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 to parenting Toy Poodles.
Our holistic approach covers all the ins and outs of your dog's health, from selecting the best food for your Toy Poodle to physical and mental wellbeing.
Top breed takeaways
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Breed history
Originating in France and Germany, the Poodle was initially bred as a waterfowl retriever. Their name comes from the German word ‘pudelhund’, meaning puddle-hound.
Over time, the breed was refined into three sizes: Standard, Miniature Poodle, and Toy. The Toy Poodle became a favourite among aristocrats — small enough to be carried around and full of charm. Their keen noses also made them excellent truffle hunters.
Today, the Toy Poodle is adored for their bright mind and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions.
Key characteristics
Toy Poodles are one of the smartest dog breeds in the world — quick learners who excel in training and problem-solving. They form strong bonds with their families and love being around people. Despite their small size, they’re high-energy pups who thrive on exercise and interactive play.
Health considerations
Toy Poodles are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to skin and joint conditions, and heart-related problems. A gently cooked, high-protein diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can support their skin, joint, and overall health.
Appearance and size
Toy Poodles are petite with an athletic build and a noble posture. Designed for the water, their thick fur is warm and buoyant, and their webbed paws make them excellent swimmers.
Their low-shedding coat comes in a variety of colours, including black, white, silver, cream, blue, brown, red, sable, and apricot — making them a great choice for allergy sufferers.
Toy Poodle personality and temperament
Toy Poodles are clever, playful, and always up for an adventure — whether that’s mastering a new trick, making new friends, or simply being the centre of attention.
They thrive on companionship and love being part of the action. These gentle pups are great with children and respond well to training, but their sharp minds also mean they can pick up bad habits quickly! Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key.
Toy Poodles are best suited to parents who can give them plenty of interaction and mental stimulation. Without it, they might turn to mischief — like chewing or excessive barking.
Real insights from a Toy Poodle parent
For a glimpse into real life with this breed, hear from Ellie, who parents Honey, a Toy Poodle and Lyka pup.
“My 14-year-old apricot Toy Poodle, Honey, is the queen of the household. She is equally as happy getting a cuddle on the sofa, as she is going on a long walk, where she likes to lead the way and create her own adventure. On walks, Honey loves meeting new people and charming them with her cute teddy bear looks. She will very happily sniff and lick anyone that stops to pat her.”
— Ellie, Honey’s human (she’s on Lyka)
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Toy Poodle size
A full-grown Toy Poodle weighs between 1.8-3 kg and can grow up to 25 cm tall.
They tend to stop growing in height by 7 months but can take longer to reach full maturity. Their final weight and height can vary slightly depending on their gender and the size of their parents.
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How long do Toy Poodles live?
Toy Poodles have a lifespan of 12-15 years, with some reaching 18 years with proper care.
As dog parents, we want our pups to live a happy and healthy life for as long as possible — and there’s a lot we can easily do to help them thrive, not just survive. Every dog deserves a long, vibrant life, and it begins with a thoughtful, holistic approach to their wellbeing.
A nourishing real food diet (like Lyka), regular exercise, mental stimulation, training, grooming, and proactive vet care all work together to help your pup feel their very best.
“Toy Poodles can be prone to developing joint conditions, which can be painful and affect their quality of life. A diet rich in real food ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties, like turmeric and ginger, can support their joint health and mobility.”
— Dr Alexander England, Lyka Veterinarian, BVetMed MANZCVS (Small Animal Veterinary Practice)
Learn more about Dr Alexander England and his veterinary experience.
What does a Toy Poodle eat?
A Toy Poodle needs nutritious food to fuel their clever mind and agile body.
The best Toy Poodle diet is made with real food ingredients, like high-quality protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.
Lyka’s human-grade meals are gently cooked to retain the tastes, textures, and nutrients of each carefully selected ingredient. They’re easy to digest, help keep your pup hydrated, and delicious – perfect for even the fussiest eaters.
Do Toy Poodle puppies need special food?
Contrary to popular belief, puppies don’t need special puppy food if they’re getting the right portion of nutrient-dense real food.
Toy Poodle puppies 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 prebiotic dietary fibre, like fresh vegetables, 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: What should puppies eat? Expert nutrition tips for optimal development →
Read more: Puppy vs adult food: what our experts want you to know →
Toy Poodle health issues
Toy Poodles from reputable breeders are generally known to be healthy, but like all dogs, they can develop health issues or inherit conditions from their parents.
