[BFF]

I've met mini poodles that are playful, goofy, funny. They are also obedient, smart, and focused if they are trained. Just like a child, if they are given affection and attention, have rules and boundaries, they are wonderful amazing companions.

My first toy poodle had more of a prey instinct. She would go absolutely crazy if she saw a squirrel. it was fascinating to watch her run after lizards hiding in the fall leaves. She was also sweet, cuddly, and obedient to her little girl master. My second poodle could care less about a squirrel or lizards. She loved to fish and could stand staring at the water for hours. Again, she was loving, cuddly, and obedient. Each had a very distinctive personality and energy level.

Are you worried that a mini would have too much energy or are you getting the mini to do agility? You can ask the breeder to do temperament testing or ask for a referral for someone to do it for you. If they are not experienced, the test results can be misinterpreted. I would ask for references and have a clear goal in mind as far as what temperament you want the dog to be pre-disposed to.

It sounds like you caught that breeder at the wrong time. Regardless, it would be helpful to get another recommendation and visit with another breeder to help you compare them.

 

[BFF]

I have limited experience on choosing a pup, so someone else might have a better answer for you. My breeder is letting me have first choice out of the litter of three females. I will pick her when I go to pick them up and get some advice from the breeder as to their personalities. If you ask around enough, I think you can find a breeder to work with you.

A properly bred and well trained poodle will have no problem performing in the ring and being calm outside the ring. I don't think a temperament test is going to be as informative as knowing your breeder. Find out the energy level of the parents and grandparents. In my opinion, poodles have gotten a bad stereotype of being hyper because of poor breeding and total lack of training.

Any kid will act like a hyper brat if they are not trained and don't know what behavior you want. Keep in mind that all poodles are from the same breed, so a temperament in a mini really isn't going to be any different than a toy or standard.

If you really want to be competitive in agility, then I would ask which breeders they recommend at the ring. Keep in mind that these dogs will have the highest energy level and will require a lot of training and exercise at home. I don't know of any breeders that truly specialize in hunting vs agility vs conformation. Sounds to me like you really want a well balanced dog which means a well breed dog. I don't put too much emphasis on the temperament test.

 

[BFF]

I am also partial to toys. I really enjoy having a lap dog and it's so much easier traveling with her. I can take her on the plane with me. I am even going to put a basket on my bicycle so she can go riding with me. I did this with my first poodle and she loved it. When picking a size just think about the things you want to do and which size dog best fits. Even a standard can be a lap dog. They just require more room on the sofa! I have to admit though. It's nice taking a nap on the sofa and having her snuggle her little face on my arm or carrying her around with me.

My little puppy will have lots of walks and get plenty of exercise too.

 

[BFF]

My toys grew up with a german shepherd, labrador, and a boxer. Not all at the same time. Trust me, the toys hold their own. The bigger dogs usually protect their little friends. As far as being in a park, you will always need to be careful of other dogs. However, I think you will find from people here that their toys socialize well.