decreasing free radicals.

Find these powerful real ingredients for Lyka's meals:

🥥 Coconut: full of potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to support supple joints.
🌱 Fennel seeds: an anti-inflammatory superfood for swollen joints and arthritis
🧡 Turmeric: contains the active ingredient curcumin which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to fight chronic inflammation and symptoms of arthritis.

Lyka's customised portions reduce additional stress on joints to help dogs stay a healthy weight. Our meals are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to reduce inflammation and support joint health.

Louise Hawkins, Qualified Vet Nurse at Lyka

Health issue #2 — Diabetes

Diabetes Mellitus is a common problem in the canine world, but certain breeds are more prone to developing this disease than others, Toy Poodles being one.

Signs of diabetes in Toy Poodles:

• Increased thirst

• Increased appetite

• Increased urination

• Vomiting

• Weight loss

• Lethargy

Like human diabetes, canine diabetes presents in degrees of severity:

Type 1 (insulin-dependent diabetes): A dog’s pancreas cannot produce insulin, so must be given the hormone manually. Type 1 is a lifelong illness.

Type 2 (non-insulin-dependent diabetes): A dog’s pancreas can produce insulin, but either in an insufficient amount or the body’s cells don’t respond effectively to the insulin. Obesity is usually the leading cause of Type 2 diabetes in dogs (and humans).

Type 3 (gestational diabetes): Pregnancy-related diabetes — yes, dogs can get this as well as humans! The good news is, most dogs return to full health after pregnancy, but support from your vet is advised.

Excessive glucose in the blood can have a toxic effect on a dog’s body. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications including:

• Organ damage: liver disease and/or kidney failure.

• Cataracts: that can cause blindness.

• Seizures: caused by extremely low blood sugar levels.

• UTIs: urinary tract infections.

• Ketoacidosis (metabolic acidosis that acidifies the blood).

Diabetes normally develops in middle-aged or senior pups, but it can be triggered by other health issues like pancreatitis, Cushing’s disease, toxins, medication, infection, inflammation, and obesity. A diet that contains a large proportion of high-GI carbohydrates, like dry dog food, can contribute to the development of diabetes.

Reduce your dog’s risk of developing diabetes by maintaining their healthy weight and body shape on a portion-controlled, wholefood diet. Pancreatitis can be caused by a fatty diet, so look for low-fat meals that contain nutritional anti-inflammatory agents to combat irritation and inflammation.

Look for wholefood ingredients that nourish your dog without causing a sugar rush or putting the pancreas under strain:

🌱 Chia seeds: a tiny but mighty source of soluble fibre to help regulate blood sugar levels
🍠 Red and purple sweet potato: low-GI carbohydrates that don’t cause blood sugar spikes. They’re also full of dietary antioxidants to prevent organ damage caused by oxidative stress.
🐔 Lean, high-quality protein: kangaroo and chicken are naturally lean proteins that don’t strain the pancreas.

🐶 Read more: Why Lyka is a great option for dogs with diabetes →

Health issue #3 — Cushing’s disease

Cushing’s disease is a condition of the adrenal glands which produce too much of the stress hormone, cortisol (hyperadrenocorticism).

Any dog can develop the condition, but it tends to be more common in middle-aged dogs. Toy Poodles are more frequently diagnosed with Cushing’s disease than other breeds.

80-85% of Cushing’s disease is Pituitary-Dependent Hyperadrenocorticism caused by an enlargement of the pituitary gland or a growth.

Signs of Cushing’s Disease in Toy Poodles:

• Skin issues: recurring skin infections; oily skin; fragile skin; blackheads; hair loss

• Urinary issues: recurring urinary infections (UTIs); increased urination; incontinence

• Increased drinking

• Increased appetite

• Pot-bellied appearance

• Lethargy

Treatment of Cushing’s disease depends on the cause of the problem. As most cases are triggered by a tumour on the pituitary or adrenal gland, your vet will advise you on the next steps to take. In the case of Iatrogenic Cushing’s Syndrome, ceasing steroid use is usually the first course of action.

Maintaining your dog’s peak health and boosting their immune system through nutrition can make it easier for their body to fight diseases like Cushing’s.

A diet that’s rich in phytonutrients can help support your dog’s immune system and regulate their hormones. Colourful fruits and vegetables are full of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents that can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, key factors in the development of diseases.

Our meals are bursting with fresh, wholefood ingredients to nourish your pupper from the inside out and strengthen their immune defence, including:

🥚 Eggs: a low-sodium source of protein for energy and tissue repair.
🥦 Broccoli: a high-fibre vegetable with sulforaphane to aid with detoxification.
🐟 Fish oil: a potent source of omega-3 to improve skin and coat health, helping to relieve inflammatory skin conditions relating to Cushing’s disease.

Health issue #4 — Skin allergies

Toy Poodles can be prone to both food and environmental allergies which often trigger hives and itchy skin conditions like Atopic Dermatitis. Ear infections, incessant licking or over-grooming, and inflammation are also common signs of an allergic reaction.

