How To Properly Care for Your Toy Poodle

Toy poodles are a precious breed; those who care for them think of them less as a pet and more as a member of the family – children of the household even. They are known for their beauty, gorgeous hair and delicate features, but once you have one of these beauties in your home, how do you properly take care of them?

Below we have detailed some tips in helping you properly care for your beautiful poodle and keep him healthy and happy for as long as possible:

Be Gentle – Poodles can be delicate dogs, especially the teacup and tiny toy breeds. So be sure to be gentle with them, especially if there are kids in the house. These adorable dogs are so cute, they may be mistaken for real toys for very small children. If there are other larger pets in the house, be diligent that they don’t engage in rough play with your small poodle. Poodles co-habitat very well with children and animals, but will simply need a bit more monitoring.

Grooming – It is important to have your poodle professionally groomed to keep the health and beauty of his coat in optimal condition. Though poodles don’t shed, their hair can grow rather quickly and it needs to be cut and groomed regularly. This frequent professional maintenance prevents matting and skin irritations that many poodle breeds can be prone to attract.

Poodles Enjoy Your Company – If you are a pet owner that has a hectic schedule, having a poodle for a pet may not be the right thing for you. Poodles often prefer human company over the company of other dogs, so don’t go out and purchase a poodle thinking that your other pet’s company will suffice.

Food and Nutrition – For teacups, tiny toy and miniature poodles in general, it is most recommended to give them 24-hour access to their food. Though poodles are small, they tend to be very energetic and will burn their food off fairly quickly. If you are unable or don’t care to leave food out around the clock, you will need to schedule 3-4 feeding times for your poodle per day, especially when they are young. They have tiny stomachs and are unable to take in as much nutrients as they will need in one or two meals.

All in all, if you choose to share your life with this very special breed of dog, be prepared to give him or her the time, love, care and attention they require. This is not a huge price to pay for the joy these dogs bring to every household they enter!