Miniature and Toy Poodle

The name Poodle has its roots in an old German word meaning "to splash about," which is a reference to their fondness for water. Smaller Poodle breeds were developed in the 1700's, much later than the large Standard Poodle.

Poodles have been featured in royal artwork since the 1500's and although many think of it as a French breed, it is unlikely. Experts believe the Poodle may have originated in Central Europe or Russia, although it is also possible that the breed originated in Spain or Portugal. Another theory claims the Poodle was brought to France by German soldiers during the 1400's. It is not disputed however, that the modern traits of the breed were developed in France. Poodles are believed to be related to the Portuguese Water Dog and the Irish Water Spaniel. Though many regard Poodles as ornamental lap dogs, they are actually gun dogs with an excellent reputation for bird hunting and water retrieval.
Genetic Diseases and Traits that we can test for:

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Progressive Rode Cone Degeneration (Miniature and Toy)

Australia / NZ statistics: 41.3% of dogs tested were either affected or clear of this disease - keep checking for updates

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Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy / Krabbe’s Disease (Miniature only)

Australia / NZ statistics: No information is currently available - keep checking this page for updates

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B Locus - responsible for detection of brown chocolate or liver. Also responsible for nose color
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E Locus - responsible for black mask, yellow to red coats. There are four alleles at the E locus which determine whether an animal expresses a melanistic mask or a grizzle overlay, as well as determining whether an animal expresses black/brown or red/yellow in its coat.
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K Locus - role on nose color. There are three known alleles that occur at the K locus: Solid coloring (does not mean than white markings cannot appear), brindle and agouti pattern.
Please be aware that other genetic diseases or developmental abnormalities may still be present. A genetic test does not replace the need for ongoing clinical assessment by a veterinarian. Disease penetrance and clinical assessment of affected animals can only be performed by a qualified veterinarian.

Disease Statistics provided by breed club health committies and member bodies