Allergies trigger a pup’s immune system which releases histamines to defend the body against the invading allergen. It’s these histamines that cause the red, itchy and inflamed skin. The gut microbiome helps to modulate the immune system, making gut health vital for allergen defence.

Boost their gut health and their immune response with a fresh food diet that contains skin-enriching nutrients, including:

🐟 Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs): known to boost skin and coat health.
💚 Spirulina: a powerful superfood that contains high levels of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to reduce allergic inflammation.
🍄 Shiitake mushrooms: a bioactive, antihistaminic food that can boost your dog’s immune response against an allergen.

We only use grass-fed, free-range, barn-raised or wild-caught animal proteins that are less prone to inflame the skin than grain-fed proteins. We also stay away from pro-inflammatory starches and lectins and other common allergens used in commercial pet food like wheat, corn, soy and dairy.

🐶 Read more: Dog skin allergies: triggers, symptoms and itch relief (with photos) →

Toy Poodle FAQs

Still have unanswered questions? Check out our FAQs below:

Are Toy Poodles hypoallergenic?

Yes, Toy Poodles are considered hypoallergenic. They have a curly, dense coat that sheds very little, reducing the amount of dander (dead skin cells) released into the air, making them less likely to cause allergic reactions. However, no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, as individual responses to dogs can vary.

All Poodles are low-shedding dogs and are regarded as hypoallergenic.

Do Toy Poodles get along with cats and other pets?

Toy Poodles can get on well with feline friends and other pets, but every dog is different.

Introduce pets to each other slowly and always supervise early interactions. Poodles form strong bonds with their human pack, so be mindful of any signs of jealousy.

Is a Toy Poodle a good family dog?

Absolutely! Toy Poodles are playful and affectionate pups that are devoted to their pack. They make excellent family dogs and are always eager to please.

When should I desex my Toy Poodle?

Most Toy Poodles are desexed once they stop growing. Consult your veterinarian about the best time to desex your dog, as they’ll consider your pup’s age, size and overall health before providing personalised advice.

Which type of Poodle has the best temperament?

Poodles are known for their intelligent and affectionate natures. They love being around people and are highly trainable.

Standard Poodles tend to have an even temperament and are often described as being shyer than the Miniature or Toy types.

Miniature Poodles are lively pocket rockets that thrive on enrichment activities to keep their minds and bodies stimulated.

**Toy Poodles are also known to be more hyperactive than the Standard type, but you can channel this energy into training and enrichment too.

For how long is a Toy Poodle pregnant?

A Toy Poodle can be pregnant for around 63 days or nine weeks from conception.

Where should my Toy Poodle sleep?

Poodles are companion pets, so they aren’t suited to living in kennels outside. Before you get your puppy, decide where you want them to sleep so that you can be consistent in your training. Provide a comfortable bed that can be situated in a warm spot away from cold drafts and intense heat.

Are Toy Poodles high maintenance?

Toy Poodles have oodles of energy and sharp minds, so they do need canine enrichment activities to keep them stimulated. Their coats also require regular grooming to keep them in tip-top condition.

They’re not a low-maintenance breed but maintaining them can be a lot of fun and a great opportunity to strengthen your special bond with them.

What is a Toy Poodle mixed with?

You’d be forgiven for thinking that a Toy Poodle is part teddy bear, but they’re just a much smaller version of the purebred Standard Poodle.

How to hold a Toy Poodle

They may be pocket-sized but there’s still an appropriate way to pick up your Poodle, so their body is fully supported.

Slide one arm under their chest and between their front legs and use your other arm to cradle their rear as you lift them up.

Why is my Toy Poodle scared of everything?

If your pup is skittish or seems to be afraid of everything, there might be a few reasons why:

1. They weren’t properly socialised as a puppy. When dogs are young, it’s important to introduce them gradually to other dogs, people, vehicles, sounds and scenarios so that they develop confidence in dealing with different situations and sudden noises.

2. They experienced some form of trauma in their younger years or have developed a heightened awareness following a negative interaction.

3. They’re in pain and shy away from interactions. If your pup is normally confident but has developed a reluctance to engage with exercise, other dogs or people, they might be experiencing pain in their body.

Speak to your vet for a health check or advice on how to help your pup overcome their fears.

Do Toy Poodles like to cuddle?

Toy Poodles are loving dogs that can develop strong connections with their parent or family. They thrive in the company of others and don’t do well when left alone for long periods.

Many Poodles love to be shown affection, but every dog responds differently to cuddles. Not all dogs like the feeling of being hugged as a full embrace limits their free movement.

Are Toy Poodles good emotional support dogs?

Poodles are one of the most popular breeds for emotional support. Their naturally affectionate nature and intelligence make them easy to train. They also have a vibrant and playful personality — a desirable attribute in a support dog.

Lyka: fuelling your Toy Poodle with real food

Caring for a Toy Poodle involves many choices. Lyka makes feeding your pup easy with tailored meal plans delivered to your door. We fuel Toy Poodles across Australia — from energetic pups to dogs in their golden years.

Join the Lyka community and see the difference in your Poodle today.