Before planning a litter, respectable breeders will consider the health, temperament, and genetic history of their breeding pairs to select good characteristics. Always check the health of the parents before choosing your new pup.
1. Musculoskeletal issues
Toy Poodles can be prone to inherited developmental conditions like hip dysplasia and patellar luxation (a dislocated kneecap). Some dogs can develop arthritis as a secondary condition. Rapid growth as a puppy (caused by too much dietary calcium or protein) can be a contributing factor.
Look for real, fresh food that supports joint health and contains bioavailable ingredients known for their musculoskeletal-boosting properties, like:
🐟 Sardines: a powerful source of Omega 3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties to support strong and supple joints.
🌾 Quinoa: contains manganese for bone development.
🌱 Fennel Seeds: rich in antioxidant properties to reduce the damage to joints caused by oxidative stress.
Lyka meals contain sardines, fish oil and flaxseed oil that support common joint ailments like arthritis and osteochondritis.
Read more: Hip dysplasia: how can your dog's diet help →
2. Skin allergies
Toy Poodles can be prone to skin allergies. While food may be a trigger, so can environmental factors like grass or pollen.
Addressing allergies starts by removing the trigger. An elimination diet is the only way to identify the problematic ingredient if it's food-related. Environmental allergies can be harder to control, but a thorough wipe-down after outdoor exercise can help.
A real food diet can help to reduce skin sensitivities by promoting a healthy immune response to allergens and strengthening the skin's defence against irritants.
Look for real ingredients full of skin-loving properties, like:
🌱 Hemp seeds: rich in omega-3 with anti-inflammatory properties to calm skin irritations.
💛 Safflower oil: full of Vitamin E for nourished and moisturised skin.
🐟 Fish oil: has potent omega-3 to address inflamed and dry skin.
Read more: Dog skin allergies: triggers, symptoms and itch relief treatment →
3. Heart conditions
Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) are the most common heart diseases affecting dogs, including Toy Poodles.
Mild cases of heart disease may not show any noticeable signs in your pup and is usually identified during a routine health check by your vet. Both MVD and DCM are degenerative and progress slowly, but it can lead to congestive heart failure (CHF). Always, check with your vet if you have any concerns about your Toy Poodle’s health.
Dogs with heart disease are usually advised to eat a low-sodium diet as too much salt increases their blood pressure and puts their heart under more stress.
Support your dog’s heart health by feeding them a fresh, real food diet that contains powerful ingredients known for their cardiovascular benefits:
🍄 Mushrooms: Bursting with vitamins, minerals and antioxidant properties for cardiovascular health.
🥦 Broccoli: A rich source of potassium for a strong heart rhythm and optimal blood pressure.
🌱 Chia seeds: Small but mighty, these tiny seeds have antioxidant properties to combat oxidative stress and are high in fibre to promote satiety and support weight management.
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Toy Poodle coat, grooming, and hygiene tips
Keeping your Toy Poodle well-groomed is about more than just keeping their coat neat and tidy – it’s essential for their overall health.
Coat types and shedding
Toy Poodles have three recognised types of coats: curly, wavy, and corded. Their hair is thick and low shedding, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers.
Grooming
Toy Poodles have a versatile coat that can be clipped short, groomed into a wide variety of styles, or carefully nurtured into cords, like dog dreadlocks. A Poodle’s hair grows continuously, so most parents prefer the first two options, as they’re easier to maintain.
Unless they’re corded, Toy Poodles require regular brushing with a slicker brush to keep their curls tangle-free and should be clipped every 4-6 weeks. If your pup likes to be the centre of attention, choose the classic continental clip (think dog show hairdo). If you want something a bit more practical, a short and sporty summer cut might do the trick instead.
They only need a bath every 4-6 weeks, unless they’ve rolled in something dirty or smelly. Remember to use a mild, dog-friendly shampoo, as human products can irritate their skin.
Toy Poodle hygiene tips
Nail trimming
A dog's nails can grow surprisingly fast and if they're not trimmed regularly can become uncomfortable and even affect how they walk.
Introduce your Toy Poodle to nail trims from an early age so they’re used to the sensation and the tools. Don’t forget to reward them with a high-value treat at the end, so they develop a positive association with the process.
Dental care
Brushing your dog's teeth a few times a week (preferably daily) helps reduce tartar buildup and supports healthy gums.
Ear cleaning
Routine ear checks are important to spot signs of ear infection, wax buildup, or irritation.
