In spite of their dainty appearance and small stature, Toy Poodles are proven winners in agility and obedience completions. They're extremely intelligent and trainable with an uncanny way of knowing what is wanted of them before they've been told. Almost before you know it yourself. Toy Poodles respond more readily to training than most toy breeds but they don't typically handle stress very well. Usually cheerfully accepting of other dogs and fitting easily into the family home, Toy Poodles have long been a popular breed. Maybe too popular for their own good.
Unscrupulous puppy mill operators and casual uninformed amateur breeders have produced enormous numbers of these dogs without regard for genetic factors. The result is a population of anxious, easily stressed dogs who can be yappy and nervous. Keep this in mind when you choose a puppy. Even accounting for this, be assured that the Toy Poodle is a great choice as a pet and companion. One caution here goes for all the toy breeds. Because they are small and delicate, they aren't a good choice for homes with small children. Kids can be rough and the toy breeds are easily intimidated or even injured. As an animal who has a low stress tolerance, the Toy Poodle is more comfortable with older children who will be careful or in an adult household.
The Toy Poodle has great intelligence and is quick to learn. This makes him a natural choice for an owner who enjoys training and a close bond with his dog. On the other hand, this same intelligence can work against the owner who doesn't provide the Poodle with enough mental and physical challenges to ward off boredom. Without something to keep them occupied, these guys will soon turn all that intelligence and energy into some kind of mischief. Small they may be, but a bored and frustrated Toy Poodle can do some serious damage to your house and yard.
The way to avoid this is give your dog plenty to do and think about. Start with house training which should be a breeze as these are among the easiest dogs to house train. If you use the crate method you should have this mastered in a few weeks. This method means keeping the puppy in crate at all times when he isn't eating, drinking, relieving himself or being supervised directly. Move on to basic obedience and then the sky's the limit.
The toy poodle will happily learn almost anything you care to teach him. Incredibly alert to every element of your behavior, he'll watch your expressions and interpret the tone of your voice. If you're negative, angry or sad, your poodle will know it. Pick training times when you can be in an positive mood. Be enthusiastic and happy and your Toy Poodle will respond in kind. Praise and reward good behavior and make training a time to enjoy for both of you. Toy Poodles love a challenge and will enjoy advanced obedience and agility training. They learn tricks and thinking games very readily. Training is good fun, exercise, physical and mental, and it provides an opportunity to strengthen the bond you have with your dog.
Don't forget that your Toy Poodle really appreciates and thrives in a comparatively peaceful situation. Keep the stress levels down as much as possible. Loud, angry or over emotional interactions cause these very sensitive dogs a lot of misery. If forced to endure too much drama he may become physically ill as well as neurotic and upset.
In a stable home your Training A Toy Poodle will develop into an incomparably sensitive and loyal friend, giving you years of loyalty and cheerful company.
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