Читать книгу Doodle Dogs For Dummies - Miriam Fields-Babineau - Страница 15

Miniature-size Doodles can weigh anywhere from 30 to 50 pounds and are typically created by crossing a Miniature Poodle with a Toy purebred dog.

Because the Doodle pups are a mix of two purebreds, it’s tough to know exactly how big they’ll grow to be. A lot depends on the other parent. For example, if the Doodle pup is the offspring of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Miniature Poodle, the puppy can mature to anywhere from 40 to 60 pounds, depending on which size genes are dominant. But if the Doodle is a mix between a Beagle and a Miniature Poodle, it may be closer to 30 pounds at full maturity. Size can vary greatly within the litter, too. Most breeders have a fairly good idea of the ultimate size of the Doodle pups they’ve bred, but there are always outliers and no breeder can guarantee the size of their puppies upon maturity.

Miniature-size Doodles aren’t small enough to be lap dogs, but they often want to be! They’re just so adorable that it’s tough to not hold them on your lap when they’re young puppies. Beware of setting a precedent, however — your Doodle pup is learning the rules the moment they enter your life.

From the day you bring home your puppy, set the rules that you’ll want them to adhere to when they’re fully mature. This way, you’ll reduce misunderstandings and build a more harmonious relationship with your new best friend.

Miniature-size Doodles require time outside to exercise, but they’re still easily manageable in an urban or suburban environment — you’ll just need to be willing to take them for walks five or six times per day. If you have a safely fenced yard for relief and exercise, all the better. Miniature dogs don’t tend to be as athletically inclined as the larger varieties, but they still need to run, and they thrive on having a job, whether it’s chasing off squirrels or meeting postal carriers and delivery people.