Poodles are known for their intelligence and show-worthy coats. They were initially bred as hunters, and their stylish haircuts are not just for looks but to keep them warm while swimming. These characteristics have generated interesting stories, and learning the history of any breed of dog you intend to own is always a good idea.

Breed Overview

The black toy poodle is one of three sizes of the poodle that reaches only 10 inches tall. Black is also the most popular color due to it being a dominant gene, and in this article, we will go back in history, learn about the origin and discover some interesting facts about the black Toy Poodle.

Toy Poodle Characteristics

The Earliest Records of Black Toy Poodles in History

Over 400 years ago, the poodle was bred in Germany to be a duck-hunting dog. In their days of hunting, their owners would cut their coats to allow them more movement while maintaining protection from the elements. They would shave their neck, tail, and legs while the rest of the hair was still curly and long, and that’s what is recognized today in dog shows.

The toy poodle was developed in the early twentieth century as a companion dog, especially for those who live in apartments or small spaces. Toy poodles, in particular, have historically been sought after for circuses due to their intelligence and athleticism.

Even though the popularity of Toy Poodles in the United States declined in the late 1920s, it has since made a successful comeback and is now quite popular, particularly in France.

How Black Toy Poodles Gained Popularity

Their incredible intelligence is one factor that has made them so popular, and they are widely regarded as one of the most intelligent breeds. Poodles are easy to train because of their eagerness to please.

Toy Poodles were created by gradually reducing the size of the standard poodle. However, they were changed so that they could compete in dog shows. They grew in popularity so much that celebrities and royalty wanted them as pets. Elvis Presley loved this breed so much that he was a proud owner of toy poodles and gifted his loved ones with poodles too!

Poodles were also popular subjects in ancient art, and by the late 18th century, toy poodles were famous in artwork and the courts of the French aristocracy.

Formal Recognition of Black Toy Poodles

The Black toy Poodle was recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1887. It is currently the smallest recognized poodle breed. The Kennel Club recognizes three varieties based on size, but they are all held to the same standard.

The miniature and toy versions result from downsizing and capturing the same features in a more diminutive form. The American Poodle Club promotes awareness and responsible breeding according to AKC’s standards and is the only National Poodle Breed Club recognized and sanctioned by the AKC.

Top 5 Unique Facts About Black Toy Poodles

1. Toy Poodles Can Talk

Toy poodles are great communicators. To attract attention, they can make a variety of sounds and actions. Toy Poodles are extremely intelligent and can learn over 400 commands and words. They also have a remarkable ability to read body language, which allows them to read an owner’s command before they even speak.

2. Poodles Don’t Have Fur

A poodle’s coat is not considered fur but hair. While most dog breeds shed their fur coats according to the season, Poodles do not have this privilege and must be groomed regularly, as their hair will continue to grow.

3. A Poodles Grooming Style Has a Purpose

A poodle’s hairstyle may look cute and unique, but it seems that way for good reason. When they swim, it weighs them down, so Poodle owners would keep their hindquarters free of hair to make them agile in the water but keep enough hair on their chest and legs to keep them warm.

4. Poodles Were Used for Mushroom Hunting

Poodles have an excellent sense of smell, which comes in handy when mushroom foraging. At a young age, poodles can be trained to smell mushrooms, and their bite is so soft that the mushroom is not damaged.

5. Poodles are Leaders and Followers

Poodles require a dominant figure in their life, so if there is no leader, they will quickly take on the role and become harder to train. If they sense that you are hesitant or nervous, they will assume leadership and take charge.

Do Black Toy Poodles Make Good Pets?

Toy poodles are great dogs for families, and they are highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living, where they will love to curl up and cuddle their owner on the sofa. They are adaptable to any environment and are known to have low tendencies for aggression but will alert you of strangers with a bark.

Although they are gentle in nature, poodles will protect their family if there is a threat of harm. Their coats are practically hypoallergenic, making them great dog companions for allergy sufferers. A toy poodle is a great option if you want a small lap dog that is intelligent, loving, playful, and good with kids.

Conclusion

Toy Poodles were show dogs in circus history, brilliant mushroom hunters, and popular among celebrities and royals. They are well known for their stylish haircuts, which help regulate their body temperature while making swimming easier. The breed is the smallest poodle recognized by the AKC and is highly intelligent, lovable, and loyal.

• See also: Black Poodle: Facts, Origin, Pictures & History

Featured Image Credit: Julissa Helmuth, Pexels