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. You can use a vet-recommended ear-cleaning solution for a more thorough clean. But be wary of overcleaning that can disturb the natural balance of bacteria.
If your Toy Poodle scratches or rubs their ears a lot, they may have an ear infection that requires attention from your vet.
Eye care
Like humans, dogs sometimes get eye goop. Gently wipe their closed eyes using a clean cloth and warm water to remove any discharge.
Paw checks
Inspect your dog’s paws frequently, checking for cuts, debris, or redness between their pads.
Toy Poodle exercise requirements
Despite their small size, Toy Poodles are high-energy dogs that need at least 60 minutes of exercise per day.
They thrive on activities that challenge both their bodies and minds. Brisk daily walks allow them to explore their environment, while interactive games like fetch and tug-of-war keep them engaged. Their sharp problem-solving skills make them great candidates for scent work and puzzle toys.
Many Toy Poodles also enjoy agility training, using obstacle courses to jump, weave, and climb. Their natural swimming ability means water-based activities can be another fun, low-impact way to exercise — especially for older dogs with joint concerns.
A high-protein, low-glycaemic index diet, like Lyka’s real food meals, provides steady, nutritious energy to complement their active lifestyle.
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Training a Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds, making training a rewarding experience. They learn quickly and respond to positive reinforcement, but their intelligence also means they can pick up bad habits just as easily.
Training should continue throughout their life, with enrichment activities to keep them stimulated. Early training, consistency, and patience are key to raising a well-mannered pup.
For puppies, toilet training requires frequent breaks (expect one hour of bladder control per month of age), while crate training offers a safe space and helps with house-training. Controlled socialisation through puppy school or meet-ups is essential for building confidence and social skills.
Your pup’s receptivity to training can be improved with the right nutrition that helps support consistent moods, steady energy levels, and cognitive development.
Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training →
How to choose a reputable Toy Poodle breeder
So, you’ve decided that a Toy Poodle is the perfect companion. How exciting! The next step is to find a reputable breeder.
What do we mean by ‘reputable breeder’?
Reputable, ethical breeders establish breeding programs, planning a limited number of litters using breeding pairs carefully selected for their health and temperament. They believe the health and wellbeing of their dogs and puppies are paramount.
Ethical breeders often have an application and selection process and may even have a waitlist. They should be receptive to scheduled visits so you can see their facilities, meet their dogs, and ask them questions about their program. This is when you should enquire about how they have addressed common health conditions, like hip dysplasia scoring.
A puppy farm (factory, or mill) often operates in poor conditions and on a large scale to maximise their profit. Health and wellbeing are of secondary importance, if at all, leading to puppies that often have long-term health and behavioural issues.
How do I find a reputable Toy Poodle breeder?
Often each state has a recognised breed club that can provide a list of reputable breeders that will usually have a website, social media channels, and direct contact details.
RightPaw is also a helpful site to support you on your puppy journey.
Another approach is to speak to other dog parents. It’s a great way to gain invaluable insight into their first-hand experience and give you even more of a taste of what to expect from the breed.
How much is a Toy Poodle puppy?
You can expect to pay around $1,800 - $5,500 for a puppy from an ethical breeder in Australia. But remember that the ongoing cost of parenting a dog is a significant commitment of money and time. Veterinary bills can be expensive and unexpected, so it’s worth considering pet insurance too.
If you want to adopt a dog from a shelter, we’re right behind you. Try to find out as much information about them as you can but recognise that a lot of their history will be unknown.
When you bring them home, show them love, patience, and consistency to help them settle into a new and secure life with you.
Read more: How much does a dog cost? The real price of dog ownership →
Toy Poodle FAQs
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.
When should I desex my Toy Poodle?
Most dogs are desexed when they reach maturity. Your vet will consider your dog’s age, size, health, and behaviour to determine the right time for the procedure.
For how long is a Toy Poodle pregnant?
The Toy Poodle gestation period is around 63 days or nine weeks from conception.
Can a Toy Poodle be left 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.
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 their energy into training and enrichment too.
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)
Spoodle (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
Moodle (Maltese cross): Companionable and loving characteristics of the Maltese
Mini 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)
New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together
Parenting your Toy Poodle comes with many decisions, like choosing the best diet for your new best friend.
Designed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists and made with real, human-grade ingredients, our meals are custom-portioned to match your dog’s needs.
Lyka nourishes hundreds of Toy Poodles across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.
Join our pack of proud Toy Poodle parents today.
